#a king was beneficial and needed for heirs but not necessary for the country to function

[delusionaid]

I’m sorry but I can’t let go of the idea that (royalty AUs) Khaenri’ah was ruled by a queen more so than a king. Yes, there was a king as well, but the queen was the one with the real power; the queen was the most revered one. The Queendom of Khaenri’ah just has a nice ring to it.

[ask-ikeprichevalier]

And may I ask you why you feel you do not need a Queen. You would not want someone to fully support you in ruling the Kingdom? Someone who could help you fulfill all your goals in unifying the countries? Someone who could be a figurehead to not only the Kingdom of Rhodolite, but other nations, while you are off performing your Kingly duties? You mean to tell me your brothers (Clavis) would and should be entrusted with these duties?

And would any of them read to you at night, after you had a trying day? Waiting for you with a cup of tea?

I never said I don't need a Queen. Though those matters are to be decided after the war with Obsidian. I simply said a King doesn't need the likes of love, not that a King doesn't need the appearance of a strong union and potential heirs. The illusion or appearance of love can be quite beneficial.

In reality me and the other Princes all have the ability to support Rhodolite fully. We have the ability and means to unify all countries and assimilate them into our own. As King it is my responsibility to be able to do any and all tasks necessary to achieve the best possible outcome for Rhodolite. Clavis though he is trusted is not fully trusted with everything, hence why Sariel has been in the process of re-educating him in his duties. I am a capable man. I am a King. I am the Brutal Beast, the one and only man capable of brining the dream of a large, peaceful, unified Rhodolite to reality. Through any means possible.

[alj4890]

Misfortune's Intentions

(Liam x OC*Elisse Millan) (Drake x Riley)

A/N A couple more months have gone by. Liam and Elisse have attended many of the same events in Cordonia, gradually getting closer to one another. In this chapter, they begin the necessary steps toward a more personal relationship. Liam also has an honest conversation to the two that he once trusted the most.

@gkittylove99​ @krsnlove​ @kingliam2019​ @texaskitten30​ @hopefulmoonobject​ @yourmajesty09​ @mom2000aggie​ @ofpixelsandscribbles​

Masterlist

Chapter 3 Heart’s Honesty

The Royal Palace, Cordonia...

Liam looked up when he heard the murmur of feminine voices passing by on their way to the solarium.

Creeping towards the cracked door, he peeped out to see who it was.

He caught just a glimpse of Olivia, Riley, and Madeleine turning toward the right.

Curious yet not wishing to get caught up in conversation with any of them, he settled back in his chair and continued to review a trade proposal Elisse had given him from Amalas.

Monterisso's queen was not going to wait around on Riley's baby in making inroads toward a strong, beneficial relationship between their two countries. Since the pregnancy had been announced a couple of months back, Liam and his close knit group of friends had spent numerous events speaking to pushy foreign monarchs.

The only bright side to meeting so often, were the moments he had with Elisse. They were few and far between and much too short to satisfy him. A dance shared, a few words spoken here and there, possibly a shared smile over a private joke. All ended up making her the first person he searched for when entering into a room.

"Would you like me to bring a tray in here, your majesty or would you prefer having lunch in the dining room?"

Liam looked up at one of the footmen. "A tray, please." He called the man back. "Is there some gathering this afternoon?"

"The Queen Mother is hosting some ladies for tea in the solarium." The footman replied.

"Ah." Liam tried to focus. "Do you know who she invited?"

"I know some, sir."

Liam cocked an eyebrow, trying not to be impatient.

"Duchess Riley is the honored guest." The footman began to go through the usual name of Cordonian ladies. "Queen Isabella and Queen Amalas have also arrived."

Liam grit his teeth at not hearing what he wanted to most. "Did Queen Amalas bring another lady with her, by chance?"

"I'm not sure, sir. Should I go inquire?"

"No." Liam muttered. "Just bring my lunch in here, please."

"At once, sir." He bowed and left the king alone.

"There you are."

Liam nearly cursed. "Drake. Join me, won't you?"

"Thanks." He sat down on the couch across from him. "Haven't seen much of you recently."

Liam held up the documents he was reading. "Kingdom business."

"Ah." Drake drummed his fingers on his pants.

Liam tried to tune him out.

"Riley's having a tea party with Regina and a few others."

"So I've heard."

"Did you know the Spy Queen has returned?"

"Yes." Liam responded. "So did Auvernal's queen."

Drake ran a hand through his hair. "So, uh, have you gotten anything out of the spy that has taken up residence nearby?"

Liam lowered the documents. "Spy? What are you talking about?"

"Your investigation with Queen Amalas’s cousin." Drake narrowed his eyes. "That is why you are spending so much time with her isn't it?"

"Lady Elisse is more of a messenger between me and Amalas." Liam bit out.

"I've never seen you make sure to share most of your dances with messengers before, much less spend anymore time than you have to."

"I am doing exactly what I promised." Liam informed him. "I am taking time to get to know her. All these new events have limited my chances to be alone with her."

"Alone with her?" Drake leaned forward. "Why are you wanting to be alone with her?"

At this moment, Liam did not want to admit to Drake that he believed he was ready to try and fall in love again. He had yet to actually have a real date with Elisse, much less kiss her. He also wasn't certain her own feelings about taking that next step.

She seems to like me, he thought. Is it more than a friend? Or am I simply fooling myself like I did with Riley?

"Li?" Drake waved a hand. "Still with me?"

Liam closed his eyes. "Yes, sorry." He cleared his throat. "If I am alone with her, then she will be more inclined to talk about things she would never feel comfortable doing at a crowded gathering."

Drake slowly nodded. "That's true. Sounds like a good plan."

A plan to test her and see if she feels as I do, Liam thought.

"Are you going to try and get her alone after the queen's tea?"

Liam's eyes widened. "Elisse is here?"

"Well, yeah." Drake tilted his head slightly. "Liam, you sure there isn't anything wr--"

"Positive." Liam excused himself. "I need to put these papers in the study. Feel free to call down to the kitchen for an extra tray for lunch."

***************

The Solarium, Royal Palace, Cordonia...

What would I do without all these pastries?

Elisse gratefully took another bite of a strawberry tart. If her mouth was full then she wouldn't be pressured to talk.

Which was a good thing considering how she felt about Lady Riley Walker.

It nearly turned her stomach at how everyone was complimenting the waitress turned duchess. There was only so much bowing and scraping for attention Elisse could stand.

Especially to someone who had hurt Liam so horribly.

It didn't take a mind reader to realize that the reason Cordonia's king was not actively courting or planning on having little princes and princesses of his own was sitting across from her, gushing about what kind of father Drake would be.

"He has already promised to take all the late night diaper changes." Riley giggled.

Elisse didn't bother to hide her eye roll, earning a slight kick from her cousin.

Amalas sent her the look that somehow conveyed the reminder that they were trying to gain favor with the woman carrying the royal heir so stop making faces at every little thing she says.

Feeling somewhat chastised for possibly letting her cousin down, Elisse averted her gaze and poured herself another cup of tea.

How much longer are we going to have to sit here?

"Bradshaw would have fainted dead away if I remotely asked him to change one of the twins diapers." Isabella's brittle smile formed with the mention of her husband and children.

Elisse's eyes narrowed somewhat as she studied Auvernal's queen. She couldn't quite put her finger on it, but there was something not quite right. She cut her eyes to Amalas, wondering if she too was seeing this.

Her cousin tucked a lock of her own hair behind her right ear and gently tugged on the earlobe.

Elisse returned her attention to the conversations, satisfied with that secret signal that Amalas not only saw it but was planning on investigating it further.

"What about you?" Riley asked.

Elisse glanced up and realized that all eyes were on her.

"I'm sorry." She stammered. "Did you ask me something?"

"Can you picture your husband changing diapers?" Riley prodded.

"I'm not married." Elisse forced a pleasant smile. "It's difficult enough imagining him doing so when I don't even know what he looks like."

"Oh!" Riley glared over at Madeleine. "I'm sorry. I was told you were married."

Madeleine chuckled softly. "Perhaps if you read the reports I give you, you wouldn't make a mistake like that."

Riley ignored her and focused once more on Elisse. She was determined to find out more about this woman who seemed to always find a way to be near Liam.

"Enough baby talk." She decided. "Let's talk romance."

"Zeke is taking me to Switzerland next week." Penelope shyly said. "A trip for just the two of us."

Kiara laughed. "He is so excited about it. It is all he talks of whenever one of us asks him something." She smiled at Penelope's blush. "Très romantique, non?"

"Very." Hana sighed. "You two are so sweet together."

"Anyone else have that special someone?" Riley asked. "Or needs a little help from Cupid to get them to act right?"

Olivia shook her head. "By Cupid, you mean you."

"I do." The duchess replied. "I know all about stubborn men trying their hardest to keep from being with the perfect person for them."

Elisse sat up a little straighter. "Is that how you and his grace got together?" She did her best to make her question sound like polite curiosity. "Did you have to convince him to be with you?"

Amalas stilled. She had been the one to tell Elisse all of what happened during Liam and Madeleine's engagement tour.

Riley had a dreamy expression on her face. "Drake Walker put up quite the fight. It took all my I had to get him to be with me."

"When did you realize he was worth it?" Elisse asked while turning in her chair so that Amalas couldn't kick her again. "Most would have focused on someone who seemed interested."

Olivia snorted in agreement. "I will never understand how you could choose Walker over Liam."

Riley's smile turned tender. "What can I say? He was a complete marshmallow whenever we were alone. I saw past his snark and knew he had to be mine."

"I think it's terribly romantic." Hana added. "He has shown over and over that you are the most important person in his life."

While Hana and Riley went through the list of things that made Drake perfect, Elisse tbought of Liam's actions in each scenario.

"He took a bullet for her." Hana explained to the visitors.

"I will begrudgingly give him credit for that." Olivia grumbled. "That and for helping take Anton down."

Elisse mentally countered that with Liam coming and facing Anton and his minions alone to rescue the couple.

"He sounds like he will be a protective father." Amalas interjected before they continued to extol his virtues. "One that knows the value of family."

Issabella narrowed her eyes at her. "I agree. Which is why I would love to have him as father-in-law to one of my," she took a gulp of tea, "darling twins."

While the two queens tried to sway Riley toward choosing their children, Liam stepped into the sunroom.

Regina looked up and smiled. "Liam dear, would you care to join us for a cup of tea?"

He shook his head. "Thank you, but I came in here for something else." His charming smile flashed to the ladies. "I do hate to interrupt, but I need to speak to Lady Elisse a moment."

She set her teacup down. "Yes, of course, your majesty."

When Liam noticed the curious looks, he explained that he needed her to clarify one of the requests in the document she had given him.

"Perhaps you need Queen Amalas too." Isabella smirked. "Since she is Monterisso's ruler. Plus, I'm certian Duchess Riley would enjoy hearing something other than Prince Josip's darling ways."

Amalas kept her cool and did not rise to the bait. "I would be more than happy to." She winked at her cousin. "But Elisse was such a help to me as I drafted it that she knows it as well as I do."

"We will only be a moment." Liam promised, setting Elisse's hand in the bend of his arm.

Riley, Olivia, and Hana all shared a knowing look.

Regina noticed their exchange and cleared her throat.

"Would anyone care for more tea?"

**************

Once they were out of earshot of the solarium, Elisse spoke up.

"What problem did you come across in the trade agreement?"

Liam's cheeks flushed. "Actually, I haven't seen any problem."

"Oh." She attempted to not let her imagination get away from her. "Then why did you take me away from the tea?"

Liam rubbed the back of his neck. "I'm not--that is--I" he chuckled softly while turning to face her. "I guess I simply wanted to see you."

Elisse doubted that anyone could be more adorable than Liam was in this moment.

She smiled and lowered her eyes. "Would it be too forward to say that I had hoped to causally bump into you while here for the tea party?"

"Definitely. Much too forward." He responded in a serious tone.

Her head jerked up and she saw the humor in his eyes.

She playfully pushed him away. "That certainly cured me of ever doing so again."

He laughed out loud, took her hand, and pulled her along with him.

"Where are we going?" She asked.

"To my study to look over the documents."

"But I thought you said there wasn't a problem."

Liam opened the door for her. "There isn't. But one must have their alibis in order, m'lady."

"What am I to do with you?" She teased once he shut the door.

Liam allowed his heated gaze to settle on her. Her question sparked his imagination. There were several things he would love for her to do with him.

"Is this where you spend most of your day?" She asked, exploring his bookshelves.

"For the most part."

Her eyes cut over to him. His casual stance as he leaned against the door was one she was noticing happened whenever they were near one another. His image he maintained to the rest of the world was one of proper, ram rod posture. There was rarely any softening or relaxed muscles.

Except with me, she thought.

Still highly curious and a touch nervous, Elisse sat down on a small couch.

"The Queen Mother told us about the ball you're hosting. How are the preparations going?"

Liam shrugged on his way to sit near her. "They must be going well. No one has come to me with any problems yet."

She turned towards him. "Is it for a special reason?"

You mean other than wanting a night where I can easily steal you away?

Liam kept that response to himself. "I suppose it is. Now that Lady Riley has gotten over most of the morning sickness, we can host a ball in honor of the royal heir."

Elisse was unable to control her facial expression. "I see."

Liam's eyebrows drew together. He had noticed that same irritated expression appear whenever the viscountess heard that particular name. "Elisse, do you not care for Riley?"

Her lips parted, ready to admit how she truly felt about the one that had hurt him, only to close shut. She knew she needed to be more diplomatic for Amalas’s sake.

She turned away from him and shook her head. "She seems pleasant."

Elisse was surprised she didn't choke on that word.

"Pleasant?" Liam's lips began to curve.

"Yes." She pointedly looked out the window, knowing he was amused at her answer.

If I look at him, it will all be over, she thought. She had to fight to keep her smile from appearing as he slid closer to her.

"You find Lady Riley pleasant?" He propped his elbow on the back of the couch and rested his head on his hand. "I don't think I have ever heard such a mild compliment toward her before."

Elisse was unable to resist and turned back toward him. He quirked an eyebrow in silent question when she simply stared at his face.

All she could think about was how generous he had been. Allowing Riley to live here to be near Drake. Giving her a title and a castle. Hosting their wedding. Standing as best man. Fighting to save their lives with little regard to his own safety. And now to naming their child as his heir.

Kindness barely scratchs the surface, she thought.

"Elisse?"

"Hmm?"

"What are you thinking so hard about?"

Without pausing to consider if she would end up embarrassed by her answer, she said exactly what was on her mind.

"You."

Liam didn't think any other answer could possibly top that one.

He slid his hand over hers. "I think of you often."

"You do?"

"No." He grinned at her frown. "It is more than often. You are rarely if ever far from my mind."

Her warm smile returned. "I suppose I am the same way."

Liam drummed up the courage to ask her out. "Elisse, would you--"

"Liam, I wanted to--" Riley's eyes widened at the pair on the couch. "Sorry. Drake told me he had seen you come in here. I didn't know you were still reviewing..."she noticed there wasn't one scrap of paper between them, "trade documents."

"We cleared that matter up quickly." Liam kept a hold on Elisse's hand. "Is there anything you need, Riley?"

"Yes, um, the ball. What exactly did you have planned?"

"Is there anything other than dancing, drinks, and food that Cordonians do at balls?" Elisse teased.

Liam chuckled. "Other than taking a moment to obsess over our apples, not really."

Riley narrowed her eyes. Their little jokes and touches were more serious than she thought.

"I wanted to come in and offer my help, if needed." She muttered.

"Thank you, but everything is under control."

Riley hesitated a moment. "Liam, Drake and I were hoping to speak with you," she glanced at Elisse, "privately."

Liam sighed softly. "I'll join you and Drake in the west drawing room in a moment."

"Okay." She couldn't think of a reason to stick around and see what was going to happen between him and the viscountess.

Once she shut the door, Elisse focused on Liam. "I suppose I should find Amalas."

"Not yet, please." He lowered his eyss to her hand in his. "Lady Elisse," he cleared his throat, "I was wondering if you would like to have dinner with me one night."

"Of course. I know we should to discuss the terms--"

"Not for work." He quickly interrupted. "I'm asking you for a date."

Elisse wondered if he could hear her heart pounding. "I would love to."

Liam released the breath he had been holding. "Then I will call you this evening and we will discuss the details."

She stood up, suddenly more nervous than she had been. "I look forward to it."

Liam lifted her hand to his lips. "So do I."

***********

"Drake, they were definitely not talking about trade deals." Riley paced back and forth. "He was holding her hand!"

"Take it easy." He placed his hands on her shoulders. "You know stress isn't good for you and the baby."

"What if Liam starts insisting that we sign an arranged marriage between our baby and Queen Amalas's son?" She cradled her small belly. "What will we do then?"

"We'll fix this." Drake reassured her. "Aren't you the one to point out how we always find a way to defeat those that come at us?"

She slowly nodded.

"Then don't worry." He pressed a tender kiss to her forehead. "We got this, Brooks."

The couple looked up when Liam came into the room.

“You wished to speak to me.” He sat down in one of the chairs.

“Liam,” Drake began, “what were you speaking to Elisse about?”

“We were discussing dinner plans this week.”

"Dinner plans? You have a date with Elisse?" Riley asked.

"Yes." Liam didn't bother to hide his smile. "We've had dinner and lunches together numerous times, but..." His voice held a hint of the true happiness he felt. "It has always been work related. I thought it was time for us to be together for no other reason than because we want to."

"But she's the Spy queen's cousin!" Riley exclaimed.

Liam quirked an eyebrow at her. "I know who her family members are."

Riley motioned to Drake to say something.

He cleared his throat. "Li, you know we only want to see you happy." He shifted under Liam's piercing gaze. "But we don't know if we can trust Amalas or anyone associated with her."

"I know I can." Liam's tone held a warning to not push him on this. "Elisse has never brought up the subject of your child marrying Amalas's son."

"She is probably waiting until you get more comfortable around her." Riley grumbled. "Seems like something a secret agent would do. Seduce the target into agreeing--"

Liam's hand slammed down on the end table next to him, causing the couple to jump in surprise.

"That's enough!" He snapped. His kingly authority reverberated within the formal drawing room. "I won't hear another word against Elisse." His blue eyes sparked with fury. "What proof do you have?"

"None." Riley stepped back from his glare. "Liam, you're so trusting that anyone can take advantage of your kindness."

"Yes," his soft tone scared them even more than his shouting. "I can see where you would both think that, given that I trusted you."

"Liam, what are you talking about?" Riley asked.

"I'm talking about the fact that nearly three years ago I trusted you with my heart." His eyes went from one to the other. "I laid it at your feet, Riley, and asked Drake to guard you while I tried to help uncover this conspiracy against you." He folded his arms. "If anyone shouldn't be trusted in this kingdom at the moment, it would be the two who betrayed me in the worst possible way."

Tear slipped down Riley's cheeks. "Liam, I...I thought you understood." She swallowed. "You stood there as Drake's best man at our wedding. You named our child your heir."

"Just because I understood, forgave you, and accepted it; that does not necessarily mean that I have forgotten." He replied. “I still trust you, but I have become more cautious in doing so.”

"Liam," Drake's voice cracked with regret. "I'm sorry. I had no idea you still felt--"

"I don't." Liam interrupted. "I haven't for a while now." His stance relaxed with his next words. “Since meeting Elisse, I have realized that I am able to move on from the past.”

He thought of the excitement he felt just in anticipating seeing her again. That desire to touch her. Finally feel what her lips against his. Seeing her smile. Holding her close.

He focused again on two people he still considered his best friends. "Regardless of what her cousin does, Elisse is innocent. She is the woman I intend on knowing on a personal level. You either support me in that and treat her with every bit of friendship and courtesy she deserves or you can return to Valtoria until you are able to do so."

With that, Liam left the couple with jaws dropped.

**************

Pier at Cordonia’s Capital a few nights later...

"Elisse?" Liam called out when he finally reached The Semblance sailboat.

She popped up from the galley. "Liam?"

His smile formed when she came over.

She climbed up the side, held onto the various ropes, and leaned forward. "Ready to come aboard?"

"You know, I'm not exactly fond of boats." He admitted. "One too many bad experiences."

Her smile turned tender. "I know. That's why we aren't going sailing." She tilted her head to where she had a table set. "I just wanted a spot where I could have you to myself."

Liam grabbed the same ropes and pulled himself until he was face to face with her. His lips curved at her slight intake of breath. "I could be on board with that."

She rolled her eyes playfully while groaning. Gripping his blazer she tugged him onto the boat. "Only you are cute enough to get away with that awful pun."

"I try." He teased.

She slipped her arm around him. "I hope you like what I prepared." Her eyes darted around as if she was worried someone would overhear. "Felix has been trying his hardest to teach me how to cook."

"Elisse, you shouldn't have gone to so much trouble." Liam tucked her long dark hair over her shoulder. "Just having a moment with you away from court and our duties is enough for me."

"Liam," she slid her arms up his chest, "I have a confession."

He placed his hands on her waist. "Oh?"

"Years ago, Amalas began a file on you." Her eyes darted to his lips before lifting once more to his crystal clear blue eyes. "And I read it."

Liam grimaced. "It sounds like you're about to say something I'm not going to like."

Her tender smile caused him to pause in pulling away.

"On the contrary," she stepped closer to him, "everything I read, I liked." Her dark brown eyes held his. "That's why I hope you like everything I've done."

Unable to resist the temptation any longer, Liam captured her lips in a heated kiss.

Her fingers tangled in his hair as he continued the sweet exchange.

Their eyes met as they began to part, only for them both to rush forward in a more passionate kiss.

"Liam." She said in a breathless voice when his lips brushed her cheek. "I've been waiting on you to do that for months now."

He chuckled, cuddling her close. "You have no idea how often I wanted to shove everything off my desk and yank you on it."

Her eyes twinkled. "I might have had similar thoughts."

He thought his face was in danger of being set in a permanent goofy grin.

A breeze brought their attention back to the carefully set table.

"I don't want to let your dinner go to waste." He murmured, kissing her neck.

"It probably tasted horrible anyway." She smiled at hearing his laughter. "I would like to get a second date out of this. My dinner might have sent you running as far away from me as you can."

"It wouldn't." He pressed his forehead against hers. "I have no intention of running away from you, Elisse."

Her smile took his breath away. With a slight joyful squeal, she kissed him once more.

"Would you like to lay here and watch the stars appear?" She motioned toward another section of the boat she had piled with an air mattress, blankets, and pillows. A bucket with chilled champagne was on hand with two glasses.

"Love to." He let her go, watching as she retrieved some strawberries and set them nearby their pallet.

He popped the champagne and filled their glasses.

"What should we toast to?" He asked.

"To the longest waited first date ever." She tapped her glass against his. "And how happy I am to finally be here with you."

Liam held her gaze as he downed his glass. He set it to the side and pulled her back in his arms. "Nowhere near as happy as I am."

****************

A few ships over, Olivia lowered her binoculars. 

“The date seems to be going well.” She whispered.

“Do you think she can be trusted?” Hana asked. 

“There’s only one way to know for sure.” Olivia passed the binoculars to her accomplice. “We need to dig up all we can on the viscountess and queen from Monterisso as well as everything I can on Auvernal’s monarchs.”

“If Liam falls in love with her,” Hana took a deep breath, “it will hurt him horribly if we discover she is using him.”

“He’s already been through so much.” Olivia murmured. “I don’t want to be the one to deliver news like that to him.”

“But we promised Riley we would investigate Elisse.” Hana shifted. “Do you think she is wrong about suspecting her?”

“I--” For the first time, Olivia doubted they needed to spy on Elisse. “I honestly don’t know.” 

[lovelyirony]

Iron Widow for 51. “Are you trying to seduce me?” - “Depends. Are you seducible?” 😍

Tony Stark was heir-apparent to the Carbonell and not the Least Bit interested in marriage. 

“You have to get married,” his mother frets. 

“Why?” Tony asks. 

“Because I need to have someone who will actually reign you in. Do not think for a second I am fooled by Rhodey, I saw you both on the roof last week.” 

Tony groans, throwing himself on his bed. 

“Tony, darling,” Maria says, smoothing her son’s hair back. “We need advantages. I didn’t...it’s not exactly beneficial for my small kingdom to be at odds with the Starks.” 

Tony scowls; his mother had left King Howard for multiple reasons, the clearest of which was that he was the worst man alive.” 

“I’ll do it to spite him then,” Tony says. “And you made the right choice, Mama. Now you can have the children of the kingdom in whenever you please.” 

They start reviewing eligible candidates. 

Some are a complete snooze. 

“This guy...Hammer? Rhodey, did you seriously put him in here?” 

“A comedic break,” Rhodey says. “I know you have higher standards than that. Did you really think that I would think you two were a good match?” 

“Granted,” Tony shrugs. 

Sharon’s also in the back, reviewing the paper copies. Her eyes go up as she sees someone. 

“Rhodey, skip to slide thirty-two.” 

“You guys made thirty-two slides?!” 

“Relax, five of those were memes I made of the potential suitors,” Sharon says, rolling her eyes. “Well, also one of Rhodey. But you can always see that later. I’d like to introduce you to Queen Natasha Romanov.” 

She’s gorgeous. She has a serene smile and has her interests are surprising for someone of her caliber; she likes marksmanship, stealth, and leading some of her country’s own military operations. She rules in partnership with her equal, King James.” 

“They’re not married?” Tony asks with a frown. 

"Their kingdom has a need for two leaders. In case one is killed in action, the other takes over. No romance necessary.” 

Tony nods. 

“I’ll be seeing her at the ball?” He asks carefully. 

“Of course.” 

- 

The prep for the ball is simply exhausting. Tony has heard that the Head Chef is wreaking havoc on the interns for buttercream frosting production, Sharon’s been vetting security and holding arrangements of flowers, and his own mother is making minute adjustments. 

“This is going to be a fucking train wreck,” Tony grumbles, frowning. 

“It won’t be terrible,” Rhodey muses. “At least you have free entertainment for the night. Sharon invited Justin and we’re seeing if he’ll believe that our country has blue wine.” 

“You didn’t.” 

“We’re attempting.” 

Tony snorts, looking at the suit that his advisory has laid out. It’s a simple black but it fits like a dream and is simplistic and neutral. He adds a rather nice pair of cuff-links and turns to his friend. 

“Do I look presentable?” 

“As ever. Let’s head down, Sharon’s getting antsy.” 

- 

Natasha surveys the room. She was surprised when she received an invitation, but even more surprised when she took a look at the heir and found herself very...interested. 

He had a gaze that was intense, a stature that let those around him know that he was in charge and he knew what he was doing whether or not you wanted him to be doing that. 

Consider her interested. 

Natasha herself was with James, who was very uncomfortable in his suit and it showed. 

“Could you even act at-ease?” Natasha murmurs. “You’re not even the one interested in this.” 

“That’s because I don’t see why you’re fawning over this guy,” he grumbles. 

“Because he’s smart and he has nice eyes,” Natasha says. “I’ll see if he has anything else to offer by the end of the night.” 

She leans back now to enjoy the show of Tony Carbonell coming down the stairs, light on his feet and incredibly graceful. He seems to float as he walks, greeting his mother with a warm hug and a kiss on the cheek. She straightens his tie, which results in an eye-roll but no other form of frustration. 

- 

Tony decided he would never again socialize as long as he lived. Many of the suitors were alright, but some were just the absolute worst. Doom wasn’t so bad on the eyes at least and could carry a decent conversation about science and engineering, but really? 

He wouldn’t shut up about his country to let Tony get a word in edge-wise. 

“When we’re married I think you’d look wonderful in green,” he muses. 

Tony’s eyes blaze. 

“There’s no ‘when,’ Doom, because I would rather volunteer to swim with piranhas than spend even a night with you!” 

He stomps off, steam nearly coming out the ears. 

Rhodey and Sharon are amused. 

“Free entertainment,” Sharon sighs. “I love tonight.” 

“Then you go spend an hour talking with Doom,” Tony says, ordering a water from the bar. “Or hell, have him talk at you. I am tired.” 

This is when Natasha Romanov makes her move. She’s currently been talking with other candidates and Sharon, who has been a lovely woman to talk to and would probably make a fantastic match for James, who has been brooding by the appetizers table. 

“Good evening,” Natasha says. “I don’t believe I’ve introduced myself yet. I’m Natasha Romanov.” 

“Tony Carbonell,” Tony responds. “Pleasure.” 

“May I have this dance?” Natasha asks. “It seems that Justin Hammer is coming back around for a round of questioning and forgive me for saying, but you cannot hide your facial expressions that well.” 

Tony clasps her hand and gets himself whirled onto the floor, easy music flowing through. 

“Are you always this smooth?” Tony asks. 

“Only on days that end in ‘y’,” Natasha answers. Tony rolls his eyes. 

“That was terrible.” 

“Yeah,” Natasha admits, grinning. “But I think not as terrible as Doom.” 

“Ugh, I know. He’s annoying.” 

They dance for a while longer until the song ends and Tony invites Natasha to get a plate with him. 

“What brought you here?” Tony asks. “Besides the invitation.” 

“Had to see if your pants fit you as well as they do in the picture,” Natasha responds. 

Tony chokes on a cheese cube. 

“Are you...trying to seduce me?” 

“Depends,” Natasha starts, grinning. “Are you seducible?”  

Tony rolls his eyes. 

“You are about the biggest sap here, I swear to god.” 

They talk late into the night, long past when the band goes home and Tony was supposed to bid all the other guests goodnight. 

He much prefers debating with Natasha about conspiracy theories, telling her about his awful father, and her solemnly promising to help with the situation. 

- 

Six months later, Natasha has an official, royal proposal. It makes world headlines, she’s very proud. She’s even better when she gets to show off her husband to the world and promise everyone that the countries were friendly and allied with one another for future benefits, such as clean energy. 

(And cleaning up King Howard. But that was a different adventure much left after the honeymoon.) 

[thatfictionalgal]

The Mad King/Queen Mistake

So, in episode 2 of season 7, Jon goes to Dragonstone to appeal to Daenerys in the war against the white walkers. During this exchance, Jon states that she is the Mad King’s daughter and has no reason to trust her. That’s where we get this:

Daenerys asking Jon not to judge her on the basis of her father and his actions. Now, that whole scene is riddled with hipocrasy and ego at it’s finest for Dany. Other people have covered that and broken it down beautifully.

What we’re going to cover is how Dany makes the exact same crucial mistake that Mad King Aerys does.

Seem familiar? It should.

This is when King Aerys strung up Brandon and Rickard Stark when they attempted to get Lyanna back from the Targaryans. They tried to enact trial by combat and King Aerys used “dragon fire” as his champion. He burned the father and let the inheriting son strangle himself to death trying to rescue his father.

Before anyone states that one was necessary and the other not: BOTH ACTIONS WERE INCREDIBLY CRUEL AND UNNECESSARY. There were alternative options laid out (imprisonment) that would have avoided a lot of war and bloodshed.

What do these two points have in common:

1. Two great respected houses

The Starks are a well known beloved house of the North. The Tarly’s are a great house in Highgarden territory of Westeros and despite Randyll’s obvious power grab, the Tarly’s would be in a much better position socially in Westeros than the Tyrells who just sided with a foreign invader.

2. Head of house and primary heirs are wiped out

This is fairly explanatory. Brandon Stark was set to inherit Winterfell being the eldest son and Dickon Tarly was the heir apparent to the Tarly house. Their deaths with their fathers send their houses into turmoil. Ned Stark of course became the head of Winterfell AND head of the Stark family, two things I’m sure he never considered happening until it did. Samwell Tarly was more or less threatened out of his position in the family by his father and would now find himself the head of the Tarly line being the only male heir.

(Sidenote: this would be socially/politically be a problem for Sam and Gilly for Sam to suddenly become a great lord. They are not married, making Sam an eligible and sought after bachelor. Gilly is a wildling with a baby born out of incest, which would be thrown into her face again and again not just by lords but by smallfolk who have been taught to be hateful towards Wildlings. The only way they could circumvent that is to play up a fake lineage for Gilly, immediately marry, and never disclose the baby’s origins even if the kid never looks like Sam. Or ensure that the baby never stands to inherit Horn Hill by making him a Thorn)

3. They were killed as a display of power

Daenerys didn’t consider sparing the Tarly’s because they wouldn’t bend the knee when she openly stated that it was “bend the knee or die”. She could have made good on her threat just by killing Randyll but spared Dickon as he was young/foolish and needed to ensure High Garden remained an ally. Daenerys could have accomplished everything she wanted to by being firm with Randyll but diplomatic and lenient with Dickon.

King Aerys killed the Starks out of “treason”. Now Brandon Stark pulled a stupid move by going to Kings Landing to demand Lyanna back and the death of Rhaegar - it was youthful impulsiveness. Arrested under treason, Brandon was ransomed back to his father and when Rickard went to pick him up, was also arrested for treason. Keep in mind that the Starks were well within their rights to demand some form of compensation for the Lyanna abduction and they were still within their rights for a trial by combat. Nothing they did was actually considered treasonous.

If the King were somewhat sane or listened to his advisors, this could have been avoided by simple diplomacy. Lyanna would be returned and possibly married off to a prominent lord in King’s Landing since she was “compromised” in exchange for no harm tor trial by combat for Rhaegar. Or at least honoring their secret wedding and declaring Lyanna a princess consort to Rhaegar. It would be a slight against the Starks, sure, but it would resolve the situation nicely. Hell, the King could even insist one of the Stark men be sent to the Wall since by enacting their rights put the Prince in danger. INSTEAD, the King pulled a power play to ensure that no one would ever think to challenge house Targaryan again - even if everyone was well in their rights to.

CONSEQUENCES:

It’s easy enough to remember what happened when the Mad King roasted the Starks: the entire country went into rebellion. It was the final straw for Westeros and it lost the Targaryans loyalty not just from the North/Winterfell/Starks but Riverrun, Storm’s End, and the Eyrie. Even Casterly Rock joined in towards the end. The Targaryans really only had political ties with Highgarden and Dorne at that point to call on, and even they had problems with the King.

Dany just lost whatever hold she may have had left in Westeros. Keep in mind she neglected her alliances with Dorne and the Iron Islands once their leaders were captured. Highgarden was the last alliance she had in Westeros and even with Olenna dead, Dany could have salvaged the situation by appealing to Highgarden’s bannermen or just keeping Dickon captive.

Dickon Tarly was worth more to Daenerys alive than dead.

1. By killing Dickon, Daenery’s ensures that Cersei can round up the rest of Highgarden by simply touting the “cruel foreign invader” rhetoric and rallying the rest of the Highgarden Bannermen to the Lannisters.

2. Alive, Daenerys can lean on the bannermen to ensure at least a standstill in the hopes of keeping Dickon safe. He is their de facto leader since there is a power vacuum in Highgarden.

3. It would give Daenerys time to woo Dickon onto her side. Yes, she killed his father but it would be Hizdahar zo Loraq all over again and she knows how beneficial marrying Hizdahar was in keeping peace. Or at least bringing Hizdahar into the fold.

4. Most importantly, by keeping Dickon alive, she ensures that no house or territory seeks vengeance against her.

Casterly Rock/Kings Landing: currently Dany is at war with the Lannisters but by killing their Tarly allies, she ensures it would be that much harder brokering peace with them.

Highgarden: already explained but again, the Tarlys are the current strongest house in Highgarden. Olenna’s alliance with Dany was seen by a betrayal to the bannermen, which resulted in a fraction of the territory and now a power vacuum. It is completely unlikely that Dany can salvage the situation since she has killed the two heads of the Tarly household. She might be able to hold the territory through force with the Unsullied or the Khaleesar but that is DEFINTELY not going to win any favors.

The North: Jon Snow, King of the North, is best friends with Samwell Tarly, the current head of the Tarly family. Sam has the backing of the King of the North and once Jon draws parallels between the Tarly’s and the Stark Execution, it won’t take long for Jon to openly rebel against Daenerys. With him, through Sansa’s political maneuverings, ensures the Eyrie and Riverrun are against Daenerys as well.

Let’s say that Jon has no political power at that point because his heritage is revealed and he is ousted from his KoTN position. Cannonically the North, the Eyrie, and Riverrun threw in their support for Sansa to be Queen before she turned the support back to Jon. It would be a safe bet that she could be declared Queen simply because she is head of the Stark house and Lady of Winterfell. Now, she may not have ties to Samwell Tarly outside of Jon, it still wouldn’t take much for the North to oppose Daenerys. There’s no love for Targaryans there and it wouldn’t take much for them to draw parallels to the Tarly’s as well. It would be proof that Dany is indeed the Mad King’s daughter and they would have every reason to fight her, even if they never side with the Lannisters. The tricky part would be to ensure Jon Snow’s safety - which should be a meta for another time *writes a note*.

Dorne:

1. Dany didn’t do anything in regards to alliances with Dorne. She abandoned Ellaria, the defacto leader of Dorne, to the Lannisters and did nothing in terms of diplomacy towards Dorne’s bannermen to ensure their alliance with Ellaria gone. (Hell, it would have been simple. Dorne hates the Lannisters, the Lannisters have Ellaria, let’s kick their asses.) Those ties are completely weak now.

2. Dorne and Highgarden go waaaaayyyy back. Their are many intermarriages and alliances between them. Dany just screwed with the power structure in Highgarden and while Dorne may be experiencing their own power vacuum at the moment, Dany has now ensured that Dorne won’t align with her. The Iron Islands: There’s two parts to this as well

1. The Iron islands are split between Yara and Euron, with the strongest faction being Euron. As everyone knows, Euron is currently sided with the Lannisters on the promise of a marriage alliance.

2. Just like with Dorne, Dany has done nothing about Yara’s capture and that’s a problem for Theon, who is Yara’s main bannerman. She hasn’t even tried to be diplomatic about Yara’s capture when it would have been easy to do so at the Queen’s/King’s meet. (”I will agree to this standstill in exchange for the release of my allies.” - a simple statement which may not go anywhere but it shows loyalty.)

The trouble too is Theon. He has no ties to Dany now that Yara is gone and he basically got permission from Jon to go rogue in order to save Yara. While Yara and Theon may no longer have political power in their own home territory, they may align with the North either to overthrow Euron in favor of Yara or for protection. Theon did betray Robb - a fact no one forgot - and killed a beloved Maester of Winterfell. However, he didn’t kill the Stark boys and he helped Sansa escape. Jon has already used this as an excuse not to kill Theon outright and it may garner a favor or two from Sansa. At the very least, this would keep the Greyjoys protected in the massive war that’s going on and the Starks might put a Greyjoy on the Salt Throne to keep the islands from getting uppity again once Euron is dealt with.

Anyway, point being the Islands are no longer a viable alliance for Dany, even with Theon in tow.

Storm’s End:

This one is tricky because this territory has been in a power vacuum since season 5 when Brienne finished off Stannis (supposidly). Let’s say for a moment that Gendry is legitimized, he already friends with Arya and Jon. Storm’s End also has a friendly history with the North, they may just fall in line with them.

At the current moment though, this territory is unknown. Stannis was in open conflict with the Lannisters over legitimacy and Cersei was considered a Baratheon by marriage, as well as the mother of the Baratheon line. So the alliance could be with the Lannisters or it’s currently at a standstill. Either way, they’re not for the Targaryans.

*** ALSO IMPORTANT ***

Aerys stopped listening to his advisors and after the deaths of the Starks, ensured they would move against him. Tywin was Hand at the time and Jaime was a Kingsguard. Varys was also part of the court and it wouldn’t be surprising if he was making political moves as well to ensure Aery’s death. Even if the rest of the advisors did nothing for the rebellion, they also did nothing to help Aerys. People were abandoning ship.

Now after the deaths of the Tarly’s, Tyrion and Varys are also contemplating their positions in Dany’s court. They’re beginning to realize they’ve made a mistake and yes, they are talking about making her listen but it’s not working. We may very well start to see Tyrion and Varys either working against Daenerys or stop helping her completely.

TLDR:

By killing Rickard and Brandon Stark, Mad King Aerys lost his alliances and lost his hold on Westeros. It was ultimately the decision that ended in rebellion and the Targaryan line. It was, in essence, political suicide.

By killing Randyll and Dickon Tarly, Daenerys commits the same mistake her father (Mad King Aerys) makes and cements her reputation as the Mad King’s Daughter. It makes her a pariah and kills any kind of alliance she could have made to ensure her throne diplomatically. It was, in essence, political suicide.

History doesn’t repeat but it sings the same tune.

(If you read all this, thank you.)