#My HotD OMC

[mermaidslabyrinth]

I would LOVE to hear about your lil guys

Thank you for taking interest in something that I have cared for and put so much thought into for almost a good year.

Right now I have one (1) guy I am beyond obsessed with. I honestly could write/talk about everything about my HotD OMC. At the same time I really don’t know how to. Bc ever since I created my first OCs (like age 12) I’ve kept them to myself. So knowing that other ppl want to hear about them is foreign to me. But at the same time so validating and nice. It’s just scary to put oneself out there with someone/thing they cherish. Especially my guy bc…one of his relationships is one I honestly have not seen yet. And I can only put forth Targaryen incest and it’s fiction as a reason to a point. But I love it so and I love writing them.

His story came to me as all good stories do: lying in bed with no access to a computer. The phrase “He has a rage in his heart.” Came to my mind and here I am about 10 1/2 months later.

So, under the cut I will finally feel brave enough to talk a little about him.

The story takes place between 115 AC up to my character’s death. I’ve changed some birth dates, Viserys stays healthy longer, there is no Dance of Dragons. Most of my writing has been centered around 131 AC-146ish AC. That’s where the juiciest parts happen.

Daemon had a brief marriage between Rhea Royce and Laena Velaryon (less than a year). My OMC came from that short time.

Anyway…

My HotD OMC’s name is: 

Rhagerys {Rage-air-es} ‘Rhage’ Targaryen. (His mother thought she was naming him the way of the Targaryen family does. Daemon wanted/was going to change it but tragedy happened and Daemon kept the name to honor Rhagerys’s mother). 

Looks: 

His left eye is green. His right eye is brown. Platinum white-blond hair. From age 15 on he always has a braid or braids in his hair in some way.

(The two ages listed are what I think the most when I picture him)

Age 15-16: He has just below shoulder length hair. He stands 6’4”. Delicate features. 

Age 18 (and onward): His hair is just above hip length. He stands at 6’6” (but he definitely doesn’t act it. Especially around his father). His features are a bit sharper but softer than his father’s. 

Personality (a small taste):

His personality is a mess. He can be calm one moment, full of rage the next. He's snide, sarcastic, and spiteful to a lot of people (he gets his sharp tongue from his father). But gentle and patient with children and some women. He has taught himself to act as if nothing bothers him. To look stoic in front of others. 

It stems from his father, Daemon. 

Daemon was able to get his heir and he was going to make sure his son was everything he wanted him to be. Everything he made him to be. But Rhagerys does have a fun, kind, protective side. Just only for people he has deemed ‘worthy’ of that side. 

I don’t have a true pinpoint of Rhagerys’s sexuality. I feel it’s something in that time where it wouldn’t be thought on much. If asked Rhagerys would just shrug his shoulders and walk away or ignore the person. 

His mother/her House:

I chose to have his mother, Igreyn Belmore (I created), be from/heir to House Belmore of the Vale. Not too much is known about that House so I ran with it. The only thing I that I made up about them was that their men are never shorter than 6’2” and their women are rarely shorter than 5’8”. 

Rhagerys is also related to Rhaenyra through his maternal side. Rhagerys’s great grandsire was the third son (I created) of Rodrik Arryn. So the third Arryn boy was Aemma’s older half brother. Making Rhagerys and Rhaenyra double cousins. 

Dragon:

He has a female dragon that is black/blue/purple named Starsong. She hatched the same day he was born. (There’s some sort of blood magic surrounding her. She grows quicker than a normal dragon [I needed her to for my story])

Plot Snippets (The bare bones):

Rhagerys had a normal/average childhood. He was very chivalrous and kind. Then his little family (Daemon, Rhaena, and himself [Baela is at Driftmark]) moved to Dragonstone when Daemon married Rhaenyra. Rhagerys was 12 (I bumped up/moved ages of the younger generation around).

From ages 13-15 Rhagerys was sent on progress to certain places in Westeros, see the realm that his ancestors conquered (He was sent away at the suggestion of Rhaenyra. They have a strained but amicable relationship). 

He came back at age 15 changed, physically (he was around 5’0” at age 12 and when he returned to Dragonstone he was 6’4”) and mentally. 

Daemon found out something about his son he did not care for (Rhagerys’s slight aversion/indifference to sex) and took matters into his own hands. Because Daemon was not going to let his heir, heir to Strongsong of House Belmore in the Vale, reject sex.

(If I was to describe Rhagerys’s view of sex it would be along the lines of: I don’t care. I just want the other person to be happy.)

~This is where it turns dark (Daemon is very manipulative and wicked at times in my story)~

Daemon teaches Rhagerys about sex. Hands on (won’t go fully into it). So, from ages 15-(I won’t give it away), father and son have a very secret/hidden sexual relationship. Rhagerys doesn’t hate it (most of the time), welcomes it at times. He sees it as a way to keep his father’s love and attention for him. If he pushes back, he gets set ‘right’ real quick. During those years Daemon manipulates and emotionally/mentally/physically beats Rhagerys down until he is what Daemon wants him to be. His. Daemon’s creation of the perfect Targaryen. 

Then in the late spring of 134 AC the family from Dragonstone goes to King’s Landing (to put a stop Vaemond’s claim). Celebrate the defeat of the Triarchy in the Stepstones. Stay for three months. 

There Rhagerys meets Aemond after 6 years. Both most definitely changed from when they were 12. A lot happens. Rhagerys finds a new purpose in life. Aemond. Doing anything and everything for Aemond. 

The two of them become unhealthily committed to each other. Rhagerys will burn the world to the ground if Aemond deemed it so. While Aemond tries to cultivate, project himself upon how he sees/thinks Rhagerys is. How Rhagerys would want him (Rhagerys does the same).  

At the same time Rhagerys has to balance his relationship with Daemon. 

And that’s where I’ll stop with the plot points. I have more but I don’t want to give too much away or lay it all bare. I’ve written/created so much more. So much more happens before/in between/after. But I’m still trying to fully write those points. I have entire timelines for each decade/family trees/future generation planned/created and ready to go. 

Right now I write mostly about Rhagerys between the ages 15-20. That time period has captured my attention for a while now.

So, that’s the basics of my HotD OMC. I will at some point around the new year (fingers crossed) have a pinned post about him. A little layout of who he is. With links to Pinterest/music list of my story. 

I'll be real, idk if I’ll ever put the story on the internet, in any form, but to be able to talk about him, put him out into the world. By making tags, Pinterest boards, and writing for myself has really brought me such joy. 

I apologize if this was too long. But it’s been marinating in my mind for a long time. Thank you, again, for asking me a question I thought I’d never be asked. 🌈 @emilykaldwen you are too kind to ask. I do hope it wasn't too long winded or too much.

[errruvande]

Fanfic writer interview

Thank you @thelettersfromnoone for the tag!! 💖

How many work do u have on AO3?

3, not your local AO3 girlie lmao

What's your total AO3 word count?

8 534

Your top 5 stories by kudos/likes

I'll go with Tumblr ones, cause from my 3 AO3 works the biggest number I got is 31 lmao

Anyone but you (Legolas x f!reader)

Night watch (Legolas x Reader)

Well-deserved rest (Haldir x f!Reader)

One messy night (Boromir x f!Reader)

Transition (Haldir x f!Reader)

Honorable mention (since it's not fics but headcanons)

Green Council receiving a hot pic from you (HotD)

TLK men's reaction on being pet named

Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

I always try to respond to comments! These little things are brightening up my day, so I wanna let the people know that they are my heroes hahaha

What's the fic you've written with the angstiest ending?

I really think it's Transition. All in all it's a pretty dark story, a bit depressing I think (I had these intentions while writing at least).

Otherwise, I don't think I have angsty endings fics?

What's the fic you've written with the happiest ending?

New family members for sure!! Was thinking hard what to choose, cause I think all of my happy ending fics are on the pretty same level on a happy scale, but I remember that I have this gen, non romantic baby and I love it so much ❤️‍🩹 There's a little TLK OMC for y'all

Do you write crossovers?

I wanted to say I've never done this BUT THEN!!! My Assassin's Creed (Ezio) x LOTR little headcanon!!! My beloved child!!

Have you ever received hate on a fic?

No, not that I remember getting any hate on my fics

Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

I do, tho not much and on rare occasions. I used to write a lot of smut when I was younger (a teen), then I stopped being comfortable with it for a wild few years (tho reading never made me uncomfortable lmao).

Now I started writing smut again, idk what kind? Don't really understand what does that mean lol F x M traditional sex? Pretty detailed? If so, then yes lmao

Have you ever had a fic stolen?

I don't know 😂 Maybe, maybe not. I think rather not.

Have you ever had a fic translated?

Not to my knowledge, I don't think so.

Have you ever co-written a fic before?

We tried with my friend a long long time ago. Didn't go well lmao It's hard and kinda stressing, cause you never know what the other person is gonna write (at least we had this SURPRISE system), so... You kinda have zero plot cause everything you want to write plot-wise can be ruined by the second person's plot lmao

What's your all-time favorite ship?

Athelnar?? Athelstan and Ragnar were my first ever OTP (quickly followed by Alfred and Uhtred). You could never beat that Athelnar shit out of my body lmao I've never written for them, but oh I do love them boys!

What's a WIP that you want to finish but don't think you ever will?

Now, that's the HARSH one lmao

I think I have at least 3 OC stories that I really wanna write (2 for TLK and one for LOTR), but I'm scared that I will never actually do it. I never was good with multi chaptered stories, and these are indeed not a one shots 🥲

What are your writing strengths?

Ugh... I don't know? I think I was pretty good with dialogues and descriptions of the surroundings to build the atmosphere. But... I guess it's not for me to decide but for the readers?

What are your writing weaknesses?

I rarely finish what I've started lmao I should write everything in one go or else I'll never finish it... Or will finish it in two months even if it's a 2k words one shot

What are your thoughts on writing dialogue in other languages in a fic?

I love them! I've only done it with my LOTR fics (with Sindarin) but I really love it. But I really love it when the language is different from the language of the settings? Like, if the story is happening in England and everyone is English, but you have two characters who can speak idk Dutch, let them have a Dutch language in their dialogue. I had a rant post about it not that long ago actually lmao You have to think about your in-universe language

What's a fandom/ship you haven't written for yet but want to?

Ahhh Bungou Stray Dogs! I love them, and I'd gladly try to write something for them. Not a character/character but reader my beloved.

And maybe Stephane Narcisse (reign) my beloved and a reader

What's your favorite fic you've written?

The blood on my hands (Eomer) and Peace (Finan) are definitely my fave ones I think. They are dark and both explore some trauma

No pressure tags: @whitedarkmoonflower @lord-aldhelm @holy3cake @gemini-mama @emilyhufflepufftlk @persephones-journey @solinarimoon @mrsalwayswrite @emmanuellececchi @bilbotargaryen @levithestripper @mrsarnasdelicious @paula-in-dreamland

[noeverse]

Among Crowns, Prologue: The Wheel of Fate

Author's Notes

Be welcome to my first HOTD fic! I'm excited to share it with y'all and see where this story takes me. I hope you guys love Aurynn and her story as much as I do!

English isn't my first language, so please forgive any typos/grammar mistakes

If you wish to be tagged in this series, let me know in the notes and asks!

This series will contain canon-typical sexism, sexual themes, violence, infidelity, among other tags to be added, as well as some canon takes from both Fire and Blood and HOTD, and even some liberties of mine

Summary: Princess Rhaenyra, seeing the state of her court and claim to the throne, decides to switch her cards; her firstborn son will marry Lady Aurynn Mormont in order to have a shot with ensuring the North's allegiance, and Lord Rodrik Mormont shall take Baela as wife in Jacaerys' stead. With war at their doors, these siblings will play whatever tune its sang in order to live in a volatile enviroment.

Words: 2.0k

Pairings: Jacaerys Velaryon x OFC (Aurynn Mormont) Baela Targaryen x OMC (Rodrik Mormont), eventual Cregan Stark x OFC & Alyn Velaryon x OFC (Aurynn Mormont) and OFC x OFC (Visella Targaryen @blood0fthedragon x Aurynn Mormont)

Rating: PG-13

Warnings: None (they will be added as the series progresses)

Tagging: @aeksion-aekse @mini-kunoichi @huramuna @blood0fthedragon

Princess Rhaenyra paced herself in her chambers, the thought of war coming soon heavy on her mind. Alicent had made her move already, and she was running out of time. For ten years, they had been playing the political chess. Her eldest son was of age. And Baela seemed perfect for him; however, she was not blind. She had seen the way Jace looked at the Mormont girl.

She was certainly a beauty, with a long cascade of brown curls, expressive brown eyes and a wit and charm that easily matched others. And she was from a beloved and fierce house from the North. Baela was a Targaryen, and a daughter of her beloved husband, however, it was clear that there was no attraction between one another. If Rhaenyra was to sway the North to her side, then a successful marriage between a Northern and her son would be the wise thing to do.

She also was aware of Rodrik’s eligibility. He was strikingly handsome, an accomplished warrior, a patron of the arts and cunning in politics. However, his wandering eye escaped nobody. Someone as brazen and ill-tempered as Baela could either make him better or worse. Perhaps, if she played the game right, it could be done well.

Summoning her advisors to the chamber, she asked “Tell me, my lords, about Lady Mormont.”

Both men looked at one another “Well, Princess, she is a certified beauty, and an accomplished one at that. A famous companion of the princes, and someone very much wanted in all of Westeros. Why, only on her thirteenth name-day we received numerous letters from all the places. Do you plan on arranging a marriage for her, Princess?”

“As a matter of fact, I do.” She folded her hands.

Aurynn was brushing her very long hair, sighing as she performed her nightly dance with her Northern ringlets. It had been almost eight years since she arrived at Dragonstone after a pact between her late lord father and the princess. Life had been good, playing with the princes and getting to hone her courtly skills. And perhaps find a good marriage, one with a lord that would treat her well and give her beautiful children and a purpose.

Suddenly, a knock interrupted her thoughts. She looked up to see sweet Luke, doubt in his eyes. She had always seen him as a little brother, and the feeling was mutual. “I… am not interrupting, am I, Lynn?”

“Of course not, sweet boy. Do come, tell me what’s on your mind.”

He sat at the edge of the bed, used to seeing her in nightgown and her hair down, something that raised many eyebrows “As you know, Mother is to send us to gain alliances. With our dragons.” He was fidgeting, as he usually did. She got up from her seat and squeezed her hands in his, calming his racing thoughts.

“Take a breath. Order your thoughts,” he did as she told him “Now, speak slowly.”

“I’m afraid, Lynn. What if something goes wrong? What if Arrax gets sick? Jace looks so confident…”

“Just because someone sounds confident doesn’t mean that they are. And I know what you’ll say: ‘but Jace is perfect’. He is virtuous, yes, but he is but a boy. As am I. As are you. There is nothing wrong with being afraid every once in a while.”

“Are you ever afraid, Lynn?”

“Many times a week, my boy. That I will be betrothed to a cruel old man. That everything I’ve worked for isn’t enough. Of my house’s fate.”

Luke flushed “If it helps, I’d sooner marry you than ship you off to a cruel old man.”

Aurynn threw her head back and laughed, a melody that often calmed and soothed the young prince. Then, she kissed his cheek “Oh, Luke, my dearest boy, I’m afraid I’d be deemed to old for you. Besides, you and Rhaena seem to get along just fine.”

“The sentiment isn’t only mine.”

Aurynn frowned, amused “How come?”

Lucerys flushed, the face he did when he talked too much “I, uh, should go to bed. I have much to prepare with, uh, Arrax. Good night, Lynn!” Then, he sprinted away from the room, leaving an amused and confused Aurynn.

The next morning, Aurynn had dressed herself with a beautiful purple ensemble and had finally coiffed her hair in a complicated hairdo when her door was knocked “Who is it?”

A masculine voice replied “Princess Rhaenyra sends for you, my lady. I am to escort you to her.”

Feeling nervous and excited, she polished herself and opened the door. Taking a deep breath, she nodded “Let’s go then.” After crossing a corner, she asked “Do you know what business does Her Grace want to do with me?”

“I do not know, my lady. I am only following orders.”

They finally entered the room, where at the top of the table was Rhaenyra, Prince Jacaerys and Lady Baela. Curtsying to them all, she gave them a friendly face “Did you summon me, Your Grace?”

“Do approach the table, Aurynn. Would you like some wine?”

“No, thank you, I’ve had breakfast a few minutes ago.” It was a small lie. Her stomach was made of knots, and she prayed that none of them heard her intestine roar.

“As you know, you’ve reached age of marriage, and your presence has not escaped my allies. Men all over the Vale, the North and other regions have been sending me owls for your hand, offering you all sorts of luxuries. Even houses that are allied to Alicent’s party have offered to swear fealty to me if I were to give you your hand in marriage.” She looked around the room “However, my council and I have agreed that none of these men are a match worthy of you, and have thus come to a decision.” She then looked at her eldest son and proclaimed “You and my son Jace shall marry within the month, and you, Baela, shall marry Lady Mormont’s brother Rodrik. He is handsome, rich, young and a formidable ally. He is sailing to accept your hand as we speak.”

Aurynn’s gaze turned to an equally stunned Jace. They had known each other all their lives, and Aurynn had always admired Jace and had fancied him for long, even after his duties had taken over. They have had a strong connection that raised question of marriage before Princess Rhaenyra married Prince Daemon and betrothed his daughters to her sons.

Nevertheless, one couldn’t simply reject the formidable Prince of Dragonstone. She bowed to the princess and recited “I thank you for this privilege, Your Grace, and promise to be the loveliest, most dutiful wife to your son.”

Jace woke up from his shock and gave them a rehearsed smile “If it pleases my mother, it shall be done. Might I have a moment alone with my betrothed?”

He didn’t even wait for his mother to respond before they both curtsied and he practically dragged her out of the room.

“Jace!” Aurynn exclaimed, surprised at her reaction.

He didn’t seem to hear her, still in stupor. They walked and walked, his grip on her, until they finally got out, in the beautiful garden they used to chase one another and laugh and munch berries.

“Jace, you’re hurting me!” Lynn finally exclaimed.

Said words seemed to wake him from his stupor and let go of her hand, clearly embarrassed “Forgive me, Lynn. I didn’t think I was gripping you too hard.” He examined her hand and gave it some gentle strokes. Her breath caught. “I didn’t know that my mother would pull this off.”

“Jace, it’s alright—,”

“Lynn, being my bride is being in the eve of danger. I understand if you’re scared.”

She looked at him defiantly “I am a Mormont, Jace. I am not scared of a drunken prince and his desperate mother.”

He squeezed her hand, a small smile on his lips “I know that you are as fierce as a Northerner comes, but this is different. You’d be queen someday, if we aren’t betrayed. Besides, you deserve better than someone whom they call ‘bastard’ behind his back.”

“I don’t care about that, Jace. I care about your good opinion and your mother’s. If you don’t wish to marry me, say it. You have the power to undo the alliance.”

He smiled sadly “I am flattered that you think me of someone with power, but my mother’s made her choice. Your brother is on his way. And… I do like the idea of marrying you.”

Lynn looked at those tender brown eyes and swallowed “Truly, Jace?”

He gave her a tentative look “Do you, Lynn? Like the idea of marrying me as well?”

She opened her mouth, but no sound came out. Instead, her gaze went to his lips, and he seemed to notice. Soon, his hands were on her hips, squeezing the light Dornish lace and stroked aside a wild ringlet.

“I—,”

“Jace!” A familiar voice called.

They both bolted away, clearly flushed. Luke was running towards them, Joffrey in tow, “Is it true? You and Lynn are to be married?”

It was Lynn who spoke “Yes, dear Luke. Your mother was generous enough to allow me to join our family.”

He smiled “Amazing! It’s just like when we were boys! You and Lynn married, in those imagine games we used to play when—,”

Jace, clearly embarrassed, placed his hands on his brothers’ shoulders and cleared his throat “Let me tell you all about it in our dragon pit. I am sure Lady Mormont has many preparations to make for my brother-in-law’s arrival, don’t you, Lynn?”

Trying not to chuckle, Lynn nodded, taking the opposite direction to the castle, wanting to busy her toes in the sand. When she reached the beach, she found a familiar silver hair. She slowly and gently approached her “Might I sit?”

Baela looked at her and nodded wordlessly. She sat besides her at a respectful distance and looked out at the sea “If you’re wondering, I am not angry. Neither of us asked to be moved around like chess pieces.”

Baela sighed “Isn’t that all we are? Chess pieces to move and discard to their heart’s delight?”

Lynn bit her lip “Gods, I hope not. I suppose that, to our fathers, we are, but Princess Rhaenyra is no man.”

“She ought to behave like one if she is to hold the throne one day.”

It suddenly hit her. Baela was tragically right. Being a woman was unsafe as it was in Westeros, and Princess Rhaenyra must’ve felt cornered by her rivals for her to make such sudden move. Jace was a great man, but a man nevertheless. As was Rodrik, and Luke, and everyone in the council.

She liked Jace, and with time, she might even grow to love him, but she was no fool either. She knew from a young age which role to play if she wanted to win the eternal game of survival in a world where women were feeble and discardable little things.

“Let them think that we are,” she declared “but we will know the truth. Let them believe the illusion that we are innocent, meek and playable things, as long as my will is made.” She looked at Baela “reforming a man like Rodrik is no easy task, but it is not impossible.”

Baela seemed to catch up “Go on.”

“Give him something that no common girl can give him. A reason to be with you alone. Let it be your bedding skills, or wealth, or the illusion of having the girl he’s dreamt of having, and he’ll be yours. Make yourself irreplaceable, and he shall be yours. Isn’t that what men want in a woman, after all? A gem so rare, so wanted, that if they do not take care of it, it may slip from his fingers.”

Baela smiled at her “I pray to the Gods that your brother is as cunning as you, Aurynn. We’ll need all the wit and conniving we are allowed to show in this tryst.”

[queenielacy]

Imagine Aemond having a male lover…

Aemond experienced little desire in his life. It had been instilled in him since he was a young boy that his desires didn’t matter, duty always trumped desire. His strongest desire, the only one he’d ever given into, was to have a dragon and he lost an eye to satisfy that desire. For him, it had been a fair trade. The few times he had experienced desire since then, it hadn’t been nearly as strong and he quickly figured out that giving in would do nothing for him. He would gain nothing, so he pushed the desire away and continued on his path.

The first time Aemond saw him he felt that same desire bubble up inside of him. It was the same as his desire to claim a dragon, maybe even greater than that desire. This overwhelming need to claim him as his own. The dragon within wouldn’t allow him to ignore the feelings, as any good son should do. Aemond’s thoughts were consumed by him. He dreamt of him and woke with his name on his lips. He couldn’t escape his desire. Aemond, despite his discipline and sense of duty, couldn’t take it anymore and gave into his desires. Luckily, his desire was reciprocated.

Aemond was careful, discreet, with his lover. He knew this behavior was not expected of him and his family (i.e. mother) would not be pleased. His lover also understood the importance of discretion, so it was easy to keep their affair a secret. They spent a long time in the shadows until one night at a royal banquet, Aemond became jealous of the attention his lover received from both men and women. His lover flirted back and danced with some of the women in attendance and the possessive dragon didn’t like that. His annoyance grew every time another man threw his lover a wink or a woman grabbed at his arm. After the banquet, he cornered his lover in a dark hall. He couldn’t wait until they returned to his chambers. His lover scolded him, complaining that someone may see but made no move to push him away. “Good.” Aemond whispered. He didn’t want to share his lover’s attention. He wanted him all to himself. It was only in these moments that he could.

Unfortunately, they were not alone that night. Ser Crispy Criston happen to see them and like a child running to his mother, he went straight to Alicent to tell her what he saw. She couldn’t believe it at first but knew deep down that Criston wouldn’t lie to her, especially about something like this. It was no matter. She was not worried, because Aemond was her good son. The son who, like her, put duty above everything. She blamed herself. It was her fault for not properly explaining why this sort of relationship couldn’t happen. If he was someone else, maybe, but as the second son of the king…She would sit Aemond down and explain her reasoning, and explain his duty, as she had done before on other matters, and Aemond would end whatever was going on between him and the other young man.

That is exactly what Alicent did the next day. She tries her best to ignore the small dark mark poking out from under Aemond’s collar and tells him that she knows about the affair. She explains, without anger or malice in her voice, that this cannot continue. She explains his role, his duty as the second son. His need to marry a highborn lady to form a strong alliance for his brother, so that he may safely come to the throne and rule. A silent moment passes between them and Alicent takes a sip of tea. Aemond often takes a moment to think and process the information after their talks, so his silence isn’t worrying. What is worrying is how calmly and gracefully Aemond says, “No”. Alicent almost spits out her tea at Aemond’s one word reply. She wasn’t expecting that.

The two argue. Alicent yells and Aemond keeps his voice low, but there is an edge to it. Aemond won’t bend and neither will Alicent. She speaks of sacrifice and Aemond reminds her that he’s always done his duty, sacrificed for a brother who doesn’t even want to be king, is not fit to be king. All his brother does is drink and lay with whores. He doesn’t study or train as hard as him. Where is his reminder of duty and sacrifice? They argue in a circle until Aemond makes a quip about Alicent being unhappy, and just because she is unhappy doesn’t mean the rest of them have to be. Alicent slaps him across the face before she knows what she’s done. It’s the only time he’s ever hit her son.

Aemond exits quickly after that and storms through the palace to find his lover. He soon finds him with Helaena. She was the only one that knew about them (before today). She knew they would be together before he did (because visions) as Aemond thinks back to all of the cryptic statements she made before they officially coupled and then the simple “He is good for you, brother” the day after Aemond bedded his lover for the first time. Aemond kisses his lover before he can even speak. He tells his lover that his mother knows about them, and his lover says with a sad smile that the kiss was a goodbye one but Aemond just smirks and kisses him again. This is only the beginning.

Helaena’s smile falters as she stares at her brother and his lover. “A knight steals from the dragon’s nest” The dragon must protect his treasure.

[artemiseamoon]

Writing round up

September 2022 - March 2023

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Complete (oneshots, fics, etc) 🌸

***See more at @artemiseamoon-updates (more than I can list here) ***

A lighthouse in the dark (triple frontier, Ofc, the boys)

Make it out alive (ft Frankie and Will, part of Frightfest) - triple frontier

After this is over (Calderoni, Slate, Walt &crew) - narcos mx

A hermits journey (Jax, brother omc fc Garrett h.) - Soa

Nocturna sanguine (my indulgent vamp fic based off an original short story of mine. Ofc fc is Kat Graham ft modern Ivar and Roman Godfrey)

Milk & Honey (werebear Bjorn x ofc | Vikings)

Flirting with Danger (narcos Mc Ramón x reader)

Milk & Honey (Werebear! Bjorn x ofc)

Under a Golden sun (ft Benny and ATJ as an omc)

Outshine the sun (extended) (Frankie x ofc ft. Benny)

The Barmaid & the Spaniard (Pero Tovar x plus! F reader)

Neptunium (vampire John Wick x f reader)

Wisteria & moonlight (ft my Ocs and werewolf Will miller and Benny miller)

Previously started & In progress 💜

Original

Damage control (see link below)

Triple frontier

Damage control (ft private security Frankie)

Every breath, every heartbeat (will x ex fiancé oc) ✋🏾tba

Sweet Melancholy 👋🏾 tba

Mayans

Have you even seen a vampire

Narcos

Sin (Miguel, Pacho, RC) ✋🏾 tba

Playing with Fire (Poison x f reader/Oc) ✋🏾 tba

My world and yours (Barron x ofc coming mid January) - ✋🏾 (April 2023)

Reflections in the mirror (April or May 2023) Javi x ofc ✋🏾

Ezra

Werewolf Ezra x huntress Nyx - queen of poisons

Marcus Moreno

Tell me no lies ✋🏾 (April 2023)

Pero Tovar

the terms of enchantment -✋🏾(May 2023)

Ricky Hauk

It’s all poetry (Ricky x ofc) 👋🏾 tba

Vikings

Untitled - King Harald ( his pov to this) -✋🏾tba

When night comes - incubus Ragnar -✋🏾tba

Deep in the woods, the Goatman lives Satyr Ubbe -✋🏾(May move yo Halloween)

New to my masterlist!

Ryan Corr

HOTD

Ser Harwin

Laena Velaryon

The Gray Man

The Sandman

Chris Hemsworth

On the road (movie Garret H.)

Maurice Compte

Chopping block, might get canceled

MCU - what comes next -✋🏾

Not canceled but not sure when I’ll start again

Some kind of blue (Thomas Shelby x ofc)

Writing celebrations, challenges

Frightfest -✋🏾

Writer Iron Chef 💜

Writer Wednesday ✋🏾

Other challenges

* on hold, creator had left tumblr but I’d like to finish these after I get some wips done , also see pinned post

Vikings x

Triple frontier /Soa crossover x

Finished fics & almost finished fics

🦋 remember

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[with-blood-and-fire]

Fic: Even Monsters Need a Gentle Touch Chapter 1

😊I have had the pleasure of only just being dragged onto the bottom!Aemond train. And I will not be getting off anytime soon. ❤You can pull bottom!Aemond from my cold dead hands. I am so excited to start writing fics for HotD. I hope you guys enjoy the first couple chapters of this one. It's gonna be a long-un.😀

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Title: Even Monsters Need a Gentle Touch

Summary:

Aemond is used to people steering away from him, avoiding eye contact and whispering about him behind his back. He pretends not to notice and not to care. But in truth, his heart aches at the thought that no one can love him with the scar on his face.

Luckily, someone comes along who will fix everything. Someone who will love him despite his scar. At least so Aemond thinks. Things go downhill and after a traumatic event, Alicent sends Aemond to negotiate with Rhaenyra at Dragonstone.

Unfortunately, Aemond is taken prisoner almost immediately by the Princess and her husband and is forced to reside in the castle with them. Thought it is a tough start to his new life, eventually Aemond finds that love and care is not so hard to come across after all.

Chapter: 1

Pairing: Endgame Aemond/Jacaerys, but starts out Aemond/OMC

Rating: Will eventually be NC-17, but starts out relatively tame

Warning: None for this first chapter, but I've linked the Ao3 story link so you can all view the story tags for what there will eventually be.

Ao3 Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/43665726/chapters/109800333

Monster. One-eyed beast. The disgraced and disfigured second son.

Aemond was not oblivious to the names he had been given. They echoed throughout the keep on a daily basis. He heard them whether he wanted to or not. He knew. Even if the ones who spoke the words attempted to keep their whispers quiet.

And it was not as if he could blame them, no matter how much each name made his heart squeeze painfully or raised his ire. But he would not give anyone the satisfaction of seeing him upset or angered. He was better than that. He would not let them know that he too, in the darkest of nights, thought the same of himself.

But no. He was the son of the late King Viserys. He was a prince and he conducted himself as such. As opposed to his older brother’s drunken and vile attitude and persona, he held himself as one of the Targaryen bloodline should. He was stern and imposing. But calm and kind when necessary, all the same.

The names meant nothing if he did not react to them. The servant’s fear meant nothing if he pretended he didn’t know why they wouldn’t look at his face when they spoke to him. He was a fierce soldier and a scholar. He would not react.

Lost in his thoughts, he begins to descend the grand staircase of the keep, this day too ignoring the cautious looks and the words that were murmured as he passed.

The slow and rhythmic clack, clack of his leather boots upon stone echo through the halls of the Red Keep. The sound was not an unusual one at this time of day. In fact the sound often heralded the moment Aemond and Ser Criston Cole left for the training yard, in preparation to spend several hours with sword and mace.

He reached the bottom of the stairs noting Ser Criston waiting for him there. The only greeting he gives is a nod, lips pursed in his perpetual frown.

“My prince.” Ser Criston bows to him, making him roll his one eye.

When Ser Criston returns to his standing position, Aemond audibly sighs. Now a man of twenty and one, he was tall and strong. Though Criston Cole still stood several fingers above him. Unlike Aegon, who had grown to be a short but broad man, Aemond had grown tall and willowy. He was lithe and graceful, with sinewy muscles hidden under his pale skin. Like his sister, he had left his hair long, trailing down his back in straight strands. His features they compared to his sister or his mother. Some had even called him pretty. Before he had lost his eye of course. After that the only mention of his features or characteristics were how strong he was, or how smart. Nothing about his looks, unless it was behind his back.

“My prince?”

Aemond snaps his one eye to the knight who was looking at him with concern.

“Yes?”

“I asked if you were ready?”

“Forgive me Ser Criston. My mind was….elsewhere.” He mutters.

The knight raises an eyebrow and his concerned gaze lingers.

“Are you well, my prince?”

“Fine.” Aemond grumbles as he begins to stalk towards the doors of the keep.

“If you insist.” Ser Criston says, though it is obvious he is not convinced.

Once in the training yard, knight and prince find a corner to themselves. Around them, squires and knights practiced skills of defense and offense, but all came to a halt when Ser Criston and Aemond took their place and prepared to fight.

Ser Criston is the first to attack, swinging his mace in a high arc over his head, aiming for Aemond’s left shoulder. Aemond is quick though, his lithe body making it easy to dodge the attack. In response, Aemond’s sword swings low, aiming for Ser Criston’s knees. Even with the mace, the knight is quick and steps back just in time.

“That was a close one, my prince. Again!”

Their dance continues for many hours, neither giving in or gaining the upper hand. The whole yard continues to watch in awe at the skill displayed by the two. The Lord Commander of the Kingsguard and the Targaryen prince. Both had proven time and time again their skill. But Ser Criston still demanded Aemond ‘train’ each day.

Towards the end of their dance, Aemond catches sight of his mother staring solelmnly at him from the doorway into the castle.

Alicent wore black still, in mourning for his late father. Aegon had already been crowned King months ago, but still his mother mourned. It was bordering on ridiculous, if you asked him. Father was gone. And what of it? It is not as if the late King truly had any love to spare for Aemond’s lady mother. He had no love to spare any of them. It had all been used up by Rhaenyra and her brood.

It does not matter. I did not need his love. Nor do I now He tries to convince himself as he had many times before.

Aemond was jealous of Alicent. At least at times it had seemed as if Viserys cared for her. He was not jealous of their relationship, gods no. He would never want a relationship with no love. But if only someone would look at him as if he was anything other than a prince or monster. If only they cared enough to at least smile at him.

His thoughts, though upsetting and angered, give him the energy to fight harder, sending his sword swinging this way and that, forcing Ser Criston back till he hits the stone wall of the yard, Aemond’s sword at his neck.

“Aemond!” Alicent’s voice rings out across the training yard.

With a weary sigh and a roll of his one eye, Aemond steps back and re-sheathes his sword.

“You fought well my prince.” Ser Criston recovers and leaves his position at the wall.

“Hmmm.” Aemond hums, avoiding eye contact with Ser Criston and his mother as she approached.

“Ser Criston. You are dismissed.” Alicent nods at Ser Criston. With a flourished bow, the knight retreats, taking his mace with him.

“Mother.” Aemond nods, still refusing to look her in the eye.

“My son. I see your training is going well. Was it necessary to be so aggressive towards Ser Criston?”

“You are the one who wishes me to continue my training. This isn’t a child’s playpen. We fight here mother. I am not a babe.”

Alicent sighs, but does not press further. She must know it would be a losing battle. Instead, she steps aside and motions someone forward. A young man, perhaps one not much older than Aemond himself steps forward and bows before him. The man is dressed in the garb of a knight, in the armor of one of the kingsguard. When he stands again, Aemond takes in his features. He is tall, taller than him. And he had curly blonde hair that fell to his shoulders. A kind smile was on his tanned face and he was looking Aemond directly in his eye, something few dared to do.

“Aemond, my son. May I introduce you to Ser Ellion Lannister. The nephew of our very own Tyland Lannister.”

“My prince. It is a pleasure to meet you.” The knight bows again and his smile widens when he stands once more.

“A pleasure indeed.” Aemond responds automatically as his mother glares, ensuring nothing less than politeness from him.

“Aemond, Ser Ellion is a new knight of the Kingsguard. He will be protecting you from now on.”

Aemond snorts at that, terrifying smirk appearing on his face.

“Protecting me? What is it you mean?”

“Ser Ellion is tasked with protecting you personally, following you to ensure your safety.”

“Following me?” Aemond huffs out an amused laughs. “You must be joking.”

“I am not, my son. I am completely serious.”

“Tell me mother, why would I need such a thing? If I can protect myself easily enough, how is a guard going to help me?”

Aemond was right. He had to be. How could a knight he could break with his pinky finger serve as any use to him? He was a prince, a knight in his own right.

“It is necessary. Tensions grow higher each passing day in the council room. Your step sister is planning something. I am sure of it. I will not leave my son unguarded in case something happens.”

“I can protect myself.” Aemond protests.

“Then having Ser Ellion around will be all the better. You will have double the strength and protection.”

“No.”

“Yes.” Alicent glares at him. “You will listen and you will obey. This is for your own good. Now if you two will excuse me, I will be taking my lunch with Healeana.”

Alicent gives Aemond no time to protest again before turning heel and retreating from the training yard. He watches her go with narrow eye. He was a grown man. More than capable of carrying his own sword and protecting himself against any attacks from enemies. How could she not see it? Aemond is still glowering and ruminating in his angry thoughts when a kind voice cuts in.

“Prince Aemond?”

Aemond swivels to face Ser Ellion. The disarming smile upon the knight’s face only gives him pause for a second before he crosses his arms and looks up at the knight with his one eye.

“I care not for what my mother has said. I do not need you here. And I certainly do not need your protection. I am fine on my own.” He does his best to glare at the knight, but the man does not wither, only keeping the ridiculous smile upon his lips.

“I understand, my prince. But I am to follow the Queen mother’s word.”

“Whatever. I am going back to my chambers, alone.”

“I will escort you there!” The knight exclaims, dipping his head as the prince stalks past.

“Do not follow me.”

Ser Ellion does not listen and follows behind Aemond at a respectful distance, though he struggles to keep up with the quick strides of the prince.

Aemond seethes as he returns to the Red Keep, striding up the stairs two at a time. His anger must have been palpable, as servants, lords and ladies all alike cower and part like the sea as he all but runs up the staircase. Try as he might to lose him, the knight follows still, only just keeping up with him.

When Aemond finally reaches the door of his chamber, he turns to stare daggers at the knight, who stood there innocently with his perfect blonde hair and kind smile.

“Leave me! I do not wish to see your face again.” Aemond exclaims, shutting the door in the knight’s face.

“My prince.” Is all he hears from the other side before quiet footsteps fade from hearing.

Aemond shouts in anger before stalking over to the table in the middle of his chambers and seting his sword down upon it. He strides over to his dresser then and chances a glance up at the mirror on top. The leather eye patch stood out against his pale skin. With a violent surge of anger, he rips the thing off, staring at his sapphire eye and the terrible scar crossing it. The skin around his eyelid and undereye was cracked and red, making the feature even more horrifying to look at. He would need to get more moisturizing oil from the maester before the end of the day.

Fuck mother. Fuck father. Fuck Aegon and fuck Ser Ellion. He kicks the leg of the table in anger, wincing as pain shoots up from his toes. Why could no one just leave him be?

A quiet knock on his chamber door, interrupts his angered thoughts and he stalks to the door to rip it open. On the other side stands Helaena, a sad smile upon her face.

“Helaena….” He whispers.

“The laughter is poison.”

Aemond sighs, giving his dear sister a smile and inviting her in. He would ask about the cryptic sentence later. But first he’d much rather read in comfortable silence with her there. It was only her presence that calmed him. She was the only one he wished to spend time with these days. If only she wouldn’t scare him with her cryptic prophesies.

[noeverse]

Among Crowns, Chapter Two: Bears on Fire

Author's Notes

After having troubles with my computer, here I am! All solved and the chapter ready to go! This time we got a Rodrik POV, which was so much fun to make! Hope you guys like where I'm leading this manwhore trying to redeem himself

English isn't my first language, so please forgive any typos/grammar mistakes

This series will contain canon-typical violence, misogyny and many other themes ASOIAF/HOTD deals with, reader's discretion is advised

Please consider reblogging and commenting!

If you wish to be tagged, tell me in the notes!

This series will be attached to my other parallel series, 'burning bridges (of a kingdom fallen)' which will be published soon!

This series will depict canon-typical violence, age-gaps, sexism and misogyny, infidelity, among other themes explores in ASOIAF that I will tag as the series comes. Reader's discretion is advised

Visella Targaryen is an OC made by @blood0fthedragon who will make cameos and appearances later in the fic. You can check her fic What Will Survive of Us' !

Summary: Rodrik, having arrived to Dragonstone, remembers why he came and accepted Baela's hand in marriage, and gets to know her in the meantime

Word Count: 2.2k

Pairings: Baela Targaryen x OMC (Rodrik Mormont)

Rating: PG-13

Warnings: Violence, suggestive scene

Tagging: @aeksion-aekse @mini-kunoichi @huramuna @blood0fthedragon

Upon the night of his arrival at Dragonstone, Rodrik had felt welcome, however, he was reluctant of the marriage. He hardly knew Baela, and had heard many things about her, some of them mixed. She was a mystery to him.

After having dined and put on his nightshirt, he went down to the kitchen to a glass of water. Dragonstone wasn’t as cold as Bear Island, but was rather chilly. As he took in the simplicity of the kitchen, he was reminded of his castle back home, and his lifestyle. His father, Brandon, had been his hero growing up. But he had died back in Jaehaerys’ reign when he was a boy, and was now under the command of his uncle, Torrhen. He had always been a strange fellow, now that he had given it a thought after that fateful night in which he had accepted to marry Baela instead of one of Greyjoy’s daughters. Always alone with that man from Lys, whisperings and what seemed like plotting.

He had always told him to ‘be a boy his age’ and that ‘lordship could wait’ as he sent him beautiful women all over Westeros to his bed, or money to the brothels. He had made no attempt to sit on his seat, which he’d always kick himself for.

As he downed another cup of water, he remembered that night yet again since he had set sail, leaving the regency to his father’s friend, Marlon Snow; a shrewd, patient and wise man who had served as a squire to Prince Aemon when he was but seven, then cupbearer to the previous Lord of Winterfell during the councils of King Jaehaerys and who had been his father’s wisest and most beloved friend, and even respected by his mother, the Lady Alys Blackwood. It was said that it was Marlon himself who proposed Alys as wife instead of the sanguine and unpredictable Lady Dustin. It was mayhaps because of him that Rodrik existed at all. He had served his father well, and had given him helpful advice on handling the Targaryens and navigate the princess’ court. His mind raced back to what had gone down in Bear Island under his very nose.

As he left the brothel, a feeling that he wasn’t meant to be there, he observed two men from his table talking. Hiding beneath his cloak, he listened quietly.

“…Aye, it’s true, Torrhen is driving us to ruin while the rightful heir drinks and whores! Spending over the Greens, killing those who uncover him, bribes! Why nobody we sent over to Lord Rodrik has appeared is concerning. He grows more corrupt and powerful by the day. We must act, before Lord Cregan notices it. His men are always near, and they’re sniffing something.”

He finally broke out of his hiding “And, pray tell, my lords, what are they sniffling?”

The men’s eyes widened. Surprise. Relief. Then, resolve.

“My lord. We ought to have an urgent talk, but not here.”

That is where everything was discovered: proof that his uncle had sent an assassin to slay Lord Brandon, Torrhen blackmailing everyone, and how slowly he had sabotaged Rodrik to take over Bear Island, and the deep corruption he had created: violence, stealing from the smallfolk, killing those who sought to restore him, and how he planned to sabotage his marriage by poisoning him and blame it on a clueless woman as a jealous act.

Simmering with anger, he looked at the lords “Find those who’d support me. Steal the ancestral sword and bring it to the Mormont hunting lodge under the excuse of another of my parties. In two days’ time, we’ll strike.”

“Tell us what to do, my lord.”

With the sword and supporters at the secret passage inside the castle, he rallied his men there and told him the exact instructions: kill the traitors, spare the women and children, make their deaths quick. He’d take care of Uncle Torrhen like a true Mormont.

As he casually slid into the room where the men laughed and drank, madams and whores on their laps, many looked up to see a sober and tall Lord Rodrik. Despite his head throbbing, needing alcohol, he still held his head high, and stood against his seated uncle “I believe this is my seat. Thank you for warming it up, uncle, but I shall lead the festivities today.”

Begrudgingly, he got up and mockingly let him seat. Madams that he trusted had been replaced by the ones his uncle planned on attending, although he didn’t know of said trade, as planned. Three cupbearers served a very special wine. Not quite wine, not quite poison for his uncle’s lackeys. He raised his hand, calling for silence “A toast! For today, I take my rightful seat and pry it off those who’d threaten the goodwill of the Mormonts. A new era has arrived, and soon everything will fall into place.” Many of the men were sweating at this new play, thinking the same: he should be drunk and buried in a madam’s bosom, not here being the lord. He smiled. “But before the grand surprise, another final announcement: my good sister Aurynn has been betrothed to Prince Jacaerys Velaryon, and, in her eternal kindness, Princess Rhaenyra has offered me the hand of her niece, Baela Targaryen.” Murmurs erupted from his uncle’s men. He should be announcing his engagement to a Greyjoy. His uncle hissed something, but he ignored it. “Drink, to a prosperous future… and learning not to underestimate my power.”

That is when the sedative kicked in. All of them fainted, and the rest panicked. Like clockwork, his men sneaked upon the minor traitors and quickly slit their throats. His uncle tried to flee, but Rodrik tackled him and slammed him against the desk, Longclaw in his hand “Going somewhere, uncle? Before having a chat with me? Quite rude. Guards!” Then, he knocked him out, and took him to the planned cage, outside in the cold, cruel winter. They stripped him, beat him, cut off his hair and braids and chained him wound tight. As the sun rose, they took him out and placed him on his knees “You stand accused of high treason, murder, aiding abetting, corruption, and betraying your oath to the rightful heir. How do you answer to these crimes, Lord Torrhen?”

Gritting his teeth, he mumbled “I—I only did… what I thought best—,”

He got up, gripping Longclaw “The only thing you think about is your own greed. I’ve read all your letters. Your men have confessed under torture. The others are dead or on the run to Essos. Confess, and I shall make your death quick.”

“I… did it f-for… t-the rightful h-heir…” He looked at him coldly “Aegon Targaryen.”

He only shrugged coldly “Suit yourself. I shall marry Baela to right this wrong, and you’ll be too busy getting to know the worms underground.”

He cut off his head expertly, and nodded to the men outside to do what he had commanded ahead of the interrogation: execute the men the same way publicly as he himself announced the pardon to Torrhen’s prisoners and victims, and his departure to wed Baela… and bring her as the new Lady of Bear Island in three moons’ time.

As the memory faded, he noticed he wasn’t alone. Instead, stood the reason he had come here at all. Lady Baela Targaryen. He did a quick bow “My lady. Couldn’t sleep either?” They had talked here and there, and Rodrik had thrown Baela’s way some charming compliments and always made sure that fresh flowers and tokens were given to her, and always stood by her side during council meetings, where they were cupbearers and, of course, Rodrik spoke per House Mormont’s interests, which Baela seemed interested. This was their first talk since they had sat down and talked about how they felt about their marriage.

Baela shrugged “I always had trouble sleeping.”

Without needing to ask, Rodrik also got her a glass of water, and handed it to her “I suppose marrying a complete stranger isn’t how you imagined your wedding. You grew with Jace, and Jace with my sister, but not me.”

“Bear Island needed its heir’s presence. Besides, this engagement caught everyone off guard.”

“It sure did. But now that we are here… if you wish to get to know me, you only need to ask. I have nothing to hide from my future wife.”

Baela observed him, and then asked “How do you feel about fiery tempers?”

“I like a woman with character, and Bear Island’s lifestyle is cold and crude sometimes. I’ll need a strong wife by my side who can take it all.”

Baela’s eyes softened, an amused look on her face “Do you have some place to store Moondancer?”

“I do. It’s being perfected to cater your dragon’s tastes as we speak.”

“So my dragon doesn’t intimidate you?”

Rodrik shrugged, smiling “Every man in Westeros is a bit fascinated with dragons.”

Baela got closer to him “People whisper of your philandering. What are your honest declarations about it?”

“It is true, but for you, Lady Baela, I want to leave it in the past and focus on my wife.”

“For me, you say?”

He stroked her cheek, being almost against the table, and whispered “For you, Baela Targaryen. You have quite that effect.”

She smiled cheekily “Do I terrify you?”

“A bit,” he casually confessed “every man ought to be wisely a bit scared of his Targaryen wife. But again, I’ve always had a fondness for terrifying women.”

Baela chuckled, her hand tracing the neckline of his open nightshirt “Why me, Rodrik Mormont?”

His hand kept stroking her cheek, his other hand lingering close to her waist “Because my advisers might be right. You are what Bear Island and I need. A strong woman with a fiery temper and a bravery to endure this war and bring prosperity to Bear Island.”

They were close. Very close. Sparks were flying among them. It didn’t help that Baela was almost straddling him against the wooden desk, her hands on his shoulders, almost nose-to-nose. She then whispered “And do you believe them?”

He firmly seized her waist with his hand and whispered back “I am here, in this kitchen, showing you my cards, am I not, Lady Baela?”

“Yes, but can you handle the heat I bring?”

He smirked, rather sinful thoughts roaming his mind “I may be of ice, but give me some credit.”

He could kiss her. Hell, he could take her right there. She didn’t seem to be shy about it. In fact, she seemed willing. The way her dark eyes looked at him was equally smouldering and sinful. But then, he remembered what his advisor had said. Despite his urges, Baela was a respectable lady, and he needed to prove that he could be a gentleman. The order was clear: he was not to soil her until they were pronounced man and wife, and he was not to even look at other women ever again if he wanted this to work.

Taking a painstakingly deep breath, he gently broke the embrace and gave her an apologetic look “Pardon me, my lady. I’ve yet to remember myself. We should go to bed before we do something we might regret… and incur the princess’ wrath, or worse, your father’s.”

Without waiting for her to convince him, he curtsied and left the kitchen, heart pounding in his chest.

Dodged an arrow by a mile. The last thing he needed was to meet Vaemond Velaryon’s fate for thinking with his cock rather than his head. He had arrived expecting a vain and entitled princess to coddle, but getting to know the woman had been a different experience. He had been walked on by women in very odd scenarios, but this was different. Baela was an innocent woman, as far as he knew –but if she wasn’t, then he wouldn’t mind much—and there seemed to be a connection forming between the two. He had never felt the magnetic pull he felt towards Baela. He had many women in his lap –and other most private places—but Baela’s attention felt rewarding. He had found in her a fascinating woman that fuddled and intrigued him. Even if he had played confident, deep inside he was nervous. Never once a Targaryen had wed a Mormont. This was a unique match. His house—his and Lynn’s—tied to not one, but two Valyrian descent houses. The pressure was on from everywhere. He knew she was his duty first, but he wouldn’t be honest if he didn’t admit he wanted to give her a shot, because he wanted to be an honest man from now onwards.

Morning came once more, as he was woken by a servant, Rodrik blinked several times, not used to being woken by early morning, waking up normally at late noon. Sighing, he asked “What do we got today? Seating arrangement? Dance rehearsal, perhaps?”

The servant cleared its throat, clearly concerned “You are to spend a whole day hunting with Prince Daemon, my lord.”

“Ah, a chance to get to know Lynn’s betrothed as well—,”

“Alone.”

Oh fuck.

Oh, fuck.