#daemon knowing what aemond is asking of him with that look and delivering it with pleasure

[lightningandfireinmybones]

"If there ever dawned a day without her, Aemond would follow her by twilight" babe, i need this for the dead dove au saur bad. valaena, consumed by grief and fury over losing her mother and brothers, as well as the loss of her child in chapter 16/17 that she goes after criston, was successful in killing him but the same could not be said when she and aegon duke it out on dragon back. aemond later learns of her death later as he's battling daemon above god's eye, subsequently giving up and resigned to die to be with her 🤧🤧

WHEN DID WE ENTER SAD HOURS

because the dead dove au, rhaenyra and all her brothers are dead, she did have a miscarriage and aemond got to her in time to make sure she didn’t die from blood loss

But Valaena is drained of life, of the will to carry one, and drugs aemond one night at the hunting cabin after a very very very aggressive hate sex session that turned into something soft and desperate and needy at the end

As he’s drifting off, aware of what she’s done, she presses a kiss to his forehead, her tears anointing him, murmurs that she’ll see him again one day, and leaves as he’s drifting off, though they both knew she had no intention of ever coming back to him

Valaena in king’s landing, covered in criston’s blood, dying herself bc she didn’t wait long enough to fly, losing the battle with aegon and Sunfyre, ultimately sacrificing herself to kill aegon and let the dragons live

On his way to get her, he’s intercepted by daemon, their battle taking them far north to the god’s eyes

Word reaching daemon and aemond during their battle, aemond looking at daemon and accepting the fate as aemond drives dark sister into his eye,,, ready to just be with Valaena again in another world where none of this happened

[nor-4]

Daemon and Reader as Catherine punishing Peter scene.

"Ah, I wanted to talk to you.." Daemon startledly said as you burst the door open as you walk nearly run infront of him with anger, "I want you to meet the pups I stole" He happily said pointing at the dogs that he recently stole from somewhere in the street.

He opened his mouth to talk again but was cut off by you slapping him enough to make his head move, "This is my court and my rules." You said loud enough for the words to echo around the room.

"I-"

"You fucking killed my guard again didn't you?" You accused him looking at him with fierce he have seen for many times but it still makes him shaken for some reason and horny. "I did. And felt bad about it." Daemon gulped as if he really meant what he said.

"This random violence is not the way of my court." You lowered your voice a bit into normal but the anger didn't leave your tone, "He called me dickhead."

"That is your answer?" You asked him thinking about how stupid it does sound, sometimes you will laugh at his jokes and actions like this. But the fun is dead when he is about to get exiled again if you didn't do a good convincing with viserys for him to stay and give another chance. "I killed a man because he called me dickhead?" You mocked his words into his face.

"Do you hear how that sounds?" You asked once again but it seems like he is not paying attention nor care for the consequences of his actions, "Sounds perfectly logical." He answered which angers you more than you will ever be.

"Violence is not the answer to everything."

"It is a language that everyone understands. You will not get far if you do not come to terms with that." Daemon tried to reason what he did which is your last straw, "Fine. Guards." You called turning your back at daemon just to face the door as you saw ser harwin and ser criston enter the door.

"Beat the fuck out of him." You ordered after facing daemon again, "Funny. You're a witty creature. At times. The point is so slight, one almost does not." Daemon tried joking as the guards starting to walk near him as he turn at the guards stopping from his yapping, "What the fuck are you two doing?"

That's the last words he said before a punch was deliver direct to his stomach, he is near to be called kinslayer but let's not lie he still can't take punches. He only wins a fight when he punch the living demon out of a person without even them getting to touch him.

He was thrown at the floor as the guards starting to stomp him same reasons for aemond and Aegon who are also in the room to stand up but helaena who are in the same room as them just stayed on her seat and drink her tea in silence, she does know how woman's anger can be and truly understands yours. They do hate daemon with the every hair in their skin but that doesn't mean they wouldn't care for him who just got beat up over a petty fight.

"Hey!" Aegon tried to intervene just to get shut down, "Help and you will be shocked. My husband and I are busy discussing an issue." You explained before turning your back at them as they just sat down learning not to also face your anger.

You decide it's probably the time to stop this as you walked near him and bow down just for him to hear your point, "Can you hear me now?" You mocked him.

"Fucking hell." Aegon said in shock with mouth agape, he is a bit thankful that he is betrothed with helaena even though he have fantasies you many times. "Enough." You said after hearing a husky grunts from him, the guards immediately stopped and walked behind you leaving daemon who just curled up.

"All of you, out!" You said as they hurriedly left the room, "What the fuck?" Daemon said standing up to his feet. "Yeah if that had actually hurt. I'd be quite angry right now." He said with wide eyes trying to catch his breath from earlier.

"Is that how you wish me to make my point?" You asked him again discussing your point since he never learn from a simple word, "I said I wasn't proud of it. Clearly it would be better I had not." he reasons once again.

"For you I will try to be better next time. Now I would like to go truffle hunting with my new dog." he said pointing at the dogs again as if he is not beaten, "No." You disagree on him.

"Do not be a bitch. You kicked me and made your point. I've taken it graciously. The difference between lovers." he joked as if anything would be better, "We are not lovers. We will never be lovers. You are bloodthirsty thug, and I wish I had killed you when I had the chance." You spight at him. Daemon already knows that feeding your anger will be worse, he hates how lower you can get when he says something. It can be a joke or not but he knows that everything you say when you are angry is not something serious because arguing with each other is your hobby, for some reason.

"Guards. Grab his dogs." You walked away from him as the guards hurriedly get the dog before daemon do. "Lock him in." You ordered as all of you raced to leave the room as ser criston was the one to leave to fastly shut the door at demon's face.

[asumofwords]

Smoke, Fire and Ash

Warnings: This fic includes noncon, dubcon, manipulation, violence, death, forced marriage, and inc3st. Tags will be added as the fic goes on.

This is a dark!fic. 18+ only. Read at your own discretion. Please read the warnings before continuing.

Summary: You are the eldest daughter of Rhaenyra and Daemon Targaryen. You are forced to navigate the difficult surroundings of your upbringing and the eventual disintegration between your family and the Hightower's relationship. What will happen when your older and estranged uncle suddenly takes a more sinister interest in you? (Dark!Aemond x Reader)

Masterlist

Characters: Aemond Targaryen X Reader, HOTD characters.

Note: Hello my sweet angel loves, my little gremlins, the little monsters in my ears, here is another chapter because I cannot resist and I also am so excited and eager to keep writing ! So without further blah blah blah from me, here is the next chapter <3 P.S can you tell I have a blood kink?

Chapter 78: The Prospect of Change 

Grief, grief, and more grief. 

It was what you felt. It was what you delivered. It was who you were now to your very core. Its grip dug sharp claws into your flesh, ripping you apart so that it may make a home inside of you. Inside the cavity of your chest, where your heart had once sat, now replaced with the blackened pit of despair which continued to pulse, and open, and consume you with every waking moment.

And in this very moment, with Aemond atop you, his hard length lining itself up with your still bruised and torn core, you felt it. 

Grief.

Grief that you wanted it. Grief that in some ways you didn’t. Grief in knowing that he had taken everything from you. Grief in knowing that he would continue to do so. Aemond took, and took and took. Your dignity. Your sanity. Your girlhood. And he would continue to take, and take, and take. And all that you could do was let him. 

And take in return. 

And so in the darkened chambers, upon the bed with your gown stripped from your body, you let him take, and you took back.

What surprised you most about grief, is the way you sought out comfort. 

Comfort in the form of company from someone who caused you said grief. 

Comfort in the form of your justified rage.

Comfort in the form of wine, ale. Star fruit. 

Sex.

Aemond was careful. Cautious even. As though he feared he might be the last to pull the fraught and fraying strings that were continuing to be tugged apart inside of you. As though he feared that he would burn the strings away with his fire, with no possible chance of tying those threads back together. 

Knotted to hold the lines of your sanity, damaged in a way that it could not come back. 

Damaged. 

And he treated you as damaged.

And it made the grief all the more encompassing. 

Broken, he had called you. 

And as he looked down at you from above with an eye that screamed caution, an eye that waited for confirmation, a face of his own grief as he knew you had endured his own tortures from him brother, it made you feel as broken as he called you. 

Raising your hips upwards, you chased after his length, wishing for it to be over. Wishing for Aegon to not be the last person who had been inside of you. To metaphorically wash your hands of him. To cleanse yourself of him. To rid yourself of his smell, his touch, the feeling of him inside of you. 

For it is better to be with the evil you know, than the one that you didn’t.

Though, you supposed you knew Aegon now.

You wondered if Helaena found comfort in the evil of Aegon, and feared the one in Aemond she did not know. Or perhaps she did know. Or perhaps, she too sought solace in Aemond herself from the abuse of her brother and husband, seeking loving and soft hands, kind words and protection from her younger brother. 

But Helaena was gone, and even when she was here, you could not find it in yourself to ask.

Aemond had been clinical about the way he entered you, watching the way your face screwed up in pain, slowing down and pausing, letting you adjust to him, through the bruising and wounds that had not yet healed.

The pain was familiar. 

The stretch was familiar. 

Aemond’s ache was familiar, and so with your legs wrapped around his back, you impatiently pulled him inside of you. To be over with it. To become accustomed to his pain again.

A low groan melted through him as he moved his whole length inside of you, and you grit your teeth to get through the agony. To move through the motions. To not break again. To not cry. To deal with it. 

It’s Aemond.

It’s him. 

He has done this before. 

It is only him.

The Prince drew himself out of you slowly, to then push back in, looking down between your bodies to watch his shaft sink into your heat repeatedly. Methodically. Softly. Looking down to ensure that he was not breaking his prize further than already done. To ensure that his spoils of war were not too spoiled. To ensure that his niece, his wife, his blood, his love was enduring as she always did. 

His.

It was like a bruise being pushed. A cut being pulled. 

But you wanted it. 

You needed it. 

And despite Aemond beginning to thrust into you at an even pace, and his face flitting from between you and then back up to you won, to watch as you whimpered and grit your teeth, and the betrayal of tears began to pool in your eyes, he still continued, knowing that you would stop him if you wanted. Knowing that you needed it, just as much as him. 

And it showed.

For all his restraint, his reverence, and fleeting kindness, his shoulders were tensed and shook with anger. 

Anger that you had been hurt. 

Anger that you had been touched. 

Anger that he had done nothing to stop it. 

Two pieces on a board moved by those above you.

Two pieces on a board who despite the illusion, had no power. 

Two pieces on a board who had been moved at the whims of their parents, family, and sides of the war.

Two pieces that had been melted down, and reformed. Crooked, and bent, and scarred.

Anger. Rage. Grief.

It seemed that was all the two of you were anymore. 

Anger. Rage. Grief. 

Curled into the bodies of two.

Anger. Rage. Grief. 

Two of the same, with the refusal to see.

Aemond shifted, using one hand to pull your hips upwards, angling his thrusts to rub against the sensitive spongey spot inside of you and you mewled. 

You wanted to feel good. 

You needed to feel good. 

And Aemond could give that to you. 

Aemond held your hips up and continued to thrust, spurred on by your reaction. 

“Fuck.” He moaned, clenching his eye shut as he struggled to keep his thrusts slow, and his dwindling composure there.

“Harder.” You commanded, voice hoarse. 

His eye shot open as he looked down at you, stilling half thrust. 

“Harder.” You told him again, shifting your hips upwards as you used your hands to grab onto his arms, fingernails digging into the flesh of his skin. 

Aemond kept his gaze on you for a moment, thinking over your command. Wondering if he should. Wondering if he could let himself go. Wondering if it would make it worse. But as you tilted your hips up once again, a sigh falling from your lips as the tip of his cock slid through your folds, he gave in.

Thrusting into you with a new vigour, he held you close against him, one arm holding you against his pelvis, the other propped above your head to give him leverage. Every thrust caused pain to spark up within you, the soft tinges of terror hiding in your throat.

But the pain was soon mixed with pleasure as his hand moved to your pearl, and began to swirl gently over it. You moaned, arching your back as his pace got quicker, and his fingers more unrelenting. 

“You’re mine.” He groaned, fingers wet with your slick as he began to pull shaky pleasure through you. 

“Only mine. Always mine.” He puffed, hips beginning to clap against you as he poured his own anger and grief into you. 

“Mine.”

“Yours.” You replied, back arching as tears welled in your eyes. 

His.

Forever.

Always his. 

In one way or another, he had left his mark on you. 

Shifting backwards, Aemond sat on his heels, pulling your hips into his lap, the new angle causing his tip to bully your spot within and brush against your cervix. You whined, throwing your head back as he began to pump into you sharply. 

“I love you.” He grunted, still fucking into your warm and wet heat. 

Your breath caught in your throat as you looked at him, his pupil blow wide as he looked down at your face. He looked sincere. He looked passionate. Silver hair messed atop his head, scar raw and red through his missing eye, lips half open as he lost himself to pleasure.

“Give in.” Aemond purred, seeing the way your eyes widened at his confession, “Admit it. You love me. Just as I love you.” His thrusts became sharper, and one fo his hands moved to press against your lower belly, feeling himself move through your walls.

You moaned, feeling him move deeply within you, the hand on your stomach pushing pressure down into your core, before his hand travelled back to your bud and swirled with new vigour.

Memories swirled in your mind.

Aemond sitting atop Aegon in the dungeons. His fists pummelling into the face of his older brother. The way he had growled. The way he had shook with anger. With rage. With grief.

“Your mine. No one will touch you again. No one. I promise.” The Prince rambled, thrusts becoming sloppier as his shaft throbbed within you. 

You arched into his touch, feeling pleasure begin to bloom in your core, the tell tale signs of your release getting close.

Aemond atop Aegon in the Dining Hall, pretty hands wrapped around the pale throat of the King, squeezing.

“My beautiful wife,” He moaned, fingers gently swiping through your folds and back to your pearl. “My beautiful zaldrīstos. Always been yours. Always.” 

“Fuck.” You puffed, feeling your release begin to rise inside.

Aemond in black. Black robes to match yours. Hand in hand. One.

“Can feel you gripping me. You’re close. Such a good wife.” You mewled, feeling your core clench around his cock, “Sȳz riña.” Good girl.

Mine.

Blinding white pleasure burst through you, spreading up through your body as you cried out, tears leaking down your cheeks as you squeezed your eyes shut, relishing in the pleasure that he brought you. 

“Konīr, ñuha gevie ābrazȳrys.” There, my beautiful wife, He cooed, swiping your bud gently as he fucked you through your release.

”Ñuha ābrazȳrys.” My wife, Aemond’s thrusts became sloppier, hips clapping into yours as you laid limply beneath him, legs going numb, “Ñuha jorrāelagon.  Avy jorrāelan.  Eman va moriot jorrāelatan ao.” 

My love. 

I love you. 

I have always loved you. 

Aemond shuddered, thrusting into you deeply as he came, his seed spurting deep inside of you, filling your womb. He held still above you as he moaned, pressing his forehead to yours as his cock throbbed inside of you. 

Eman va moriot jorrāelatan ao. I have always loved you. 

You laid beneath him as you caught your breath, limbs tingling with pleasure. But as the pleasure subsided, the pain returned, and you shifted beneath him as sharp throbs pulled up from your core. 

Another tear fell from your cheek. 

Avy jorrāelan. My love. 

You sniffed, shifting beneath him, pulling your hips backwards, his softening cock pulling out from within you. You hissed, shifting again to lay limply back on the bed. Aemond leant back to look at you, a hand moving to cradle your cheek as he looked at you. 

“Iksā ñuhon.” You are mine. 

Mine. 

Always.

Since the day you were born. Till the day you would die. 

Another tear slid down your face, and Aemond’s hand quickly swiped it away. 

“Iksā ȳgha. Issa sepār nyke.” You’re safe. It’s just me.

Another tear. 

“Y/n…” Aemond murmured, laying down on to the bed beside you, pulling you against him and the sheets over the top of you both. He tucked your head beneath his, and pulled you close to his bare chest. 

He was warm, and smelt of him. 

Familiar.

Safe.

“Nyke kivigon naejot ao, ossēninna mirre mēre qilōni renigon ao arlī.” I swear to you, I will kill anyone who touches you again.

And you believed him.

That night you slept beside each other, pressed against him, inhaling deeply as you shuddered through the pain that ebbed inside of you. Though soon enough from exhaustion, from grief, from rage, or the comfort of false safety, you fell to sleep in his arms and dreamt of nothing. 

No nightmares of serpents. No dreams of whispering vipers, or the calling voices of your aunt and brother. No dreams of falling. No dreams of Godswood’s which spoke to you. Or Aegon’s grin in the dark.

Nothing. 

When you woke, you were still in Aemond’s arms, his fingers on your hip tracing lazy runes across the skin. Aemond sensed that you had woken and gripped you tighter to him, placing a kiss atop the crown of your head. 

“Did you sleep?” He asked, sleep in his voice. 

“I did.” You murmured, “Did you?”

Aemond did not answer.

And soon the maids arrived, as they always did, to ready you for the day, and provided the two of you with breakfast. Aemond helped you to stand, and wrapped you tightly in the gown beside your bed, your bruised neck bare to the room.

When he led you to sit at the table, he pulled out your seat and helped to push you in, pausing beside you as you looked up at him. It looked as though he wished to say something. But he didn’t. 

As the two of you sat opposite of each other, eating your breakfast in a terse tension and environment. Unsure of how to move forward. Unsure of how to go back. Unsure of how to talk to him without mentioning the day prior, or the days before that.

But Aemond had changed. And you were changing too. And his usual greens had turned to black, and his entire demeanour had shifted. Aemond could be an ally. And you needed to work him to it.

Reaching across the table you helped yourself to a large star fruit, relishing in the way Aemond followed your hand.

Star fruit.

Always the star fruit. 

You feared that you were growing to hate your favourite fruit, and the secrets that it held. 

Another thing taken from you. 

But, you digressed, and ate at it with sticky and unsteady hands, tearing it to pieces upon your plate, barely containing the visible anger that shook you to your core. The visible anger that just simmered beneath the surface of you. 

Where is your fire?

It had never gone.

Not truly.

It was always there.

But fire needed to be tended to. Fire needed to be kept safe. Fire could burn out quicker than when needed if it burnt everything in its path. If there was nothing for it to burn or hold onto. But Aemond loved your fire. He encouraged it. He provoked it, and prodded it, and disturbed it, and added to the flames. 

And you did the same for him. 

How long until you burn each other?

How long until the both of your flames sizzle out?

Small talk was exchanged as you ate.

“What is to happen to us?” You asked quietly, unsure of how to broach the conversation. Unsure of how to bring attention to the three Kings guards who could still possibly be outside your chambers waiting. 

“I will go back to performing my duties as I always have.”

Always.

“Are you sure the King wants you to?”

“He could not rule without me.” Aemond’s tone was clipped.

Poorly hidden rage.

You hummed, licking the nectar of the fruit form your fingers, Aemond’s eye watching the way your tongue darted out to gather the juice. 

The way your tongue had gathered his blood.

You cleared your throat, pushing away the insecurities and fear that began to rise again.

“And what of me?”

Aemond looked at you intently as he put his cutlery down on the table.

“He will not touch you again.” His voice held conviction. 

You believed him.

“Yes, but what am I to do?”

“Do as you were. Keep up appearances. Go to the Gardens that you love so dearly, and read. Go to the Godswood and pray. Seek haven in the Library as we did as children. Do as you please as a Princess of the realm.”

“Anything but leave.” You pointed out.

Aemond did not respond.

“But what if-“ You began.

“Aegon will be in my sight at all times. And if he is not, I will come straight to you.”

You stared at him. 

Straight to you. 

Always you.

“Promise me.”

Aemond leant back in his chair, “I think I have broken far too many promises to you. But I will give you my word instead. My word as the Prince, and my word as the unnamed Prince Regent.” He spoke softly, “My word as your husband. Kesan tepagon ao tolvie run.” 

I will give you everything.

“And if you break your word?” You asked, tilting your head. 

“Then you may bring fire as you always have.”

Days go past, and you and Aemond keep a routine together, creating a new one from the broken pieces of the last. You eat, you sleep, and you fuck. You have breakfast together, and he goes to the King to fulfil his duties. You read together by the fire in your chambers. You speak to one another more about the books you read. About memories past. About anything, and everything, but what haunts you both. 

You return to the gardens like you had once before, book in hand, though not reading. 

Thinking.

Plotting.

How to win the war.

Thanks so much for reading along with me, if you wish to be added to the tag list please let me know :) Likes and reblogs are greatly appreciated ! Enjoy <3

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Bold is who I cannot tag!

[in-any-universe-ever]

Hey Anon - that particular prompt isn't my jam, but it still inspired me to write something, so here's a similar situation for you (translations at the end):

Luke and Rhaena sat across from him. Aemond had picked this spot on purpose so he could avoid looking directly at anyone, but once the bastards entered with their betrothed, Luke moved a chair to the end of the table so they could sit next to each other. Aemond was forced to watch as Luke held out the seat for Rhaena and tucked her in to ensure her comfort.

There was nothing more infuriating than Lucerys Velaryon. Everything about his existence was designed to test Aemond's patience. He and the other Velaryon boys were living insults to the crown, treason in Targaryen colors. Even more, he was the one who'd torn out Aemond's eye and left behind a hideous scar and a lingering tightness that ached when he smiled. He hadn't had reason to smile in years, all because of this boy.

They had not been sitting for long, tension mounting between two sides of a family that loathed each other, when the servants brought out the main dish, a small roasted boar, and set it right in front of Aemond. He looked at it, at the representation of the torment he'd faced his entire life, and beyond it was the smirking, snickering face of his nephew.

His heart lurched in his chest as he thought about the day Luke led a pig from the dragon pit, laughing along with his brother Jace and Aemond's brother Aegon, who'd likely orchestrated the event. Now Luke was grinning, his face lit up with his repressed joy, his green eyes shining upon Aemond's pain. Luke had been at the Red Keep for little more than a day, and so far Aemond had seen that smirk four times.

First, when Luke and Jace entered the training yard and looked around with nostalgia. It had been years since they'd been at their former home, and in a break between spars with Criston Cole, Aemond watched as Luke took in the surroundings of his former training grounds. Back then, Criston would frequently pair Aemond with Luke and Aegon with Jace. While they were not evenly matched due to age, Criston knew Aegon would play dirty if faced with his brother and Jace would go easy upon Luke. Aemond was now the best sword in the yard, and he had longed for a chance to face Luke again, so see how his skills had developed. Even if he had improved, or even if he had excelled, Aemond could bring him to his knees with ease.

Second, at court. Aemond had no involvement with the succession of Driftmark yet he attended all the same, eager to witness an argument and hoping for a fight. His hopes were far exceeded when Vaemond Velaryon lost his head by Daemon's sword. It was gruesome and awful, but it was the highlight of the day. It was also during that session that the betrothal of Rhaena to Luke and Baela to Jace occurred. It made sense, as they were now step-siblings and it would ensure untainted Velaryon blood would sit at Driftmark, but it made Aemond's heart harden and his mouth tighten in a way that tugged at his scar. When it was announced Luke looked to Rhaena and smiled, and Aemond hated every second of it.

Third that afternoon in the library. It was Aemond's custom to study in the library in the afternoons, and so he sat with a chronicle of Driftmark. His knowledge on the realm's history was unmatched, yet he retained little of the history of Driftmark, specifically. He was deep into the tome when he heard steps approach. No one bothered him there apart from messengers delivering official business, and so he looked up, annoyed, and found an apprehensive Luke at the end of the table.

"What do you want?" Aemond had asked in High Valyrian.

"Can I have that when you're done?"

Luke's grammar and pronunciation was perfect. Effortless.

"Shouldn't you know this already, Lord of the Tides?"

Then Luke smirked but Aemond's lips pursed together in a scowl. He had yet to see it this close, but there Luke stood, less than a meter away, and Aemond could truly see how it changed his features. Luke's face was his mother's, and although his eyes were an unusual color, they were shaped just like Rhaenyra's. His hair betrayed him as a bastard, but Aemond knew the Targaryen blond would have detracted from his features. His cheeks still held the weight of youth, but he'd grown into a handsome young man, and Aemond could not deny it. The smirk, however, crossed the line from handsome to frustrating, and it made part of Aemond's body react in a way they had never before.

He could not stand to look at Luke for another moment, so Aemond shut the book and handed it over, Luke's soft fingers touching his in the exchange. He stormed away, flexing his hand as if he'd been burned.

And now the fourth smirk, and Aemond could not control his reaction any longer. There was no escaping this meal, this table, this look. Something was going to happen this evening, and he could not be held accountable for his actions.

Aemond had been punched in the face by a kitten. Luke's face had been slammed into a table. When all were dismissed, Aemond found the boy in the hallway, heading toward his rooms. He was alone, and this was not over.

"Āeksio hen Elēdrar."

Luke stopped, clenched his fists, but didn't turn. Aemond continued to approach and stopped behind him, close enough to catch the scent of him, something pleasant undercut by too much wine.

Aemond leaned in, close to the thick mop of dark hair that covered Luke's left ear. "I thought you liked it," Aemond whispered, ensuring to keep his voice low and soft. He was not concerned about being overheard, as no one spoke the ancient language apart from those related to them, and the rest of the family had already dispersed. He wanted to see Luke squirm, and he was successful. Luke shivered and turned. Aemond's eye flickered up to his forehead, where he had an angry red welt but no other sign of injury. Aemond stood straight; he was the one smirking now, regardless of the ache is caused to his ruined cheek. The ache was worth it to see the surprise on Luke's face. "You do, don't you? Or should I call you my Lord Strong instead?"

"What is your problem, Aemond?" Luke asked. In his anger he began rolling his Rs, and Aemond briefly longed to hear him read aloud, or speak at length, just to hear the vibration upon Luke's tongue.

"Nothing at all."

"And so you can have nothing more to say to me. Good night, uncle, and geros āzālās."

Aemond's smile fell at once. "Geros āzālās?"

The smirk returned on Luke's face for the fifth time, which ignited a fire inside of Aemond. "Good night," Luke repeated in the common tongue before he turned to leave.

Aemond grabbed his arm and pulled him back. "No," Aemond snapped. He abandoned High Valyrian in the event that Luke said another word he did not know. "No, we will not end our night like this. You infuriate me, nephew."

"Then leave and be done with me."

"I cannot. Why are you like this?"

"I am not like anything. I am not doing anything to you. I am simply here because I was forced to be. If I had my way I would stay upon Dragonstone until my mother takes the throne and dismisses each of you permanently. I would not longer have to spend my life afraid of you."

"You've been afraid of me?" Aemond asked with a laugh. "I am the one missing an eye."

"And yet I am the one who suffers. Let me go, Aemond. I want to be out of your life and out of your mind. Every time I see you I'm lost in memory of what we were and the thought of who we could be, yet you look at me like this."

"How?"

Luke stopped struggling, defeated. The smirk was long gone and Aemond missed it. He actually missed it, because the boiling in his blood was a welcome feeling. Aemond relished in this new emotion, and the longer he held Luke in his hand, the closer he was to identifying it.

"Like you wish to devour me. Enchant me. Consume me. How can I not be afraid of what I'll do in return?"

Aemond refused to loosen his grip and instead took Luke's other arm as well. His grip was tight but Luke was pliable. Aemond could mold him into any form and Luke would allow it. His breath sped up to chase his pounding heart, and Luke had yet to look away.

"What would you do in return?"

Luke's eyes were filling with tears and Aemond had but one to flicker between them, to see each swell of liquid as it glazed over. The light in the hallway was dim at this time of night, but even so, Aemond could see the flickering flames in Luke's wide pupils.

He gave Luke a shake.

"Tell me," Aemond demanded.

Luke's head had tilted back to keep contact, and when the first tear fell, it slid from the outside corner, over Luke's temple, and into his wild hair.

"I would let you," Luke whispered.

There it was. The emotion Aemond had been chasing all day.

Desire.

"Qȳbor. Kostilus."

In an instant Aemond had kissed him. Had dropped Luke's arms in favor of his waist. Had pulled him close so they pressed against each other.

Luke let him, and kissed him in return.

Āeksio hen Elēdrar = Lord of the Tides Geros āzālās = I made this up. Literally "the way of the forsaken" but really means "good riddance." Qȳbor. Kostilus. = Uncle. Please.

[dragons-and-handcuffs]

While Lady Velaryon is hidden away on Dragonstone these many months, Aemond has been fighting in the war. It drags on, painfully. Some days truthfully, Aemond has begun to question why to continue the fight.

Everything made sense to him before. The family. His place in it. Duty. It was all so easy. Until her. How can he live with his duty… if he loses her?

A traitor to every ideal he thought he had. Every ideal he was taught. Surely there’s no way out of this. If he stops fighting, he knows it will mean his end. But as time passes, a silent truth creeps into him. He would happily go to his end, if only he can kiss her lips once more before it all.

This is the state in which he meets his dear uncle in. Far less smug than Daemon expected. Instead he’s somber. Almost as if…. He knows he may go to his death. Months before, he was confident. If he faced his uncle, he was sure he’d be strong enough. Now…. None of it matters.

Not a hint of mockery. Nothing in his face but sincerity. It catches Daemon off guard. As they ride up into the clouds, so certain at least one of them rides to their death.

Still, fierce and terrifying is the battle. But as Daemon moves, his sword aimed for his nephew’s one good eye, to deliver the killing blow….

One cannot say why. Anyone would assume it was a clear shot. Aemond would be dead. Falling into the lake along with his dragon. Perhaps an uncharacteristic moment of hesitation in Daemon. Perhaps Aemond moved his head just enough at the last minute. Or perhaps, just a twist of fate. Dark Sister does not find its mark in Aemond’s skull. Instead slashing the side of his face. But though his other eye isn’t lost, his ear was not similarly spared.

The histories differ. Some say after both men fell into the lake, Aemond cut his saddle and used what strength he could to swim to shore. And some say Daemon’s mercy was why his saddle was cut….

But as Aemond, blood running down his shoulder, gets his bearings on shore, he’s put face to face with his uncle’s blade. Looking up into his eyes…. His death is all but assured.

Aemond shocks his uncle then. His face finds composure. All the feeling draining from him. Instead giving one look to him. He’s ready for death.

“Why.”

Daemon asks.

“Why boy, is your death so easy to accept?”

Aemond speaks simply.

“I lost care for my own life many months past…. If nothing else uncle, grant me this before my death.” His composed voice instead almost shakes. “Lady Velaryon…. Tell me she’s well. And… give her… my apology. For the promises I made and did not keep. Please.”

Daemon freezes, caught completely off guard. Staring down at his nephew he looks for any trace of the fierce and intelligent threat that he once was…. Yet that’s not the man before him. In his mind Daemon finally connects it.

“It’s you… isn’t it? The father.” He speaks almost in disbelief.

“Father….?” That word makes Aemond look up in complete confusion.

Daemon is many things. He supposes to call him cruel wouldn’t be a complete lie. There’s many a thing he’s done no doubt the gods have gasped at. But….

“You’re going to stand. And walk. You’re a prisoner of war now and you’ll stand trial before your Queen.”

It’s hardly an act of mercy to some. But it’s the most mercy Daemon will grant him. He will go to Dragonstone in chains. But Daemon knows what waits for him there. Aemond will owe him a life debt times two perhaps.

Dragonless, now missing an ear along with his eye, and a prisoner of the blacks. That is the state in which former prince Aemond Targaryen arrives at Dragonstone. He would hold his chin high. Were it under any other circumstance. The first time he sees his love again, and she will see him disgraced and in chains. But when they return…. They find fewer people greeting them than expected. Aemond finds himself face to face instead with Baela. There is shock in her eyes. And then anger. But then… she seems to relent something. He almost sees worry. Why is Baela worried exactly….

-

Perhaps it was seeing Daemon fly off. Knowing he goes to face Aemond. Perhaps all the stress of these months finally caught up to the Lady Velaryon. But her labors finally began.

Long into the day, she paced her chambers, trying to take comfort in the midwives. Baela and Rhaena were with her when it happened. But they couldn’t be here now. It was too close to their mother…. Rhaenyra herself stepped in. Knowing the pain very well.

But the lady was inconsolable. She cried not only from the pain of the body, but in her heart. She’s laboring alone, having the child of the enemy Daemon rode off to kill. Her poor fatherless child. And she feels she brought this doom upon them. She’s here now. Hours she labors. Exhaustion beginning to weigh on her. Rhaenyra tries to offer SOME comfort. But it’s clear as her labors become more difficult, it reminds Rhaenyra too much of the stillbirth of her daughter.

Long into the day, and soon into the night she struggles. Rhaenyra tries to come back to life. Holding her hand and encouraging her to push. Telling her she can bring this child forth.

But the lady only cries.

“I want my love! I wish he was here with me… I’m not strong enough alone! Instead I am to have a fatherless child! If I even have one…” She laments. Rhaenyra sees her losing her nerve.

But…. In the candlelight, in this chamber with only worried midwives and a distraught laboring woman, a new fave enters. A face that shocks all in the room.

Aemond. Standing in the door. He’s followed closely and watched by Daemon, despite his visible discomfort at the scene in this room. Aemond is disheveled. His ear is hastily bandaged. His clothing a mess. His wrists with chains.

But his eyes…. They hold only love. A euphoria at seeing her again. A desperation. And fear. He returns to her now, seeing her trying to birth a child he didn’t know she was carrying. His child.

He wastes no time in being at her side. Brushing her hair out of her sweat covered face.

“A-Aemond? You’re alive…. You’re alive, oh this must be a cruel trick…. I’m dying and the gods sent you.”

“No.” Tears are almost coming to him now. “No my girl, I’m alive. You are not dying. But please. You need to fight. I know you must have been fighting so long but just a little longer. You need to… for our child, can you do that my love?”

Despite Aemond’s comforting words, his heart is full of fear. He sees the faces of the midwives. He knows if the child doesn’t come fully soon, she’ll lose her strength. He knows soon he may still face the harsh consequences for his actions against the blacks…. But just for now. He’s with his love. For the first time in months. And all he wants is for her to live.

“Come on my brave girl. Just push.” He holds her hand tightly and kisses her forehead. She squeezes his hand back, holding onto him and crying out, as she struggles and fights. Her baby’s father is here now…. She just needs to manage.

And as Aemond holds onto her for support… the Lady Velaryon’s labors finally come to an end. When a tiny cry is heard throughout the room. Small. But strong. She’s done it.

Aemond can’t stop from crying then. Kissing her and holding her like he wanted so long to do again. All while praising her for her strength.

Rhaenyra steps back for a moment. Standing close to the door with Daemon. They both watch Aemond carefully. For now… they don’t interfere.

As the baby is placed on their mother’s chest, and she wraps her arms around them. Smiling and holding them close. Remarking affectionately that she can swear they have Aemond’s nose. Aemond is frozen. Looking down at the child. Their child. His child… he’s a father.

He reaches out and brushes a finger against their cheek. Unexpectedly the little creature grabs it, gripping onto his finger tightly as they blink their curious eyes. Still drawing in their environment. Their eyes aren’t good enough yet to see far. Not enough to see their father’s face break out in a smile.

Gently he lifts them in his arms. Holding them close.

“Oh my child…. If only I’d known…” Carefully he rocks them. “I wish I could promise you…. That things will be well after this. I wish…. I could even say with complete certainty that I’ll return. I don’t know of our futures now… nor what I can give you as a father. I can offer no more inheritance. No titles. No honor. Naught but a name. And…. the promise…. That no matter the consequences I face now, no matter the fate I go to, my heart will rest with you and your mother. If nothing else… I love you with all my heart and I bid you, never forget it.” He whispers these words gently to the child. Placing a soft kiss on the top of their head. Almost painful as he puts them back in the arms of their mother. Standing and looking to Daemon.

He knows not what his punishment will be. But at least…. He saw his love. And held their child. At least once. He whispers to the lady. Words of devotion to her. And a name for the child. Something for him to give them. As he stands and walks to find what fate will decide for him now.

This is so beautiful 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺

And the ending 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

Aemond needs more time with his kid and his lady Velaryon 😭😭😭😭😭😭

But anon your writing is so good🔥🔥🔥🔥

[kckt88]

Drowning Inside You V

Summary:

Aemond and Valaera return to Kings Landing and a Queen is crowned.

MINORS DO NOT INTERACT!!

Warning(s): Inner thoughts, Language, Kissing, Smut, P in V, Breeding Kink, Biting, Knotting, Mild Angst, Possessive Behaviour, Character Death, Allusion to the questionable use of the Driftwood Throne.

Word Count: 5829

Author Note: An Alpha/Omega Story.

P.S - Some Scenes/Dialogue from Dynasty has been reused.

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the House of The Dragon or Fire & Blood characters nor do I claim to own them. I do not own any of the images used.

Comments, likes, and reblogs are very much appreciated.

With every step he took, Aemond held his son closer.

They’d arrived in Kings Landing a couple of hours ago and after the obligatory reunions with Rhaenyra and Daemon it was now time to introduce Aemon to his other grandmother.

Valaera had offered to accompany him, but things were still a little shaky after their disagreement and Aemond did not want his mother upsetting his Omega.

So, it was decided that Valaera, Vhalarr and Vaella would stay with Rhaenyra. Which of course Aemond didn’t mind as he knew that Valaera had missed her mother dearly.

“Welcome back my Prince”

“Ser Criston” muttered Aemond politely.

“Another babe. Congratulations”

“Gratitude Ser Criston” said Aemond curtly.

In truth he’d still not forgiven his former mentor for the insinuations he’d made about Valaera after she’d delivered the twins.

Just remembering what the Beta had said made the Alpha growl in annoyance.

“The Queen awaits”

Aemond nodded as Criston stepped aside and opened the heavy wooden door.

His mother’s rooms had always been well light and filled with the sweetest of scents, but today Aemond could take no such comfort in the familiarity of his mother’s chambers.

“Oh, Aemond” cooed Alicent sweetly as she rose from the sofa.

“Your Grace” replied Aemond stoically.

“It’s been too long since we last saw one another my son”.

Who’s fault is that?

“Apologise mother, my duties on Driftmark have kept me busy” said Aemond.

“I see your duty in your arms. May I hold my grandson” asked Alicent.

Aemond hesitated for a moment before he gently placed his pup in his mother’s waiting arms.

“Aemond, he’s the very image of you” gasped Alicent as she swayed gently from side to side.

“Indeed” muttered Aemond.

“H-He has different coloured eyes” murmured Alicent.

One word. Just one and I will take my Omega and our pups out of here and never return.

“How beautiful”

Wait. What did she just say?

“Oh, how unique. He’s wonderful Aemond truly” whispered Alicent.

“M-Mother” questioned Aemond utterly confused at his mother’s reaction to his pup.

“I feel that I must apologize to you. My reaction to your children has been less than favourable and for that I am sorry”.

The seven hells must have frozen over. My mother apologising? Never thought I’d see the day.

“I also wish to extend my apology to Valaera”.

Now I know I’m dreaming. What sorcery is this?

“Why the sudden change mother?” asked Aemond.

“Your brother made me realise how my actions have affected you and your mate and I do not wish for either of you to hate me” muttered Alicent.

Aegon? He spoke up for me. For Valaera. Ok maybe he’s not a total twat after all but he’s still got a punchable face.

“I do not hate you mother” admitted Aemond quietly.

“That pleases me greatly, but I still desire to make amends. So tonight, we shall dine with the King. All of us as a family” replied Alicent as she gently stroked Aemon’s silver hair.

“As you wish mother” muttered Aemond.

“Now, tell me more about my other grandchildren. I hear they have dragons now”.

“W-Who goes there?” wheezed Viserys.

“Grandsire. It’s Valaera”

“Ah Valaera. My girl, My only-” coughed Viserys.

“I wondered if you would perhaps like to meet Aemon, your grandson and great grandson”.

Viserys grimaced in pain as he tried to sit up. Valaera looked over at Aemond who sighed and helped his father to sit up.

“A-Aemond. Thank you”

“Your welcome father” replied Aemond awkwardly as he stepped back from the bed.

“W-What are you doing here? I-I thought you were on Driftmark?”

“I thought you would like to meet Aemon. Our new pup” said Valaera as he lifted Aemon towards the King.

“A-Aemon after my uncle?” asked Viserys.

“I-It’s more in-“

“Yes father, in honour of your uncle” muttered Aemond rolling his eye.

“Aemon Targaryen a fine name indeed. Well done my boy” gasped Viserys.

“W-Would you like to hold him?” asked Valaera.

“I shall” muttered Viserys.

Aemond moved closer the bed, watching closely as his Omega placed their pup in the arms of his grandsire.

The King weakened by his condition could not hold the pup on his own, so Valaera had to keep her hands under Aemon to support his weight.

“He is the very image of his father” exclaimed Viserys.

“Indeed, he is” replied Valaera smiling.

“However, the eyes, just like my mother Alyssa. They were different too” rasped Viserys.

Valaera took a deep breath and tried not to focus on her Alpha’s rapidly souring scent.

“Strange what we inherit from our ancestors” said Valaera brightly.

“I-I’m very proud of you, A-Aemond, you’re a good husband to V-Valaera”.

“As much as I can be father” muttered Aemond.

Suddenly Aemon let out a loud squeal and Valaera reacted instantly by lifting him away from the King who groaned in pain.

“Mayhaps we should let the King rest” said Aemond.

“We’ll see you later grandsire” muttered Valaera quietly.

“L-Later. I shall be dining with my family. Valaera will be there with Aemond”.

Valaera exchanged a look of confusion with Aemond who shrugged and beckoned for his Omega to step away from the bed.

“Let the Maester see to him. Come Valaera, we should return to the twins” urged Aemond.

Valaera took one last look at Viserys and then followed Aemond out of the King’s chambers.

It was obvious that the King didn’t have much time left, but Valaera was glad he got to meet Aemon.

“I hate family gatherings” whined Aegon.

“You only hate them because you have to behave” retorted Aemond as he took a seat next to his brother.

“Ahh. The favoured brother returns. How’s thing’s?” asked Aegon.

“Not good” muttered Aemond.

“Come on tell your big brother, and don’t lave anything out” urged Aegon as he poured himself a cup of wine.

Aemond looked around cautiously before he told his brother about almost losing Aemon and then the argument with Valaera and how things have been a little strained between them since.

“It’s in an Alpha’s nature to be protective. Don’t worry too much brother, thing’s with you and Valaera will work out eventually”.

“You know something strange is going on in the Red Keep, first mother apologizes for her attitude towards my children, then she admits that she was in the wrong and now you are making entirely too much sense. Who are you? and what have you done with my brother?” asked Aemond.

“I’ve always been full of good sense, just nobody ever paid attention” laughed Aegon.

“The only thing you’ve ever been full of is cheap wine” replied Aemond.

“Not true. I was full of my husband earlier. Little morning delight, absolutely fantastic”

I did not want to hear that. Gods, Aegon you’re so gross.

“What’s fantastic” asked Valaera.

“N-Nothing at all. Don’t you dare” snapped Aemond as Aegon started laughing.

“Is everything ok?”

“It’s fine Issa jorrāelagon” replied Aemond (My love).

“How are my nephews doing?” asked Aegon.

“If you actually came to greet us upon arrival then you’d know” said Aemond sternly.

“I was actually busy with my own children brother”.

“That’s not what you said a moment ago” said Aemond smirking.

“Ha, you’ve got me there little brother. I hear all three of your pups have their dragons?”

“Yes, the dragon keepers tried to take them to the pit when we first arrived, but Vaella threw a fit, so the hatchlings are safely nestled within the nursery” muttered Aemond.

“Ahh my niece certainly does have a flare for the drama, I wonder where she gets that from” laughed Aegon.

“Not me I can assure you” snapped Aemond.

Both Valaera and Aegon gave Aemond a stunned look before they burst into fits of laughter.

It’s good to hear my Omega laugh. Gods how I’ve missed the sound.

Suddenly the doors opened, and the rest of the family joined them. The King of course was carried to his place at the table, not having the strength to make it on his own.

As everyone took their places, Aemond felt Valaera take his hand. The Alpha looked at his Omega for a moment before a pleased purr rumbled across his chest.

They were going to be ok.

“How good it is to see my family around me” wheezed Viserys “I-I wish to raise a toast to my son Aemond and my grandson Valaera, and their children Vhalarr, Vaella and Aemon”.

“I’m impressed he even remembered their names” muttered Aegon.

Valaera scowled at her uncle but raised her goblet in acknowledgment of her grandsire’s toast.

“It gladdens my heart to know that we are finally united. I may not walk amongst you for much longer, but I will leave this world with the knowledge that House Targaryen will carry on for generations to come” said Viserys as he fell back into his seat.

After a few seconds of slightly awkward silence, Valaera stood up to make a toast.

“I wish to raise my cup to my husband. There has never been another Alpha for me, and I’m truly blessed to call him mine. Aemond is the embodiment of everything that is good in this world, and I vow to love him for the rest of my life and beyond” said Valaera proudly.

The entire room was silent, everyone was staring so intently at Valaera that the Omega began to worry that she’d done the wrong thing in making her toast.

I just wanted my Alpha to know how much I love him. I don’t want us to fight anymore.

Then Aemond rose from his seat and pulled Valaera into a hug.

“Issa precious nūmio. Avy jorrāelan sir se va moriot” whispered Aemond (My precious pearl. I love you now and always).

“I want to raise my cup to my Alpha, thank you for being kind and patient, even though sometimes I don’t deserve it” said Aegon.

“You deserve the world my love” replied Jace, his cheeks-tinged red.

“He loves me” cooed Aegon as he leaned into Jace and placed a delicate kiss on his cheek.

“Let us have some music” exclaimed Viserys.

Aemond and Valaera had resumed their seats and were now openly holding hands at the table.

���I hope I didn’t embarrass you”.

“Not for an instant my sweet, don’t worry” replied Aemond.

Valaera smiled sweetly and looked across the table towards her mother who was blushing at whatever Daemon was whispering to her.

Oh, gods I don’t even want to know.

Helaena and Baela were dancing together, their joyful laughter echoing around the room.

Even Alicent was smiling as she held hands with Viserys.

The food being served was delicious, with everyone eating as much as they could manage.

Valaera however felt sick to her stomach when Jacaerys began snickering as a roasted pig was placed in front of Aemond.

Yet his Alpha simply smiled and raised his cup to Jace mouthing the word ‘strong’.

Jace of course shot out of his seat but was quickly dragged back down by Aegon who shook his head.

Gods Jace your such an idiot at times. Why are brothers so annoying?

However, it soon became too much for the King and he was escorted to his bed chambers.

“Shall we also take our leave my love?” asked Valaera eagerly.

“Is everything ok my sweet?”

“It’s fine Alpha, I just wish to have you too myself that’s all” whispered Valaera.

“A-Are you sure?” asked Aemond.

“Yes, I’m ready. I want you”.

The Alpha inside Aemond roared with delight, his Omega wanted him.

Take her. Knot her. Do it. Now. She’s ready. It’s been so long.

“Apologise but we must also take our leave” muttered Aemond.

“Are you ok?” asked Alicent her voice laced with concern.

“We’re fine mother, just having a new pup can be quite tiring, I bid you all goodnight”.

Aemond didn’t even bother waiting for anyone to respond as he quickly dragged his Omega out of the dining room.

“I wonder what all that was about?” muttered Baela.

“Probably dragging Valaera back to their chambers so he can fuck her into the mattress”.

“AEGON” shouted Alicent.

“What?” exclaimed Aegon, pointedly ignoring his mother’s furious expression.

Later that night as Viserys lay on his bed wheezing into the darkness, he knew his time had come.

His family was finally united, and he could leave this world with the knowledge that House Targaryen would continue. The blood of old Valyria would live on.

“A-Aemma. I-I’m coming”

She’s here. She’s come for me. I’m ready. Take me with you.

“M-My love” whispered Viserys his hand stretched into the darkness.

“Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen, first of her name. Queen of the Andals, Rhoynar and the First Men. Lady of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm”

She was Queen. Her mother was the Queen of the Seven Kingdoms.

Ever since Viserys had passed everything almost seemed to happen in a blur, their return to Driftmark had been put on hold whilst the coronation took place and there was to be a week of celebrations in honour of the new Queen.

A feast every night in the throne room and a tourney, which Aemond was adamant he didn’t give a shit about, but still entered anyway and ended up winning.

His proud smirk plastered across his face as he placed a wreath of flowers upon his Omega’s head, crowning her the Queen of love and beauty.

“He’s going to be insufferable now” moaned Aegon.

But Valaera was proud, her Alpha was a fearsome fighter, dedicated to his craft.

The people of the realm applauded his victory.

But there was only one way his Alpha wanted to celebrate and soon after the tourney had ended. Valaera had been dragged back to the Red Keep and fucked senseless on the desk in their guest chambers.

“YES! YES!” screamed Valaera.

“That’s it. Come for me!" growled Aemond as he moved his mouth to Valaera’s neck, gently sucking on her scent gland.

Valaera’s eyes rolled into the back of her head as she exploded around her Alpha.

Aemond slowed down his thrusts as he waited for Valaera to ride out her peak.

Her Alpha was feeling primal at the sight and sound of his Omega reaching her peak.

More. I need more. She can take it. I know she can.

Once Valaera was satisfied, Aemond started thrusting hard and fast.

Relentless and deep.

Aemond felt Valaera hips moving against his. The both of them in perfect rhythm.

Valaera wrapped her arms tightly around her Alpha’s neck as he slammed into her again and again.

Harder. Deeper. Faster.

All of Valaera’s self-control was long gone.

Both Alpha and Omega were completely lost in the moment, gripping onto each other.

Valaera was on the edge yet again as she begged for more.

Aemond could feel Valaera clenching around him.

That’s it my sweet. Be good for me. I know you can.

Aemond then removed all but the tip of his penis from inside Valaera, gently teasing his sweet Omega.

Valaera writhed against him, trying to impale herself on him.

No Alpha. Don’t tease me. I want it. I want all of you.

"Please. Aemond" whimpered Valaera.

Aemond surged forward. Slow and deep strokes. All the way in, and all the way out. Slow and steady, every inch sliding deep inside his Omega.

Valaera’s brown eyes revealed just how desperate she was for him and Aemond loved it.

He loved watching Valaera struggle to keep her composure. He wanted to drive her crazy with desire.

Valaera moaned with every thrust. Aemond thrust into her one more time as she screamed his name, his knot beginning to swell.

His eyes alight as he fell apart, watching as the peak tore through him.

I love that I can make my Omega come over and over again. It feels so good.

Aemond didn't give Valaera time to recover this time. Instead, he dove into her. Burying himself in Valaera’s tight wet heat completely.

Again and again, he thrust into her, their sweaty bodies colliding. He slammed himself against Valaera as she whimpered nonsensically. Lost in the moment.

"Aemond! Oh, Aemond” screamed Valaera as he felt her Alpha’s knot tugging on her.

"Yes” groaned Aemond loudly.

With that, he thrust into Valaera one final time, shoving his knot deep.

Valaera’s entire body pulsating with euphoria as she clenched tightly around her Alpha.

Aemond threw his head back and moaned loudly as he exploded deep inside Valaera, his knot locking them together.

It took a good while for Valaera to regain her senses.

“A-Alpha” gasped Valaera.

“Hm”

“You-Your amazing” said Valaera smiling.

“As are you my love” replied Aemond, his voice slightly muffled as his face was still buried in his Omega’s neck.

“I think we should bathe” muttered Valaera.

“Give it a few minutes and I’ll call for the maid”.

“Your knot never usually takes this long” whispered Valaera.

“No, but I bit you again” muttered Aemond.

“Y-You did?” questioned Valaera raising a hand to her neck.

Indeed, her Alpha had bitten her again, she was so lost in the euphoria of her Alpha fucking her that she hadn’t even felt it when Aemond had sunk his teeth into her neck.

“Apologise, I don’t know what came over me” said Aemond.

“No. I-I like it” admitted Valaera blushing.

The Omega inside her gloriously happy that her Alpha has renewed their bond.

“Maybe next time you can bite me” muttered Aemond as he slowly withdrew from Valaera.

“I’ll need moon tea” whispered Valaera.

“Won’t the tea you took this morning work?” asked Aemond.

“I think it’s for the best that I take it every time we lay with one another, as we’ve proven we are more than capable of siring children with one another”

“I can’t wait to see you swell with my child again” growled Aemond.

“Maybe wait until Aemon is a little bit older first”.

“However, we can still enjoy the way pups are made” muttered Aemond.

“Yes, we can” replied Valaera giggling as Aemond began tickling her.

“I suppose I best call for the maids and request the moontea” muttered Aemond as he began pulling his breeches and tunic.

“As much as I like the smell of you, I doubt the Queen would appreciate it if we attended the feast smelling of sweat and sex”.

“Why not? It would keep other Alpha’s from thinking they can have what’s mine” growled Aemond.

Anyone even dares to think they can touch what is mine. I’ll slit their throats. I’ll paint the seven kingdoms with their blood.

“No one can have me except you” cooed Valaera.

Aemond pacified by Valaera’s answer gave his Omega a quick kiss before departing their chambers to request a bath for the both of them and the moontea for Valaera.

“Have I mentioned how much I hate this” groaned Aegon as he sifted uncomfortable in his seat.

“You might have mentioned it once or twice” snapped Aemond feeling irritated at his brother’s complaining.

“Why do we need to have a feast every day, we all know she’s Queen”.

“It’s about tradition. The realm coming together to celebrate the beginning of a new era, and it’s not just our half-sister that’s being celebrated it’s your Alpha” said Aemond.

“Ah yes the future King” replied Aegon sarcastically.

“What’s wrong with you? Why are you being such a pain in the arse?” asked Aemond.

“Had an argument with Jace” muttered Aegon.

“Do I even want to know what it was about?”

“He wants another pup and I’m just not ready yet. I know Maela is over two-name days old, but I just want to wait a little longer” said Aegon sadly.

“A good Alpha respects his Omega’s choices. Just talk to him, even though Jace is an absolute moron he’s not that bad” replied Aemond.

“Is that how you ended up getting your Omega with child again not even six moons after the birth of your twins because you respected Valaera’s choices?”

“No she got with child-“

“Because he couldn’t keep his knot in his breeches and Valaera forgot to drink moon tea” laughed Baela.

“Is that right?” asked Aegon smiling.

“Honestly you should be glad you don’t live on Driftmark, the amount of sex those two have. No dignity either, all over the place. The library, the gardens, and the beach. Nowhere is safe” exclaimed Baela.

“Shut up” growled Aemond.

“You absolute whore” laughed Aegon.

“I’m going to kill the pair of you if you don’t shut up” snapped Aemond.

“Say isn’t that Cregan Stark talking to Valaera?” asked Baela.

“WHAT! Where?” exclaimed Aemond looking around the throne room.

“Made you look,” laughed Baela.

“You just wait. I’ll get you back for that” retorted Aemond.

“And how will you do that good brother?”

“You’ll see” muttered Aemond.

“What’s going on here?” asked Valaera as she sat down.

“Nothing for you to worry about Issa vok nūmio” replied Aemond as he kissed Valaera’s hand. (My perfect pearl).

“Oh please” laughed Baela as she pretended to be sick.

“Don’t you have your own Omega to annoy good sister?” asked Aemond.

“Prick” mumbled Baela as she rose from the table and returned to Helaena who was busy chatting to her mother.

Suddenly someone cleared their throat, and everyone took their seats as the Queen rose from her seat.

“As Queen it is my duty to ensure the succession of the Iron Throne, after my natural passing my first-born son Jacaerys will become King with his Omega by his side as consort”.

“Where’s she going with this?” muttered Valaera curiously.

“I’m not sure” replied Aemond quietly.

“So, there is no doubt of the future of House Targaryen, my grandson Jaehaerys will inherit the Iron Throne after his father, with my granddaughter Vaella Targaryen by his side as his Queen”.

“WHAT!” shouted Aemond as he sharply rose from his chair.

The entire throne room went silent as they stared at the furious Alpha.

“I wish to betroth Jaehaerys and Vaella” said Rhaenyra firmly.

“NO” snarled Aemond.

“Excuse me?” questioned Rhaenyra.

“Vaella is my daughter, I don’t care that you are Queen, you do not get to make decisions about any of my children without consulting me first”.

“Brother, let us discuss this in private” insisted Rhaenyra.

“Did you know about this??” snapped Aemond.

“What? No, I didn’t” replied Aegon.

“Aemond. That’s enough” warned Jace.

“My daughter is not even two-name days old, and you think you can decide her future without my consideration. Issa dōna tala” snapped Aemond (My sweet daughter).

“Let me handle this Valzȳrys” urged Valaera sternly (Husband).

Aemond nodded his head sharply and stood behind Valaera. Which given the circumstances was quite unusual for an Alpha to willingly concede and allow their Omega to take over.

“Mother you should have consulted with us. We could have come to a decision together”.

“My sweet girl we should discuss this in private,” said Rhaenyra.

“We should have been consulted on this betrothal, Vaella is out daughter”.

“It was really a spur of the moment decision” admitted Rhaenyra.

“Then you could have waited to announce it” snapped Valaera.

Her Omega scent quickly souring. Her protective mother instincts kicking in.

“It wasn’t just Vaella, we had hoped to betroth Vhalarr to-“

“NO” yelled Valaera.

“Valaera” gasped Rhaenyra.

“I love you mother, but Vhalarr and Vaella are not your children. They are mine and Aemond’s, we make the decisions. Not you”

“Cease this infernal argument at once,” shouted Daemon.

Aemond took a step forward and audibly growled at the older Alpha.

“Vhalarr will be the heir to Driftmark and any decisions regarding his future wife will be at the discretion of myself, Aemond and Lord Corlys,” said Valaera.

“Valaera. Please” muttered Rhaenyra.

“Your wrong mother. You should have spoken to us” said Valaera firmly.

“That’s enough Valaera” warned Jace.

“Don’t even think about it” snapped Aemond, his fists clenched.

“I will not seek to draw further attention to this matter Your Grace. My Alpha and I will return to Driftmark with our children on the morrow” said Valaera sternly.

“You don’t have to do that”.

“Yes, I do. Should you have need of me or my Alpha then you may of course send a raven”.

Valaera didn’t even wait for her mother to respond; she grabbed hold of Aemond and dragged him out of the Throne Room.

“I take it your mother is unaware that Vhalarr will become a Velaryon upon his ascension to the Driftwood throne?” asked Corlys.

“The opportunity never presented itself” muttered Valaera.

“I suppose it doesn’t really matter considering Viserys requested Rhaenyra and Laenor’s eldest child take the name Targaryen when he becomes King” said Corlys.

Jacaerys Targaryen. Sounds really weird.

“Did we overreact grandsire?” asked Valaera.

“Both you and Aemond acted as any parent would” replied Corlys.

“How could she think to make such an announcement without even consulting us first?”

“Your mother has just been crowned Queen, there are still those in the realm that would rather have a King. Ensuring the future order of succession for the Iron Throne protects her reign and that of your brother” explained Corlys.

“She still should have consulted us. You know how protective Aemond can be”.

“Alpha’s are naturally inclined to protect their Omegas and any pups they have” replied Corlys.

“I just don’t know what to do. The betrothal itself does make sense. But I just can’t get past the fact that my mother didn’t even stop to ask us”.

“Maybe just give it a few more days and then send a raven to your mother inviting her to Driftmark” suggested Corlys.

“Do you think that’s such a good idea?” muttered Valaera.

“Better to sort things out now” replied Corlys.

Grandsire is right. I need to speak to my mother. She needs to realise what she did was wrong.

“I’ll need to speak with Aemond first,” said Valaera.

“You want to what?” asked Aemond.

“Invite my mother to Driftmark, we need to sort this out Aemond” exclaimed Valaera.

“Hm”

“I know your angry and believe me so am I, but we can’t leave things as they are” urged Valaera.

Aemond remained silent for what seemed like an age before he blessed Valaera with a response.

“I will not have her making decisions for our pups. We are their parents and ultimately any decisions regarding future betrothals should go through us” groused Aemond.

“I agree. We decide” replied Valaera.

“I understand the importance of duty, but I would like our pups to have a voice” said Aemond sternly.

“Me too” whispered Valaera.

“I’ve always had to fight to get what I want, but when it came to marrying you. It was my choice. I requested your hand, and my father granted it. Being with you is the best thing that ever happened to me, and I want that for our pups” muttered Aemond.

Valaera wrapped her arms around her Alpha and breathed in his scent. It had become less sour since they’d left Kings Landing.

The flight back to Driftmark had been awful. Aemond was furious and Vhagar could feel her rider’s anger through their bond. The old she dragon, grumbled and growled all the way back to Driftmark. Even Arrax who was normally quite chirpy was sullen and agitated.

It was only the presence of the pups that seemed to keep the dragons from reacting further.

“Will your mother be coming alone?” asked Aemond.

“I haven’t sent the raven yet, but I can request that she comes alone”.

“Good. I have little patience as it is and if your brother dares to show his face, I will end up smashing his teeth in” admitted Aemond.

“Despite his outwardly bravado, I know Jace is absolutely terrified of you” muttered Valaera.

Good. I’ll make sure the ‘strong’ bastard remains that way. He’s lucky I haven’t gutted him.

“You were also terrified of me and one point” said Aemond.

“Indeed, I was but you were pretty good at convincing me otherwise”.

“I’d like think so” whispered Aemond as he placed a gentle kiss on his Omega’s lips.

Suddenly a knock at their door broke them out of their love haze.

“Enter” stated Aemond firmly.

“My princes, the children have awoken from their afternoon nap. They call for you”.

“Thank you, Tarla,” replied Valaera as she rushed out of the room.

“I wish to extend my apology to you”.

“M-Me my Prince why?” asked Tarla.

“We left Kings Landing after our disagreement with the Queen and gave no thought to how you would return to Driftmark and for that you have my apology” replied Aemond.

“It is not required my Prince, I sailed back to Driftmark with Lord Corlys”.

“You are one of the only few people that I trust with my pups. I wish for you to be happy and well looked after during your time with my family” said Aemond.

“I appreciate your kind words my Prince” exclaimed Tarla.

“Here” said Aemond as he handed Tarla a bag of gold coins.

“N-No my Prince I cannot”

“Yes, you can. Take them with my thanks, you need not spend them all at once. I will be insulted if you don’t take them” replied Aemond.

“I don’t wish to insult you my Prince, but I must take my leave. I have other duties to attend too” exclaimed Tarla.

“Go do not let me keep you” said Aemond.

Tarla bowed her head towards the Alpha and then quickly left the room.

The raven had been sent and a week later the screeches of Syrax could be heard echoing around Driftmark, announcing the arrival of the Queen.

Valaera felt a little anxious as she awaited his mother’s arrival, but Aemond couldn’t give two shits, he only agreed to her visit for the sake of his Omega.

“Do you think she’ll mind that I’m sitting here?” asked Valaera.

“You’re the heir to Driftmark, you may sit where you please” replied Aemond sternly.

“Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen, first of her name. Queen of the Andals, Rhoynar and the First Men. Lady of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm”

When Rhaenyra entered the Hall of Nine, she paused at the sight of her daughter sitting on the Driftwood Throne, with her Alpha standing next to her.

“Where is Lord Corlys?” asked Rhaenyra.

“My grandsire had matters to attend to in Spice Town” replied Valaera sternly.

“It is not Lord Corlys you’ve come to see Your Grace” said Aemond.

“No, it is not”.

“Let us cut to the chase then” said Valaera firmly.

“I am aware that my announcement surrounding the betrothal of Jaehaerys and Vaella was improper and ill timed”.

“A pity you couldn’t see that before you opened your mouth” growled Aemond.

“Careful brother, I’m still the Queen and I will not tolerate rudeness” retorted Rhaenyra.

“I give no shit to who you are, not when it concerns my pups” snarled Aemond.

“Is this how you let your husband speak to your mother?” asked Rhaenyra.

“Aemond is angry mother and so am I. You didn’t even think to consult us over matters surrounding our own children,” said Valaera.

“I apologise for what happened, but sweet girl surely you can see the benefits of a betrothal between Jaehaerys and Vaella”.

“Yes, I can. But the thing is Your Grace, it’s not the betrothal that’s the problem, it’s you making decisions for children that do not belong to you” replied Valaera.

“It was not just Vaella either. You were after betrothing Vhalarr” growled Aemond.

“May I ask who you were offering the future heir of Driftmarks hand too?

“Well, I thought about Maela” replied Rhaenyra.

“Vhalarr is not free to marry, he’s already betrothed” announced Valaera.

“W-What. To whom?” asked Rhaenyra.

“Daena, she is the granddaughter of the Lady Laena and the great granddaughter of Lord Corlys. Velaryon blood will sit the Driftwood Throne” replied Valaera.

Rhaenyra clenched her jaw as the implication of Valaera’s words hung in the air like a foul stench.

“So, you betroth your son with no fuss but will not accept a betrothal set forth by your own Queen”.

“Because we were consulted on Vhalarr’s betrothal to Daena, and there were conditions that were also agreed upon,” said Valaera.

“Such as?” asked Rhaenyra.

“The children will of course wed when they are of the appropriate age, they will enter a period of courtship and if at the end they do not wish to marry for whatever reason then the betrothal will be broken and Vhalarr will be able to seek his own match” stated Valaera.

“So, his betrothal to Daena is provisional?”

“Yes” muttered Valaera.

“Bearing in mind that both pups are still young in their years” said Aemond.

“Could the same arrangement be put into place for Jaehaerys and Vaella?”

“That’s something you would need to discuss with Jacaerys and Aegon,” said Valaera.

“I will speak to them on my return to Kings Landing and let you know of the outcome”.

“Very well, however I do suggest you make haste mother. There is a storm approaching and I would hate for you to be caught in it” stated Valaera nodding at the guard stationed at the door.

Rhaenyra soon realised that her visit to Driftmark was over when a number of guards entered the Hall of Nine with the intention of escorting her back to her dragon.

“I pray that you have a safe journey Your Grace” said Aemond.

Rhaenyra glared at her half-brother’s false attempt at sincerity. She knew he had no care for her and if truth be told the feeling was mutual.

The only thing they had in common was their love for Valaera.

“Farewell mother. I hope to hear from you soon”.

“I shall write to you as soon as I am able” replied Rhaenyra, she had hoped that Valaera would come and wrap her arms around her just she used to when she was a child, but she never left the Driftwood Throne.

The only movement she made was to take Aemond’s hand.

“I love you my sweet girl”.

“I love you mother” replied Valaera.

Rhaenyra gave her daughter one last smiled before she left the Hall of Nine surrounded by guards.

“D-Did I do ok?” asked Valaera.

“Oh, my sweet you were perfect” replied Aemond.

“I wasn’t too harsh, was I?”

“No, you acted accordingly” said Aemond smiling.

“What are you smiling at?”

“You look like you belong up there, it suits you” exclaimed Aemond.

“Even if I am Strong” whispered Valaera.

“Hm”

“Aemond. What?” gasped Valaera as she was pulled to her feet.

“I simply wish to pledge my loyalty to the heir to Driftmark”.

“Does pledging your loyalty involve you lifting my skirts?” asked Valaera.

“It helps. But my pledge is more physical in nature” muttered Aemond.

“Is that right?”

“Well, you see my Lady, I’m going to bend you over and fuck you on the Driftwood Throne”.

“Oh my god” gasped Valaera as Aemond’s hand slipped into her small clothes.

[incandescentlysomething]

Princess of the Smoke: Chapter 2

House of the Dragon Season 2

Aemond x TargaryenOC

Chapter Word Count: 5608

Chapter Summary: The aftermath of Blood and Cheese is felt by all, though some feel more deeply than others. This follows Episode 2 of Season 2!! Full spoilers ahead!

This is a sequel to Lady of the Ashes! It follows the events of the show, but is canon-divergent.

For most of her life, Aelinor had been a temperate being. She loved fiercely, and as all children were, she was prone to fits of outrage or sorrow, and yet she had never been one to lose herself to her passions. She was capable of knowing herself without ever losing herself fully to her emotions.

But now she felt rage unlike any other.

“It appears that the boy’s head was severed from his body. Thousands witnessed the procession.” Geradys was relaying the missive to the council.

Jaehaerys. That poor little boy, who had never done anything to deserve such pain. There was nothing he could have done, nothing that anyone could have done that would have warranted such violence against a child.

“And they are accusing me of this?” Her mother was aghast, and Aelinor had no doubt in her mind that the Queen was innocent of this crime. She may be only barely past the worst of her grief, but she was not one to order the mutilation of a child.

Aelinor shifted in her chair. She still felt ill at ease, like she didn’t belong at this table. Her mother sat at its head, all eyes on the Queen as this news was delivered, and Aelinor wondered if anyone would truly notice if she slipped away. Jace was here, but he was the heir, bound to stand by their mother’s side through everything. But she had no real place here, in many ways no more than a spectator in her mother’s court.

Jace stood at her side, and she felt him shift as he spoke.

“Send me on Vermax,” He implored. “Rhaenys is needed in the Gullet, and we need all eyes on King’s Landing.”

“No!” Rhaenyra said quickly. Jace let out an exasperated breath, too quiet for anyone save Aelinor to hear. She carefully reached back, finding his leg and giving it a squeeze. She understood him, knew that he too felt the buzzing in his veins, the instinct to get out there and do something. Both of them simmered in this knowledge that there was worse to come, and yet neither of them could take action. 

She would speak to him after, reassure him and together they could come up with a plan. Their mother would not ignore the both of them, not when they stood in agreement and only sought to defend her and their family. Perhaps she should speak to her father. They might be of two different minds on many things, but he was not one for inaction. It was he who had coaxed her from her grief, urging her to fly to Winterfell to retrieve her brother. Perhaps he would help her mother see reason. 

“How long have they been in there?” Baela asked.

Aelinor rested her cheek against her arm. “Long enough. Too long.”

They both looked down the corridor, to the closed door that the Queen and Prince Daemon had retreated behind following the council meeting. Aelinor sat in the window, the black velvet of her dress barely enough to keep out the cold stone. Baela wore her riding leather, much more suited to Dragonstone’s harsh climate. Aelinor’s own leathers had been torn to shreds by her journey North, the leather stripped bare until they were largely useless to her. She had had no choice but to turn back to her gowns, which only made her stick out more.

“What was the North like?” Baela asked, as if reading her thoughts.

Aelinor tilted her head, looking at the genuine curiosity on her sister’s face. “It was cold.”

Baela snorted. “That’s all you’ll give me it? It was cold? What about the people? The food?”

“You’d be better served asking Jace,” Aelinor said. “He actually spent time there. I spoke to no more than two men, had an arrow fired at me, and then left.”

“Yes, yes, I’ll ask Jace about the food.” Baela laughed. “But he is useless when it comes to important things.”

“Important things?” Aelinor asked.

“Like men,” Baela winked conspiratorially. “What of Cregan Stark?”

Aelinor felt her lips twitching in a smile. “Dear sister, are you not betrothed?”

“I can still admire,” Baela insisted. “Tell me.”

“Hm,” Aelinor considered her answer. “And I suppose ‘sturdy’ is not a good enough descriptor?”

“Not nearly!” Baela laughed.

She had missed this. In the tragedy of the last few weeks it had been easy to forget that — even when they pretended to be cousins and not half-sisters — they had always been friends. It was so hard to find levity in these days, with Luc’s death hanging over her like a shadow, and yet she could feel Baela bringing shreds of herself to the surface.

She twisted her lips together, trying to remember Cregan Stark’s face. “I’m not sure. Handsome enough, I suppose. Very…severe looking. A bit bear-like.”

“Bear-like?” Baela mused. “How specific. Though I suppose, not unappealing.”

Wasn’t it? The more Aelinor thought of it, the more Cregan Stark’s features seemed too large, too found. His eyes were hidden beneath messy hair and fading amongst shades of brown and gray. He was a large man, but not as tall as she liked. No, the more she considered it, the more his features faded away, assembling themselves into a figure she considered handsome.

She realized who that person was with a start, the anonymous man she was imagining quickly gaining a recognizable face, and she shook her head to clear it from her mind. 

Baela’s eyes widened, as if she had followed where Aelinor’s thoughts had wandered, but she was saved from any inquisition by the sound of the door opening at the end of the corridor.

Baela leapt to her feet, striding down the hall with quick steps. “Father?”

There was no answer.

“Baela?” The Queen’s voice called from the library, and Aelinor heard the sound of Baela walking away.

Prince Daemon reached her window a second later, his eyes darting over to where she reclined. His shoulders were tense, his head hanging down as if he had been scolded. 

“You ignored her.” Aelinor said, picking at a loose thread on her skirt. “Why?”

He did not answer for a long moment, looking as if he was debating continuing down the hall and ignoring two of his three daughters in the span of a minute.

Finally, he sighed. “I am to go to Harrenhal, to muster the Riverlands.”

Aelinor swung her legs down from the window, stepping onto the floor and finding herself face to face with her father. “You did not answer my question.”

From the tick in his jaw, it was clear that he did not intend to.

“Perhaps you’ll answer another one?” Aelinor was not sure where this boldness was coming from, and yet she found herself unable to stop her tongue. “Did you, or did you not, order the murder of Prince Jahaerys?”

His mouth opened once. Then twice. Practically confirmation.

“I did not order the murder of that boy.” He said finally.

“Not in so many words then?” Aelinor knew her father, knew that he was many things, but he was not a liar. A braggart and snake and sometimes a coward, but she had never known him to be untrue. “You can tell me, Father. What’s done is done. I simply want to know.”

Did she? What good could come from her knowing the truth of this? A little boy had died, a little boy who was the son of someone she loved very much. Learning her father was responsible should only bring her more pain. 

“Your brother was murdered,” Daemon said quietly.

“He was,” The words stung as they left her lips. “And was this your justice?”

Daemon looked away, staring back down the hall to where Rhaenyra and Baela stood behind closed doors. “I will not burden you with this act, Daughter.”

It was generous of him. Even, she suspected, an act of love. And if not love, some loyalty. He did not wish to share the truth of this act with her, and either it was because he thought she would turn from him, which she would have already done, or it was genuinely because he did not want it to weigh on her. She could leave it there, there was no reason to push for more. But she nodded anyway, urging him to go forward.

Daemon gritted his teeth, before nodding slightly, as if acknowledging her choice. “If…if this had been an act of justice…it would not have been the boy Jahaerys who should have paid.”

Aelinor’s heart beat once. Then twice. And then the full weight of her father’s words hit her in the chest.

Aemond.

Her father had sent assassins into the Red Keep to kill Aemond.

“Oh,” Her voice sounded echoey, distant. “I see.”

She did see. The horror of it all was that she did understand. Aemond had murdered her brother. It was a crime he needed to pay for. She wanted him to answer for it. But for her father to nearly be the one to swing the sword, for a little boy to pay the price instead? It was horrific. 

It was hard to determine which was worse; the murder of that little boy, or the idea of imagining Aemond dead in his place. And perhaps most horribly, Aelinor knew which would have caused her more pain.

“For what it’s worth, Daughter,” Daemon said quietly. “I thought to warn you before.”

But he hadn’t. She remembered a few days ago, crossing paths with him as he left for the harbor with his cloak. Had it been then that the deed was done? 

“I…” Thoughts tumbled around in her mind like leaves in a gale. “I understand, Prince Daemon.”

“I think you do.” He nodded.

That acknowledgement, that inkling of respect that she saw shining in his gaze, that affected her more than she would like to admit. Here she was, having been just delivered the devastating blow that her father had ordered the death of her….of Aemond, and still the shock and shame was quickly giving way to an unfamiliar feeling. Pride. 

It was deeply unnerving.

“You are going to Harrenhal now, then?” Aelinor asked.

Daemon nodded. “Rhaenyra thought I would be of more use there.”

Or rather, Rhaenyra was displeased with Daemon’s actions, and now sought to send him away. 

“You will be safe, I trust,” Aelinor felt herself verging on sentimentality. “I imagine war will come to us all soon.”

“At least one of you can see it,” Daemon pressed his lips together. “Don’t let her tell you what you are.”

Aelinor blinked. “What?”

“Your mother.” Daemon said, leveling her with a serious gaze. “She is going to want to treat you like her daughter.”

“I…I am her daughter.”

“No,” Daemon insisted. “You are a dragon rider and a weapon, and she must not forget that.”

“We are…” Aelinor frowned. “We are all dragon riders.”

“Yes,” Daemon agreed. “But we do not all command the largest claimed dragon save Vhagar.”

“Dreamfyre,” Aelinor said quietly.

“That girl,” Aelinor bristled at how he addressed Helaena, “Will not ride to war. You will.”

He made it sound so easy. She would go to war. As if it were an inevitability. Alas, it was not up to him.

“I ride at the pleasure of the Queen,” Aelinor said simply. The door at the end of the corridor opened, Baela stepping through. She saw her sister hesitate as she spotted the two of them, a wounded expression flashing across her face.

“Safe travels, father.” Aelinor dipped her head slightly.

Daemon nodded. “And you, daughter.”

Aelinor didn’t look back as she approached her sister, reaching out to grab Baela’s sleeve. “It wasn’t what it looked like. He only wanted to—”

“Speak to you and not me?” Baela jerked her hand away. “It’s hardly a surprise.”

Aelinor floundered for a reply, her sister striding away before she could decide how to respond. What did she mean ‘it’s hardly a surprise’? Surely she did not mean to insinuate that Daemon favored her? Not when she had spent half her life without him, not when Baela and Rhaena were his trueborn daughters.

But that hurt in Baela’s eyes, that had not been new. That was the ache of a pain that had been there for a long time, only hidden beneath the surface.

Aelinor longed to chase after her, longed to reassure her that her conversation with their father had been anything but comforting or welcome, but the open door at her back beckoned her.

She stepped into the study, finding her mother seated on one of the low chaises.

“Mother,” She bobbed a curtsy even though there was no one to see it. “It’s been an eventful morning.”

“That is has,” Her mother let out a weak laugh. “Do you have need of me? I am supposed to be at another council meeting.”

Because this was her mother’s life now, council meetings and courts and war planning. 

“Was there something you needed, Aelinor?” Her mother reached out a hand, gently brushing her fingers across Aelinor’s scarred palm.

In truth, no. There was nothing Aelinor needed. But she could not pass up the opportunity to have an audience with her mother, not when her time was becoming more and more precious.

“I sought to implore you, on behalf of Jace,” Aelinor stepped around the chaise, leaning her hip against the table. 

“And why does Jace need you to advocate on his behalf?” Rhaenyra said, sounding mildly amused.

Aelinor knotted her hands together. “He is anxious to help, Mother. He wants to be out there, patrolling on Vermax.”

Rhaenyra sat up straighter. “He is my heir, it is out of the question.”

“He is a prince, and a boy,” Aelinor sighed, “Or a man, technically. It causes him shame when you order him to stay here while others fight our battles. While his betrothed and Princess Rhaenys fly around defending our borders. He wishes to be useful. For a chance to prove himself.”

“And yet he sent his sister here to petition me?” Rhaenyra raised her eyebrows, the expression all-too patronizing and motherly.

Aelinor tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “He didn’t send me, Mother. But he…we understand each other. We both desire nothing more than to help you.”

“You have helped me. Jace secured the Vale and the North for us, and you flew to retrieve him after fleeing King’s Landing. What more could I ask of you?”

“You should ask us to help. To fight. To defend your claim.” Aelinor insisted. “We are dragon riders, Mother. Use us.”

Rhaenyra inhaled deeply. “Aelinor, I understand the desire to be useful. Do you think I am not also frustrated? I must stay here, away from danger, as a war is waged in my name. It is difficult, but it is the way of things. And Jace is my heir.”

Aelinor scoffed, surprisingly indignant. “Surely if you are Queen, it is up to you to determine the way of things. Don’t let that council of old men tell you what you are capable of.”

Rhaenyra’s silence was answer enough.

“If not Jace, if he is too valuable to risk, then why not me?” Aelinor asked.

“You?” Rhaenyra said in surprise. “You wish to fly to war? A war that may yet prove unnecessary.”

“Have I given you reason to doubt me?” Aelinor asked, mildly offended. “I flew North when you commanded, I fled King’s Landing all on my own.”

“Yes but…” Rhaenyra hesitated. “You have always been…gentle.”

“Gentle does not mean weak.” She insisted. “Darrax is nearly as large as Vermithor, with the speed of youth. You must use him. Use us.”

“And what if it comes to battle?” Rhaenyra asked. “What would you do then?”

“I would do what was necessary to defend my Queen.” Aelinor said simply. “Do you doubt that?”

“Aemond is out there, Aelinor.” Rhaenyra’s expression was soft, pitying almost. “Could you fight him?”

“I—” The words caught in Aelinor’s throat.

It wasn’t as though the thought hadn’t crossed her mind. Somewhere out there Aemond was flying around on the biggest dragon in the world. If there was to be a war, he would certainly be on the other side. The thought of standing against him, of facing him across a field of fire, it was terrifying. But she had to believe that she would have the strength to do what was necessary.

She wouldn’t be able to live with herself otherwise.

“I’m here, Mother.” She brushed out her skirt. “And so is Jace. Use us, before it is too late.”

Aemond wasn’t supposed to be here.

He wasn’t sure what had driven him back to this place, to this place where his sins seemed to hang in the air like smoke. 

His sins.

Killing Lucerys.

Returning to this establishment for the third time.

Betraying Aelinor.

“Is something bothering you, My Prince?” Madam Sylvi asked, her hand stroking his back softly.

“Daemon sent them to kill me, you know?” The silk sheets were soft under his fingertips, the fabric meant to be smooth and sensual, but to him it seemed only cold. “But I was out.”

“You were with me,” Madam Sylvi added, as if the source of his greatest shame was not worthy of note. While his nephew had been slaughtered in his bed by assassins sent to kill Aemond, he had been here, soaking in his own shame and depravity.

“Perhaps you should be proud of it, that he considers you such a foe.” Madam Sylvi suggested, her tone placating.

“Hm,” Aemond considered this, drawing his knees a bit closer to his chest. “That he would murder me in my bed? That he might fear me?”

“As well he should,” Madam Sylvi’s hand slipped from his back, traveling down toward his hips. “The boy is grown into a man.”

“No!” Aemond jerked away from her hand. “I have told you already. No.”

Madam Sylvi sighed, but leaned back into the cushions. Aemond rested his head back in her lap, squeezing his eyes tightly shut as he tried to block everything out. The ringing in his ears, the voices that seemed to be constantly haranguing him, refusing to let him get a wink of sleep without reminding him of what he had done. What he was doing.

“I do regret that business with Luc,” He admitted quietly. “I lost my temper that day, and I am sorry for it.”

“I am glad to hear it,” Madam Sylvi said. “I would remind you that when princes lose their temper, it is the smallfolk who pay for it. Like me.”

Aemond sighed. “They used to tease me, you know? Because I was different.”

Madam Sylvi let out another exasperated sigh, as if he were wasting her time. As if he weren’t paying her a small fortune for her company. “Are you sure I can’t be of more….help…my prince? Offer some relief?”

He knew exactly the kind of relief she could offer, and perhaps he was the fool for denying her. But despite the frustration stirring in his body, despite the fact that he knew any normal man would never spend hours in the company of a whore without fucking her, he could not find a single ounce of desire in him. Not for Sylvi, anyway.

He pushed himself up from her lap, reaching for his discarded clothes. “I have made my intentions clear.”

“Yes, yes,” Sylvi pulled the shoulder of her robe up to hide her nakedness. “Your loyalty is admirable.”

It wasn’t admirable. There was nothing about him that was worthy of admiration. He had betrayed Lina by murdering her brother, and by setting foot in this place. That he had returned many times to the company of a whore old enough to be his mother was too shameful to admit. But he would not allow himself to indulge in anything more than Sylvi’s company. Here he could lay himself bare, let his sins seep through his skin and feel a bit lighter, if only for a few hours. But he would not fuck her. No matter how much he craved the touch of a person, he would not give in. Not when he had sworn himself to Aelinor and broken her trust so deeply. It would never make up for all he had done, but he would not betray her in this. If he couldn’t have Lina — as he did not deserve to — then he wouldn’t have anyone else either.

“Will you be back, my Prince?” Sylvi asked.

Gods, he wished he could say no. Wished that this place hadn’t become his only escape in the city, the one place where he felt free of the judgment that followed him around the Keep.

But he jerked his chin in a nod, reaching down into his boot to remove the small pouch of coins.

“Do you require an escort, Princess?”

Aelinor barely glanced up at the Queensguard posted by the door. “I do not. I’ll be back inside by nightfall.”

“Only it’s…” The Knight trailed off, one of his gloved hands holding the door slightly ajar.

She turned, trying to recall if she knew his name. It was Ser Erryk, one of the few faces she actually recognized. He seemed to be hesitating, as if unsure whether he should address her directly.

“Yes?” Aelinor asked, trying to manage a smile.

“It’s a bit cold for dragonback,” Ser Erryk said, “And you do not seem to be dressed for it.”

She glanced down. No, she certainly wasn’t dressed for a ride on Darrax, what with her loose velvet dress and her hair hanging down about her shoulders. Already she could feel a slight chill from the crack in the door.

“Your concern is appreciated,” Aelinor said. “But I’m just going for a walk. Actually, I was looking for my brother. Have you seen him?”

Ser Erryk stepped aside and held the door open, allowing her to step outside. “I think he was also out for a walk, Princess. I believe the Lady Baela was with him.”

“Wonderful, thank you.” Aelinor gave him one last smile as she walked away, turning down the stone path to circle the base of the castle. Jace would most likely be at the lookout, and she wanted a chance to speak with him about her conversation with their mother.

It was cold out, far colder than she would have liked. If she’d had any sense, she would have turned around and gone to fetch a cloak. But she just wanted to be out of the castle, to spend a few precious minutes surrounded by nothing more than open air rather than stone and tapestries.

She spotted Jace just as she was rounding the corner, his head leaning close to Baela’s as they spoke. She stumbled in her step, tucking herself behind the side of the tower before they saw her. As much as she wanted to talk to Jace, it was probably best that she give Baela some more time. Her sister had been mad at her only hours before, after all, and she did not want to make anything worse.

Resolving to wait for Baela to leave, she crouched down at the base of the tower, leaning her weight into the corner to keep herself upright. There was gravel spread across the ground here, and she let the small stones slip through her fingers. 

A small part of her resented Jace and Baela, though she knew that it was unfair of her. But however unfair it might be, she couldn’t stop the painful bite she felt every time the two of them stood together, and she was forced to remember just how alone she was.

For the past years, she had always been some form of alone. Yes, she loved her brothers, and she loved Baela and Rhaena. But they all had each other. Jace and Luc had always been inseparable, and they adored Baela and Rhaena. Now Luc was gone, his absence an ever-present shadow in their minds, and Rhaena had all but retreated into herself. A better sister might have sought Rhaena out, but Aelinor could barely handle her own grief, let alone someone else’s.

Truthfully, seeing Baela and Jace together just reminded her that Aemond wasn’t here. Her entire youth had been spent with him by her side, and she had imagined that her future would be the same. Now everything had changed, and Aemond seemed to be an ocean away.

“What are you doing down there?”

She looked up in surprise, finding Jace leaning over her.

“Oh,” She blinked a tear from her eye. “I was waiting for you.”

“Well, here I am.” He held out a hand, pulling her to her feet. “You didn’t want to talk to Baela?”

“I…spoke to her earlier.” Aelinor stepped around him, shivering in the cold wind. “I was looking for you.”

“Gods, Aelinor,” Jace reached over to remove the red cloak from his back. “Why aren’t you wearing a cloak? You’ll freeze.”

Aelinor accepted the cloak with a smile, wrapping it tightly around her shoulders. “I was just looking for you, and I figured I could just steal yours.”

“You’re hilarious,” Jace took her arm, guiding the two of them down the path. “Why were you looking for me? Did Baela tell you that mother is sending her out again?”

She hadn’t, but it was hardly a surprise. “Baela is quite capable, Jace.”

“I know she is,” His lips pressed together in a pout. “But she…how am I to sit here while my future wife flies around fighting our war? It’s embarrassing.”

“According to Mother, we aren’t at war,” Aelinor sighed. “I asked her to send us out, but she wouldn’t be convinced.”

“No, I assumed not,” He sighed. “I assume her reasoning was the same?”

“Of course, you’re her precious heir. She can’t risk you.” Aelinor kicked a rock down the path. “And apparently she thinks that, despite my irrelevance, I am too weak and gentle to be sent out.”

“You are gentle,” Jace said, his voice kind. “But you are not weak. And you have never been irrelevant.”

Aelinor tucked herself closer to his side. “Why, Brother, was that a compliment?”

“It might’ve been,” He sniffed. “I like you a great deal more now that I know we are not to be married.”

They both wrinkled their noses at that. 

The cloak shifted, and Aelinor struggled to grasp the tie with her scarred hand. Occasionally she had issues like this, when the muscles in her burned fingers proved too tight for small movements. It was why she had given up on embroidery years ago.

Jace’s hand was there securing the clasp with easy movements. “Does it still hurt you?”

“No. It’s more of an ache than anything else. I manage.”

He swallowed, his gaze darting to her hand before shifting away. “Do you know, I don’t think he ever really hated us before that.”

She didn’t need to ask who he was referring to. “No? I thought you all teased him terribly.”

Jace shrugged. “I think it got worse as we got older. When you were little we didn’t really care about him, because he was always with you. But after you…after the accident I think everything got worse.”

Aelinor couldn’t really remember. She had been so young at the time, her world so small, that she wasn’t sure that she would have noticed how one event could have changed her brothers’ relationship with Aemond. As far as she was concerned, they had never liked each other, and it had never mattered, because she was there to keep the peace.

“I don’t know how we’re just supposed to stay here,” Jace wrapped his arm over her shoulders. “I feel like I’m going mad.”

Aelinor hugged his waist tightly, sharing in his frustration. “I know, Big Brother. We just have to wait.”

Aemond stood in the balcony, watching his grandsire’s party slowly make their way out of the gates. He hadn’t bothered to speak to Lord Otto before his departure, though it was clear from the tension in the Keep that it had not been an amicable one.

“Ah, Brother,” He bristled at Aegon’s voice. “There you are.”

Aemond smoothed his expression into a mask, spinning on his heel. “You summoned me?”

“Yes,” Aegon’s doublet was unbuttoned, his hair mussed, with dark circles ringing his eyes. He looked exhausted, though there was a brightness to his expression that unnerved him. “You saw that our grandsire is gone.”

“I did,” Aemond looked outside, watching the gates close behind him. “What inspired you to make this change?”

Aegon scoffed. “The bastard suggested that my actions with the ratcatchers was unwise.”

Aemond had seen the display on his walk home from the brother. Crowds had still been gathered under the hanging bodies, some crying out in horror as crows began to feast on the remains. It would hardly win his brother favor with the people.

“One of those filthy, pest-ridden vermin murdered my son,” Aegon seethed. “The goldcloak would not identify which one, and so I was forced to take drastic measures.”

“And the Hand thought it unwise?” Aemond mused.

“Apparently. As if it were his place to question me.” Aegon seemed appalled by this. “As if anyone would have done any different.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“Well,” Aegon strode over to a small table, pouring a cup from a pitcher of wine. “Ja— my son was the most important person in the world to me. I would burn the whole damn city down to find out who hurt him.”

“And you think I would do the same?” Aemond followed after his brother, pouring a small portion of wine into his own cup.

“Surely you would,” Aegon said. “What if it were Helaena?”

Aemond chose not to point out to his brother that Helaena was not his wife, as the years had proven that Aegon had not an ounce of attachment to their sister.

“Or what if it were Aelinor?” Aegon was still talking.

“What?” Aemond sat up straighter, cursing himself for being so obvious.

Aegon smirked in amusement. “I’m just saying. It’s a war, so one of us is going to kill her eventually, but it's just the principle of it. If someone snuck in and slaughtered her in her bed, you would seek your vengeance, wouldn’t you?”

His throat was tight. “I…I would.” Was this admitting to treachery? Was his brother trying to coax him into admitting that he still cared for Aelinor? 

“I want you at the next council meeting, brother.” Aegon said. “I’ve named Cole my hand, and I want you there as well.”

“Why?”

“To support me? You are our greatest weapon.” Aegon spoke as if it were obvious. “You may yet win this war for us, and Otto was a fool for not employing you.”

Aemond nodded slowly, feeling his chest swell with pride.

“And,” Aegon took a swig of wine. “Maybe, if you win this for us, I can give you Aelinor as a prize.”

Aemond’s teeth smashed together.

“Imagine that,” Aegon chuckled. “The Bitch of Dragonstone having to give one of her bastards to you.”

Aemond had never wanted to murder his brother before, but he did now. How dare he speak as though Aelinor were a thing, some prize that could be won and given away? He was a—

“But it’s possible that none of this will matter,” Aegon stood, dropping his empty cup onto the floor, where crimson driblets of wine began to seep into the rug. “Not if Criston’s plan is successful.”

Aemond was still seething when his brother left the room.

There was screaming in the halls of Dragonstone. Aelinor joined the throng of people pushing towards her mother’s chambers, elbowing her way through until she was near the first to burst into the room.

Her hand flew to her mouth in shock, spotting first the dead knight on the floor, then the second advancing towards her mother.

“No!” Aelinor shouted, pushing toward Ser Lorent and her mother. She wasn’t sure what she was going to do. Throw herself in front of the Queen? Attempt to tackle the invader?

But her efforts were unneeded. No sooner had she realized the foolishness of her plan, then the knight, either Erryk or Arryk, she wasn’t sure, uttered “Forgive me”, and thrust himself down upon his own blade.

Aelinor let out a whimper as his body thumped to the floor, her body feeling weak. There was blood on the floor, under her boot, though she had no idea whose blood it might be. Two identical bodies lay in the room, a heavy silence hanging in the air.

She felt Jace’s hands on her back. “Aelinor? What is…what is the meaning of this?”

He whipped around, beginning to demand answers on how an intruder had entered the castle.

On shaky legs, Aelinor approached her mother. The Queen had lowered herself into a chair, one hand held to her hard. She could see the emotion shining in her mother’s eyes, even as she fought to maintain her composure.

“Aelinor,” Her mother looked up in surprise. “You were…are you alright?”

Of course she was. This attack had been directed solely at the Queen. 

Aelinor glanced down, watching as two men grabbed Ser Erryk or Arryk by the legs and started to drag him away.

“Well, Mother?” She asked. 

“Well, what?” Rhaenyra furrowed her brow in confusion.

Aelinor gestured to the smear of blood on the ground. “Are we at war now?”

[chromiumagellanic06]

The Silver Knight: Warrior, Princess, Wife

Daemon Targaryen/Original Fem [Targaryen] Character

Chapter 29: Complete

MASTERLIST

Summary: Aemond's desires come to truth as Daemon and Naera wed in the way of old Valyria.

Word count: 2.9k

Warnings: NSFW Content! It's not THAT explicit, only vague kissing and fondling, heavy implications, suggestive themes, breeding kink, etc.

Aemond knocked tentatively on the ebony door, feet shuffling as he turned to his back, then each side, not at all calmed by the endless echoing corridors of the Keep. In his hand he held an ornate box that lay carved with ancient Valyrian runes—the result of his escapades in the King’s Stores, that he had taken it upon himself to deliver to his uncle and half-sister as a marital gift.

And then some. He had a question to ask, assistance to seek from the person he had grown to trust may understand. His half-sister was as selfish as he felt, he knew, and his uncle her husband even graver in his deeds. They were the perfect match, in a way—blood and fire, the epitome of what it meant to be Targaryen. The world would know no peace.

“Come!” He heard Naera scream from within, and he turned the heavy door on its hinges, silent. And entered the solar. It was strewn adrift with papers and letters, books and fresh parchment. Pots of ink sat beside collections of quills, ornate and rough-spun huddled alike, beside bottles of Dornish Red and some strange concoctions in twinkling glass bottles that ranged from the looks of curdled milk to liquid jade. He could smell ginger, at his first step, lemon at his second, and ash and embers when he sat.

Naera sat on her chair, eyes trained on a letter. She read it, expression bearing a soft frown that he realised was the natural way her lips fell, until she smiled, crumpled the pages in her hands and tossed it into the fireplace.

“Good morrow, Aemond.” Aemond turned to the window, one good eye watching the sun make its descent into the waters.

“It is to be evening soon, sister.” Naera followed his gaze to the window, to the haze that would soon be ushered with twilight. Her face glowed differently, he saw. Much had changed since they last met, even if only a moon had turned. As for him.

He’d made his moves carefully, spent stollen moments with the object of his every desire. He’d plucked her flowers she had never held before, told her tales of truth and sometimes even of valour, stollen kisses under the cover of shadowy night, and held to his stealth for protection. It wasn’t enough.

“Ah.” She turned to the door to her chambers, and said, aloud, “The sun sets soon, make some haste, dear groom.” He saw that she still wore a gown of black silk, not the garments of their tradition. He heard laughter from the other side, slurred words in their mother tongue that Aemond couldn’t quite decipher, but he recognised that Naera sat blushing and silent afterwards.

Blushing, for all her warrior-like ways. It was rather different from his sweet true sister’s blushes. Naera seemed scandalised, mischievous, a light flush of red on her cheeks, an embarrassed smile on her lips, but Helaena, Helaena blushed so red he feared he’d have to fetch a maester, turned so high and brilliant, eyes sparkling, lips chapped together that he--right.

He set the box down on the table, “A gift to commemorate your union.”

Naera smiled, inching the box closer to herself for a look. “Thank you—” but the door opened with a shudder.

Aemond’s uncle walked in, scuttered, rather—his steps were hasty. He was dressed in traditional garbs—red and cream, his silver-white hair left free to hang an inch above his shoulders, Dark Sister in her scabbard in his hand.

“No,” Naera covered her eyes, “A Tyroshi priestess once told me that gazing upon your betrothed on your day of marriage is considered ill-luck.” A burst of laughter left her lips.

“And a Valyrian book once told me that I may gaze at my wife as often as I wish.” Daemon left his sword on the table, snatched his wife’s hands away from her face and kissed her lips, with lust and haste, then kissed her forehead, and ran out the door. Aemond watched his back as he left, baffled as to when he had retaken the sword.

“I closed my eyes!” Naera screamed after him. Still laughing, she turned back to Aemond, “What can I do for you, brother?” Brother. He smiled back at her, unable to stop himself.

“Tell me, sister,” he breathed, licked his lips, hesitant. That is why he’d come, he knew. Sure, pay respects to his favourite family members after Helaena, congratulate them on their union, but there was always the other cause. “How can I take her?” Her, her, her; his Helaena, splendid, ethereal beauty wrapped in a promise of treason.

Naera sighed, and he was glad that she’d understood without him having to spend more words.

Naera poured him a cup of wine, water the colour of blood settling into a silver cask, like rubies spilling from a dark slate. Naera froze as she filled it, eyes distant, lost. Then, she asked, voice betraying her dreamy loss of the moment, “Does the Trident have Green Waters?”

“What?”

“Nothing.” She shook her head, handed him the cup and returned to her chair.

Aemond swallowed the wine in a breath, eye not leaving his sister’s face. She had paled, that sickly palour returning to her face. She blinked frantically, sipped a cup of water.

“You cannot take her, Aemond,” Take what you want, she had told him some moons ago—and he realised his folly. It was akin to a jerk to wake him from a long sleep.

Gods, what had he been thinking? He couldn’t take her, how could he? Where would they go? What would they do when men came seeking them? Had he been so blinded by his love, that he’d forgone all practicality? He’d hoped that she’d have an answer but—“You can maybe ask her.” He furrowed his eyebrows, a ghostly pain returning from under his eyepatch.

Naera sighed, “A maiden’s word must be your shield if you intend to have her.” Rapers went to the Wall at best, to the headsman at worst. Disgraceful.

“I do not mean to defile her,” Aemond defended, “I wish to wed her—to—” to see her wear the garbs Naera would at dusk, to drink her blood and hold her hand and vow to protect her for all their lives. That was what he wanted.

Naera refilled his cup, “I know, and she knows. The world does not.”

“You could—”

“What?” His sister’s eyes grew cold and cruel, her voice tuned to injure, to pick at his folly and tear him a regretful wound, “Tell the world that you love her? It isn’t so simple.” Aemond looked down, unable to meet those crystal eyes. Every word she spoke was true, and that hurt. Leave the world, he thought, Mother is the one we need convince.

“You can only love for so long without being loved, brother,” Naera sighed, chin dropping to her palm, elbow banging against the table, “You can only run if she wishes it also.” Run with me, Helaena. We’ll wed in the faith of the Seven or that of the Valyrians. We’d be one heart, one soul—just say the word.

“She wants me, I am certain of it.” She hates Aegon, and knows well that their days near quickly. If only mother saw through her schemes.

“It is only mother, even the King—”

Naera shook her head, “Fuck the King,” he smiled at her brashness, “fuck your mother and your cock of a grandsire,” he felt a pang of shame after the moment passed. He hadn’t defended them, he realised. He agreed with his sister. His mother, fuck Alicent, who wouldn’t see past the grey shroud of duty to gaze at the world in all its colour. Love, was the colour he wished to see, he reminded himself. He had caught a glimpse, now he wanted a full look. “Aemond,” she summoned his wits back to her, “Ask her, confide in her, and run, together.”

Dusk hung heavy in the isle of Dragonstone, a curtain of fog descending on the shores as fires were lit and the Blood of the Dragon gathered near the volcanic crypts. It was a cacophony of red and black, the colours of their heritage—silver hair and purple eyes, fire in their veins, all gathered in respect or obligation.

The priest fanned the coal and flames, ornate chalices and candles gathered by Rhaenyra arranged on a block of rock marbled with red and yellow—it was slab of frozen fire mined from the haunted crypts of the Dragons.

Daemon could hear them murmuring through the fog from where he stood on the sandy beach. He could make out the Hightower cunt’s voice, could see her black gown flapping in the breeze even through the fog, and it only irritated him. The Blood of the Dragon had gathered, so why, pray why had the stupid lanterns joined in? His robes were scratchy and cold, the calm breezes did nothing to allay his urgency. The sun was falling into the sea, a streak of gold and saffron following it, and the mists grew pink and red as though the sky itself bled. It was time

The waves rustled the sands calmly as she took his side. Wrapped in a robe nearly identical to his—cream and ruby, adorned with gold, an ornate headdress laid between her braided silver locks. Beautiful. The curve of her nose, the pink flesh of her lips, her eyes—crystals clearer than diamonds painted blue and red, gods.

His ire vapourized, that familiar panging of his heart returning, thud, thud, his heart now beat only for her, it seemed.

He took her hand wordlessly, her chilled touch sending shivers through him, and in his mind, he spoke a prayer.

Let me hold this hand forever.

The rocky shores bristled against her bare feet, reminding Naera of the time she had scaled the ports of Asshai from the rocky ends. It hurt, but it was worth it. Daemon’s hand was warm in hers, his grasp tight and binding, as they crossed the threshold to where their family waited.

The fires flared when they made it to the clearing, the sky reddened like a maiden’s blush—if the Gods could betray more of their intentions, she did not know how. With the cold of the fog, and the warmth of his hand, the serene calmness of this event came a gradual understanding that this was right. She was meant for this—to be his, to hold his hand, to wield her sword for them, to sleep and wake and live beside him. Her uncle who had never cared for her, but now he cared not what the world said as long as he could have her.

Her family stood around the flames; the two branches of the house split over the priest. Viserys stumbled close, wilting hair and face, though he had a guilty smile on. He’d done this in some hope of companionship, but it had grown into a sickly sort of love, he knew.

He took her hand, clasped it in his cold damp one, and pressed a shuddering kiss to her forehead. Naera smiled at him, watched him return to Rhaenyra’s side—Rhaenyra, who smiled in a way most disillusioned, who stood with her husband, her sworn guards, her children, her court, choosing war even in that moment. Across the priest was Alicent, face contorted in distaste for such old ways, her children at her side, all in red and black, a treaty of peace. Aemond gave her a curt nod when she met his eye, a tingling smile on her lips.

The priest—one of the old Keepers of the Dragonpit who still followed those old doomed gods—began his droning, hymns sung to Meleys, the goddess of love and fertility, to Teraxes, to Balerion—to nearly every god, but Naera cared not. This had been the scene, she knew—Daemon shrouded in fog, silent and still, calmness in his eyes.

The priest handed him a blade of obsidian, a shard of glass as black as night that glowed in its shadowy beauty. He ran it down her lower lip, skin splitting instantly, blood pooling. He dabbed his thumb on that red, red, red beauty, and smeared a straight line on her forehead.

I name you woman, fire in your veins, it meant.

She took the blade, and did the same for him, his blood warm against her thumb as she drew three bent lines on his forehead.

I name you man, blood in your nature.

He traced the dagger over his palm, striking a wound deep and true to stand out amongst all thousands scars that he brandished. A line of red dripped down his skin. Naera traced the same wound on her own palm—Of my own will, I thus give you myself, and their hands joined in a flash of pain and flame.

The priest began, “Hen lantoti ānograr va syndroti vāedroma,” Blood of two joined as one, lifeblood dripping to mingle and mix, tethering them to each other.

The priest wrapped a ribbon the colour of night and light over their held hands, blood dripping down through the binds.

“Mēro perzot gīhoti elēdroma iārza sīr,” Ghostly flame and song of shadows.

He handed Naera a chalice of stone and glass, as dark as night, and she tilted the vessel till salt and iron flooded her tongue. Our blood to bind.

“Izulī ampā perzī prumī lanti sēteski,” Two hearts as embers forged in fourteen fires.

Daemon mirrored her acts, his face twisting as their blood laced his tongue. He swallowed it bravely, and watched Naera’s eyes. Close, so close.

“Hen jeny māzilarion, qēlossa ozūndesi,” A future promised in glass, the stars stand witness.

Naera breathed, breaking into a delicate smile again, “I shall be your side forever.”

He took her other hand, eyes never leaving—lilac and lilac, crystal clear and shallow pools of glass. “I shall hold your hand forever.”

“Synroro ōñō jēdo ry kīvia mazvestraksi.” The vow spoken through time of Darkness and Light.

She inhaled, cold, wet air flooding her nose in a rush, and she gazed, gazed, gazed at him, his eyes that refused to leave hers, the wealth of his wisdom yet to be cultivated, the gift of his existence forever claimed by her. She said, “I will defend you.” Against the night, against the light, against whatever was to come. Against every wish to exile, every spat with the greens, every ill word with the King, she will stand by him, she will protect his honour as though it was her own.

He smiled, though both love and mischief twinkled in his eye, “I will warm you.” When the night was dark and full of terrors, when the end came and her will faltered, he shall be with her, he shall give her fire and light. He will warm her bed and hers alone, warm her body when the cold came, warm her spirits over every loss and share her joy over every victory.

Naera said, “I will give it all up for you.” Dorne, Volantis, Pentos, the Dothraki Seas, Asshai, and her dreams—Yi Ti, the Jade Sea, whatever lays east of the Shadow, the very wonders of the world could be laid abandon. She loved too easily, but even the gods had proclaimed this union as perfection.

“I will never hurt you.” Not as he once had, no, never. He will never disappoint her, never let her down, never leave her behind, never let her think that he could survive without her.

“I will love you.” Daemon’s heart lost a weight he did not know he bore, a delightful, fiery blaze in his chest, a joy uncontainable. His, his, his. She was his, every flicker on her eyes belonged to him, every mocking word his, every act of bravery, every witted word. He loved already, but he could love better, now that she loved him also.

His hand flew to her face, thumb smearing the blood at her lip, red, red, red, and to show that he cared, that he loved, that he was willing to understand, he said, “For the night is dark and full of terrors.”

She leaned on her toes and kissed his lips.

His laughter would be her lifeblood, she realised as his heaving breaths reverberated through her chest, made her feel warm, made her feel him, his spirit and not just his body.

“D’you know what they’ll all say,” he spoke into her neck, his nose breathing cool air over the red mark of his bite, “When you grow round and great with my child, again and again?”

She laughed, a fleeting giggle morphing into a ridiculed laugh, “What?” He pulled her into a different corridor, away from their chambers.

“The Princess must really love her uncle’s cock,” the vulgarity made her roll her eyes.

“Maybe they’ll think that the prince has no control over himself,” Naera challenged, “Keeps getting his sweet niece with child, the poor woman.” He pushed her against a wall, cold stone of the corridors of the Keep making her flush and hum, and his hands roamed her flesh like a man starved.

Their lips met, tongues melding, breaths fading until the newly wedded couple panted for breath.

“Poor woman?” His eyes twinkled with the sort of courage that came with deeds best not committed.

“They needn’t know,” she kissed his cheek, arms winding around his neck. “They needn’t know that the idea of bearing her uncle’s seed fills the niece with a selfish joy that she cannot account for.” With a deft flick of his hand, her robes parted, rough linen tearing aloud.

“Oh, but the uncle knows,” he descended on her neck again, “He knows very well how much his niece loves having his spend in her womb.” He hoisted her legs up, lips falling to her breasts.

“Yes, oh, yes he does,” she moaned, wits departing her, fingers tugging at his hair, leading him to the other breast. He complied greedily, nipping, licking, kissing the flesh, leaving red and purple marks on every patch of free skin.

Her garbs were torn and ruined; her headdress abandoned in the hands of Laenor before they had scurried to the corridors in some mad bout of lust. Gods, lust was only one word for what she felt. She felt charged, as though lightning had struck her very soul. She felt fiery, as she often did when he stood beside her.

One kiss to his lips and the sentiment had caught on as a candle-flame blazes into an arsonist’s dream.

Now her swelling flesh was in his hands. She had lapped away the drying blood of his lip, sucked at the tear in his skin till the wound was raw, and now, she was at his mercy once again.

“Daemon,” she called, making him stare into her eyes with his own, lilac flowers and bloody amethysts. Beautiful. His hair was tousled, red streaking his forehead, but his eyes, those eyes that were over a decade older than her own yet were livelier than she had been just moons ago.

“Naera,” he called back, as had become their ritual, and she recalled the sweet bliss of hearing her name from his lips again. Completion, he made her sound complete, made her believe that she could conquer this new land that was marriage and slay this new demon that was mistrust.

Footsteps.

And the moment broke, but he was smiling as he leaned his face close to hers, covering her form from view.

“Fuck off,” he chastised behind himself, swaying his wife slowly. “Can’t you see—” but Naera put a finger to his lips, her eyes trained over his shoulder. Daemon turned tentatively, half-expecting his brother or the Hightower cunt or the cunt lord of hands but no.

He hugged his sweet wife tighter as she gave a subtle nod to Aemond, her half-brother—his sister Helaena’s hand in his, her face caught blushing a bright red, as they rushed through corridors and passageways, hastened and cautious. When their footsteps echoed away, Naera laughed.

“The Hightowers fall on our wedding after all.”

To be, or not to be…

…continued

MASTERLIST

[starogeorgina]

Violent delights

Warnings: Swearing

Pairings: Jacaerys Velaryon x oc

1.03

You sit before the queen, the king's hand, the High Septon, and the maester who helped deliver your baby, listening to the conditions of your annulment to Aegon, who was nowhere to be found. Daemon and Jacaerys weren’t allowed in the room, so without their support, you found yourself giving into Queen Alicent’s terms quickly. The queen's reasoning for wanting the annulment for her son was that you were unable to produce a male heir, which was a cruel thing to say even by her standards. Alicent smiled while declaring you and Aemma were no longer to have the last name Targaryen, and Aegon wasn’t to be named as Aemma’s father on any documents. Making Aemma a bastard was the ultimate insult to your family, one you were sure the greens would delight in.

You suspected House Hightower's alliance with the faith was the only reason the High Septon was allowing this to happen.

You give Alicent a shocked look when she asks if you agreed to her terms, knowing if you disagreed with anything, the annulment process would be stopped and you would be forced to stay in the Red Keep with Aegon. “I agree to the terms, your Grace.”

Alicent’s nostrils flare as she stares at you, and her features only soften slightly when her father whispers something into her ear. You wonder if she was expecting you to challenge her. She sits back in her chair and says, “Very well then. Is there anything else you’d like to address, Lyarra?”

“If possible, I’d like to return to my old bedchambers, assuming my belongings are still inside them. I’d like to take the dragon egg I had picked for Rhaegar home with me, if your grace allows it.” You can catch glimpses of humanity in her eyes, and you hope she will allow them.

“Very well. I shall have Ser Criston escort you.”

“Thank you, your Grace.”

—

The walk to your old bedchamber was in silence as bitterness radiated from Ser Criston. Soon as the door behind you was closed, you picked up the dark blue egg you had chosen for your son, then paused. You glance at the door, then look at the wall hiding the passageway that connects your room to Aegon’s.

You know it’s the wrong thing to do, but you can’t help the burning desire to know if Aegon had endangered his own baby’s life. You needed to know what you were up against. You glance around your old bedchamber, which was once a prison to you, then head towards his bedchamber.

It is no surprise to you that Aegon is passed out on a chair, butt naked. You try to shake him awake, but when it doesn’t work, you pour a jug of water over him. Startled, he sits up, frowning at you, and groans while rubbing the water dripping from his hair out of his face. “I thought you left to go live with your mother. Or did you miss me terribly and return?”

You swat his hand away when he presses it against your hip, saying, “Do not touch me.”

“Gods, you're so uptight,” he says before flopping back down. He lets out a huff and asks, “Did you bring the girl with you?”

“No.”

He stares up at the ceiling with a distant look in his eyes and says, “Probably for the best.”

“If you do not wish to be a part of your daughter's life, that is fine, but I need to know if you sent Aemond after us on dragon back.”

“What?” He shook his head, his eyebrows furrowed, and lazily he pushed you out of the way so he could refill his knocked-over cup with wine. “I have no idea what nonsense you are talking about.”

“Aegon!” Frustrated that he wasn’t taking you seriously, you grip his jaw so he’s unable to avoid making eye contact with you. Vhagar is the largest dragon in the world; no other dragon would stand a chance against her. You only got away safely because Aemond was too scared to act when Daemon was present. “When I left to return to Dragonstone with Aemma, your own flesh and blood! Aemond followed me to Vhagar. Did you ask him to try and scare me into returning to the keep, or kill us?”

Surprisingly, Aegon’s bloodshot eyes filled with tears. “no. I was unaware this had happened. I’m many things, but I’m not a kinslayer.”

You believed him. Aegon looked genuinely hurt by the lack of knowledge of what his brother had done. You let go of his jaw and walked to his door, leaving him to drown out any emotions he may feel in privacy.

Just as you reach the door, Aegon mumbles, “It wasn’t all bad, was it?”

Sighing, you clutch the dragon egg closely to your chest and exit Aegon’s room for the last time without replying. You didn’t have the energy or the heart to explain that you had no good memories of being married to him.

You’re so distracted that you don’t see the person standing in front of the door until you slam into them. Shit. You gulp down, “Jacaerys…”

He grabs your hand, pulling you behind him until you're out of earshot of anyone else. Jace was furious at the way you went off without telling him or Daemon, but you couldn't help it. It had happened almost entirely on instinct, with some silent voice telling you to confront Aegon before your brain even processed how dangerous the situation could turn. “Me and Daemon have been looking for you for some time; we grew worried when you never came back from the meeting. The guards told us you’d gone to your old bedchamber.”

Your voice is small as you say, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to worry you. I just needed to talk to Aegon.”

Jace lets go of your hand and spins around fast; his face is hardened except for his pleading eyes. “Mother used to cry herself to sleep at night; she never forgave herself for letting you marry our uncle. She wishes she had fought against it.” He takes a step closer to you and says, “You’ve no idea how much we’ve missed you, yet you act so recklessly." We’ve all heard the stories of what he does to the servants; he’s capable of anything.”

“Trust me, I know I know exactly what he’s capable of; how did you know I went to his chamber?”

“Because you're my sister, my other half. And I—” He stops before finishing his sentence.

“Jace, what were you going to say?”

“It doesn’t matter now.”

Frowning, you repeat the question, “What were you going to say?”

Shaking his head, he starts to turn away from you, saying, “We should go. Vermax is getting restless, and it’s not safe for us here.”

—

The trip back to Dragonstone was mainly in silence. Daemon had picked up on the tension between you and the queen's protector but never asked anything; instead, he sent you home.

Ser Criston grits his teeth as you walk by him to get outside. The knight looked furious. Without realizing it, your pace quickens until you cross the bounds of personal space with Jacaerys, and your arm brushes against his with each step you take. He notices but says nothing as his eyes remain glued to the ground.

When you reach Vermax and Caraxes, your stepfather, Daemon, crosses his arms over, holding Ser Criston’s glare. The knight was now standing by the doorway, watching intensely as you got ready to leave. Daemon clicks his tongue and says, “Go straight home; we will discuss what happened with your mother present.”

Your heart races in your chest as you replay your brother's words. You had been reckless. Aegon could have tried to physically harm you, force himself on you, or kill you. And in your fragile state, you would have been able to attempt to fight him off.

Your arms tighten around Jacaerys waist. “I’m sorry,” you say loudly so he can hear you through the wind blowing in his ears. “I should never have spoken to him alone.”

When Jace doesn’t answer verbally, you think he’s not heard you, but when one of his hands rests atop yours, you realize he has, and the tension in your body settles a little.

—-

You watched as the sun disappeared behind the thick gray clouds forming above; it wouldn’t be long until the storm reached. You stare up into the sky as an uneasy feeling settles in you; your stepfather hasn’t returned to Dragonstone yet. You didn’t dare say it out loud, but you were petrified that one of the other dragons might have attacked Daemon and Caraxes.

You didn’t notice Jacaerys talking to you until he put his arm around your shoulder and said, “We should go inside; you’re sick, Lyarra, and I don’t want you getting caught in the rain.”

It hurt to think of all the times you would let the rain soak you without a care in the world. “You used to love dragon riding with me in the rain.”

“Ñuha dona mandia, we will ride our dragons in the rain again soon, but for now, I need you to go inside and get warm.”

Your brows pull together; you weren’t a child who needed to be coddled. Puffing out your cheeks, you look down at the ground. It didn’t matter that you had a child of your own for Jace; you would always be his younger sibling he needed to protect. A thought suddenly occurred to you. “You didn’t know where I went after leaving my bedchamber. You went to talk to Aegon yourself, didn’t you?”

Jacaerys clears his throat. “I spoke to him while you were in the meeting with the queen. When I returned and Daemon said you hadn’t returned, I thought you might have gone there.”

You considered asking him what was said but decided against it; it was probably best you didn’t know. “I sometimes forget how alike we are.”

“Look!” Jace points up flashes of red above, followed by a loud roar. From so far away, it looked as if Caraxes was twirling in the sky, otherwise known as Daemon, making a dramatic entrance. “They made it back safely.”

—

Soon as Daemon's feet hit the ground and heavy rain started to fall, he ordered you and Jacaerys to go clean up for a meeting with your mother.

You walk with your arm linked with Jace’s out of the tunnels the dragons resign themselves to and towards the castle's entrance. “The maesters said you would have died of exhaustion if you hadn’t arrived when you did. But now you are safe, and we can look after you here, so there’s no need for you to feel like that anymore.”

During your walk, you confided in your brother how lonely you had been in the Red Keep.

“Thank you; being surrounded by family certainly helps. I just hope Mother and Daemon aren’t disappointed in me for agreeing to Alicent’s terms so easily.”

“You could never disappoint any of us.”

It surprised you how much Jacaerys had changed over the years. He had grown into a handsome young man; he was good-natured and smart. You had no doubt that when his time came, he would be a well-respected king known for his kindness.

—

Even though you weren’t Rhaenyra’s oldest child, you had to grow up much faster than your siblings; being the only daughter meant you had to make sacrifices. You would have preferred to have spent the last few years attending lessons and dragon riding by your brother's side instead of feeling isolated. But you would never complain out loud, “If I hadn’t done my duty, then my daughter wouldn’t have been brought into the world.”

“That’s very well, but Alicent has made a complete mockery of House Targaryen,” Daemon hissed. The prince slams his hands against the table while standing up, “this cannot stand. I will fly back to the red keep and inform Viserys of this myself.”

You mothers face is stern as she looks up at while stroking her bump, “you will do no such thing.”

Daemon's eyes darkened and his jaw tensed a little. “Aemma is your blood, They have made her a bastard! What will you do about it?”

The servants clearing the table kept their heads low, too afraid to look at the enraged prince. Your mother sighed, “Lucerys, Joffrey it’s time to get ready for your remaining lessons.”

You start to bounce your arms ever so slightly to help the babe in your arms sleep, watching as your two younger brothers left the room, Luke didn’t seem to mind but Joffrey sulked on his way out. You felt your blood boil under your skin, “Alicent and Otto want a reaction.”

“Snakes waiting for the precise moment to strike their prey and spread their poison,” your mother states. Her eyes are hazy as she stares out of one of the windows, looking deep in thought. “There are many ways this issue could be resolved without returning to the keep.”

Daemon who is now pacing lets out a scoff, “like what?”

“Start a petition, have my father legitimize her… or if push comes to shove we could come up with a different story. Hardly anyone saw Lyarra in the keep-”

“I won’t have my daughter grow up in a lie.”

Jacaerys stands, gaining attention from everyone in the room, “there is one other way. Aemma is only a few days old,” he looks directly at you. “If you are remarried then it would be believable that he would be her father.”

His suggestion made you laugh. You understood where he was coming from, but it wasn’t realistic. “And who would you propose for this knight in shining armor?”

“Me.”

Ñuha dona mandia - My sweet sister

[sweetvelaryon]

YOU AND FOREVERMORE

in another universe where somehow the greens win but they decide to keep Rhaenyra sons alive because of the decline in Targaryen blood. their still proclaimed bastards but to save Luke, baela rushes to marry him because she is presented as an Alpha. they turn into a second Laenor and Rhaenyra situation. when Luke delivered another son that hold no resemblance to Baela but of the commander of city watch, Jacaerys Strong. (yeah they wanted everyone to know who's bastards they were) it didn't really matter because the boys had silver hair and violet eyes taking after their grandmother, Rhaenyra. Luke is forced to bring his third kid right after giving birth to Aegon, Alicent, and Aemond. they try to proclaim the babe a bastard but it's hard to do that when he has the Targaryen genes. when he gets back to his room with Baela at his side Jace is there with two other boys, Baelon and Aemon. baelon runs around to see if he had a brother or sister while Aemon checks on his muña. the boys blab to their mother how they picked a dragon egg for the baby from Arrax's clutch.

"another boy. I heard." Jace said as he looked down at Lucerys. Luke stared up at him with much love in his eyes and gave a small nod.

"what's his name?" Jace asked as baela rocked the baby boy back and forth.

"daemon," baela answered.

"he's beautiful. good job, my prince," Jace says as he glanced down at Luke. They shared a smile before Jace looked back at the baby.

"Baela, Jace would like to hold Daemon," Lucerys spoke up.

baela held no bad blood with the actual father. she handed him the baby. she clapped her hands to her other sons, "alright boys! time to get back to the dragonpit, Caraxes and the fucking cannibal are waiting for you both." (yeah baelon claimed Caraxes at the ripe age of five he's now seven and Aemon claimed the cannibal at age five as well and he's now six)

a small nod shared between the alpha's before they leave. jacaerys had practically grown into Harwin's shadow while Lucerys stayed the same just a bit taller and a spitting image of Rhaenyra.

"You're asleep in front of the commander of the city watch," he glances to Lucerys, "terrible lack of respect."

"I'm afraid that sort of insolence runs in the family," he smiled back at him.

part 2?

[bronzefuryfic]

Bronze Fury

When the only child of Daemon Targaryen and Rhea Royce is brought to King's Landing to meet with the rest of her family, she finds herself caught in a crisis of succession. The Greens battle for her support... and her affections.

Chapter Four: The Crown’s Crime / Previous Chapter / Directory

Rhae joins Aegon, Aemond, Helaena, Jacaerys and Lucerys in their studies of their shared Valyrian heritage. During lessons, Rhae learns far more than she bargained for. 

The next morning, Rhae awoke with a new purpose. 

She was awake long before Grandmaester Orwyle came to change her bandages and re-apply his ointments. As he worked, a servant came to deliver breakfast. Rhae ate slowly, the meal tasting stale in her mouth, as she watched the Maester work. He helped flex her joints, which had begun to tighten as the skin tried to repair itself. Some scabs cracked and oozed when he did so, and Rhae quickly lost her appetite. 

As they approached the late morning, Beth arrived to lead Rhae to her first lesson. 

While they walked, Rhae wondered how she'd ever learn her way around the labyrinth of a castle. She did not recognize any of the turns, and kept getting distracted by the view of King's Landing just outside. She had not seen a city so sprawling before—Runestone was not so populous.

The study room was large and sun-filled, drapes dancing airily as an ocean-breeze passed through large arched windows. Cushions and tables littered the room—Rhae spotted Helaena in one plushy armchair, flipped upside as she buried her nose in a book. Her hair fell and pooled in silvery puddles on the masonry. 

At a table behind her, Aemond also had a book open. He had half the page covered with his hand as he seemed to recite words to himself. As he did so, he kept rolling his eyes toward a slumped over Aegon, who looked to be asleep on his cushion.

When Rhae had come close enough to catch his attention, Aemond waved Rhae over. 

"What're you working on?" She asked, taking a seat on his side of the table. From her new position, she could see Helaena's feet stick up over the top of her chair. 

"The Maesters gave me new conjugations when we arrived this morning," Aemond said, pushing the book towards her so that she could see. She stared at the page, but could glean no meaning from it. The entire text was in High Valaryian. Aemond rattled on excitedly. "These are fourth conjugation verbs. This one, ' dinagon', has several meanings. A lot of-"

" Aemond, " came an exasperated voice from the floor. Aegon propped up on his pillow, pushing his hair from his face. "We haven't even started the lessons yet. Must you inflict us with your tortures so early?"

The younger brother's face fell, and he looked nervously to Rhae, as though he expected her to tell him the same. 

"We're not all as wise and all-knowing as you are, Aegon," Rhae said coolly. "Aemond offered to help me catch up, and I accepted. "

Aegon's mouth hung open slightly, seemingly unprepared to be sided against—Rhae suspected it did not happen often. She turned instead to Aemond, who was smiling sheepishly. 

"You were saying?" 

"Right," Aemond turned back to his text, pointing to the same word as before. " Dinagon has two translations. The first means 'to marry', or 'to wed.'"

"And what's the other?"

"The other is a lot less common," Aemond explained, tracing the page with his finger. "It can also mean 'to chase away.'"

"Those two meanings sound like opposites," Rhae said, crinkling her nose. As if learning another language wouldn't be challenging enough. 

"I think they go hand in hand," Aegon snorted, now sitting upright in his seat. Rhae was glad to see he had the tact to join the conversation this time, rather than trying to change it again. Better yet, Rhae thought he raised an interesting point. Aegon continued: "There's a few like that, but you can usually understand which they mean in context. Irughagon is another—it means both 'to give' and 'to abandon to'. The same thing really, but the Maesters will want you to identify which the text really means, anyway."

The two brothers rattled off a few more vocab words, but Rhae lost track of them quickly. She nodded along with the conversation, but her mind lingered on the difference between "giving" and "abandoning to". A trio of newcomers broke Rhae from her trance and relieved her from feigning understanding the conversation happening in front of her. 

"Who's that?" She asked in a hushed tone, watching a dark-skinned man with white dreadlocks speaking with the Maesters. Besides him were two boys she thought must be pages.

"That's Laenor Velaryon," Aemond said, hardly looking up from his book as he searched for more examples. "And his two sons, Jacaerys and Lucerys."

Rhae peered across the room at the three. 

"Those two?"

Rhae moved her head, trying to spot if there were two more children hiding behind the ones she could see. The two boys with Laenor looked nothing like him. They were missing the signature silver hair of Valyrians, and in Rhae's opinion, looked alarmingly pale next to their father. 

Aegon watched Rhae as she studied the Velaryons, his eyes flickering between her and a pair of Maesters that whispered behind her back. 

"Rhae!" Aegon hissed, and she tore her gaze away. She opened her mouth to question him further, but Aegon kicked her hard beneath the table. He gave a slight shake of his head— not now.

Rhae shut her mouth, turning back to Aemond and pretending to read off of the page he had open. He was too immersed to notice Rhae's near-fatal mistake.

But Rhae's eyes still danced around the room, from Laenor to his children to Aegon and to the book she could not read. Surely she'd misheard Aemond—those boys could simply not be Laenor's children with the princess. Another thought occurred to her, as Aegon gave her looks she could not decipher—perhaps the boys were playing a trick on her. Surely all the realm would know if Princess Rhaenyra had mothered— oh.

Realization drew on Rhae just as Laenor approached the center of the room with his "sons". They spoke cheerfully with Helaena, who'd finally spun upright in her chair to greet them. 

Rhae's cousin Ser Jon had told her of a treasonous secret that all knew, but none spoke. Could he have meant anything other than this? Rhae felt her face warm—he had said she wouldn't need much more than eyes to figure it out herself. He couldn't have given a clearer hint? She would have a few choice words for Jon when she saw him next. 

"Study hard, train harder," Laenor was saying, now making his way for the exit. Jacaerys and Lucerys waved their goodbyes. With everyone present, the Maesters wasted no time breaking everyone up for their lessons, giving Rhae little time with this new revelation. 

The lessons lasted two hours, but Rhae felt she learned little in this time. Over the course, her mind kept wandering elsewhere. 

One pairing was Helaena and Aemond, who Rhae figured must be at a similar level, despite Helaena's being two years older. She thought it likely Aemond was ahead in his curriculum—he was the least distracted of all the children, always working diligently when Rhae looked over. Helaena's eyes were most often transfixed on the windows, but the Maesters did not call her attention back with any urgency. She seemed entranced by something the others could not see. 

Rhae wished she could join their table—the Maesters had her sat with the Velaryon princes instead. The boys were nice enough in their introductions, but they were very young. She understood why she was placed with them. Lucerys was still learning basic nouns, as she was now doing—but given he was 9, Rhae couldn't help but feel embarrassed sitting beside him doing the same. 

To make matters worse, Jacaerys, who'd just started learning second conjugation verbs, also seemed to be embarrassed to sit with the two of them. When the Maesters insisted Jacaerys pay attention to the other two's lessons as review, Rhae heard him mumble how it felt unnecessary. 

As the morning passed, Jace's interest in the review waned further. His efforts were re-directed to trying to catch the attention of Aegon, who was receiving private lessons across the room. Whenever Aegon would look over, he'd contort his face in such a way that they could read his distaste for his studies from a far distance. There was a great deal of exaggerated eye-rolling and fake gags. 

Jacaerys would dissolve into a fit of giggles when this happened, distracting Lucerys and Rhae. Despite her embarrassment over her study group, when Rhae caught on to what Jacaerys was laughing at, she too could hardly suppress a grin. Aegon knew how to put on a show, and his ability to correct his behavior just in time so that the Maester's wouldn't spot him was admittedly impressive. 

Lunch was brought to the room at noon, and they all ate in content silence. Rhae had not forgotten the many questions she had about the Velaryons, or her anger over the Queen's words last night... but that was for another time. Jace and Luke seemed alright with her. 

When they finished their meals, and they had a few moments to spare, Jacaerys began speaking enthusiastically to Aegon about the dragon pit. 

"Will they be going there today?" Rhae asked Aemond in an undertone, to which he nodded.

"Jace and Luke go near-daily," Aemond said, his voice low. He eyed his nephews enviously. "Their dragons are young and need a lot of attention. Helaena and Aegon don't have to go as frequently, but they often do."

"Do you ever join them?"

"Aemond's our most devoted admirer!" Aegon had disengaged his conversation with Jace, was grinning devilishly. Rhae furrowed her brow—she was detecting a pattern from the eldest. "It's true, ask anyone."

As he said this, he nudged Lucerys, who nodded enthusiastically.

"Aemond always comes to watch!" 

Across the table, Helaena nodded amicably, but Rhae was not sure if she was really listening. Her gaze was still towards the window.

"Watches with two," she muttered, seemingly in agreement. No one paid her any mind, but Rhae thought she heard her say something else shortly after. "But he soars with one..."

Aemond seemed to fight to maintain a neutral expression, but he would not make eye-contact with the others. His hands trembled in his lap. 

Rhae knew she came to Runestone to observe, to learn from, and to blend in with her Targaryen family members. But with each instance of Aegon opening his mouth, Rhae found that to be more and more difficult. It had only been a moment, but Rhae felt kinship with Aemond over their dragon-less-ness in the carriage the day before. It wasn't much, but Rhae knew she couldn't betray that. 

But how best to rescue him without stirring more trouble? She fanned her face, feigning warmth, before rolling up her sleeves.

"Lucerys," she said blandly, calling his attention to her. She propped her elbows on the table, her bandages visible. "Have you ever-"

"Woah!" Luke's eyes widened. "What happened to your arm?"

"What? I-" Rhae dropped her hands below the table just as quick, and Luke grew more insistent. Aemond looked from his nephew to Rhae, looking as though he were about to tell Lucerys to leave the conversation alone, but Rhae gave him a quick wink. He looked away bashfully.

"Your arm!" Jacaerys was peering now, too, trying to sneak a peek. "What happened to it? It's all wrapped up!"

"Dragon fire," she said sagely. The whole table stared at her now—even Helaena had turned her attention to the conversation at hand. 

"But..." Jacaerys eyed her suspiciously. "Who ordered their dragon to attack you?"

"No one did Jace," Aegon said with exasperation. "It just attacked her."

Jacaerys ignored Aegon, looking to Rhae for the answer. Realizing he'd lost his crowd, Aegon resigned himself to watching Rhae for her answer too.

"He's right," Rhae said, quieter now. The others seemed to lean in, eager to hear more. "The dragon Sheepstealer, when I tried to claim him."

"You went all by yourself?" Jacaerys asked, incredulous. Rhae laughed. 

"Hardly," she said. Somehow, this was the easiest time she'd ever had recounting the tale since it happened. Telling it to the children felt more impressive than telling it to the Maesters. "He killed seven men... my Uncle Gerold included."

Jacaerys's mouth hung open, casting a look to his own uncle. Aegon rolled his eyes again. 

"No one is feeding me to a dragon, Jace. You can pick your jaw up off the floor."

"But..." Luke looked confused. "The Targaryens and the dragons are allies. Mother says we're bonded by blood!"

"Yeah, well..." Rhae had her bandaged arm resting on the table again. "I suppose blood isn't everything."

But before Lucerys could ask her any more questions, the Maesters had descended upon their table again. It was time to get back to their lessons. 

Rhae studied with Jace and Luke for another hour, before the Maesters gave her some lines to translate on her own. Luke was insistent on peppering Rhae with questions about her encounter with Sheepstealer, and she quickly seized the opportunity to find a seat on the other side of the room. 

Helaena and Aemond were still receiving instruction, so Rhae found a table to herself to settle at. She'd made it to the third line of her translations before someone fell into the seat beside her. 

"Gods, you're relentless," Rhae mumbled, as Aegon's mouth split into a grin. "I'm trying to work!"

"I thought I might help you study," he said with mock assurance. "Since you're into that sort of thing."

"I'm into 'you' and 'being somewhere else'," Rhae said, trying to grab her parchment back as Aegon snatched it from underneath her nose. He marked it with his quill. "Knock it off!" She hissed. 

"I'm just correcting!" He insisted, batting away her hand. "A little thanks would be nice, you know."

He slid the page back, a new note scrawled in the Common Tongue on the margins: I only saved you from committing treason this morning. 

Rhae's face burned, and she slapped her hand over the note quickly. Several in the room turned their heads—even Aemond looked to see the source of the disturbance. Rhae and Aegon both tried to look as though nothing had happened until the Maesters turned back to their own work, but Aemond's eyes narrowed when he saw the two together. 

"Okay..." Rhae said quietly. "Maybe I was wrong. You can help a little."

"If you have questions, all you need to do is ask."

Taking his cue, Rhae scribbled quickly onto the parchment. Who is their father?

"That one is a little obvious," Aegon said. His hand jotted as he spoke. "You could've figured it out if you stuck with it longer."

My sister spends a lot of time with the Commander of the City's Watch. I'd bet my dragon on Lord Harwin Strong.

Rhae pondered this for a moment, taking the page back from him. No one seems too concerned about that.

"Mmm," Aegon tickled his chin with the quill. "Interesting one."

Aegon began sorting through some books stacked at the end of the table. As he did so, it became clear he was building a sort of barrier to further shield their secrecy. Rhae propped one open to avoid suspicion, and Aegon drafted a rather lengthy response. Rhae resisted the urge to peek until he finished.

Mother says many people are concerned about it, Jacaerys being Rhaenyra's heir and all. Everyone thinks the King has gone mad for not seeing it, but I'm fairly certain he just doesn't want to. She's always been the favorite. Also, I was serious about my offer yesterday. You should come with me to the dragon pit tonight. 

Rhae looked around nervously at the Maesters, but none seemed to pay them any mind. The Royces rejoiced when King Viserys named Rhaenyra heir over Daemon all those years ago, and would continue to support the line of succession so long as it kept Daemon further from the throne. But would the rest of her house reconsider their position if Rhaenyra's own heir was a bastard? She didn't think it was likely, but she'd be ignorant to believe other houses wouldn't take issue with it. 

Already there were those that were divided on Rhaenyra remaining as heir given the birth of the boy sat beside Rhae right now. Ser Gerold told her that the rules of succession were necessary to keep the peace. 

Rhae wrote her response.

How do you feel about it?

Aegon grimaced and shrugged, before tapping on the second half of his note. Rhae sighed, picking up the quill once more. 

Do you always flirt when committing treason? 

Aegon smirked, and with one swift motion, knocked over their shared bottle of ink and soaked the page. A Maester was approaching the table. 

"Aegon!" Rhae cried, ostensibly upset. She turned to the Maester, holding the ruined parchment. "Maester Donnel, I believe I need some new lines."

Aegon was shooed to another seat for his disturbance, but he sauntered off, looking pleased with himself. 

Next Chapter: Ch. 5 - Princess of the Bugs

King Viserys is blind to the crimes of those he is closest to. Though he can not see the hurt in his discretions, Rhae makes fast friends with someone who can. 

AO3 | Chapter Discussion

Thanks for reading!

[angelofverdum]

House of the dragon 02x08

Imma be honest with you I am not House of the dragon biggest fan, I'm not even watching seriously.

I started the show because of Olivia Cooke, I met her in Bates Motel and we have been inseparable since.

But in the latest episodes I've been paying attention to the show, which I wasn't doing like at some point I forgot Alicent's kids and Rhaenyra are related.

Alicent and Rhaenyra are the only reason I'm still watching the show. I almost dropped after season 1 but how could I when Olivia's bambi doe eyes are looking at me.

And their last scene had me sobbing in my room. It was so beautiful. Like, let me sit on the road.

Rhaenyra is such a brat "Go on then" and Alicent is so tired of her "Ugh, Rhaenyra". I wish we could have more scenes like this, but it doesn't make sense we do, but I want them anyway.

And Olivia's acting when Rhaenyra said "A son for a Son" Uff get her an Emmy because tell me why was I holding my breath waiting for her to decide?

And When Rhaenyra said "You Speak as if from a distant dream" with that smile. Emma didn't have to say much only deliver that line with a genuine smile because yes, that was the only thing Rhaenyra had ever wanted just ride her dragon with Alicent by her side.

And obviously, the "Come with me" from Alicent was everything and Rhaenyra's reaction. Like Alicent was like "I don't care you can have your throne. Or let's run away together. Omg, it was a joke. Unless you are not joking".

Rhaeneyra is just down bad. Alicent should have raised the offer with something like "I promise I'll love you forever".

Damn, you Otto you have to go and offer your gay daughter to that old dude. Now,

I feel sorry for the people who are fans of the book because the writing is a mess. They have problems with the pacing, and the plot in general.

Like, tell me why would you have Helaena spoiling the plot to another character or the audience. Now, the audience now that it doesn't matter what happens Aegon will sit on the throne again, Aemon will die, and Rhaenyra will fail. And even if Daemon or Aemond dismiss what Helaena said, the audience know she is prophet.

Also, I don't think her vision should be that clear.

Why would Alicent's brother ask Criston why is he fucking his sister, the dowager queen in front of everybody? Putting her business out there like that.

And Daemon's plot this season was awfull. I'm sorry, but he spend the whole season fighting ghost and inner demons, and the only thing that made him change was a vision. That's crazy to me.

Btw, I'm not team green or team black, I'm team whatever Alicent and Rhaenyra got going on.

[ewanmitchellcrumbs]

🦋's Post show thoughtsssss

Superb Acting, as usual

Thankful for our Helaena sighting, no matter how short. My heart went out to her when they got mobbed, my poor girl😭

Aemond serving cunt, I kinda giggled when in that first scene at the beginning hehehe

Honestly I really wanted that scene with Aegon to show him saying something along the lines of he loves him in his own twisted way, blah blah, some loyalty or remorse or something. But god forbid we have the greens actually liking each other.

I'm actually looking forward to Otto coming back, tbh, like him or not the man was a powerhouse- Aemond knows what's up (not always)

DAERON MENTIONNNNNN

Gwyane really said yea girl ya'll kinda fucked up in this place ngl, thank god I wasn't raised here lol

I may not have been Viserys's biggest fan, however, to see Paddy again was surprisingly welcome.

Alys slayed, I can't wait for her and Aemond to meet, I'm gnawing at the bars of my enclosure for this to happen.

I really wanted to see a fallout of the mobbing with Alicent and Helaena, particularly with Aemond, to see some kind of regret of something in him, but again, god forbid they give Aemond some level of complexity. Only thanks to Ewan's skill as an actor do we get any depth, but we get not one shit from Ryan Condal.

Poor Aegon, honestly.

Even though I'm tired of Daemon at Harrenhall, I really hope that the direction it's gonna take is him getting to the point where he's back to being the ultra loyal uncle-husband, SEND HIM HOME TO HIS WIFE, DAMMIT

Now, the Mysaria and Rhaenyra kiss. I know this could potentially be divisive amongst fans, however.....it was hot. I'm sorry, but....it was hot. I kinda wanted more, this is way better than seeing Alicent and Crispy. I felt the chemistry between them but I rlly thought they would leave it ambiguous. Again, not a fan of this overarching narrative of Rhaenyra being this holy blessed chosen one, and the greens are all one dimensional assholes who hate each other, but- that was hot. Give us them scissoring next episode k thanks.

Despite the general issues, I am curious for next episode.

Excited to see your thoughts (can't believe there's only two more episodes) I'll miss these post show asks but alas we shall find more things to discourse over <3

One of my highlights of the week is you coming to my asks after the episode has aired. I can't believe that after this one we only get to do our thought dumps twice more! :(

Here are mine!

I have to get this out of the way first, because it was my absolute favourite part and I cannot stop thinking about it; Rhaenyra and Mysaria!

I've had a feeling something like that would happen from their very first encounter, all of their interactions just feel very charged. It was hot AF and I hope we get more of that. Such an interesting dynamic.

Aemond had a little more screen time this episode and, as usual, Ewan slayed. He ran that small council meeting like a fucking drill sergeant and seeing him all hot tempered and mean was...UGH.

I think Aemond's reasoning for dismissing Alicent from the small council was similar to Criston's for not wanting to name her as Regent - he wants to keep her out of harm's way and protect her from the horrible decisions they are going to have to make moving forward.

The way he set Larys up was so fucking good, and I am frothing for the return of Otto. I just know he is going to deliver some absolutely incredible lines next episode.

The exchange between Aegon and Aemond at Aegon's bedside was so well acted by both Tom and Ewan - Aegon's fear and Aemond's unsubtle threat of "this is the version of what happened and you better not tell anyone otherwise" - I do think it's stereotypical sibling rivalry, but the context makes it so much darker.

Aegon and Larys's exchange was amazing too - Larys just laying it out there, basically saying "you are going to look deformed and people will judge you for it" - so powerful, and yet so sad to see Aegon's realisation that he's changed forever.

I have a huge gripe with the writers for what they have done with Sylvi. Yes, her relationship with Aemond was purely transactional, and it has now ended, however, Aemond has been vulnerable with her, spoken to her of things he's not told anyone, so he wouldn't take kindly to the untruths she's spreading around Flea Bottom. I think he would have her killed, not just for treason, but out of fear of what she might tell people about him. However, Michelle Bonnard isn't going to appear again this season, so that is yet another gaping plothole created by the writers.

I'm so bored of Daemon's story arc. Alys is the only part of it holding my interest. It's heavily implied that she had a hand in killing Grover Tully, and I am wondering if she did that to actually help Daemon, or if she has another agenda. Is she going to work with Daemon to help cross Aemond, or does she simply want to take them both down because of their callous attitude towards small folk? I am genuinely excited about her character and storyline.

Cute as it was that Seasmoke claimed Addam, it is yet another glaring oversight from the writers - give us some indication of what's happened to Laenor! Should we just assume he's dead?!

It was cool to see the groundwork being laid for Sheepstealer, though I am still annoyed they gave Nettles' storyline to Rhaena.

Anyway, overall, I really enjoyed this episode. I think this one and episode four have been my favourites so far!

[camilbarnessss]

¤ The Invitation ¤

{ Aemond Targaryen }

《 Part 11 》

When Rhaenyra and Daemon Targaryen's big family arrive at King's Landing for princess Helaena and prince Aegon Targaryen's wedding, things go as they always do. Dragons, uncles, nephews and cousins discussing and fighting, tension on every look, and disconfort when being with each other. Just the usual stuff...until the princess Daera Targaryen got drunk at a ball where The One-Eyed Prince happened to sneaked in

Masterlist

Warnings: swearing, family toxicity/drama, eroticism, male masturbation, TARGARYEN INCEST [cousinXcousin]

MINORS DO NOT INTERACT

Enjoy your reading!!! Likes, comments and reblogs will be highly appreciated♡♡♡

■ ■ ■

Rhaena blinked with softness, having a little smile in her lips. She sighs, raising her head, and looking at the big blue sky.

She sees how the skies were being ruled by tons of dragon, each of them colorful, fast, excited, and full of life. Syrax, Arrax, Vermax, Tyraxes, Caraxes, Kalistrox and Moondancer flapped stoppless while roaring and kicking the air with their paws.

Daera laughed vividly, tightly grabbed to her saddle while her dragon was flying fastly, at the same pace of the other ridden dragons. Excited, she looks at her right.

-Can you hear me?!-, she shouted as loud as she could, smiling. Kalistrox growled louder than her, shaking his neck, jubilant.

-NO!-, Lucerys shouted too from Arrax's back. His dragon, as the same age as him, roared, flapping his silver pale wings.

-WHAT?!-, Baela screamed, confused, from further, riding the beautiful Moondancer, whose scales were of a clear and light green.

-What are you talking about?!-. Jacaerys shouted from even farther, looking at his siblings with his nose and eyes scrunched. Vermax, greener and darker than Baela's dragon, roared towards the clouds.

-I can't hear you either!-, Baela said confused, looking at Luke and Daera, who were flying close to each other.

And they both instantly bursted out laughing amusedly, being under the annoyed gazes of Baela and Jace, who glanced at each other with boreness.

Kalistrox, being the older and bigger dragon out of them four, roared joyfuly, flapping his wings faster, making his rider to bigly smile, loving when he flew this rapid. Moondancer, Vermax and Arrax growled, impishly, trying to keep up with him, making their riders to chuckled excited as well.

The mounted dragons were being kind of guarded from behind by the ones who were not. Syrax and Caraxes were flying, side to side, he whistlening and she breathing calmly. And, below them, a little child. Tyraxes, beautifully red, was doing his best on flying along with them, keeping their rythm and pace. None of them had their riders on their backs.

While seeing those seven dragons flapping their divines wings in the skies, Rhaena sighed once again, resting her elbows over a wooden railing. A wooden railing from the ship she was in.

They are on their way to Driftmark, indeed, for the celebration of Lord Corlys's name day. The seas and waters, knowing about the special day of their lord, have been highly kind to the Targaryen ship.

Rhaena turned her head briefly when she heard steps approaching. She sees Rhaenyra and Daemon, who walked to her with easy steps. The pregnant princess sided her head and smiled to her, caressing her belly. The young girl smiled too, facing them.

-Enjoying the views?-, her father asks, pointing towards the skies with his eyes.

-Amm, yes-. Rhaena giggles, somewhat ashamed, looking at the dragons again, briefly-. I fear I am-, she whispers, grabbing her hands over her belly.

Daemon inhales through his nose, staring silently at her, almost with pity, but hiding it well. Rhaenyra sighed with one of her so motherly smiles, placing a hand of hers over one of Rhaena's shoulders.

-I am more than sure that Syrax will be soon delivering a new clutch of eggs-. She says softly. Rhaena gulps with a presed smirk, looking ashance to her father, who sikently nodded, staring at the ship's floor-. You will take whichever you like the most, you sweet thing-. Nyra promises with the kindest tone.

The girl sighs, sort of comforted, lifting her lips with a smile and nodding to the princess, silent and thankful. Rhaenyra curves her lips into a grin, nodding too.

-Mother!-. Joffrey suddenly calls from the other side of the ship, making them turn around-. Why can't I ride my dragon along my siblings?!-, he asked pointing at the sky, offended and annoyed.

-Oh gods, again...-Rhaenyra sighs tiredly, leaving their side and walking to him with slowless, watching her steps-. I rode Syrax for the first time when I was seven, little boy!-, she says raising her brows-. You are not seven yet...-Rhaenyra reaches him, beginning to explain it to him.

Rhaena giggled lowly, looking at them. Then she looks at her father, who was already staring at her. She gulps briefly, glancing back at him. Daemon blinks, softly.

-You will fly one day with them, Rhaena-. He says with a nearly tender voice-. I know it-, the prince inssists, raising his brows. His youngest daughter looks at him, shamefaced, silent-. But you do not keep waiting for a dragon to come to you, it is not how it will happen-. Speaking lowly, he reproached her, shaking his head.

Rhaena tsked embarrased, turning around again, and not looking at him anymore. Daemon rolls his eyes, sighing tiredly.

-Why don't any of my daughters listen to me?, I wonder-. He mumbles annoyed.

She justs tsks again and shakes her head, silent, answering him in her mind. It is not as easy as it sounds.

Daemon plannned to talk again, but something else catches his gaze. He narrows his eyes, walking and placing himself at Rhaena's left, looking front. Confused, she looks too, also narrowing her eyes when she noticed something.

The Rogue Prince hummed with bitterness.

Another ship came into sight, nearing from south, having the red three-headed dragon on its veils. A Targaryen ship, one that sailed from King's Landing and was now following the same steps as them. We know who these are.

-Greens-, mumbled Rhaena with a sigh, closing her eyes and feeling a great tiredness just by mentioning them.

Alicent Hightower was standing with her hands crossed over her belly. The wind was blowing her red long hair. She had her lips lightly scrunched, and her gaze was nailed on that other Targaryen ship from afar, looking at it with weary.

-The Blacks...-, Lord Larys Strong, standing at her side, speaks with a sigh. She blinks heavily and looks at the sea, nodding-. We seem to have arranged our schedules with theirs, by accident-. He says with a smirk, one that did not reached his eerie blue eyes.

-Indeed, Lord Larys-. The Queen speaks with a low tone, not looking at him even for a second. He, on the other hand, stared endlessly at her, having a smirk always on his lips.

-The King would love the fact-, he says.

-Yes, he would-. She agrees, turning around and looking ashance at Ser Criston, who was standing behind her-...But my husband is not here-, she murmured, walking away. Her protector followed her instanly, leaving Lord Larys alone.

Alicent walked towards her dearest, Helaena, who was lying in a long seat, surrounded by cushions and maidens that were fanning her. The pregnant princess was calmly sleeping, being tenderly watched by her grandfather, who was seated at her side on another chair.

-Oh, good, she's sleeping at last-. Alicent sighed with a quick smile, staring at her. Helaena grunts in the middle of her sleep, fully gone.

The Queen giggles really low, remembering when she was the one pregnant with her. The easiest of her four pregnancies, for sure.

Mighty and louds roars are heard just from above their ship, which made them look up with casuality, knowing who were the ones soaring in the skies about.

Out of the clouds came four dragons, each of them flying fastly and stoppless, going as the mighty beasts they were.

Aemond laughed with his teeth clenched, grabbed to his saddle and looking front with a smile. The largest dragon of the world, ridden by him, outed the clouds with a loud growl, opening her wings and flapping them with power over the skies.

Aegon was hugged to Sunfyre's back, smiling while feeling his warmth and the wind around them. The most beautiful dragon of the world, this was, with his long white horns and the perfect mix of golden and pink in all of his structure. The prince sighed, in love with his dragon, mumbling praising words against his saddle.

Dreamfyre was riderless, for her sweet Helaena does not rider her so much, less in her actual condition. However, she is always at presence, wherever her rider goes, for they both really are fond of each other. She was black as the night but, at the same timed, shined like the moon, being the most silent and calmed of the dragons.

And, the last child of Queen Alicent, was also in the air. Daeron Targaryen was with his eyes narrowed and his thin lips forming a big smile, happily riding his dragon. The Blue Queen, Tessarion. The blue teen she-dragon was flapping her wings as well as the others, going fastly and freely with no clouds in the middle of her path.

The Greens's dragons, for how fast they were flying, eventually encountered with The Blacks's dragons, who had became aware of their presence already. Now there were eleven dragons in the sky.

Sunfyre roared sharply, recognizing his brother, Kalistrox, who turned his head towards them with his golden eyes, roaring back. Contrary to the dragons, their riders were not so happy of seeing each other. Well, most of them...

Aemond turned his head, looking to the right, and Daera turned her head to the left. And with this, their gazes met. Grabbed to their handles, and with their silver manes flying in the air, they both sighed and smiled when seeing each other. They were truly far, indeed, but not even that could cut their gazes, which shined thrilled.

Daeron upped his gaze towards The Golden Ray, seeing princess Daera in there, powerfully seated in her saddle, with her brown shoulders showing, her wild hair flying and her flirty lips smiling cockily, being effortless gorgeous. That made the prince to smile mesmerized, looking up while The Blue Queen carried him.

Aemond and Daera stared at each other again, from their distances, giggling michevously and funny. She bit her lips, wanting so bad to already touch him.

Kalistrox growled happily, shaking his neck, and suddenly changing his direction. Towards Vhagar. Daera flinched in her place and gave a light jump, quickly furrowing her brows and grabbing her saddle tighter.

-Kalistrox, daor! [ Kalistrox, no! ]-. She instantly begins to deny, shaking her head.

Aemond opened his eye big, and his dragon, when seeing the golden one wanting to approach, also growled with easiness and sided her big body, directing to him. He hissed exaltated, rapidly grabbing her ropes and pulling them back.

-No, no no no!-. He whispers quickly, clenching his teeth.

The rest of the dragonriders furrowed their brows instantly, growing scared when seeing how those two beasts started to kind of flounder in the sky. They seem to wanting to...be nearer?

-Daera, what?!-. Baela screams scared.

-Get away from Vhagar! Are you insane?!-, Luke shouts worried.

-Daera!-, screams Jace.

From below, in the ships, everybody also became aware of the struggling up there, freezing instantly when fearing the worst.

-What?-, Rhaena whispers.

Rhaenyra and Daemon walmed quickly, looking up at the skies with their mouths opened, highly confused. From her ship, Alicent gasps and grabbs Cole's arm strongly, staring frighted at his son's dragon.

Kalistrox roared shaking his neck while feeling Daera tightly pulling back her saddle. Why did she want to get away? He didn't understand, still wanting to reach Vhagar. The Queen of All Dragons wanted to reach her friend to, the one she has been hanging out with during more than half a year by now. What is the problem with her rider, all of a sudden?

Daera and Aemond, now closer, glanced at each other with nervous and anxiety, talking quickly with their gazes. They knew their dragons couldn't be seen bonding with each other. 'Tis the same with themselves.

-Kalistrox, daor sir! Daor sir! Dohaeras issa!  [ Kalistrox, not now! Not now! Obey me! ]-. Daera speaks firmly on his back, patting it with one hand insistedly. He growls confused, blinking multiple times.

-No no no, Vhagar, stop!-. Aemond shouts pulling strongly her ropes, wanting to change her direction again. She roars with annoyance and confussion, shaking her big long neck.

Daeron breathes extremely confused from Tessarion's back, whike Aegon was laughing amused from Sunfyre's, mocking how his brother and his cousin were having troubles with their dragons. Poor miserables.

Daemon narrows his eyes sharply, clenching his jaw and looking tensely at there. He swore Aemond was the guilty of all.

-Get away, Daera-. Rhaena mutters nervously, staring at the sky.

-Qrīdrughagon, taoba! [ Away, boy! ]-. Daera's voice came out firmly and with autoritance, staring at her dragon with her eyes really hardened. Commanding him.

Kalistrox growled under his breath, blinking, and moving his neck with a spoiled grunt. He, at last, returned to his initial direction again, flying back towards Arrax's side, and getting away from Vhagar. Luke, Jace and Baela sighed breathless, looking at her.

Aemond bit his lips, and then grunted pulling Vhagar's rope once again. She, after seeing The Golden Ray getting away, decided to obey. She roared, dissappointed, and kept flying front. She felt harsh caresses on her back.

-Fuck...-, The One-Eyed Prince mumbled, closing his eye.

The families on the ships also could breath again, but still looked confused and tense, not having understood even a bit of what just happened. Alicent touched her chest. Daemon grunted turning around, and Rhaenyra sighed caressing her belly. Rhaena took seat along Joffrey, grabbing his hands, relieved.

Jace gulps, staring and Daera, who has her head placed on her dragon's back, against his bare scales, seeming to be whispering something to him.

-īlon kostagon daor sagon ūndegīva hēnkirī [ We can not be seen together ]-, she tells him, raising her brows and caressing one of his sides. Kalistrox growled lowly, tilting his head briefly. She sighed, biting her lips for a moment-. Ziry iksos trūba [ It is dangerous ]-, the princess explained with a soft whisper, shamed.

The Golden Ray blinks, staying silent, listening to the girl's words.

Aemond kept caressing Vhagar's back, thanking the gods she was now calm and under his control again. He sighs over the blowing wind, looking sideways towards Daera, who was far from him. Again.

With the flapping wings of the dragons, and some minutes that passed quickly, Driftmark appeared in front of their gazes, at, coming into sight beautifully, surrounded by the big blue sea.

Baela, Rhaena and Daera smiled bigly from their places, already wanting to see heir grandma. Luke and Jace smiled the same way, glancing at each other.

The dragons, soon, entered the skies of Driftmark, soaring above High Tide, where a lot of heads raised when seeing them. The dragons of the greens flew to the right side of the island. Meanwhile, the blacks flew to the left of it, going their own way. Not even crazy they would land together.

Dreamfyre, Sunfyre, Tessarion and Vhagar landed on a hill big enough to take all four dragons, three of them being huge. Their riders didn't wait for anything to dismount them, leaving their saddles behind.

-That was quite a flight!-, Daeron commented with a curious giggle, caressing Tessarion's horns, and making her purr.

Aemond grunted sourly under his breath, letting go Vhagar's ropes and landing on the grass. He furrows his lips, looking at her.

-And quite an espectacle as well-. Aegon taunts with a burlesque smile, resting his back on Sunfyre, touching him with softness-. Was it not, brother?-. He curves his brows, staring at the one with a patch.

-Hmm-, Aemond simply humms, annoyed, while he adjusted his leather gloves. He looked askance to Helaena's dragon, checking if she landed well, which she did.

-What happened, up there?-. Daeron asks with honest curiosity, looking at Aemond, who was giving them his back, just facing his dragon.

-Ugh catch up, brother, Daera lives to disturb us-. Scoffed Aegon rolling his eyes at the youngest, who tilted his head with doubt-. No?-, he asks Aemond, reaching for his support.

The One-Eyed Prince presed his lips, inhaling slowly through his nose while staring Vhagar's rope. He knew he gotta play his part, as well as Daera probably is too, right at the moment. So, he sighed, and faced his brothers.

-Yes-, he answered dryly, beginning to walk firmly-. The girl finds amusement in screw us, as the child she is-. Aemond said tediously, hearing Aegon cheering laugh in an instant.

-Well I disagree-. Daeron spoke proudly, raising his chin while he followed his brother, starting to walk behind him. Aegon said goodbye to his dragon, kissing his saddle with a smile and following them too-. I find Daera as a feroceous and alluring woman-, he says with a big smile.

Aemond tighted his fists at the side of his body, rolling his eye and forcing himself to maintain silence, and hold his jelaousy.

-Ugh, do not start with your thing, brother-. Aegon complained to the youngest, hugging him from over his shoulder and making him tsk-. Daera would suck my dick first than yours-, he taunted. Daeron, disgusted, walked away from him.

Aemond felt a itchy rage on his inside when hering him talking like that. But again, his part. He had to swallow every desire to deffend her, for he would never 'normally' do this. He recited his duty on his mind, knowing he could not jeopardize himself and his lover.

Meantime, Kalistrox, Arrax, Vermax and Moondancer were also seeing how their riders dismounted them, landing their feet on the grass with equal sighs.

-Oh fuck, my back-. Daera grunts stretching her body with her nose scrunched.

-What was that?-. Jacaerys abruptly approaches to her, pointing at the sky and having his eyes wide opened.

-Ow, what the fuck, right?!-. The older sister sighs with disbelief, shaking her head. She glanced briefly at Tyraxes, checking that he landed alright.

-I got so scared-, Baela whispers walking towards her and grabbing one of her hands. Daera smiled with pity at her, tilting her head. How much she would like to tell them the truth-. What did Aemond did?-, she asks with sourness.

-Why did Kalistrox disobey you?-, Lucerys asks with a worried tone, approaching too.

-Woah, disobey is a strong word-. Daera snorts with a hurted proud, making them inevitably laugh. Though the brothers shivered a little when hearing the adjective-. Amm, I consider Aemond is not to blame, even though I'd like him to be-. She mumbles under her breath, joking the way she would usually do about him. They laughed again, indeed-. I pressume Kalistrox got excited when seeing Vhagar-, she sighs.

-In what way?-, Jace asks, tilting his head.

-Well, he used to fly with her every day, when we lived in Pentos-. Daera remembers, and her sister smiles nostalgic, remembering-. The last time he did was a long while ago, so...perhaps he thought it was still the same-, she mumbled looking down briefly, lying to them.

-Ow, poor boy...-Luke sighs staring at the golden dragon, who was licking his wings calmly.

-Thanks the gods then that Vhagar apparently remembered that too-, Jace scoffed, making Daera laugh.

-Well, we have chatted enough!-. Baela said bringing a smile on her face, hugging to her sister's arm-. Grandmother must be waiting for us, let's go!-. She insists, pulling her.

-Oh yes yes, fuck! Our ship must be making its arrival already!-, Daera agrees, pulling her too.

They did not waste another second, running together as they constantly do. They smelled the beach and loved it. In some sentimental way, Driftmark's waters always feel different to any other of the realm. The Velaryons have made them magical, so deeply blue.

While looking at that blue as they ran, Daera couldn't evade thinking of Aemond's blue sapphire, which made her smile silly. She wants to see him.

Quickly, they arrived to High Tide's tall gates that would lead them to the castle. However, they didn't expect to arrive at the same freaking time of their cousins and uncles.

Aemond and Daera were the first one to stop walking, overwhelmed by the warmth they felt when seeing the other from close. They both hided smiles with all of their will, though their shiny gazes were harder to pretend. The others halted too, but not too happy.

-Ah great-, Jace whispered.

They stopped, face to face, separated by five or six steps, looking at each other blankly and silently, waiting for their families to arrive.

-Cousins-, Daera smiled fakely at them.

Aemond instantly wanted to fuck her.

-Cousin-. Daeron takes a step front, smiling at the princess, who sighed tiredly when seeing him, siding an amused smile. Her siblings rolled their eyes-. It is a greatest pleassure, to meet again with you-. He speaks softly, having his arms crossed, and a smirk on his face.

-Hmm, I bet it is-. Daera nodded burlesque, crossing her arms too. Daeron smiled gently, sucking his cheeks and looking endlessly at her. Aemond side eyed him with a serious expression.

Daeron, as all the realm knows, is definetely the kindest son of Queen Alicent and King Viserys. He, just moons younger than Jace, is the favourite of everyone, to not say the least. He is gentle, helpful and handsome. Aegon is a drunk rapist and Aemond is a cold cunt. How to not prefer this soft young boy over them?

-...Nephews-, Daeron whispered to the boys, scoffing.

The problem with him, is that he also despites and taunts Rhaenyra's sons as well as his brothers do.

-Uncles-, Luke whispers under his breath, forcing himself to be polite, as always.

Aemond blinks and directs his gaze at Daera. Silently, she looks back at him, biting her lips briefly. He hummed looking away again for his well being. She laughed muted.

-I hope your trip was...joyful-. Baela says with the same fake politeness, smiling at them.

-Oh, it was-. Aegon smiles and nods. She looks coldly at him, barely pretending. He bit his cheeks a little, looking at the girls from up to down-...You two are stunning today, cousins-. He mumbles.

-Aegon-. Daeron snorted. Aemond side eyed at the older with a tense gaze. Baela grunted, Daera rolled her eyes and Luke flinched.

-Do not look nor talk to them like that-, Jacaerys grunted pointing at his uncle, who made a funny face of surprise, drawing his lips down-. Don't talk or look at them at all!-, he cleared.

-Then you are going to have to cover my mouth and eyes-, Aegon smiles burlesque.

-Aegon, mother told you to behave-. Aemond grunted coldly, and his older brother snorted-. You, at least try to-. He looks at Jace burlesque. Daera furrows her brows with a sigh.

-You ask for too much-, Daeron laughed covering his mouth. Jacaerys grunted offended, opening his mouth.

-Shut up!-. Daera silenced them all with a tedious tone, making them to close their mouths-. Shut up forever-, she points at Aegon.

All of their heads turned when encountering with their families already arriving along their crews, all together. Baela made a unconfortable face when seeing Rhaenyra walking almost alongside Alicent. Matters to say they were even more unconfortable.

Helaena was being helped to walk by a handful of servants and Criston, while Rhaenyra was held to Daemon's and Rhaena's arm, also walking a little more slow. They were all approaching deeply silent, not speaking a word, feeling the strain in the air.

-Wow-, Daeron's eyes narrowed-...Is it always this tense?-, he whispered. Aegon looked boredly at him while yawning.

Taking advantagde of everybody looking at them, Daera looked at Aemond, who looked back at her. He blinked, acommodating his shoulders, and she sighed, shrugging, and winking him an eye at the same time she faced the tall gates.

-Oy!-, she knocked with her two fists, turning some heads. Daeron smiled funnily-. The ghosts of The Conquest are here! 'Tis Visenya talking, open up!-, she yelled loudly.

Laughs were heard along everyone, specially her siblings and the servants. As always, she easied the tension with some joke. Helaena laughed tiredly, nodding. Rhaena chuckled, approaching quickly to them, being greeted by a smile from Luke.

Aemond pressed an amused smile looking at his lover. The gates instantly started to be opened from the other side, which made the princess smirk and take a step back.

-That was easy-, she mumbles, grabbing Rhaena's and Luke's elbows on hers. The both giggled.

-As fierce as fire-. Daeron praised her, sillied. Aemond looks at him and then tsks, getting away from his side and going to help Helaena. When he walked pass Alicent, she followed him with her gaze, serious, as well as Otto, remembering the espectacle in the sky.

When the gates were opened, they encountered with High Tide's welcoming front, where there were a lot of lords and ladies already waiting for them. And princess Rhaenys, being the first of them all, was standing in the castle's doors, instantly smiling when the first faces she saw were her grandchildren's.

-Welcome!-, she sighed with open arms. They smiled, and did not wait a second to quickly walk towards her, being under all the gazes of the lords and ladies at presence.

They hugged their grandma, dearly while the royal family entered to the castle's grounds. Some gasps were heard around, and low murmurs as well. All the drama and gossip the royal family brings with them never goes unoticed. Something that they, sadly, have become familiar with a long time ago.

Aemond walked slowly along his family, feeling all the looks above his eyepatch and on him in general, speaking about him, the tales that are true and the ones that are not. He just allowed himself to sigh, finding comfort on Helaena's grasp in his arm.

-All good?-. Rhaenys was whispering to her grandchildren, caressing Daera's cheeks while asking for their trip. They all nodded, smirking, and she copied them-. I am glad-, she sighs-. Stay by my side-, she asked sweetly, turning around, and facing the patio again.

At her right, Baela and Jace stood, and at her left Luke, Daera and Rhaena did too, all of them proud, behind their grandmother. Aemond, when seeing his love standing in there, in those stairs while looking at everyone, thought how magnificent she would look as a queen. The single thought made his heart to beat fastly.

A desorganized row formed in front of the Lady of Driftmark by the royal newcomers. Princess Rhaenyra and Prince Daemon, heading the line, approached to Princess Rhaenys with silent steps, looking politely at her. She, however, did not pretended much the unhappiness she felt when seeing them.

It was truly easy to loathe them when they hadn't their children on their sides. Having them behind her, Rhaenys sighed briefly, thinking of all the things this two princes have made to her poor family.

-Princess Rhaenys-, Rhaenyra greeted with a polite nodding.

-Princess-, Daemon nodded, dry. His daughters looked at him with a dissimulated rapprochement, asking him to be nicer. He ignored that.

Rhaenys blinks, with the smallest of smirks in her lips, looking at them with a complete silent.

-It is quite an honor to be here, joining you on such important date-, The Heir sighed curving her brows.

Daera and Aemond glanced fastly at each other, once again, from their distances. He admired the beautiful blue gown she was wearing, showing her shoulders. She, feeling hot, thought how she would never get tired of seeing him all dressed in black. That is so much his color. In their minds, they purred to one another, desiring so deeply to...well, to do their usual thing.

-Thank you, princes-. Rhaenys finally talked to her grandchildren's parents, who smiled tinyly at them-. Lord Corlys would appreciate your presences, indeed-. She draw her gaze away from them.

Rhaenyra and Daemon nodded tensely, not saying anything more and walking to a side, taking Joffrey with them.

And, after them, Queen Alicent, along her four children, one of them with child, and her father, stepped foward, greeting her. Rhaenys smiled quickly, noticing at an instant the absence of her cousin, Viserys.

-Princess Rhaenys-, Otto nodded politely.

-Princess-, Alicent smiled the same way.

-Your graces, Driftmark is honored for your presence today-. Rhaenys smiled mannerly-. And your children's...-she murmured, glancing at them.

Daeron was looking around with a curious smiled, seeing all the faces of the surroundings, and smelling the beach like it was right behind him. Helaena sighed tiredly, resting her head on Aemond's arm as she smiled to Rhaenys. Aegon looked at his pregnant wife, and rolled his eyes. Aemond was breathing slowly, not blinking.

-Hm-, Rhaenys nodded side ways-. Though I wonder about The King's presence-, she asked confused, furrowing her brows.

Meanwhile, Jace sneezed, and all of his siblings turned to bless him. This brief moment was totally taken by Daera to look at Aemond again, and he did the very same, clenching his jaw. She pretended to scratch her mouth just so she could send him a kiss with her lips, staring desirely at him. Aemond went breathless, closing his eye with impatience and horniness. He swore he heard her laughing tauntly at that monent, even when she didn't.

-Oh, I am deeply sorry to inform you that my husband could not make it with us-, Alicent sighed, with pity. Rhaenys blinks worried, while the children were listening to, as well as Rhaenyra and Daemon-. The maesters recommended him to skip the trip, you see, for with his condition it was not...the best for him-, she said, blinking constantly.

Daemon and Rhaenyra stared coldly al her, not trusting any of her words. Daemon snorted under his breath, looking at his wife, who looked back at him with a doubty and sour expression, clenching her lips. She silently nodded, and he furrowed his mouth.

Thanks to all of Daera's visits to the capital, they have learned that The Queen apperared to be becoming really overprotective on her husband's health. In all of this months, Daera has only seen her uncle thrice. Every other time she had denied the right to seeing him. But, they times that she did, which were short, she would find an ill and weak man lying on his bed, mumbling nonsenses. She barely could bear the sight.

-That is something to lament...-Rhaenys murmurs dissappointed, and Alicent noded the same way, sighing. The Lady of Driftmark inhaled through her nose, tightening her shoulders-. You should enjoh your stay here, however, as my cousin would want you to-, she said.

-Indeed, princess-. Otto smiled, as well as Alicent, who nodded with her lips closed.

Rhaenys nodded, politely signaling them to step aside. Doubtless, they did. She looked at Helaena and could not hide a tender smile when looking at her buldging belly. By its size, she could tell she was due to a few weeks to give birth, or even days, if the gods wants her to.

-My lords, and my ladies!-. Rhaenys's voice raised between them all, gaining everyone's attention again-. The ones who would like to are invited to now head to the Driftwood Throne hall, where you will enjoy of an appetizer!-, she informs opening her hands with a smile-. For those who are tired from their trips, you are free to acommodate and rest!-, she says. Her grandchildren were looking at her with smirks, admiring her sweet politeness-. Lord Corlys nameday's ball will begin after the sun goes to sleep, and we all shall meet in the main hall!-, the princess informs.

Lord Colys's wife curves her brows, slowly glancing at all the people that were present because of the respect and love kept for her lost husband. That made her sigh.

-...High Tide is yours-, she nodded proudly, to then turn around, and take her grandaughters's hands.

With this, all of the guests clapped and cheered happily, beginning to head themselves to the place mentioned. Rhaenys smiled looking down, heading the way with Rhaena's and Baela's hands on hers. The princesses smiles towards each other, walking calmly while everyone behind followed.

Daera walked alongside Jace and Luke, standing in the middle of them. Soon, Rhaenyra placed herself in Luke's side, and Daemon in Jace's, reaching them, and now advancing together.

-May I ask what was that trouble in the skies?-, asked Daemon with a sour interest, glancing at his daughter.

-Please-, sighed Rhaenyra, looking around.

-As I said to my siblings, Kalistrox seemed to have remembered Vhagar from Pentos-. Daera sighed her response, looking at Jace, who looked back at her with a little smile, believing her-. We all here recall that she was once my mother's dragon-, she mumbles.

-Um...-Daemon nodds, blinking and drawing his gaze to the floor when remembering Laena.

-Until my uncle stole her...-Luke mumbled under his breath, and his mother looks at him with a soft pity, caressing his bair.

On the inside, Daera flinched at the word 'stole', but did not show any emotion. She just gulped and, grabbing her father's arm, kept walking with her lips closed. Daemon interwined his elbow with hers, sighing and also walking silently.

Aemond and his family were walking far from them, from behind. However, he takes every opportunity to glance at Daera's mane, seeing how it bounced with every step she gives. The one-eyed sighed, and suddenly flinched when he felt a tight grab in one of his arms.

-Aemond-, Alicent names him with a strong whisper.

-Hmm?-, he looked down at her with interest, furrowing his brows.

-What was that with Daera's dragon and Vhagar, huh?-. His mother asks reproachfully, looking around and making sure nobody was looking at them. Obviously, some people were looking at them.

-I have no interest on Daera's doings, or her dragon-. He denies dryly, shrugging-. But I kept Vhagar away, that is what matters, mother-. He says, though it was Kalistrox the first to obey his rider.

-Well she seemed agitated too, so have an interest in that-. Alicent says, giving a harsh caress on his arm while they walked, looking front. He, looking softly at her, raises his brows briefly-. Control her, Aemond...remember where we are-, she thinly whispered, having a thousand memories.

With those formers words, he also did, tightening the pressure on his jaw. Blinking, he remembered the first and last time he was here, in Driftmark, when he had to close an eye. The night repeated on his mind like it was a song. He gulped, feeling how bitter his saliva was suddenly tasting.

He landed his only eye on Lucerys's mane, looking at him from behind with resentment and seriousness. It was almost like the boy felt his gaze, for he slowly turned his head around, sort of confused, wondering what was that sharp feeling he was sensing on his back. When Luke looked around, it made sense when he found Aemond's cold eye nailed in him, quarrelsome and rapacious.

Lucerys shivered, intimidated, and instantly turned around again, tightening his gripping on Rhaenyra's and Daera's hands. When feeling that, Daera smiled curious at him, without knowing of his fear, and placed a tender kiss on his hair, making him calmer. When he saw that, Aemond wanted to puke. He shuddered with a disgusted expression, dying for take her to erase Luke brown hair's touch with his own lips.

Shortly after, the people arrived to the Driftwood throne's room, which was big enough to take everyone at presence, for the moment. Thy were welccomed by a warm fireplaced lit and servants instantly offerring them the promised appetizers.

Rhaenyra and Daemon, as The Heir and Royal Consort, had to leave the children by their own and wander around the hall, greeting and talking with all the lords and ladies that craved by their attention. Daera and her siblings, then, stayed together with their grandma, talking entertained between them.

A comfortable divan was fetched for princess Helaena near the fireplace. She thanked it heartly, seating in there with tiredness for the trip, having the company of her three brothers. Burlesque murmurs were wandering the hall, ones that said how the young princess seemed to be doing worst than princess Rhaenyra, who carried her pregnant belly with no exhaustion. They seemed to not understand this was poor Helaena's first pregnancy, and Rhaenyra's fourth.

Alicent was mumbling cursings to every tale-taler about her daughter, along Ser Criston, who always remained at her side while she drank wine.

-Children-, Rhaenys sighed after a guard mumbled something to her ear. Her grandchildren looked at her, curious-. I am being told that the Tullys are nearly arriving to our gates, so I must go and welcome them, if you excuse me-. She smiled pitied, caressing Rhaena's hair.

-Oh yes yes, you may, grandma-. Jacaerys instantly noded, kindly as well as the others.

-Go, do not worry for us-. Baela smiled the same way.

-Good-, Rhaenys nodded-. You all remember where your chambers are, do you not?-. She pointed at them, narrowing her eyes.

-Of course we do!-, snorted Daera with obviousness-. Now go on, the Tullys are not known for their patience-, she raised her brows.

Rhaenys smiled with a sigh, and then she parted to meet her arriving guests, being followed by two guards. Her grandchildren stayed by themselves, surrounded by all the people of the hall.

-Gods, I love this room...-Baela sighs, looking around softly. Jace smiles looking at her.

-It's always so warm-, agrees Luke with a giggle, tipping his foot on the floor. He instantly realized that was not the best thing to say, remembering that this is the very hall where his father, Leanor Velaryon, died in the flames. That made him clenched his jaw, gulping strongly.

Jacaerys thought about that too, and scratched his arms with same. The girls thinked about his fallen uncle too. The two youngers gulped, while Daera inhaled through her nose.

-I think is rather romantic-, she shrugged funnily, raising her chin. They smiled amused at her, drawing away the sadness-. Hmm, I think I once had a warm meeting with one of grandma's servants in the lonely parts of the beach-, she mumbled narrowing her eyes.

-News to me-, snorted Baela rolling her eyes with a laugh. The boys blushed and chuckled too.

-I know you dare to have another one of those in this trip in that very same place, or any other-, Rhaena talked with a taunt smiled, elbowing her older sister jokely.

The others laughed, and so did Daera, but at the same time she directed her eyes to the other side of the hall. Standing in front of the fireplace was Aemond, along his siblings, and he was looking back at her. So hidden yet so deeply. She knows to read his eye so well, and she knew what he wanted. For her to approach. Oh, and how much she wants that too. Aemond breathed slowly, blinking the same way with softness, thinking of his wildest dreams.

Daera lowered her gaze towards Helaena, and she found her looking at she already, caressing her belly. Helaena raises her brows and nodds briefly, pointing at her place with her clear eyes. Daera narrowed hers, smiling, and understanding the silent invitation of her dear cousin.

-Siblings-. Daera calls them with a soft smirk, making them to stop their talk and look curiously at her-. Why don't we go to greet Helaena? It's been ages since you last saw her-, she raises her brows. The last time they saw her was on the week of her wedding, more than half a year ago.

-Oh yes, that'd be lovely-. Rhaena instantly nodded.

-Let's go-, smiled Baela.

Daera smirked nodding.

-Ehh...-Jace mumbled while Luke scratches his hair-. We rather not-, he said politely.

The girls blink confused, but soon they knew it was due to Aegon, Aemond and Daeron, who were standing just behind Helaena, guarding her. The sisters understood problemless.

-We may greet her in the ball, later-. Decided Luke with a shamed smile. Daera smirked softly at him, nodding briefly towards his decision. She actually thanked it, for she does not like to see Aemond being mean towards them.

-You shall-, she whispered raising her brows.

-We'll meet later then-, Baela said looking at the boys-. We will head to our chambers afterwards-, he informed looking at her sisters, who nodded, agreeing.

-Very well-, Jace smiled to her, and then he sees Luke-. Come, let us see if mother is doing alright-, he ordered.

Aemond hummed looking around, bored. But his gaze lighted as soon as he saw Daera approaching towards them, with her sisters. He tighted his arms behind his back, remembering that there was a posture to maintain in front of this people. Daera, allowing herself to be more free, pressed a smile while looking ashance at him, biting her cheeks. She knew everybody was mattering their own matters, so what a smile could do?

-Girls-, Helaena sighed with a smile when seeing them coming.

-Go-, Daera murmured letting their hands go, pushing them lightly towards their cousin.

-Helaena-, greeted Baela with a kind smile, arriving.

-You look gorgeous-, flattered Rhaena tenderly.

Aegon sighed bored, listening to the talk between the ladies. Daeron was smiling since he saw Daera nearing. Aemond rolled his eye towards him, hating his attraction to her. It has always been there, of course, but he is not the same as always, not when being with Daera, as well as happens to her with him.

The older sister crossed her hands over her belly with a soft smile in her lips, looking at the girls chatting with Helaena, who was talking low and tired, but always smirking to them. Daera blinks and looks sideways to Aemond, who was staring at them too.

-Oy, Daera-. Aegon tries to have some fun, facing her.

-We've been playing this game for moons in every of my visits so, please, at least for today, I want you to shut your mouth, turn around, walk away and bury your face in a wine barril while my sisters try to maintain a conversation with Helaena-. Daera speaks dryly without even looking at him. He opened his mouth. Daeron laughs surprised, and Aemond hided a smile.

Aegon was about to fight back. She faced him coldly, warning him with a silent gaze. He clenched his jaw and breathed through his nose, stopping. He thought twice, and gulped. Aegon grunted lowly and passed right at her side, walking away with mumbled curses outing his mouth.

Daera sighed and blinked with a calm smile, raising her chin. The girls thanked her with smirks, and returned to their little chat again. Daera turns her face sideways, looking at Daeron after feeling his stare so intensely.

-Have I stolen something from you, cousin?-. She turns to him amusedly, raising her brows. Daeron giggles, and Aemond has to look at her too, for he was standing just as his brother's side. Thanks the gods. That is the same reason why she also faced the younger one, so she could look at her lover.

-My heart and breath, I am afraid-. Daeron answered with a tender mumble, shrugging.

Daera chuckles curving her frown. He might be a problem to her brothers, indeed, but he has always have a very remarkable enchant, especially when trying to court her.

-Ha, you are persistant, I'll give you that-. She smiled to him, tilting her head to a side, which Daeron also did, following her gaze-. But I don't do children, my boy-. Daera laughs softly. Aemond looks at her, emotionless, but smiling proudly on the inside.

-I am a young man already, not a child-. The boy denied and shrugged, still smiling. She agreed with him with a little nodd, remembering he is the same age as Jace, who is only a year and a half younger than her.

-You have grown, indeed-. She nods-. They are feeding you well in Oldtown-, she jokes.

-They are-. Daeron smiled-. And you...you are a woman-, he sighed silly, glancing at her uncovered shoulders.

Daera scoffed surprised.

-I would recommend you to not waste your time, brother, and to stop embarrasing yourself-. Aemond spoke, from a moment to another, coldly. Jelaous-. You have better things to attend to, do you not?-. He asks, looking sideways at him. Daera felt her womanhood pulsing, knowing that he was envying her attention towards his brother.

-And what things are those?-, snorted Daeron shrugging.

-Young ladies fawning over you, right at our right-. Aemond sighed, not even looking at the side he mentioned. Daera and Daeron did, finding some girls his age glancing constantly at The Queen's youngest boy. They all giggled when he stared and smiled kindly at them. Aemond rolled his eye, once again, which Daera looked at amusedly.

-They are delightful-, Daeron nodded gently-. But my cousin here is jaw-dropping-. And again, he flirts with her.

-You jester-, Aemond sighed tiredly.

-Uhh...Daera?-. Rhaena called her with a confused tone.

She turns to them, and saw how her sisters were staring confused at Helaena, who literally fell asleep from a second to another and now was snoring lightly, having her mouth opened.

-Ah yes-, Daera sighs-. She tends to do that-, she narrowed her eyes with a soft smile.

-Oh gods-, Otto arrived within a second, seeing his sleepy granddaughter-. She can not sleep here-, he mumbles ashamed, looking around at all the people.

-Let's take my sister to her chambers!-. Daeron instantly proposed, walking towards the divan and grabbing her hands-. Helaena-, he calls softly.

She snores.

-Seven hells-, Daeron sighs.

-We can help-, Rhaena said with a pity smile, and Baela followed her. Otto sighed standing Helaena up from the seat with all the caution of the world.

-Careful there...-The Hand whispers while she groaned tiredly.

Daera and Aemond, staying on their places, looked at there quietly, seeing that they had the enough help to treat with Helaena.

-There is a grass between the...-the dearest mumbles in the middle of her sleep-...between the tides-, she warns.

-Don't force yourself, sister, shush-. Daeron kindly recommended, taking her wide hips carefully.

Daera furrowed her mouth and, slowly, walked closer to the fireplace, gaining sudden interest in it. False. She did it to stand on Aemond's side, and he inhaled through his nose, remaining with no emotion. Daera, on the other hand, had the freedom of show her desire and dispair, for she was facing only the fire. No one could see her face. They both know he is better at pretending in this sort of ocassions.

-...My goddess-, he greeted in a very low whisper, barely moving his thin lips.

-Greetings, my love-. She murmur under her breath, playing with her fingers. Aemond hummed, looking around delicately-. I hope you had a good flight on your way here-, she mumbles.

-I did, and I hope the same for you-. Aemond whispered, wanting to look at her, but not allowing himself to.

-Uhum-, the princess nodds, looking at the fire that lighted her face-. We have to be more careful with our dragons-, she mumbled.

-Indeed-. He agreed with a whisper, nodding. The prince bit his cheeks from inside, silent for a few seconds-...I bought you something-. He murmured.

Daera felt all of her body burn. She smiled happily towards the fire, biting her lips briefly.

-Um, that is curious, for I have something for you as well-. She muttered with a cocky smirk, looking him sideways. Aemond clenched his jaw, hiding a smile while seeing how they were taking Helaena away with softness.

-I want to finger you-, he whispered. Daera gulped harshly, placing a hand on the wall and blinking slowly-. I want to ride you, Daera, I cannot wait longer-. He nearly moaned, and she did too before his confession-...I want us to be alone-, he said.

-We crave for the same, lover-. The princess sighed stressed-. But we share chambers with our siblings, it can't be there, or now-, she denied. He hummed annoyed, letting his gaze to show a little despair.

-What is our move, then?-. Aemond asked with a murmur.

-Leave it to me-. She answered with simplicity-. Go with your siblings now, and I'll go with mine, for now. I'll make sure you soon are riding and fingering me, as well as I will be riding you, and tasting your cock-. Her whisper came out with a desire hotter than the fire in front of her. Aemond sucked his cheeks from inside, not blinking-...Go, before we can't hold longer-, she muttered.

Aemond furrowed his lips with annoyance, keeping appearances, and then he hummed growly, walking away with his firm steps and his long hair bouncing in his back.

Daera stayed staring at the fire, slowly forming a smile on her gorgeous lips, having a thousand thoughts on that pretty mind that drives Aemond insane.

■ ■ ■

The Targaryen sisters arrived to their shared chambers, with the older one closed the door behind them. They three sighed when seeing the room.

-It never changes-, whispered Daera, proudly.

The chamber is covered by a sweet warmth even though its fireplace was not lit. There were two beds, each of them with blue and grey sheegs, and three wooden budoirs. The balcony was huge, and it gave a full look towards the gret Narrow Sea. They could see their dragons flying from here. On top of the fireplace there was a shelf, full of Valyrian books, some jewerly, old toys, along ink an paper, which were also really old.

-Greetings, mom...-Baela whispered with a soft smile, looking around.

These used to be Laena's chambers when she still lived with her parents. Every time her daughters come to visit, it is here that they stay. Rhaenys and Corlys, long ago, made sure to bring an extra bed and two more budoirs for their granddaughters's comfort, but the aura of the room has never change. It is almost as if Laena could be...felt, in here.

Daera gulped harshly, playing with her fingers while walking around the room as well as her sisters, each of them feeling the same. Grief.

-It does not seem to matter how many times we come in here-, Rhaena talks with lowness, walking to one of the beds and caressing it-, is always hard, is it not?-. She asks softly.

-It is-, whispered Baela, passing her fingers through one of the walls, feeling them.

The sister of the middle sighed, taking seat in one of the beds, the very one that belonged to their mother. The younger girl flinches and instantly goes there too, feeling great significant when seating over the same mattress Laena used to.

-'Tis so soft-, she briefly giggles.

The older sister walked in front of the fireplace with slowness, looking with sad and interest to the things placed on the wooden shelf. She smiled when she saw "Laena y Laenor" written on the wood with some dagger, or a fork perhaps. Daera always expects to see that when she comes to Driftmark. It feels nice to remember that her mother actually lived a very good life, comfortable and loved.

With a tiny smile, Daera thought of telling Aemond of this signature of the Velaryon siblings when they were kids. He would love the story, she is sure. His name made echoe in her mind. Aemond. She suddenly imagined how it would be if they also left their name in some place of the castle. Daera y Aemond over some wood. He definetely would love that. They both would.

The princess sighed, and her eyes found a tiny box covered by blue leather, the very blue of the Velaryon sigil. She, curious, grabbed it. And when she opened it, inside she found a beautiful pair of earrings. They were blue as well, but this was deeper and shinier. Daera narrowed her eyes, thinking of how beautiful they must had seen on Laena. She smiled, sad, closing the small box and putting it in its place back again. She decided she would keep them.

-I miss her...-, a thin whisper was heard from behind her. It was Rhaena.

Daera got out of her thoughts, forgetting about herself and turning around. She just came to realize thag her sisters were on Laena's bed, slouched and looking at the floor with sad tears reaching their eyes. Daera flinched in that instant, forgetting about anything else.

-Ow, my girls-. She sighs and quickly walks to them.

-I miss her too-, Baela whispered heavily. They saw how Daera kneeled on the floor in front of them, having a soft gaze and her brows curved-. You do too-. She did not ask this, but affirmed it.

-Of course I do-, Daera answered with a tsk, sidening her head-. We all do...and we know its never easy to come here-. She whispered, glancing their surroundings.

Rhaena did the same, sniffing and blinking quickly.

-Imagine, if she still was with us-. The younger muttered, sorrowful, curving her frown. Baela sobbed, closing her eyes strongly. Daera gulps and whimpers briefly, looking at them both-. She would still sleep here, every time we came...-she murmured.

-This would be her room, indeed-. Baela agreed with a sad sobb, shaking her head-...Not ours-, she said heavy-hearted and shamed.

Daera gulps again, strongly, feeling the tears gathering on her eyes. She moves them from Baela to Rhaena, sensing their sadness and mournfulness. She begins to shake her head briefly, raising her hands and grabbing theirs with firmness, making them to look at her.

-We are sisters-, she said kind of shakily, raising her brows-. Her daughters. This is her room...and ours-. Daera pointed, speaking slowly. They sobb thinly, looking sad at her-. She would be so proud of us sleeping in here, I know she is, wherever she is now-. Their older sister promised, vividly, grasping their hands with love.

-I just miss her so much-. Rhaena shook her head, weakly, letting her tears to fall coldly on her face. Daera tsks and clean them with her thumb, caressing her cheek.

-Sometimes I even forget she is gone-, Baela laughs sourly, resting her head on her free hand-. Gone forever-, she said sharply, crying.

Daera's lips trembled, and she knew her tears would soon came down. So she sighed and dragged them both, nearing them to her and hugging them with an exhorbitant love. Baela and Rhaena ended up kneeled on the floor too, and they instantly hugged to the older with all of their strength, beginning to cry with no remorse.

-Shh, shh...-Daera caresses both their backs, closing her eyes while feeling them sobbing-. She is not gone forever-, she whispered tenderly, resting her head on Baela's shoulders-. We are her legacy, remember?-, she asks softly.

They responded with light nods, whimpering on her shoulders stoppless, knowing they were the safest place in the kingdoms to cry and let out all of their pains. Daera's shoulders and words have always been there for them since Laena's ones went away.

-We are Velaryons-, she whispered lovingly, caressing their manes while feeling how hers was being wet by their tears, which she did not mind-. With us three...our mother will always persist-. Daera promised, firm-. Will she not?-, she smiled, pulling jokely both of their hairs.

-Ow, yes, she will!-. Baela laughed and cried with surprise, backing up to see her face. Rhaena also giggled in the middle of her tears, facing her too.

-She will...-the younger agreed, softly.

Daera's mouth curved into a smile, warm and lovingly, caressing the girls's cheeks with dearness, staring at both pair of eyes.

-I am glad you know it-. She whispered, and they laughed softly, looking at her. Daera smiled-...Why don't we go and walk a while on the beach, as we used to with mom?-. She proposed tenderly.

-Yes, yes-. Baela instantly nodded, cleaning away some of her tears.

-That'd be great-, Rhaena whispered with a smile. Daera wrinkled her eyes and smiled to them, raising her brows-. But- but first I want to get ready for the ball, I don't care if is too early for it-, she sighed.

-Let's get you ready then-, Daera smiled-. Op, but we still have pending the beds situation...-she mumbles.

They three turned their heads, slowly, to glance at the beds. Every time is the same. They have to decide who will be the one enjoying a bed for herself, and which two will have to share the other one.

The sisters blinked.

-The losers say "what"-. Rhaena spoke so fastly she was not understandable.

-What?-, Baela and Daera asked, confused.

-The bed is mine!-, Rhaena laughs and claps victoriously.

Baela and Rhaena deflated dropping their jaws.

■ ■ ■

In other wing of High Tide and in a lower height, were the guests use to rest during their staying, there were the Targaryen brothers, Alicent's boys, also sharing a single chamber for them three.

Aegon was lying in one of the beds. His eyes were closed and his lips were opened, having a wooden cup between them, sipping wine from it endlessly. The jar at his side was almost empty, for he has been drinking from it since they arrived to the room.

-Oh, bloody gods...-he sighs with a silly smile, caressing his own chest with his free arm-. Sailor wine is different, they are a bless from The Seven-. He giggled proudly, sipping from it again.

Aemond was seated in the chambers's balcony. He had his legs crossed and his arms resting on the sides of the chair. Silently, he was mesmerized by the astonishing view he has of the beach. The room was not placed high in the castle at all, so he could stare problemless to the sand, the waves and the sea. Its blue reminded him of his sapphire, which made him humm lowly. The one-eyed prince was entertaining himself just by admiring the surroundings, finding some calm in it. Though he lives in the capital, he rarely sits on his chambers to stare at the ocean. Perhaps he should start doing it. It also reminded him of Daera's blue gowns.

The younger Targaryen was not as silent as the other two.

-Come on, brothers, let us go out and take fresh breeze!-. Daeron was begging walking around all the chambers-. 'Tis a beautiful day outside! I couldn't have been the only one who saw those precious seahorses-shaped fountains they have outside!-, he shouts with a shrill voice.

-Shut it!-, Aegon grunts, gone to drunkenness already.

-Ugh!-, Daeron tsks-. There are no beaches like this in Oldtown, I want to go out-. He sighs tiredly, staring at the ceiling.

-Then why don't you go out?-. Aemond asked, monotonus, looking outside with a calm expression.

-Because mother told me to not go out by my own in here-, he mumbles ashamed, crossing his arms.

-Wow, you've grown to be obedient...what a pity-, Aegon mumbled hoarsely, smiling burlesque.

-I would go out with Helaena, I know she would like to join me, instead of you-. Daeron grunts with annoyance-. But my dear sister seems to be minutes away of having her first child-, he sighs anxious.

-Ugh, let us pray it does not turns out that way-, Aegon tsked, indolent-. I do not want my child to be born in...in this tavern of castle-, his silly voice mumbles inside the cup.

Aemond clenched his jaw when he heard him talking like this. He surprised himself when he got offended, for he thought about how this is the land of Daera's mother, and she would definetely wouldn't want it to be talked about like that. The one-eyed growled, lowly, not being heard by his brothers.

-I also wish Helaena could join you, for I do not want to walk around here-. Aemond spoke with a flat tone. Daeron looks at his back, listening-. Do I ought to remember you this is no paradise...for us?-, he asks, blinkless.

His little brother sighs briefly, instantly remembering that the last time his family was here, him not involved, was when Aemond lost an eye and claimed Vhagar. Also the night were their mother cut ferouciously their half-sister's arm and wanted to also tear away one of her son's eye. People in Oldtown still speak about that night, even though is a long passed one.

-Well, I apologize, but I want to make my own memories in here-. Daeron said proudly. Aemond rolled his eye and hummed, not talking to him again-. Hmm...-he thinks in something, caressing his own shoulder.

Seconds after, he turned around to see Aegon, who was still drinking in the bed.

-Big brother, I estimate you will reconsider your answer after I tell you that...-Daeron approaches with relaxed steps. Aegon looks at him boredly-...I heard in the halls that some of the Lannister ladies are taking a dive in the sea-, he mumbles with desinterest, shrugging.

In that moment Aegon coughed loudly, beginning to nod vividly and standing up from the bed within a second.

-Well, let- let us go, little shit!-. Aegon coughs and points to the door desesperately, pouring in his cup the lasts drops of wine of the jar.

Daeron cheers and runs there, opening the entry quickly. All red because of his cough, Aegon sips the drink and outed the room along his little brother, who closed the door harshly before sprinting out running.

Aemond stayed by himself, which did not bothered him at all. At the contrary, he thanked his annoying brothers went out already.

He remained seated, looking at the lonely and beautiful sea, feeling the breeze and smelling the salt. Everything was silent, until he hears some femine voices suddenly coming from not to far.

Aemond furrows his brows, leaning front in the chair, and narrowing his eye towards the near beach.

And so, he finds the Targaryen sisters walking on the beach by themselves, talking happily, elbowed-helded between them. He smiles tinyly when he saw Daera. She shines more than the blue waters of the sea. The prince keeps silent and quiet, deciding to stare at her from his place without she noticing him.

He leans back in his chair again, calmed.

-And do you remember when grandsire taught us to swim in the ocean?-, Daera recalls with a grating tone, curving her brows.

-Gods, I was so scared!-. Rhaena sighs closing her eyes. She was already ready for the ball, dressed in a beautiful white gown of silk.

-We nearly drown almost four, five times?-. Baela asks scrunching her nose.

-Four, five? Please! I wished it had been four or five!-, Daera snorted, making them laugh funnily.

-Well, five or whatever number of times it was...we did learn-, Baela sighs proudly, staring at the ocean they were walking by. Her sisters smile, looking at there as well-. In this very shore, was it not?-. She tilts her head.

-This very one-, Rhaena answered with a sigh and a laugh, looking at it with a nostalgic feeling-. We have to swim here before be leave-, she said raising her brows.

-Hmm...-Daera narrowed her eyes, slowly separating her elbows from hers-. Why don't we do it now?-, she proposed with a taunt smile, walking backwards in the sand.

-Uhh-, Baela claps interested.

-What? No!-, Rhaena instantly denied-. I just readied myself, I will not change again!-, she shaked her head harshly.

-Then don't-. Daera shrugged, smirking, and jumping to fall right inside of the beach, weting her feet and the end of her skirt. Baela laughed excitedly, running there in an instant while Rhaena scoffed with disbelief-. Ohh, magic waters of Driftmark!-, she shouts to the skies.

Aemond's face dyes with warm when he sees this. He chuckled resting his jaw over his closed fist, admiring how Daera was jumping and screaming on the water along Baela, who did not care either about wetting her dress.

-You must be insane!-, Rhaena laughs bemused, standing in the sand.

-And you are too dry!-, Baela shouts lifting water into her hands and throwing it to her.

-Baela!-, Rhaena squeals walking backwards-. Stop, I already told you!-, she grunts madly.

Baela and Daera laughed funnily, starting to splash water between them, tasting the salt in it. The sisters traveled back in time, when used to be them and their mother. Laena would splash water to them endlessly, without harming or drown them, and they would be watched by Daemon from Caraxes's back or even from the very sand, lying in there while seeing them play in and with the water.

Laena's laugh and happy face appeared in front of the sisters's eyes, causing them to smile bigger and laugh louder, almost feeling her in there with them. After all, her spirit is resting among these very waters.

A light chuckle left Aemond's curved lips, staring at Daera with a deep love, enjoying so much to see her having fun.

-Rhaena, come on sister!!-, she grunts happily, splashing her hands in the sea.

-Tomorrow I will, but not now!-. Rhaena groaned with insistance, opening her eyes bigly-. The sea will not be gone!-, she points.

-But we will!-, snorted Baela-. Come here!-, she splashes tons of water towards her. Rhaena squealed when, this time, all those drops did reach her, and it got wet all the end of her silk skirt, drawing it grey.

Daera gasped covering her mouth and bursting out laughs, while Baela opened her eyes with a bemused smile.

-NO, BUT-! I cannot believe you right now!-. Rhaena shouted, madly, turning around and beginning to walk away.

-Ow, I am so sorry, do not go!-. Baela apologized walking out of the water.

-Do not follow me! You'll ruin the other dress too!-, the younger outraged walking with her little fists tightened.

-I am sorry!-, Baela insisted, following her with hurry.

-Rhaena!-, Daera called between her laughs, having her hands placed on her knees while she chuckled.

Laughing, she saw how her two sisters walked away hurrifull, soon heading to the castle again. Daera shook her head from side to side, passing her hands through her mane, and closing her lips with a funny and relaxed smile, sighing.

She heard the waves of her surroundings.

And then, she looked directly at Aemond.

The one-eyed prince raised his brows from his seat, inevitably surprised, a feeling she did not seem to share. He saw her smiling tauntly, caressing her mane. For how long has she known he was staring at her?

Aemond grined at her, lifting his cheeks charmingly. The short distance between the beach and his balcony allowed him to see, clearly, how she smiled back at him. At the same time, she placed her hands on her own thighs, gripping them lightly while looking at him. The prince furrows his brows a little, staring at her.

...What is she doing?, he thought.

Daera looked around, biting her lips with a cautious smile. And, at the same time, she placed one of her hands on her left breast, gripping it tightly between her fingers. She saw no one around, so she grasped it harder. Aemond flinched in his chair, going breathless when seeing how her dress and skin was being squeezed by herself. He almost could hear her moan.

-Daera-, he named, guttural, even though she could not hear him.

The princess directed her other hand to her skirt, gripping its fabric and pulling it away from the water. It dripped infinite drops, ones that ran down her legs, for they now were at sight. For him. She lifted her skirt to the height of her thighs, showing him how wet they all were. Showing him the belt of his that is always there. The prince, in that moment, felt his cock twitching in his pants, suddenly waking up when his eye started to capture such magnetic view.

Aemond breathed through his open lips, reading the desire on her eyes, the invitation for him to enjoy of this sight. She bit her lips, again, and pulled up softly the fabric over her womanhood, uncovering it lightly, but noticable. And, as usual, she was wearing no undergarment, and that allowed him to see her cunt, which she tighted when closing her thighs strongly, showing him.

He sighed breathless, turning his head around quickly to see the rooms. He was still alone, and the door still closed. He prayed deeply to The Seven for no one to come in, for no one to knock, and definetely for no one to interrupt his provoking moment with his goddess.

Aemond hummed smoky, landing his eye on her again. And entering his hands on his pants, directing them to his cock.

Daera looked around for the millionth time. But there was no truly need to. She knows Driftmark, she knows a very few people truly care about what it bas to offer. She know no one walks through this part of the beach. So, confident, she turned around, and showed him her bare ass, grabbing it with her hands and squeezing it, while the waves around were caressing it sweetly.

Her cousin groan with disbelief, having one of his hands surrounding his dick, and touching it back and forth, feeling how hard it already was, and seeing how the fucking goddess in the beach was fucking herself with the water, moving on it while looking back at him at every second. Aemond bit his lips and, with his free hand, he untighted the threads of his pants, wanting his hand on his manhood to move more freely. He growled, desirely, watching Daera's ass and her hands on it, digging her nails in it. Ow, how much he would like to be the one doing so.

She moaned, turning around again and now grabbing both of her breasts, pushing them up and marking them with her fingers's pressure. She saw how agitated Aemond was, nailed on his chair and moving lightly on it while looking at her. It was not hard at all, for her, to deduct that he was touching himself. That made her feel so proud. That made her moan, and to upper her skirt again and show him more of her cunt. Daera sinked it in the water, just for when it came out it was all wet and driping salty water, making it even more delicious.

Aemond moaned so hard at this. He had bring out his cock completely, and now was stroking it from up to down. It was leaking precum and it was red, hungry for more touch but finding enough in his hand. He sucked his cheeks and spread his long legs widely, resting all his shoulders on his chair while touching his dick endlessly. He was moaning and twitching under his own touch, but all the credit was hers. Daera was driving him insane from the distance, dancing erotically in the sea and flashing her seductive body to him and just to him, letting him enjoy it however he wanted too. He wanted more than his own touch, of course, but again, at least is enough.

-Daera, Daera-. He named shakily and desirely, trembling under his hands, trembling under her shiny gaze from the sea.

She humms, sucking her lips and caressing her wet cunt with slowness. She made her hips to dance like a snake almost, sending them to one side and then to the other, moving above of two fingers of her one placed in her clit, which she showed to him too. Daera smiled tauntly, narrowing his eyes towards him.

Her lover trembled on his chair, and he mumbled her name in the middle of fast moans. His hand began to go faster on him. Aemond grunted stamping his fist on the seat's arm and then digging his nails into it. He began to thrust his cock on his own hand, doing it like a desesperate beast, turning wild because of her, who smiled breathless while touching herself as well with the magic waters of the sea. Daera sang her groans and dance to them with her hips, grabbing her breasts strongly.

Aemond threw his head back, clenching his teeth. His mind reproached him, pleading to see her again. So he returned his head front and kept staring at Daera, whose divine eyes made him moan one more time. She whispered his name. He read it on her lips. And then she pinched her own clit, now groaning his name. Then she whimpered, and then she said it with a smile. Aemond, Aemond, Aemond, she conjured him.

The One-Eyed Prince couldn't bear the sight of her touching her clit and sighing his name lustfully. He cried and tighted his teeth, feeling how red all of his face and neck were, to not mention his dick. He felt how a fire was abruptly lited on his inside. Doubtessly, he accepted his fate.

Aemond cummed with a muted and strong growl, afflicting his throat and closing his eye while feeling how his cock was letting all of his cum finally come out. That allowed him to spread it all over the dick, lubricating it, feeling it pulsing and sort of relieved. He cried Daera's name, shaking on the chair and feeling how his cock shook too under his hand, dripping his cream as it had no end.

Daera breathed fastly, stopping her touch when seeing how he was coming. She couldn't see his cock, but his face was more than enought to know it. How his brows curves, how his jaw clenches more than usual. It is as clear as water when he cums, and he just did, in her name. The princess sighed proudly, letting her skirt fall again, floating above the water, all wet.

Aemond's chest comes up and down, breathing heavily. Slowly, he opened his eye, landing it on her again. He sees how Daera smiles, breathless too, looking directly at him. Aemond smirked, bemused, tired and proudly, naming in his mind all the things he wanted to do her right now. She grined tauntly, raising her brows.

-Daera!-, a reproachful voice suddenly is heard from the distance.

The princess flinches surprised, directing her gaze instantly to an extreme of the beach, where her grandmother was arriving with an irritated and bemused gaze, walking fastly to her.

-Are you insane, girl?!-. Rhaenys reproaches.

Aemond gasps and, without even thinking it, he jumps away from his chair and throws himself on the floor, hiding from Rhaenys's eyes, who did not even glance towards there.

-Grandma!-, Daera smiles, hiding all of his nervous. She knew she hadn't see anything, for she would be lit in fire right now and drowning her in the sea. Probably.

-This is not a day to be enjoying of the sea, child!-. Rhaenys enters the water, mindlessly, and walks to her with angriness, not caring about weting her clothes.

-But- but it was just a little dive, ma!-. She instantly excuses, and soon she is grabbed from an arm and is pulled away-. Ow!-, she complains-. I'm sorry!-

-Don't you know how many men are in the castle today?!-. Rhaenys grunts with annoyance, taking her out of the beach. Daera wrinkles her lips with amusedment and shame, tsking-. A single wet dress turns them into beasts!-, she discusses.

Aemond bit his lips while blushing, lying on the floor of his rooms, still hidden.

-...I agree...-he mumbles with a sigh, feeling his cheeks and forehead burning.

■ ■ ■

Daera sighed passing her fingers on her damp mane. Behind her, Rhaenys sighed closing the door behind them. Grandmother and graddaughter entered a warm chamber, the biggest of all High Tide.

Rhaenys's.

-Look at you, for the gods sake-. The older princess tsked pointing at her dripping dress and hair.

-I think you are overreacting-. Daera scoffed, and her grandma gave her a harsh look, having her arms crossed. She gulped-...I'm sorry-, she shrugged.

-Ah, it is done already, so-. Rhaenys scoffed and did a tired sign with her hands. Her granddaughter smiled, sucking her lips-. But don't keep looking at me! Take that thing off before you soak your grandsire's favourite carpet!-, she ordered pointing at the dress and then at the floor.

-Ah, fucks!-. Daera instantly step away from the carpet, and so she started to drip on the floor.

-Ay, that mouth your father allows you to have-, Rhaenys mumbled stressfully, scratching her forehead.

Daera chuckled lowly, grabbing the ends of her skirt and beginning to pulling them up. Rhaenys narrowed her eyes, tilting her head when seeing her naked womanhood.

-Where are your undergarments, Daera, I wonder?-. She asked with fake politeness, crossing her arms over her chest.

-Uhh...-Daera blinked-, I lost them?-. She whispers doubty.

-You lost them-. Rhaenys repeated, nodding, burlesque-. But you never lose that, do you?-. She now pointed at the leather belt on her left thigh.

Daera just blinked, and smiled innocently.

Her grandma just rolled her eyes, shaking her head, and walked to the washroom, grabbing a furr towel from there, and hanging it in one of her shoulders. When she came out of the washrooms again, she saw Daera kind of struggling with her dress on her head.

-Ow, careful there, child-. Rhaenys places the towel in the bed and walks to her, grabbing the gown with delicacy.

-Help-, Daera spoke from under the fabric, laughing.

-I am trying!-, Rhaenys could not hide a laugh, smiling and pulling the dress softly, finally getting it out of her. Both of them giggled lowly, amused.

The Lady of Driftmark let the dress above some of the budoirs of the chambers, not minding that it get wet. Daera sighed picking up her hair and combing it into a quick bun, letting some strands of her white hair to fall in the middle of her view. She sees how her grandma takes the towel again, and nears to her with calm steps.

-What I told you is serious-, Rhaenys mumbled, beginning to pass the towel on Daera's wet skin, softly-. All the houses are here right now, and I don't want any of them to find you like this-. She whispered strongly, raising her brows.

-How? Enjoying the sea?-, Daera asks tauntly, facing her with a funny smile.

-Alone-. Rhaenys answered breathy, looking at her eyes with a soft worriness. The young lady understood what she meant, and so she closed her lips and started to nod briefly-. Do you understand, flower?-. She sighs, drying the drops on her skin-. Too many drunk men...-she whispered.

-I would cut any of them in a half if they dared to touch me-, Daera whispered with confidence, moving her shlulders. Rhaenys glanced at her, serious-. Yes, yes, I understand, grandma-. She sighed, nodding-. I didn't plan to be alone, its just that Baela and Rhaena had a fight and they left, fighting-. She narrates, laughing funnily.

-Ah, yes, I treated with them too on their way to your chambers-. Rhaenys scoffed with a chuckle, rolling her eyes and making her laugh amusedly-. Baela never learns to not mess with Rhaena's gowns-, she sighed, tired and funny.

-No, she never does!-. Daera laughed vividly, remembering as well former times when their sisters have fighted because similar reasons-. Oh gods, those two-. She chuckles, shaking her head.

Rhaenys smiled silently, keeping on passing the towel now over her breasts, doing it so tenderly. Motherlike. Daera smirked tinyly, feeling like a child again for a short moment, recalling how her grandma used to be the one who took care of her after a dive on the beach when her parents were busy with something else.

The older lady was having memories as well, the dearests ones of her heart. In every of them were the same faces. Laena, Laenor, Daera, Baela, Rhaena and Corlys. The faces she loves the most in the world. Nowdays, she only has with her three of them, for all the others have been taken away by The Stranger and evil people both.

Rhaenys gulped, feeling a lump in her throat while lovingly taking care of her granddaughter, who soon became aware of her heavy and sorrowful gaze.

-Grandma...-Daera whispered, worried-. What is it?-, she asks.

-Ouh, just...just losing myself in my thoughts, darling-. Rhaenys muttered softly. The answer was not enough for Daera, who tilted her head with insistment, making her to sigh. Rhaenys lowered the towel, looking directly at her young eyes-. I wish so deep, Daera, to have you all you three here, with me, everyday-. She murmured with a brittle voice.

-But, but-. Her granddaughter laughs lightly, taking her hands on hers and grabbing them tenderly-. We always visit, grandma-. She remembered with a dear shine on her gaze.

Rhaenys shakes her head from side to side, softly, curving her lips into a tired smile.

-I want you three to live here with me-. She whispered thinly, with a deep yearning touchable in her voice. Daera's factions softened, sighing and looking down-. Driftmark is where you should be-, she speaks rapidly.

-It is not, grandma, and neither where we want to live-. Daera said as softly as she could, curving her brows-. We have talked about this...-she whispered.

-We have-, Rhaenys muttered with a low tone, closing her eyes. The young princess tsks with sadness, holding one of her cheeks and caressing it tenderly.

-Dragonstone is our home-, her voice whispers with softness. Rhaenys furrowed her brows, gulping-. Father knew it would be, and that's why he didn't want to left us as your wards-. She points raising her frown-...It was the best for us-, she confessed, thinking how she and her sisters can't enter their chambers without thinking of their dead mother. And Daemon knew that.

-Daemon did what it was best for Daemon-, Rhaenys tsked, opening her anguished eyes again, remembering the time she said those very same words to her husband-. He wanted to keep you away from me, he wanted to keep Laena away from me, far in Pentos-, she murmured fastly and hurted. Daera curved her brows, inhaling deeply-. He and Rhaenyra, Daera...all that they have done to our family-, she sighs tiredly.

-Grandma, no, no, I plead you-. Daera talks with denial, shaking her head from side to side-. My mother, and my uncle Laenor, what happened to them...-, she fights so her voice doesn't tremble. Rhaenys's lips did, looking sadly at her-...Rhaenyra and my father are not guilty of it, nor capable-. She denied, confident of her words.

Rhaenys breathed through her nose, staring at her with her brows curved. She felt the tender touch of her granddaughter on her cheek, so soft and loving. She lets air out, opening her thin white lips.

-You may be capable of cutting in a half any man who dares to touch you, but I fear your mistake will be to trust him in the first place, my sweet summer child-. Rhaenys whispered tenderly and worried, giving a soft caress on her hair.

Daera chewed on her bottom lip, smiling tinyly and shaking her head briefly. She did not believe her.

-I do not make mistakes-, she whispered confident, tilting her head.

-You trust too much-. Rhaenys grunted wobbly, smirking and caressing back her cheeks. Daera snorted with a laugh, denying-...You are your mother's daughter, after all-. She sighed, almost worrylike, curving her brows.

-I am-, Daera giggled sweetly and proudly, having loved that statement.

Rhaenys sighed softening her shoulders, deciding that she didn't want to continue with the subject, not on this especial day. So, she separated from her graddaughter's touch, walking somewhere else.

Curious, Daera followed with her gaze. Meanwhile, she took the towel again and dried the remaining drops on her body. She narrows her eyes briefly, seeing how her grandma heads to the big wardrobe of the room.

-This...-Rhaenys sighed, opening its doors-...is the dress your mother wore to Laenor's wedding-, she smiled sideways, taking out a precious gown.

Daera turned speechless, frozing in her place when seeing such an alluring dress. It is golden, as her dragon. It also has black details, as House Targaryen's sigil. But what warmed her heart the most was the fact that it was her mother's. A gown of her mother. What else could she wish for?

-You desesperately need a gown, as I can see-. Rhaenys joked funnily, taking the dress out of the wardrobe and glancing at the wet one-. You will look just like her when you put it on-, she promised with softness, walking to her-. 'Tis yours-, she nodded.

-Grand-grandma...-. Rare of her, Daera stuttered, shocked by the significance of her wearing this dress. Rhaenys smiled softly at her, tilting her head to a side.

-Is Corlys's nameday, Daera-. Rhaenys recalled with a tender tone. The young princess curved her brows whith sweetness when hearing her dear grandsire being named-...He would also would want you to wear it, you know it-, she whispered with a smirk.

Daera lifted her lips with one of the dearests smiles of her life. She sighed, moved, taking the dress. She shivered when she touched it, and laughed excitedly. Daera chuckled loudly, seeing it from up to down a thousand times. Rhaenys couldn't be smiling prouder at her. And Laena would be too.

-Thank you, grandma-. She nearly sobbed, hugging the dress to herself. Rhaenys smirked, placing a tender kiss on her forehead. Daera smirked purely-. Ugh, Baela and Rhaena are going to be so jelaous, I love it-. She joked with a sigh.

-Oh!-, Rhaenys snorted funnily, looking away-. They also have their gifts, so shush!-, her grandmother said, making her to giggle-. To the washroom you go now, to take a bath!-. She clapped, pointing to the named room.

-Yes, miss!-, Daera laughed mischievous, walking towards there after placing the dress on the bed, delicately.

-I must fetch you some undergarments now-, Rhaenys mumbled-. And, Daera!-. She called.

Daera turned around instantly, raising her brows.

-Do not lose them this time-, the Lady of Driftmark pleaded, tired. Her granddaughter smiled tauntly, licking her teeth.

-I'll try!-, her voice made echoe in the washroom.

■ ■ ■

As princess Rhaenys promised, as soon as the sun went down to sleep, Corlys Velaryon's name day officially begun to be celebrated.

When the night fell, all the lords and ladies in High Tide directed to the biggest hall of the castle, which was fulled of tables, chairs, candle-filled chandeliers, food, drink, and now of people too. Full of people. The only ones still to arrive were the Lady of Driftmark herself and her six grandchildren, namely Laena's three daughters and Laenor's three sons.

During the wait, the guests are entertaining themselves with talks, and some were even eatinv already, being attended by the servants of the castle. The musicians were on their cue, but were not playing anything yet, for they were waiting for their lady to arrive so they can do so.

Rhaenyra and Daemon were seated in one of the tables, with no one else accompanying them. The Heir to the Iron Throne and her Royal Consort were silent, with their faces showing no true emotion but bitterness, staring across the room. Their eyes were placed above The Queen of the Seven Kingdoms, who pretended to not notice their intense gaze. She knows they entirely blame her for Viserys's absence. Words were not needed to became aware of such accusation.

-They are burying their eyes in you, my queen-. Ser Criston spoke sourly, staring back at Daemon and Rhaenyra.

They raised their chins lightly, not blinking, and neither intimidated by his look.

-Let them stare, Ser Criston-. Alicent said with a soft and firm voice, looking at her cup of red wine-. Assumptions are always made when a wife does the best for her husband-, she pointed, superior.

The knight clenched his jaw, nodding briefly, but still looking back at the Targaryen couple. Alicent, on the contrary, turned around and walked a few steps, giving a glance to her children, who were gathered near her, by her own orders.

Helaena was acommodated in a divan, once again. She was uncomfortable, it was obvious, for Aegon was seated in her very side by their mother's orders as well. Daeron was seated on a chair aside the divan, looking around with an interested smile, seeing all the different people in the hall. And Aemond was firmly standing behind the divan, with his arms crossed behind his back and his face not showing a single emotion but a light caution, as always.

Looking at them, Alicent sighed and sipped her wine longly.

-Princess Rhaenys Targaryen, The Lady of Driftmark!-. A strong and firm voiced raised all across the hall, turning every face of it. The Queen turns around, and The Heir did too, raising her brows. Drums started to beat softly while the guard spoke, at the same time the big gates started to be opened-. And her grandchildren, princes Jacaerys, Lucerys and Joffrey Velaryon, along princesses Daera, Baela and Rhaena Targaryen!-, the knight names with proud, and honor.

And the drums's sound raised powerfully when the named ones crossed the tall gates, entering the hall prideful. All the room filled with excited claps and loud cheers coming from every place and every person when they saw Princess Rhaenys walking firmly and smiley, being loftyly followed by all her grandchildren. At her left, Laenor's boys, and at her right, Laena's girls. Each of them were smiling, walking towards without stopping for a second, being cheered and celebrated by everybody in the hall.

Daemon's brows went up when he noticed the dress his older daughter was wearing. He knew he had seen it somewhere else, and he instantly placed. 'Twas the very same dress his first wife wore the night she coquered his heart. The Rogue Prince laughed, muted, honestly surprised. Rhaenyra lifts her head to look at him with a bright smirk, also remembering it. The princess chuckle, heartwarmed, staring at their children again.

Holding a hand of Joffrey in one of hers, Daera walked with a closed proud grin on her face, looking around with joy in her eyes, staring at every happy face of the hall, including her siblings's, which were more than brightful, excited for the cheerings and the loud music being played because of their arrival. Daera laughed with her mouth open, jumping a little and making Joffrey to do so too, smiling happily at her.

From his place, Aemond stared at her from head to toe, nearly mouth-opened. Enchanting, magnetic, luring. Those and more words came to his mind while looking at his lover endlessly, admiring her beauty, her figure, her smile, her eyes. Admiring her, for fuck's sake.

With a hidden smile, Aemond looks sideways towards Helaena, and she looks at him too, smiling hugely and raising her brows, nodding in his direction. She is proud of him for the woman he is in love with. Aemond suck his cheeks, almost smirking.

-Ouh...-Aegon sighs, bored, staring at the newcomers-...Our cousins are exquisite-, he mumbled, raising his brows.

Aemond and Helaena erased their smiles, looking sideways at him with annoyance and disgust.

-Rhaena is still a child-, the one-eyed reminded with a flat tone.

Aegon shrugged.

-Daera is enthralling-, Daeron sighed with a silly smile-. Daera and Daeron...does it not rings?-, he asked hopefull.

Aemond rolled his eye blank.

The Lady of Driftmark, along the princes and princesses, arrived to the end of the hall, turning around and facing all the people in it. They smiled looking around. And, with a giggle, Rhaenys lifted a hand. Withing five seconds, the cheerings were silenced as well as the drums and the other instruments. She sighs with her throat afflicted, crossing her hands over her blue dress's belly.

-My ladies, and my lords!-. Rhaenys speaks with joy and firmness, having every ear of the room listening at her-. Here we are, at last-. She lets air out-. Years ago, on this very day, Corlys Velaryon was born, and with him, the persuading of legady and honor-. Rhaenys says, proudly-. Many, many years ago!-, she jokes, raising laughs and giggles across the room. She laughs too, nodding.

Daera smiled funnily, blinking and directing her eyes to one certain place of the room. She looked at Aemond, whose tall and all-in-black dressed body made him to stand out. He, already with his eye on her, nodded briefly, talking with his gaze. You look beautiful. She pressed a smile, licking her lips, and looks at her grandma again.

-And, since five years ago, my dear husband has been fighting day and night in The Stepstones, deffending his...our realm-. Rhaenys spoke softly, forcing a smile, trying to not show the resentment on her heart towards her husband, who abandoned her five years ago. Jace keeps a relaxed face, though his brows curved a little, while Luke and the girls looks sadly at their grandma. The hall lamented the fact too, keeping silent-. But I am more than sure that he...-she gulps, not ending her sentence. The lords and ladies expect her words silently.

-That he will come back to us soon-. Daera finished for her, grabbing her hand and smiling towards the attendances.

-We all are sure of it!-, Luke did the same, speaking shyly, but smiling and nodding.

Daemon blinked with a soft smirk, while Rhaenyra licked her lips with a proud smile, placing a hand of hers over her chest, heart-eyeing the children.

-Yes, yes, we all are-. Rhaenys nodded with a smile, looking at both of them with love. They smiled back at her. Luke felt his chest so warm, and he giggled staring at Daera, who nodded proudly at him-. And we all thank you for each of your presence and attendance, which shall never be forgotten!-, she speaks loudly again, smirking-. Now, you shall all enjoy the food, the drinks, the music and the dances!-, she shouts raising her hands, which still helded Daera's and Luke's-. Lord Corlys would ask the same from you-, Rhaenys smiled funnily.

And again, cheering louds and screams raised in the hall and the music instantly began to be played again, now with a more danceable melody.

Helaena falls asleep again in a snap, and Aegon jumps confused. Otto sighed.

Within a second, people shouted started to dance vividly with their partners. Aemond inhales through his nose and looks around, growing bored.

-Uh, Daeron!-. Alicent gasps surprised, trying to stop her littlest child, but the young boy flees away from his family and runs excitedly to the dance floor, losing himself into all the people. His mother sighs tiredly-. Well, there he goes...-she whispers raising her cup. Criston laughs softly at her side. She rolls her eyes with a smile, sipping the wine.

Baela grabbed both hands of Rhaenys and dragged her to the dance floor. Her granddmother did not refuse, smiling widely and beginning to dance with her. They both laugh along the music, thrilled.

As Rhaena and Luke took Joffrey to fetch him some supper, Jace and Baela walked happily towards the table where their parents were seated. They smiled when seeing them approaching.

-Come here you two!-, Nyra smiled brightly, caressing her belly.

Jace giggles going to his mother. Daera, instead, walked towards Daemon with cocky steps. He laughed under his breath, raising a hand and placing it in her mane, caressing it with softness.

-You look just like your mother...-, he muttered, proudly. His eyes had a shine that only comes out when talking to his girls, Rhaenyra included. A loving shine.

-So I am told-, Daera mumbled in the middle of giggles. He chuckled as well, shaking his head briefly-. Grandma gifted to me...it's beautiful, isn't it?-. She sighed, truly heart-warmed.

-It is-, and with Daemon's voice, also spoke Rhaenyra's.

Daera smiles looking down at her, finding the soft gaze of the boys's mother. The young princess laughs funnily, kneeling on the floor and facing her big round belly.

-She always do this!-, Rhaenyra laughed and looked at Daemon, who chuckled amusedly, taking a seat too.

-Ohh, what do we see here?-. Funnily, Jace kneels too on Daera's side, and they both laughed looking at each other and then to the woman's bulged abdomen.

Rhaenyra's cheeks were lifted up entirely, laughing endlessly while she looked down at them. Daemon was chortling too, having his factions relaxed and his arms resting on the table.

-Ahh, this one is a kicker-, Daera narrows her eyes-. A wild dragon he'll be-, she assures to the mother and father.

-Aha?-, Daemon raises his brows.

-I may be hearing him-, Jace mumbles nearing his ear to the belly-. He said my name!-, he jokes.

-Fucker!-, Daera bursted out laughing for his joke, punching his shoulders. Jace didn't hold himself and laughed loudly too, resting his head on Nyra's legs.

Aemond stared silently towards there, as well as many others of the hall, seeing how the happy princes were caressing and talking to the royal belly, joking around. He hummed lowly, thinking for a second how easy her family seems to be. Lucky her, he thought.

Rhaenys and Baela were going around all the hall, dancing vividly under a ton of gazes they didn't mind. Rhaena, soon, dragged Luke to the dance floor too, and now they were dancing overjoyed, with the boy having his cheeks more red than fire.

They were all just as their grandsire, Lord Corlys, would love to see them.

Daera approached to the table of food with a curious expression, wanting to fetch herself some dinner. Interested, she grabbed a banana from the fruits section. Finding it really attractive, she peeled it while nodding. And, meanwhile, she laughed, knowing that someone was looking at her.

She catched Aemond's gaze on her, and he bumped a little on his place when she discovered him. He was near the dancing Daeron, guarding him from a corner. The one-eyed prince sucked his cheeks from inside with a low giggle, watching her from across the room. He felt his face burning lightly.

Daera licked her lips and, innocently, she placed the half of the banana in her mouth, surrounding it with her lips and sucking in it 'distractedly', looking around. Aemond bit his lips and laughed from deep his throat, drawing his gaze down and feeling how his cheeks burned even hotter, provoked by the sensual sight of her.

Alicent narrowed her brows, looking from the distance how he was laughing like a teenager a blushing like one too. That confused her highly. Mumbling a confused sound, she looked around, trying to find what made him laugh like that.

She saw Daeron dancing with a Baratheon girl. Helaena snoring, Otto fanning her. Aegon drinking from two cups of wine. Daera eating a banana in a very vulgar way. Rhaenyra laughing with Daemon. Baela dancing with an Arryn boy. Rhaenys talking with Vaemond. Luke dancing with Joffrey.

Nothing out of normal.

Alicent sighed, shaking her head confusedly.

■ ■ ■

Taglist: @loxido @jamie-in-flannel @grungegrrrl @aemondswifey @poppyflower-22 @melaneigh2 @stargaryenx

[aebi12]

"Sinful Desires" - Chapter 19

“A visit would be more convincing than a letter”

Aemond frowns, "Your mother would think she is being attacked if Vhagar and I were sighted on Dragonstone, chances are she wouldn't even let my dragon land anywhere on the island."

Alyssa nods, agreeing, "But I didn't mean that you were the one to go talk to Jace”

"No," he immediately replies, "No, Alyssa, no."

"Why not?" she sighs in exasperation, “I know the island, I can get into the castle avoiding the guards and sneak into Jace's room. My mother wouldn't find out…”

“It's too risky,” he interrupts her, “I couldn't go with you because we would be attacked and going by boat is not an option. The Velaryons control the Blackwater and if they notice an unknown boat they won't wait to find out who it's carrying."

"I thought Lord Corlys no longer supported my mother’s cause," confusion paints the princess's green eyes.

"Yes, they were in bad terms after Rhaenys's death," Aemond nods, "but your brother managed to convince him to join their cause once more."

Alyssa suppresses a proud smile. Of course, her diplomatic brother had been able to get his grandfather's resolve to change, "Still, a small boat manned by a smuggler might be the ideal solution."

“And entrust your life to a criminal? Don’t even thinking about it,” snorts the prince.

"I can't just send the letter using a crow, Aemond," Alyssa restrains herself from rolling her eyes, "Maester Gerardys reads all the correspondence and would deliver it directly to my mother."

"I know," he nods, and a few seconds pass before he speaks again, "Let us send Ser Arryk."

"Why ser Arryk?"

"He is loyal to us and, most importantly, he looks exactly like one of your mother's trusted guards," a mischievous glint spreads over the prince's face, "Ser Arryk is a trained guard, he will have no problem impersonating his twin and infiltrate the castle so he can find your brother."

"I guess so," she admits, considering the idea, "and he could bring us Jace's answer with him."

"I think he is our best option"

Alyssa bites down hard on her lip. The plan is risky and it could cost Ser Arryk his life, but if it works…if it works she could contact her brother without interference from their mother and thus her stepfather.

“You'll end up hurting yourself,” Aemond warns, releasing Alyssa's lower lip with his thumb and letting out a small sigh, “You don't like the idea?”

"It's not that," she replies after a minute's hesitation, "I just wish there was a way to do this without putting anyone's life at risk."

"I do not think that's possible"

Alyssa nods against his chest and closes her eyes, filling her lungs with his so familiar scent, "Let's try this idea."

 “I will speak to Ser Arryk tonight,” he places a kiss on the top of her head and pulls away from Alyssa, “Ask your brother to meet somewhere neutral, just the three of us, in a few days. Let him decide the meeting point if he prefers so."

"Thank you," she whispers before joining their lips in a chaste kiss, "I know none of this is easy for you."

He offers her a half smile, "I'm doing this for you Alyssa, you know that right?" she nods and he continues, “If I had nowhere to return to, I would rather die fighting alongside Vhagar.” She shudders at his comment, “I am willing to surrender the control of the kingdom to your brother, but I will not give up on avenging my nephew.”

"I wouldn't ask you to do it either"

"And your brother? Will he protect Daemon's life?"

There is a moment of hesitation that is reflected on her face, "Daemon will get what he deserves"

“That wasn't what I asked,” Aemond insists.

"There's no chance that Jace would let our stepfather's crime go unnoticed, he cared about Helaena and I'm sure he would have never participated in Daemon’s the plan," she says, "But my mother…" she stops when she sees the hard look of his prince, "Maybe we could send him to the Wall"

“The Wall is too honorable an option for him,” Aemond spits, “and we both know my uncle would rather die than be sent North.”

"And you would die fighting him?" she asks, starting to feel the lump build in her throat.

"Have a little more faith in me, Alyssa."

“This is not about faith. Daemon is an experienced rider and has ridden Caraxes much longer than you have ridden Vhagar, not to mention that they have fought a war together and…” Aemond snarls, clearly offended by her comments and the comparison to his uncle, “I'm afraid, that is all,” she admits

"A few days ago, you told me that you would not oppose to my revenge"

A few days ago, Alyssa thinks, he hadn't agreed to seek peace. And peace probably wouldn't come if he bent on killing her mother's husband. Rhaenyra loved Daemon too much to simply accept his death.

“You yourself accepted that he was the real threat,” the prince continues, “or were those just empty words?”

"No, of course not," she is quick to reply, "You know I hate the influence he has on my mother."

"So, what happens now?"

There was no correct answer, she realizes. She couldn't – nor did she want – to protect Daemon from Aemond's rage, but she also didn't want to lose her lover in the quest for revenge he so longed for.

There will never be a middle ground, she thinks, we will never really agree on these matters.

Aemond seems to sense her pessimism and, pushing his anger and pride aside, takes her back into his arms.

“You said you didn't want any more lies and I'm doing my part,” he says as one of his hands tangles in her hair and the other calmly caresses her back in circular movements, “I'll leave it to you to convince Jacaerys to come to a peace agreement, but while you're at it I'll go to Harrenhall and find my uncle."

"Is this your way of comforting me?" she asks sarcastically and feels him smile against her hair, "Oh, Aemond."

A baby's cry reaches her ears and Alyssa pulls away from him, suddenly remembering that they are still in the nursery and that Maelor seems to have woken from his afternoon nap.

Alyssa pulls Maelor out of the crib and holds him against her body, humming to him the song that always manages to calms him down. After a few minutes her efforts pay off and the baby closes his eyes, going back to sleep peacefully. The princess cradles him for another minute and closes her eyes as she feels Aemond's arms encircle her waist, his chin resting on her shoulder. She kisses the baby's silver hair before placing him back in the cradle.

Aemond parts Alyssa's hair to gain access to her neck and nuzzles her nose into it, causing a shiver to run through the girl's body as his lips gently suck on her skin.

“Aemond, no, stop,” she says softly, pulling away from him and taking a few steps back, “We're in the nursery.”

“Then let's go to our chambers,” he replies as he moves closer to her and joins their lips in a kiss.

She tenses up and is unable to respond to the contact. He notices her reluctance and looks at her with surprise and fear in the intense blue of his eye, "Did I do something wrong or…?"

Alyssa shakes her head immediately, but is unable to bear his gaze, "It's not that, it's just…"

The words don't seem to want to come out of her mouth. She hadn't wanted to tell him about the loss of the baby because, honestly, she didn't know how he would react. And also, partly because she felt so guilty about what had happened that she preferred to keep the pain to herself. So, Alyssa has been avoiding getting close to him and Jaehaera still sleeping with them every night provides her with the perfect excuse. And it's not that she doesn't want to be with Aemond, it's just that, although her body has already healed, she still doesn't feel ready to be physical again.

"Okay, I have to go back to the council anyway," he says clearing his throat and breaking the hug, "Write the letter to your brother, I wish I could read it before you seal it."

Without giving her a chance to add anything else, Aemond leaves the room.

***

Alyssa insists that the children spend a few minutes every day with Helaena.

The queen continues to be in a state of grief that prevents her from performing any basic activities. Alicent takes care of her with dedication and the princess also allows the queen mother to see her grandchildren, although neither of them has referred to the last conversation they shared and in which Aemond took sides with Alyssa.

“Do you want to kiss your mother goodnight?” she asks to little Jaehaera, who silently watches the figure of Helaena leaning against the window.

The girl nods, and Alyssa guides her to her mother, who ignores her even as the little princess places both hands on the sides of her face trying to get her attention. Jaehaera's blue eyes glisten with unshed tears, but Alyssa thinks the girl is aware that her crying upsets her mother, so she just watches Helaena before lovingly kissing her.

Alicent brings Maelor closer to her daughter, but the effect is the same. Nothing seems to disturb the shell that has been created around the queen.

"Do not bring them here, they shouldn't see her in this state," Alicent replies in a shaky voice.

Internally, the princess thinks that the woman is right. Jaehaera, even though seems happy during the day, playing and enjoying her walks in the garden, is still tormented by nightmares and there is a sadness installed in her childish eyes that Alyssa would do anything to eradicate. Anything to being able to erase her memories.

Alyssa takes the children to their nursery and hands Maelor off with one of the maids. Jaehaera soon falls asleep after curling up in Aemond's bed and Alyssa stays with her for a few minutes, making sure that she is fast asleep before changing into her night clothes and going to the living room.

She needs to talk to Aemond, clear up the situation, and be honest with him. The princess sits on one of the sofas, and waits until her betrothed enters the room, which is quite some time later.

“I thought you'd be asleep by now,” he tells her as he takes off his leather jacket.

A pang of discomfort fills her chest as she realizes that he had wanted to avoid her tonight, "Can we talk?"

Aemond seems to hesitate and looks back and forth between her and the bed. In the end he sighs and sits on the same sofa as Alyssa, although at a safe distance.

"I hurt you with my words this afternoon, I'm sorry" she stretches out her hand and tentatively takes the prince's in hers.

“I'm sorry too,” he replies, “I made you feel uncomfortable, I didn't mean to pressure you. It's okay if you don't want us to be together in that way. Or if you don't want to share my bed, if you prefer I can go to another room tonight"

“Don't be ridiculous,” she replies harshly.

He raises his eyebrows in her direction, "Am I ridiculous now?"

"Yes, you are" Alyssa sighs and moves closer to him, "Of course I want us to be together again, Aemond, I just need some time."

"Time?" he looks at her strangely

Alyssa digs her fingernails into her palms and takes a deep breath at the relief it brings her, encouraging herself to speak, "I was with child."

Her words have an immediate effect on Aemond, who looks at her in surprise and a smile begins to form on his lips, "Are we going to have a child?"

She shakes her head, "No, Aemond, I lost the baby a few days ago."

Realization washes over his face, and he pales and his good eye goes to Alyssa's belly. Aemond frowns, and the princess looks away from him as she takes in his sad expression.

"Why didn't you tell me?" he wants to know after a few seconds of silence

She shrugs, "It's not something we women usually share."

“Nonsense,” he tuts, “you thought I wouldn't want to know, was that it? Alyssa you didn't even tell me we were going to…”

"Lower your voice, please" she asks, looking towards the bed before facing him, "It wasn't the right time, Aemond." He seems to want to interrupt her, she shakes her head, "There was so much going on here, you came back with your terribly injured brother and then the whole incident."

“It would have made me happy to know,” he gasps, “I would have liked to share with you the knowledge that our baby was growing inside you.”

Alyssa holds back a sob and covers her face with her hands. A couple of tears roll down her eyes, but she is quick to wipe them away. Aemond makes a little noise that betrays his frustration and pulls her into his arms, calming her as he strokes her hand down Alyssa's arm, "I'm an imbecile, I'm sorry."

"Why?" she asks in a choked voice

“Because I'm making foolish claims to you when I should just be here for you,” he whispers and gently cups Alyssa's chin, forcing her to look at him, “I'm sorry, my love, it must have been a painful experience for you.” She closes her eyes and nods, he tenderly kisses her forehead and caresses her cheeks with his thumbs, “Are you alright? Did Maester Runciter examine you?”

"No, I preferred to call one of the midwives, I have more confidence in a woman in this matters" he nods, "I know that... I know that it is quite common for this to happen, but knowing it did nothing to alleviate my suffering," she confesses

Alyssa opens her eyes and meets the prince's, who looks at her with sadness and compassion. He seems to notice that there is something else bothering her, "Did something else happen?" She hesitates before continuing, she doubts whether she should verbalize what she feels, "Talk to me, please."

“It's my fault,” she confesses almost in a whisper, “I was selfish and that is why I lost our baby”

"How could it be your fault?" he sighs against her lips

"I wasn't careful enough, I should have drunk the moon tea, but I wanted to… I let negative thoughts win me over and I wanted to think that maybe a part of you was with me while you went into battle," the words tumble out, “I knew it was not a good time to have a baby, I was selfish,” she repeats, “And when I was starting to be happy for us, it happened. It was as if... it felt as a divine punishment," her voice cracks and her mind recall her visit to the sept, perhaps she had done something that upset the gods that day, perhaps she had not taken her prayers seriously because only terrible things had happened since that visit.

Aemond frowns and looks at her with concern, “Did my mother put those ideas into your head?”

“Your mother doesn't know anything about this,” she replies, shaking her head.

“Alyssa, you're not being punished,” he assures, causing her to stare at him, “Don't blame yourself for something that escapes you, didn't you say that many women go through this?”

"Yes, but..."

“No buts,” he says in a firm voice, “It's not your fault.”

Alyssa hides her face in his chest and closes her eyes as she breathes a sigh of relief. Aemond's words echoing in her mind, gradually erasing the ideas that tormented her for days.

Aemond waits for her to calm down before going to the small table and pouring some water for her and wine for himself. Alyssa receives the glass and smiles at him, "Thank you," she whispers, "I hope now you understand why I need a little more time."

“Of course,” he holds her hand and sets the glass aside, “I have no problem waiting, all I care about is that you're okay,” she smiles at him again and he caresses her face with his long fingers.

“I miss you so much,” Alyssa says, intertwining the fingers of his free hand, “And I desire you, don't ever question that.”

Her words send a wave of warmth and longing through Aemond, “When it happens, next time we will be together…we'll have to be more careful.”

"In what sense?" Alyssa asks.

“That I wouldn't want you to be in a compromising position if something happens to me,” Aemond replies.

“Elaborate please,” she asks, feeling suddenly anxious.

Aemond avoids her gaze as he speaks, "It's better if nothing really ties you to me for now, it's partly better that we're not married yet."

His words cause her stomach to turn inside her, a pang of worry crossing her forehead, "Are you backing off of our engagement?"

“I'm protecting you,” he points out and sighs, “I received information from our spies on Dragonstone. Your brother set a plan in motion to find riders for the dragons that live on the island. He has already found two men who claimed Vermithor and Silverwing, it is a matter of time until he finds other men or women who can do the same. Their number superiority in dragons is going to be overwhelming now that I don't have Aegon or Helaena to help me," Alyssa hears the exhaustion and desperation in his voice, "The North has allied with your mother, Stark's men are already marching through the Neck, most of the houses of the riverlands also recognize her claim”

"What about Daeron?" she asks in a small voice

“My brother fights in the Reach with the armies of my mother's house,” Aemond rubs his forehead, the scar throbbing, “The Tyrells remain neutral and that has contributed to other important houses to go against my brother. I can't just summon Daeron and lose that part of the kingdom."

"You're basically saying that…"

“That your mother has everything in her favor to win this war,” Aemond finally looks at her, “If your brother decides he doesn't want to seek a peaceful solution, I will continue to fight for the rights of Aegon and Maelor, though I trust Vhagar and her superiority, she is one against all the dragons your mother controls.” She swallows and looks at him with concern, "If something happens to me, you can always say that you were a hostage here."

"No, no, no," she flatly refuses, "The entire court would confirm that I share your bed every night."

“You blame me then,” he shrugs, “You do whatever it takes to protect yourself. If your mother is queen, any noble lord would want to marry the princess royal."

“And do you think I would so easily accept one of those opportunists?” she asks him in disbelief, “Never. If it's not you, it won't be anyone else. I escaped from that fate and I don't want to go through it again."

"Alyssa..."

"No." She takes her face, “Put away the pessimistic talk. We survived this war together, there is no other choice. I refuse to live in a world where we can't be together."

If Aemond understands the meaning of her words, he prefers to remain silent, but she is very clear that her life will not be tied to that of any other man but him. Alyssa joins their lips and kisses him fervently, trying to soothe him and reassure herself at the same time, "You and me, just us," she whispers against his lips.

“Just us,” he finally repeats.

***

The situation in King's Landing is worrisome, so Aemond informs her the next day while they have breakfast.

"Is there no food here that we can distribute?" Alyssa asks, looking at the variety on her plate.

“Probably,” the prince nods, “but ideally we should cut the blockade on the Blackwater and the kingsroad.”

“And winter is coming. Every night is colder than the last, maybe we can help with that,” she proposes, “It's something… Helaena would take care of that if she could”

A sad smile crosses Aemond's face, "I'll ask the royal steward to help you"

Alyssa nods, “Did you speak to Ser Arryk?”

"Yes, he will leave tomorrow, have you written the letter?"

Her heart starts pounding, "I'll have it ready tonight."

Aemond falls silent after that and they continue eating breakfast in silence.

Alyssa plays with the children for a while and leaves them with the nannies when the royal steward informs her that he has prepared the provisions that Aemond requested.

The atmosphere in the city seems bleaker than ever, the princess realizes. Several of the shops are closed and there are more beggars than the previous times she was there. Many of them hit the carriage Alyssa is traveling on, and the guards rush to clear the way.

"Everything is set, princess," reports Ser Arryk

The maidens help her distribute grains, blankets, and gold to the long line of residents who congregate next to the little square. Many of them let Alyssa know that they are sorry for what happened to Jaehaerys and Queen Helaena. The princess wonders how they know the state the queen is in, but she accepts their words and sentiments.

Ser Arryk walks protectively by her side as they move towards the carriage. Alyssa stops as she sees another crowd gathered in front of the one-armed old man from last time. The guard follows her as she approaches to hear what the man preaches.

“Abominations,” the man is saying, “To lie next to a brother or uncle is an abomination. And the beasts they ride are demons, unnatural creatures that destroy everything in their path,” the crowd murmurs their agreement, “They start their war and it is the people who suffer, the Faith should never have accepted such abominations. The gods punish us for turning a blind eye to the unnatural acts they commit, and punish them by sending half-dragon children."

Alyssa winces at his words. The crowd applauds the man words and the princess prefers to step back, next to her, ser Arryk touches the hilt of his sword, ready to use it at any moment, "We better go, ser"

"What that man says is treason" says the knight

“Let him talk,” Alyssa shakes her head, “It's not wise to cause a fight now. The people are hungry, cold and of course they are scared. Let him speak, it's just words"

Ser Arryk doesn't seem convinced, but in the end, he guides Alyssa back to the palace. When they arrive before the entrance of the Fortress, the princess goes towards him, "I am aware of the mission that you will undertake tomorrow, Ser Arryk", she tells him, "I thank you for the service you are going to provide to this family"

“Thank you, princess,” the knight replies with a nod, “I will not disappoint you or Prince Aemond.”

“I know,” she smiles at him.

“Besides…” the knight seems to hesitate, but he finally speaks, “I hope I can use the opportunity to make sure my brother is okay.”

Alyssa nods, “Maybe soon you'll both be on the same side again. Good luck, Ser Arryk, may the gods be with you."

***

Alyssa watches the Blackwater from the garden, waiting for news about the proposal she sent to her brother. Ser Arryk had been on his quest for several days now, and still no word from him. Aemond had assured her that she need not worry, but something was wrong, or so her intuition told her.

"Take care of the children," she tells Daisy before heading to the training yard.

With the freedom that she now enjoys thanks to Aemond's authority, Alyssa has returned to training with the bow. The keeper hands her a bow and a quiver full of arrows, and Alyssa pulls the string taut as she aims for the straw doll. The arrow hits the center of the head.

“I didn't know you had such good aim,” says a voice behind her.

Aemond stands next to her and watches her fill the doll with arrows.

“I trained almost daily with my brothers,” she answers wistfully, “I could never beat them with a sword, but I was better than them with a bow.”

Alyssa releases her last arrow and turns to Aemond, focusing her attention on him and noting that he seems concerned, "Did something happen?"

“We finally received word of Ser Arryk,” he replies. Alyssa feels her breath hitch in anticipation of what she is going to hear, "We don't really know what happened, only that he was discovered by his brother and they dueled to the death."

Alyssa's heart clenches as she remembers her conversation with the knight, "Did they both die?"

"Yes," the princess notes that Aemond also looks dismayed.

"When did it happen?"

“I don't know. Apparently, they wanted to hide ser Arryk’s death, I just know that your mother took the matter as an attempt to cause some harm to her or her children."

"And the letter?"

“If they have it in their possession, they have not acted accordingly. I haven't heard from your mother or your brother."

Alyssa nods, trying to process all the information and struggling to block the images of Ser Arryk fighting his twin to death.

"What will we do now?" she asks, feeling regretful

“Do you want to go ahead with your plan?”

“I don't know,” Alyssa admits, “I wouldn't know how to contact Jace unless I went myself, I know that's not an option you like,” she adds quickly, “I don't know if it'll be as easy to convince him now that they think that Ser Arryk went to the castle with orders to kill them."

“Perhaps it would be better if we concentrated our efforts on…”

Aemond is interrupted by the arrival of a servant, "Dragons, my prince!" the boy says scared, "Dragons in the sea"

Alyssa's heart stops, and she exchanges a terrified look with Aemond, who questions the servant, though he can't give him any more information.

“I'll have to go inspect myself,” he says as he looks up at the sky and Vhagar roars somewhere near the city.

“No, it's too risky,” she grabs his arm, “If it's an attack…”

"I'll be careful," Aemond promises, "I'll be back for you and the children."

Alyssa nods helplessly. Aemond smiles at her one last time before calling for a horse and leaving the keep.

"What exactly do we know?" Alyssa asks the boy.

"The fishermen say that there is a battle near the Gullet, my lady" informs the boy

A battle. Alyssa's heart contracts. If there are dragons, they belong to her mother, but who are they fighting against? Lord Corlys has controlled that area for a long time. It doesn't make sense that...

Alyssa rubs her head and goes back to the castle. A headache explodes inside her and she asks Talya to bring her the tea she’s drinks every night as she heads towards the nursery. If something happens, it will be better to be ready. With the help of a maid, she keeps the essentials for the children in a bag and asks the little ones to return from their walk in the garden.

A couple of hours pass before she hears Vhagar's roar again and relief floods her body. Alyssa goes to the council room and ignores the looks from the members and the maester as she waits for Aemond.

“All of you, out!” orders her fiancé once he meets her gaze as he enters the room.

The men rush out of the room and Aemond waits until the doors are closed behind him before going to Alyssa. She looks at him from top to bottom and doesn't find any wounds on him, so she intuits that he hasn't participated in the battle. It is when the prince is a few centimeters from her that she discovers the sorrow in his eyes.

"Who?" she asks, her heart pounding and fear running through her

“Your brothers”, he answers quietly, “Jacaerys and the youngest one”

Alyssa stumbles, but she manages to regain her balance and doesn't allow Aemond to help her, instead turning her back on him and closing her eyes. She feels the desire to cry, she feels the pain running through every part of her body, she feels her heart break, but the tears do not leave her eyes.

 “Alyssa…”

She shakes her head. He understands that it is better not to push her, “Would you rather be alone?”

“I want to know what happened” she ends up answering, still with her back to him.

Jace and Viserys, both dead.

"Apparently your mother intended to send your little brothers to Pentos, to keep them away from the war and make sure they are protected, since she thought that Ser Arryk had gone to Dragonstone with the intention of killing them," Alyssa closes her eyes and presses her nails hard on the palm of her hands, "They were crossing the Gullet when they were attacked"

"The Lannisters?" she asks, knowing that they are the ones who have another sizable fleet at their disposal.

"The Triarchy"

“The free cities?” Alyssa turns to look at him, “Why…?”

“My grandfather was making an alliance with them when he was still Hand of the King,” says Aemond, “He knew the Triarchy held a grudge against Daemon over the control of the Stepstones.”

“Did you know that they would attack?”

“No, I swear I did not,” he hastens to say, “They didn't even confirm their participation in this war. We haven't heard from them until this afternoon when they told me what happened."

Alyssa nods, "Go on."

“Sailors fishing nearby alerted your mother that the ship had been attacked. Jacaerys went to their aid and managed to rescue your brother Aegon and put him safely in the castle”

"And Viserys?" she asks him, "My baby brother"

"It is not clear what happened to him, but the Triarchy failed to capture him"

"How did Jace…?"

“Jacaerys returned to the battle with the intention of searching for Viserys, his dragon was hit by arrows and became entangled in one of the ships. The Myrish archers seem to be responsible for his death."

A silence settles between them while the princess tries with all her strength not to think about the last moments of her brothers.

“Jace was the best big brother a girl could ask for,” she finally says, “He used to steal treats from the kitchen for me and interrupt my lessons with the septa making excuses so we could play together,” she smiles sadly at the memories, "Whenever the merchant ships arrived at the Dragonstone ports full of novelties, he would buy something for me."

Alyssa remembers her older brother's smile and a moan escapes her lips.

"And Viserys?"

“Viserys came into this world so quickly,” she smiles, “I was there when he was born, my mother placed him in my arms after she held him. Such a small and adorable baby…” she stops talking and shakes her head.

"Maybe you should rest," Aemond proposes.

"No, there is no time for that"

“Alyssa, be reasonable,” the prince sighs, concerned as he notices the blank expression in her eyes, “Your brothers…”

“I will mourn my brothers all my life, Aemond,” she assures him, “But right now I have two others alive who need me.”

Aemond doesn't dare contradict her, hearing the decision in her voice.

Alyssa loosens the grip of her fingernails on her hands and watches the trail of blood and cracked skin. Without Jace, she no longer has allies in her mother's court, without Jace there is no option for a peaceful solution. Her mother will surely want to destroy all traces of her half-siblings now that she has lost two more of her children.

“There is no hope for peace,” she ends by saying, “My mother will not show mercy.”

"I wasn't counting on it," Aemond assures, "But we can weaken her."

"How?" she looks up at him

“Killing Daemon,” he says matter-of-factly, “Many of the lords who support your mother do so because of your stepfather. They know that he will have authority in a reign of Rhaenyra, and then there is the fear that he instills with his dragon. If we remove Daemon, your mother's claim will lose support. What happens next, we decide together."

Alyssa ponders his words, knowing that Aemond is right. Daemon is the main threat. She must remove her mother from the influence of her stepfather.

"You want to go after him"

"If possible, I want to go to Harrenhall tonight"

“If you leave, the capital and the iron throne will be unprotected. We could do nothing if my mother and the other riders come to take them."

“The other dragon riders are nothing more than scum and bastards. If your mother earned their loyalty with gold, I can do the same. Rhaenyra has promised them land and power, something that I can give them as well," Aemond pulls out the dagger he always carries with him and begins to play with it, "Many lords question your mother's legalizing the supposed children of Laenor Velaryon to place them as heirs of Driftmark"

"My mother did that?" she asks surprised, "Driftmark should have go to Baela, it is her right"

"Lord Corlys preferred his bastard grandchildren"

The irony is not lost on Alyssa.

"Do you think you can manage to buy the other riders to your cause?"

"Lord Larys is already working on it"

"And do you trust him?" ask skeptically

“He knows he won't find an ally in Rhaenyra, he is very close to my mother. I don't fully trust him, but I know he will do a good job with this."

“If you say so,” she finally says, “There's the problem of Daemon's spies anyway. If you're going to face him, it's better to count on him not expecting it, but if you and the army leave the city, he'll know."

“I know,” he agrees, “We managed to find the prostitute who hired the assassins, a foreigner named Mysaria who called herself White Worm. She apparently was a double agent for Daemon who provided information to my grandfather”

“Did you capture her?”

“No, she fled the city before we could get her,” Aemond balls his hands into fists, “Daemon surely has other informants here anyway. I only have to appeal to his pride”

"Challenge him to a duel"

"Indeed," the prince nods, "I will write to Daeron asking him to take the army to the riverlands to join ours, once Daemon is dead we will return to the capital."

"It's a risky plan" Alyssa ends up saying

“I see no other way to continue,” says the prince, “Our options are limited and confrontation is inevitable.”

"I know," she admits, closing her eyes and sighing, "I'll stay here."

"No, you go with me"

"No, Aemond, I can't."

"Alyssa, do you think I'm going to leave you here at the mercy of…"

"Of my mother?" She smirks, "My mother is not going to hurt me."

"You can't guarantee that"

She gives him a hard look, “I'm staying, Aemond. I'll be fine, but the children…the children will have to be hide. You have to take care of that before you leave the capital. And I better not know where they go in case… in case the situation gets out of hand”

"No, Alyssa, I'm not leaving you here," he replies stubbornly.

"It is my decision, Aemond, would you abandon Jaehaera and Maelor?"

"No, obviously I would not"

“And I can't leave Joffrey and Aegon alone either,” she explains, “If my mother comes to take King's Landing, she'll come with them. It will be my opportunity to try to make her see reason and to be able to see my little brothers.” Aemond looks desperate, Alyssa takes his hands and stares at him, "You have to let me do this."

You have to let me have one last moment with them, Alyssa thinks. You have to let me try to make amends with my mother.

"Why does it sound like a goodbye?" he asks in a whisper

"Because it might not work," Alyssa admits ruefully.

Aemond curses and hugs her. He knows that he must respect her decision, even though all he wants is to take her in his arms, mount Vhagar and carry her away from any danger. She seems to read his thoughts, “Danger is everywhere,” she says, “That's why you have to keep the children safe. I wish I could assure you that they'll be safe if you leave them here with me, but I can't."

"I'm going to kill Daemon," he says after hesitating for a few seconds, "I'll kill him and make sure we meet again"

“Promise me one more thing,” Alyssa asks, “if something happens to me,” she places a finger on his lips, “if something happens to me and your side win, take care of my little brothers.”

"I promise," he says without hesitation.

Alyssa is relieved, “Let's not waste time, then. There is a lot to plan if we are going to do this”

Aemond nods and locks their lips in a long, desperate kiss before leaving the room.

[erajoie07]

Honey, I'm home! : Aemond Targaryen x OC (AU)

Writer's Note: It's been so long since I last posted something here. I thought I'd write you all a flash fiction of Aemond, my dearest. Hope you all enjoy it! Thank you for reading!

Warning: mentions of death

When I married Aemond, I vowed to him that he shall always embody the man I’ve always wanted as I did before that. Our life together in matrimony was full of bliss and unrelenting love and devotion for one another.

It was August 4 when I received the call. A call thought to be relief, turned out to be grief. My husband’s life was on the line. Aemond's heart was beating but wasn’t pumping blood, if not for the medicine they injected just to keep him from moving out of the light.

I called all my sisters to give their heart and solidarity for me for losing him was never an intention.

“He’s gone?! Daemon!” The walls will know who I cried for that wee morning. Hysterical and full of endless hope that he’ll live. “Daemon! Guard his side, don’t leave him alone. Aemond! I’m coming, please hold on!”

Aemond gave me everything be owned and supported me with all his will. The house knows that. They have witnessed he had broken nearly all his bones and strained every muscle for me.

Soon, I arrived at the hospital in nothing but my robe on. I didn’t care to dress gently and appropriately. All I wanted was for Aemond to come back home.

“Aemond?” My voice in a trembling roar. My sisters consoled me. I watched the nurse tried to revive my husband with a manual ventilator near his mouth. The sound it makes as it delivers oxygen to his lungs.

“Aemond! What happened? Aemond, I’m here. Fea will board the bus later.”

Fea disassociated when I called her on the phone announcing that they are reviving her dad. How is Aemond going to walk his daughter on the stage knowing that he will no longer?

“Aemond,” I held his hand. “Aemond, Fea wanted you to join us on stage for her graduation.”

The nurse called another. I was told that they have been reviving my husband for what seemed hours. I was asked to step back. Fine straight lines were received from that endless revival.

“Aemond! Fea will be here soon. She misses you so much. Forgive me for my miscommunication, and Fea’s stubbornness. Sorry, Aemond!”

Aemond just waited for me before he stepped out of life.

His hand was cold. I thought I would only look men carrying a dead body to the morgue in films. Never once did I imagine my husband would be that body.

When it was time to bring the body back into the house. O’ Death proved to be the ugly one. The cross-stitches no longer hang on the walls. The couch that leaned comfortably was moved. The tables and chairs were pushed. All these familiarity that settled and stayed through thick and thin for 15 years were gone for a whole week of mourning. Even after we buried Aemond, I can’t apprehend the fact that there will be firsts in the house that saw him for 18 years. First Christmas without him. First New Year’s without him. First Valentine’s without him. Even his birthday and our anniversary would be firsts without him.

Aemond still resides in my mind though I continue to move forward. After I got home from work, as I habit, I shouted to the house, “Aemond! I’m home!”

“I’m in the kitchen, darling.”

The End