Sullied
Pairing: Rhaemond
Word Count: 8.2k
Warnings: Targcest, dark Aemond
Summary: Aemond tells Rhaena he wants to teach her how to learn how to ride a dragon but he has an ulterior motive
Rhaena quietly excused herself from the lavish feast held in honor of her half-brother Aegon's arrival in King's Landing. The grand hall buzzed with laughter and celebration, every toast and cheer aimed at the newborn prince. Aemond, seated at the far end of the long table, noticed as Rhaena slipped away, her quiet departure going unnoticed by everyone, including her own father. Earlier that day, they had arrived on the back of Caraxes—just Daemon, Rhaena, and Aegon, with Baela choosing to remain behind on Driftmark.
She’d lied claiming she didn’t feel well but Rhaena knew the truth. Her older sister simply didn’t want to go.
As the guests toasted to Aegon’s health, Aemond’s eye followed Rhaena, noting the sadness that shadowed her expression, a stark contrast to the jubilant atmosphere. She had sat through the meal quietly, only forcing a smile when directly addressed, her politeness masking a deep sense of isolation. He could tell she was painfully aware that the gathering didn’t include her—and no one would notice her absence.
Intrigued by her desolate demeanor, Aemond felt a twisted interest in the young girl who seemed perpetually overshadowed. When his brother ‘warned’ him of their visit, he’d hoped to be met by an older version of the girl that he saw at Driftmark. He was miserable and was eager to argue with someone. It should’ve been easy to rile her up. Instead, he was met with a sunken version of her. Older, but different.
Daemon had spoken at length to the King about Baela’s new skill in archery, her newfound mastery of commanding the ever growing Moondancer, and yet not a word about Rhaena. Aemond’s lips curled into a sly smile as an idea began to form in his mind. Here was Rhaena, the dragonless daughter of his despised uncle. An opportunity presented itself. One that would allow him to both needle Prince Daemon and offer Rhaena a form of companionship that would suit his darker purposes.
Throughout the feast, Rhaena remained oblivious to the way Aemond’s gaze lingered on her, a wicked glint in his eye. She sat playing with her hair. Removing the gold band of her loc, and attaching it again. She’d spent half an hour doing this mindlessly while staring into space, occasionally taking a break to glance at the King and her father. Eventually, she slipped away, headed to her chambers and figured she’d stayed at the table long enough to be considered civil and gracious to her host. Aemond waited a while before he excused himself from the table, his steps calculated as he made his way through the dimly lit corridors of the Red Keep towards Rhaena’s chambers. His heart thrummed with excitement, not at the prospect of helping her, but at the thought of the mischief he intended to set in motion.
When he reached her door, Aemond took a moment to compose himself before knocking softly. The door opened to reveal Rhaena, her long hair falling free from the earlier updo, her surprise evident as she looked up at him. She had been expecting a handmaiden, not this older boy.
“Aemond,” she began cautiously, “what brings you here?”
He cleared his throat, a sheepish smile playing on his lips. “Rhaena, I wanted to talk to you. May I come in?” His voice was uncharacteristically gentle, and it caught her off guard.
Hesitating only for a moment, the unsure Rhaena nodded and stepped aside, allowing Aemond into her chambers. As they settled onto a chaise, Aemond began, his tone deceptively sincere, “I wanted to apologize for how I’ve treated you in the past. I realize I wasn’t kind, and we didn’t start off well.” He paused, letting his words hang in the air before continuing with a touch of feigned humility, “For that, I’m truly sorry. I have no idea what it’s like to lose a mother.”
Rhaena’s wary expression softened, clearly touched by the unexpected apology. She’d heard stories about him throughout the years on Dragonstone, but he seemed to have changed. She had always seen Aemond as cold and aloof, so this sudden show of remorse took her by surprise. “Thank you, Aemond. That means a lot,” she replied, a small smile appearing as she added, “I hope you're doing well.”
She didn’t say it, but he knew he was referring to his eye when her wide gaze lingered on his obvious scar.
Aemond dismissed her concern with a wave of his hand. “There’s no need to worry about that.”
A silence fell on them, with Rhaena not knowing what to say next. It was getting late. He noticed that she expected him to leave after this exchange, but he remained, his voice deepening as he pressed on. “I know how much dragons mean to you,
and I’d like to help. How about I take you to the dragon pits tomorrow? I can teach you a few things about riding, show you what your father and others haven’t.” His tone was earnest, almost too earnest, and it made Rhaena pause.
Rhaena’s eyes lit up with hope at the idea of finally connecting with dragons, something she had longed for but felt deprived of. Her egg had hatched but the sickly hatchling died the next day. She’d been stuck trying to hatch a new dragon. Her father’s attention had always been elsewhere, and with her sister Baela far away, the loneliness had grown unbearable. “I would love that, Aemond,” she said softly, genuine gratitude coloring her voice.
The thought of finally being seen, of being offered something for herself, even if from Aemond, was a welcome reprieve from the constant overshadowing by her younger half-brother and the absence of her sister.
But the girl had no idea. Beneath Aemond’s charming smile, his intentions were far from pure. The offer was a calculated move, part of a larger plan to lead Rhaena astray, far from the dragon pits and into a situation that would serve his own need for revenge against Daemon. To him, Rhaena was merely a pawn. A way to strike at his uncle in a game that Rhaena didn’t even know she was part of.
As Aemond bid her goodnight and left her chambers, his mind raced with anticipation of what was to come. The pieces were set, and tomorrow, the game would begin in earnest. Rhaena, oblivious to the darker undercurrents of his offer, had no idea of the treacherous path she was about to tread, guided by Aemond’s hand. She missed her mother, her sister, and the simple life she had known before, but now she was entangled in something far more dangerous. This game of manipulation and deceit, where she was the unwitting prize.
The morning light filtered through the heavy curtains of Rhaena’s chambers as she stood before a mirror, her handmaidens fussing over the folds of her purple cape. The dress, a deep shade that complimented her complexion, was one she loved to wear. Today, though, felt different, and she wanted to be ready for whatever Aemond had in mind in her quest for a dragon.
She stared at her reflection, her expression pensive. The dress felt like armor, the rich velvety fabric a barrier between her and the cold world she often felt so alienated from. As the last ribbons were tied, Rhaena dismissed the handmaidens with a nod and made her way to her father’s chambers. She rehearsed her words in her mind, hoping that Daemon might take notice of her spending time away from him today. It was expected of her to stay silently by his side like he typically does.
When she arrived, the door was slightly ajar. She hesitated for a moment, then pushed it open and stepped inside. Daemon was seated at a large table, his back to her, engrossed in conversation with a maester. It was less a conversation and more of her father lecturing. They were speaking of Aegon the Conqueror, discussing his campaigns and victories with the kind of reverence that Daemon only ever reserved for their ancestors.
“Father,” Rhaena began, her voice soft.
Daemon didn’t turn to look at her. “Not now,” he muttered, waving her off without a second glance. He was too absorbed in the tales of old, too preoccupied with the legacy of a long-dead king to care.
She stood there for a moment, hoping he might look at her, acknowledge her, but when he didn’t, her expression hardened. Even in a new environment, he finds a way to be preoccupied. Now mroe invested in a dead man than her since he doesn’t have his usual places in Dragonstone to ignore her. There was no point in telling him anything about what she’d be up to today. She was just as invisible to him now as she was at the feast last night and Pentos.
Without another word, she turned and left his chambers, her frustration mounting with every step. She didn’t want to see him again, not if he couldn’t even bother to listen to her. As she walked down the dimly lit corridors of the Red Keep her thoughts turned to escape, somewhere far from King’s Landing, Dragonstone, and Driftmark.
She thought of the Vale, its rugged beauty and high mountains. Lady Arryn would be kind to her, she was sure. Or perhaps Highgarden, the Tyrells were known for their warmth and hospitality. Anywhere would be better than here, trapped in castles where her own father couldn’t even spare a moment for her.
Lost in her thoughts, Rhaena soon found herself at the entrance to the dragonpits. The massive structure loomed ahead, its dark stone walls casting long shadows over the ground. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for what lay ahead.
As she entered, she saw Aemond waiting for her, his tall, lean figure unmistakable even in the dim light. It was so dark, it reminded her of Dragonstone. He was dressed simply, though there was an air of sharpness about him, as if he was always prepared for a fight. His single eye watched her approach, the intensity in his gaze making her heart skip a beat.
“You look prepared,” Aemond said with a smirk as she drew closer.
Rhaena forced a smile, though the weight of her earlier encounter with her father still lingered. “I thought it best to be ready for whatever you have in mind,” she replied, trying to match his tone.
Aemond’s smirk widened, but there was something darker behind it, a glint of calculation that Rhaena couldn’t quite place. “Good. We have much to do today.”
He extended a hand to her, and after a brief hesitation, she took it. The warmth of his grip was a stark contrast to the coldness she felt inside. As they walked further into the dragonpits, Rhaena couldn’t shake the feeling that she was stepping into something far more dangerous than she had anticipated but there was no turning back now.
As Aemond and Rhaena ventured deeper into the dragonpits, the air grew cooler, the light dimmer. The dragonkeepers that lingered around headed the opposite way, clearly having a routine with Aemond and knowing they shouldn’t interrupt him. The rough stone walls, damp and slick with age, seemed to close in around them, casting eerie shadows that danced in the flickering torchlight. Rhaena could hear the distant growls and hisses of the dragons that dwelled within, a reminder of the power that lay hidden in these aging tunnels.
Aemond led the way, his stride confident as he guided her through the winding passages. The deeper they went, the more oppressive the atmosphere became. The shadows grew thicker, and the faint sounds of the dragons grew louder, more menacing. Rhaena’s steps faltered slightly, but Aemond seemed to revel in the darkness, his smirk growing as he noticed her unease.
Surely hatching a dragon and letting it grow above ground would be better than spending so much time in these depressing caves with the older dragons.
“Not far now,” Aemond murmured, his voice low, almost teasing.
Rhaena nodded, trying to steady her breathing, but there was a nervous flutter in her chest that she couldn’t quite shake. A few more steps and they entered a large, shadowed cavern. The air was thick with the scent of smoke and sulfur, and from within the darkness came a low, rumbling growl that made Rhaena’s blood run cold.
There, lurking in the deepest part of the cave, was Cannibal. His scales were as dark as night, blending seamlessly into the shadows that surrounded him. Only the gleam of his eye and the faint shimmer of his sharp, jagged teeth stood out in the darkness. He watched them with a predatory stillness, the kind that made Rhaena feel like prey.
“Do you know why they call him Cannibal?” Aemond asked, his tone light, almost playful.
Rhaena shook her head, her eyes wide as she stared at the massive beast. Cannibal’s growl grew louder, the sound vibrating through the cavern, and she instinctively took a step closer to Aemond, her heart pounding in her chest.
Aemond leaned in closer, his breath warm against her ear. “He’s known to feast on his own kind, especially the young. I wonder,” he paused, his voice dropping to a whisper, “what he would think of a little dragon like you?”
Rhaena’s breath hitched, fear coursing through her veins as Cannibal’s growl turned into a low, menacing snarl. Aemond pulled back slightly, his lips curling into a wicked smile as he watched the fear flash across her face. He seemed to relish it, the way her eyes darted between him and the black dragon lurking in the shadows.
But just as quickly, Aemond’s expression softened, and his demeanor shifted back to that of the courteous gentleman. “But of course,” he said smoothly, his voice returning to that practiced gentleness, “you have nothing to fear. As long as you’re with me, Rhaena, you’re perfectly safe.”
His hand found hers again, his touch firm yet oddly comforting, and he squeezed it lightly as if to reassure her. Rhaena swallowed hard, trying to push down the lingering fear. Aemond’s sudden shift from menacing to protective left her feeling off-balance, unsure of what to believe.
“Come,” he said, guiding her away from Cannibal’s lair and back towards the winding tunnels. “There’s something else I want to show you.”
They emerged from the dark passages into the open air, with the sun filtering through the thin clouds. Rhaena blinked against the sudden brightness, the chill of the dragonpits still clinging to her skin. As they walked, Aemond kept her hand in his, a gesture that felt oddly intimate despite the coldness she had sensed earlier.
Rhaena glanced up at him, confusion flickering in her eyes. “Where are we going? The dragonpits are behind us.”
Aemond’s gaze remained ahead, his expression unreadable. “Vhagar doesn’t dwell within the pits,” he explained, his tone casual but with a hint of pride. “She’s far too large to be confined in such a place. She prefers the open sky.”
Rhaena’s heart skipped a beat at the mention of Vhagar. She should’ve known he was taking her to the mighty beast. The great dragon was humongus when her mother rode her, Rhaena can only imagine she’s still growing. The memory of her mother’s connection to Vhagar was a bittersweet one, and the thought of seeing the dragon now filled Rhaena with a sense of longing.
They continued their journey, moving toward a more isolated area of King's Landing. The bustling noise of the city faded into the distance, leaving only the sound of their footsteps and the occasional rustle of leaves in the wind. It was as if they were venturing into a world that belonged only to them. A secret, hidden place far removed from the prying eyes of the court.
Finally, they arrived at a secluded clearing, and there, resting on a gentle slope, was Vhagar. The dragon was immense, her dark green scales shimmering in the dappled sunlight. She was a creature of legend, a remnant of an age long past, and Rhaena felt a pang of reverence and awe as she gazed upon her.
Aemond’s hand remained on hers as he led her closer to the beast. “She remembers you, I’m sure,” he murmured, his voice almost tender. “She remembers your mother.”
Rhaena’s breath caught in her throat as she looked up at Vhagar. The dragon’s eyes were like molten gold, and there was a depth in them that made her feel as though Vhagar was peering into her very soul.
“Are you ready?” Aemond’s voice broke through her reverie, and she turned to him, her eyes wide with uncertainty.
“It's been a while since I’ve been on her, but I'm not afraid,”
Aemond’s smile was soft, almost encouraging. “I’ll help you,” he promised. “There’s nothing to fear. I’ll be with you every step of the way. Once you get this down, you’ll know what to do with your own dragon.”
With gentle, guiding hands, Aemond helped Rhaena onto Vhagar’s large back. His touch lingered on her waist, steadying her as she settled into place. The intimacy of the moment wasn’t lost on Rhaena, and she felt a strange mix of emotions—fear of the unknown, excitement, and something else she couldn’t quite name.
Aemond climbed up behind her, his body close to hers as he took hold of the ropes that controlled the dragon. “Watch closely,” he instructed, his voice low and firm. “Sōvēs”
The great dragon stirred, her massive wings unfurling with a powerful whoosh of air. Rhaena’s heart raced as she felt the ground shift beneath them, and she gripped the ropes tightly, her knuckles turning pale with tension.
“Steady,” Aemond whispered into her ear, his breath warm against her skin. “Let the ropes guide her, but don’t fight her. Trust her.”
With a mighty leap, Vhagar took to the skies, the wind rushing past them as they soared higher and higher above the Red Keep. Rhaena’s fear slowly melted away, replaced by a sense of exhilaration as she felt the dragon’s powerful movements beneath her.
Aemond’s voice remained steady as he continued to instruct her, guiding her hands on the ropes as they maneuvered through the air. There was a strange thrill in being so close, his presence both unsettling and strangely comforting. He truly wasn't as bad as everyone claimed. Despite the unease that lingered in the back of her mind, Rhaena couldn’t deny the connection they shared in this moment. She felt like a real dragon rider. Her mother would be proud and that’s all she cared about. Her only motivation for wanting a dragon.
As they flew higher, the world below seemed to disappear, leaving only the vast expanse of sky and the rhythmic beat of Vhagar’s wings. And for a brief, fleeting moment, Rhaena felt something she hadn’t felt in a long time. Freedom.
Hours had gone by. As Vhagar descended gracefully through the sky, Aemond guided Rhaena’s hands on the ropes, his voice a calm anchor in the exhilarating chaos of the flight. “Ease her down slowly,” he instructed, his breath warm against her ear. “Let her wings catch the air. Feel the rhythm.”
Rhaena nodded, her nerves had long since settled as she followed his lead. The initial fear had ebbed away, replaced by a tentative confidence. Aemond’s presence, though unsettling at times, was reassuring now, and she found herself leaning into his guidance.
When they neared the ground, Rhaena felt the massive dragon’s powerful muscles shift beneath them, adjusting to the landing. The ground rose to meet them, and with a final, gentle tug on the ropes, Vhagar touched down with a soft thud. Rhaena let out a breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding, a wide smile spreading across her face.
“You did well,” Aemond said, his voice laced with something that almost resembled pride. He slid off the dragon first, then offered his hand to help her down. His grip was firm, and when she looked up at him, she noticed the way his gaze lingered on her, as if seeing her in a new light.
“Thanks Aemond,” Rhaena replied, her heart still racing from the flight, though now it wasn’t just from the thrill of the dragon ride. The way Aemond looked at her, the way he stayed close. It was confusing, disorienting, but also intoxicating in a way she couldn’t quite explain.
As they walked away from Vhagar, Rhaena’s guard began to drop, the adrenaline of the flight leaving her more open, more vulnerable. She began to talk, the words spilling out as if she couldn’t hold them in any longer. She’d been telling Aemond all about her life at Dragonstone. “My father, he barely notices me,” she admitted, her voice soft. “He’s always so focused on everything except for me. Even when I’m standing right next to him. I feel like I’m just there. Not important.”
Aemond listened, his expression unreadable, but there was a sharpness in his eye as she spoke. “He doesn’t see your value,” Aemond replied, his tone low, almost conspiratorial. “But I do. You’re intelligent and capable. Far more than Daemon realizes.”
Rhaena looked up at him, her heart skipping a beat at his words. She paid no mind to Aemond never referring to Daemon as his uncle. “Thank you,” she said quietly. “Anyways, I’ve been helping Jace with his Valyrian. He asked me because I’m good at it, better than most since I spent so much time studying. I think it’s the one thing I’m really good at.”
The mention of Jace darkened Aemond’s expression, though he kept his tone smooth. “Jace,” he repeated, a faint sneer curling his lips. “Of course, he would need help. Valyrian is almost pure in your blood, but perhaps it’s harder for some to grasp.” He paused, his gaze sliding over her, then added with a hint of disdain, “Not all of us have the same heritage, after all.”
Rhaena frowned slightly, “I think he wants to impress Baela. He tries I guess, a little too hard sometimes. But he does try” she said.
Aemond’s smile was tight, his tone patronizing. “I’m sure he does, he’s a strong boy.”
Before she could respond, Aemond’s hand brushed against hers, his fingers curling around hers briefly, sending a shiver up her spine. “But you, Rhaena,” he continued, his voice softening, “you are every bit the dragon. Your blood is refined, your mind sharp. You don’t need to prove anything to anyone.”
His words wrapped around her like a warm cloak, comforting and suffocating all at once. She wanted to believe him, to let his praise drown out the doubts that had plagued her for so long. But there was something in his tone, something that made her feel as if she was being drawn into a web she didn’t fully understand.
By the time they returned to the Red Keep for dinner, the atmosphere between them had shifted. Aemond, who had been so attentive and close during their time alone, became distant, his demeanor cool and aloof in front of the others. He barely acknowledged her, his focus seemingly elsewhere, and Rhaena couldn’t understand why. They had just gotten along so well. The warmth he had shown her earlier was gone, replaced by the icy detachment she had come to associate with him.
The meal passed in a blur of conversation and laughter that Rhaena felt detached from, her mind still turning over her day with Vhagar and her rider. She glanced at him several times, hoping for some sign of the connection they had shared earlier, but he remained cold, his attention on anything but her.
After dinner, Rhaena returned to her chambers, the confusion and disappointment weighing heavily on her. She couldn’t shake the feeling that she had done something wrong, that she had somehow lost whatever bond they had started to form. It’s just her curse. She can’t grow close to anyone. Not even her own grandmother would ask for her as a ward.
Just as she was about to prepare for bed, a soft knock came at her door. She opened it to find Aemond standing there, his expression once again unreadable.
“Get dressed,” he said, his voice low, almost commanding. “We’re going out.”
Rhaena blinked in surprise. “Out? But where? It’s late.”
Aemond stepped closer, his presence filling the doorway. “I told you I’d teach you about riding dragons, didn’t I? There’s more to learn, and we’re not done. Get dressed, Rhaena.”
The way he said her name, the way his gaze held hers, sent a shiver down her spine. She didn’t understand what he meant, what lesson could possibly require them to leave the safety of the Keep at night, but something in his eyes compelled her to obey.
Without another word, she nodded and turned back into her room to change into something that wouldn’t draw attention to her, the uncertainty gnawing at her, but also the strange thrill that came with his attention. Whatever Aemond had planned, she knew there was no turning back now.
The streets of King’s Landing were a world away from the calmer, isolated island of Dragonstone. Rhaena walked beside Aemond, her cape hood pulled low over her head to hide the telltale silver of her Targaryen hair. Aemond, too, was cloaked in darkness, his features obscured beneath the heavy fabric of his dark cape. The night was alive with the loud voices, the clatter of hooves on cobblestone, and the distant hum of the city’s life, all so foreign to her.
She had never ventured into a city like this after leaving Pentos. The narrow streets were crowded with people. Smallfolk seemed to be everywhere, their faces hard and worn, eyes flicking to the cloaked pair as they passed. Rhaena tried not to look directly at anyone, not wanting her lilac eyes to give her away but she couldn’t help noticing the stark difference between her world and theirs. The air was thick with the smell of sweat, smoke, and the different tang of the sea. The buildings loomed over them, close and oppressive, their walls stained with years of grime. The streets were uneven, cluttered with debris, and the sounds, so many sounds, were overwhelming compared to the quiet corridors of the Red Keep or Dragonstone.
Aemond walked with purpose, his hand lightly resting on her back as he guided her through the labyrinth of streets. He had obviously done this plenty of times. His touch was steady, reassuring in its way, but there was an intensity in his manner that made her uneasy. He kept asking about her father Daemon, his questions probing, digging deeper with each step they took.
“Tell me, Rhaena, what does Daemon say about King’s Landing?” Aemond asked, his voice smooth but with an edge that Rhaena couldn’t quite place.
She hesitated, unsure how to respond. “He doesn’t speak of it much,” she replied vaguely, her eyes darting around, trying to take in everything at once.
Aemond nodded as if he understood, but his next question came swiftly. “And what about the people? What does he think of the people that reside here?”
Rhaena frowned beneath her hood, finding the question strange. “I… I don’t know. He doesn’t talk about the smallfolk much. Why do you ask?”
Aemond’s smile was hidden by the shadows of his cloak, but she could feel the intensity of his gaze even though she couldn’t see his face. “Curiosity,” he said simply, but there was something in his tone that unsettled her.
As they continued walking, Rhaena’s unease grew. She realized just how sheltered she had been on Dragonstone, how little she knew of the world of Westeros beyond its shores. Everything she knew had come from books and hearing the stories of others, no real-world experience. The city was vast and she had underestimated just how many people lived within its walls. The sheer number of them was overwhelming, and the realization that she knew so little of this place made her feel small, insignificant. She hated this feeling.
They turned a corner, and a street performer nearby suddenly called out, announcing their location with a flourish. “Welcome to the Street of Silk, travelers! The finest pleasures in all of the land await you!”
Rhaena’s heart skipped a beat as she realized where they were. The Street of Silk was infamous, known even in the distant reaches of Dragonstone for its brothels and the illicit activities that took place within its confines. Baela told her about this place. She'd even heard whispers of it, stories from servants and knights, but never imagined she would find herself here.
Rhaena had no idea why Aemond would be here, truly, this seemed like the kind of place his brother Aegon would flourish in.
“Aemond,” she began, her voice trembling slightly. “We shouldn’t be here. My father, he’ll be furious if he finds out.”
But even as she said it, a flicker of resentment flared within her. Her father, who barely noticed her, who was always more concerned with Aegon, why should she care what he thought? Still, the thought of getting into trouble lingered, mingling with her anxiety.
Aemond didn’t respond, his hand guiding her more firmly now as they approached the entrance of one of the brothels. The building was unassuming from the outside, but there was a heaviness to the air, a sense of secrecy and sin that made Rhaena’s stomach churn. She tried to pull back, but Aemond’s grip on her tightened, his demeanor shifting subtly, becoming more commanding.
Without a word, he led her inside, the door closing behind them with a soft thud that seemed to seal her fate. The interior was dimly lit, the air thick with the scent of sandalwood incense and something else, something heady and intoxicating. Aemond moved with confidence, leading her straight into a private room at the back of the establishment.
Rhaena’s heart raced as the door closed behind them, shutting out the noise of the street. The room was small, intimate, with a large bed draped in rich, dark fabrics. Aemond removed his cloak, his silver hair falling into place as he turned to her, his eye gleaming in the low light. He reached out, his fingers brushing against her cloak before slowly pulling it from her shoulders, letting it fall to the floor.
“Aemond, what are we doing here?” Rhaena’s voice was a whisper, fear and confusion lacing her words. There was something in his gaze now, something predatory that made her pulse quicken for all the wrong reasons.
Aemond stepped closer, his smile soft but with an edge that sent a shiver down her spine. “Rhaena,” he murmured, his tone almost tender, but with a darkness lurking beneath. “You said you wanted to learn to be a real dragonrider. To command the skies, to feel the power of a dragon beneath you. But you’ve only begun to learn.”
She frowned, not understanding. “But we already flew Vhagar. You showed me how to steer, how to—”
He cut her off, his hand sliding around to the back of her neck, holding her gently but firmly. “There’s more to it than that. A dragon is not just a beast to be commanded. It’s a force, a power that must be understood, respected. And to become a true dragonrider, you must become one with that power.”
Rhaena’s frustration deepened. “What do you mean?”
Aemond’s smile widened, his grip tightening ever so slightly. “To be a dragonrider, Rhaena, you must ride the dragon. Truly ride it. Feel its strength, its fire. Become one with it.”
Rhaena’s eyes widened as the meaning of his words slowly began to dawn on her. She pulled back slightly, trying to escape his grasp, but Aemond held her fast, his other hand coming up to caress her cheek.
“Don’t you see, Rhaena?” he whispered, his voice low and filled with a twisted kind of affection. “I am a dragon. And to be a real dragonrider, you must ride me.”
Her breath caught in her throat, a wave of horror washing over her as she realized he wasn’t speaking in metaphors or compliments. She almost caught herself releasing a laugh.
She sighed, shaking her head, trying to pull away from him. “Aemond, this isn’t right.”
He silenced her with a kiss, his lips cold and forceful against hers. The horror of the situation gripped her, but she felt trapped, the room closing in around her as Aemond’s grip tightened, pulling her closer. His kiss was hungry, desperate, as if he was trying to consume her. His twisted vision of what it meant to be a dragonrider became clearer with each word he spoke, each touch that sent a shiver down her spine. Aemond’s grip on Rhaena tightened as he leaned closer, his breath hot against her ear, his voice a low, seductive murmur.
“You’re mine now, Rhaena,” he whispered, his tone laced with a dark possession. “No one else will ever understand you the way I do. No one else can make you into the dragonrider you’re meant to be.”
Rhaena’s mind raced, torn between the fear that gripped her heart and the yearning for something more, something beyond the cold indifference of her life. Aemond’s words were intoxicating, seeping into the cracks of her doubts and filling them with a dangerous allure. She thought of her father, how he barely noticed her, how his attention was always elsewhere, on his new family. What did she matter to him? What did she matter to anyone?
Here was Aemond, who saw her, who spoke to her as if she were the most important person in the world. He promised her power, freedom, a life where she could truly be a dragonrider, not just a shadow in the background. The resentment she felt toward her father bubbled up, mingling with confusion and fear, and in that moment, she made a decision.
Maybe Aemond was right. Maybe this was her chance to break free, to carve out a life of her own. She could leave Daemon behind, let him have his new family, his new life. She could be something more, something greater.
Her resolve hardened as she looked into Aemond’s intense, burning gaze. “Ok,” she whispered, her voice trembling with the weight of her decision. “I want to be a dragonrider, a true one.”
Aemond’s expression softened slightly, satisfaction gleaming in his eye. He lifted a hand to her face, caressing her cheek with surprising tenderness. “You will be.”
Slowly, almost reverently, Aemond began to undress her. His hands were sure and steady as he unfastened the clasps of her gown, letting the rich fabric slide from her shoulders and pool at her feet. Rhaena’s breath hitched as the cool air kissed her skin, her heart pounding in her chest as she stood there, exposed, naked, and vulnerable before him.
But as Aemond’s gaze swept over her, there was no cruelty in his expression, no mockery. Instead, there was a hunger, a fierce desire that made her feel powerful, like the dragon he had promised she would become. The fear that had gripped her began to melt away, replaced by a strange sense of freedom, as if she was shedding the last remnants of the girl who had always been in the background.
Aemond’s hands moved to his own clothing, discarding it before pulling her close, their bodies pressed together, skin to skin. The heat of him was intoxicating, overwhelming, and Rhaena found herself leaning into him, her hands clutching at his shoulders as if he were the only solid thing in a world that had suddenly shifted beneath her feet.
He kissed her again, but this time it was different—softer, more deliberate, as if he was savoring the taste of her. Rhaena responded hesitantly at first, but then with growing confidence, fueled by the sense of power that his touch awakened within her.
“Aemond…” she whispered, her voice breathless as she looked up at him, her thoughts a dizzying whirl of emotions. “Why me?”
His gaze darkened, a flicker of something like affection passing through his eye before it was consumed by the burning intensity of his desire. “Because you’re different, Rhaena,” he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. “You’re not like the others. I’ve always seen it. I’ve always known.”
His words wrapped around her cloak, banishing the doubts and fears that had haunted her for so long. In Aemond’s arms, she felt powerful, desired, and for the first time, she felt as if she could truly be more..
Aemond’s hands were gentle yet insistent as he guided her toward the bed, his lips never straying far from hers. The world outside the room seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in this moment, this twisted, intoxicating dance of desire.
As they sank onto the bed, Aemond’s movements became slower, more deliberate, as if he was savoring every moment, every reaction. He moved his head between her legs to kiss her wetness. It was obvious it wasn’t his first time with the opposite gender. He wanted to claim her, to make her his in every way. The sounds coming from Rhaena room were quiet enough to be considered discreet but loud enough that he knew the others could hear.
“I hate your father,” Aemond whispered against her skin, his voice low and fervent. “I hate everything about him. But you, Rhaena… you’re different. Your mine, and I will make you more powerful than any of them.”
A strange exhilaration coursed through Rhaena’s veins, a heady mix of fear, desire, and something deeper. A need to break free from the binds that had bound her for so long. As Aemond's hands moved over her skin, exploring her with his fingers and swipes of his tongue she felt herself letting go of the doubts that had once plagued her.
Aemond’s breath was hot against her neck as he moved back up illiciting a soft gasp from Rhaena as he kissed along her collarbone, his lips tracing a path that sent shivers down her spine. “Aemond” she whispered, her hands gripping his shoulders, pulling him closer as if needing the contact to ground herself in this moment.
She knew it was wrong to do this before marriage, but she didn’t care. The world outside this room, with all its expectations and judgments seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them.
Aemond’s hands were strong still between her legs, his touch sending waves of heat through her body. The roughness of his hands made it obvious that he spent a lot of time training in the courtyard with his sword.
Aemond positioned himself between her legs with deliberate care, fully aware of her inexperience. Her eyes fluttered shut, her breath hitching as she felt the warm pressure of his cock teasing her entrance, the sensation both foreign and thrilling. He eased into her slowly, inch by inch, and a soft moan escaped her lips as her body accommodated him, the unfamiliar stretch intensifying her awareness of every movement.
His thrusts were slow and measured, each one deepening their connection, as if he were savoring the moment as much as she was. A low groan of pleasure slipped from her mouth when he finally pushed through the last barrier within her, the intensity of the sensation sending a shiver through her entire body. Her eyes fluttered open, meeting his gaze, and she found him already watching her, his expression a mix of fierce lust and something darker.
Aemond’s hands slid down her arms, his grip firm but not forceful. He kissed her deeply, passionately, before pulling back to meet her gaze once more. “I want you to ride me, Rhaena,” he said, his voice low and commanding.
Aemond’s eye burned with a dark intensity as he lay back, his hands resting on her hips as he guided her over him. “Take what you want,” he whispered, his voice almost a growl.
Rhaena hesitated for a moment, the weight of what she was about to do sinking in. But then she looked down at Aemond, at the way his gaze was locked on hers, filled with a mix of desire and challenge. She realized that this was her moment—her chance to take control, to claim the power she had always been denied.
Slowly, she moved over him, her hands bracing on his chest as she took him in. Aemond’s breath hitched, his grip on her hips tightening as she began to move. The sensation was overwhelming, but it was the look in his eyes that truly sent a jolt through her. Admiration.
Rhaena’s movements slowly became more confident, more assured as she moved her hips. She felt powerful, truly powerful, for the first time in her life. The doubt, the fear—they were gone, replaced by a sense of control that she had never known.
As she rode him, Aemond’s hands roamed her body, his touch worshipful, reverent. He looked at her as if she were the only thing that mattered, the only thing that had ever mattered. And in that moment, Rhaena believed it. She felt like a dragon, fierce and unchained, ready to burn away the past and forge a new path for herself.
Aemond’s breaths and grunts grew ragged, his control slipping as he gave in to the sensations she was creating. “You were always meant to be a dragon rider.”
Rhaena looked down at him, her movements slow and deliberate, savoring the power she held over him. “Show me then,” she whispered, her voice strong and clear. “Show me how to be the dragonrider I was meant to be.”
Aemond’s response was a guttural sound of approval as he guided her hips, matching her rhythm with his own. Their bodies were electric, charged with emotions that neither had the words to express. In that moment, they were equals, two dragons bound by fire and desire.
As they reached their peak together, Rhaena felt something within her shift, something fundamental. She was no longer just Rhaena, the daughter and granddaughter, the forgotten sister. She was a dragon, powerful and unyielding, and no one would ever control her again.
When they both caught their breath, Aemond pulled her down beside him, their bodies entwined as they caught their breath. He brushed a loc from her face, his touch gentle, almost tender.
Rhaena didn’t respond, but she didn’t need to. She felt it too, a sense of belonging, of power, of a future where she was no longer in the shadow of others. Now, she had found a strength she didn’t know she possessed, and she wasn’t about to let it go.
A week had passed since that first night Rhaena had spent with Aemond, and in the days that followed, they had continued to meet in secret. The thrill of forbidden encounters consumed her, offering a dangerous escape from the suffocating expectations that had always defined her life. Everything had changed.
Rhaena and Aemond were walking through one of the quieter corridors of the Red Keep when they encountered King Viserys and Daemon. The King appeared distracted, his mind seemingly elsewhere, but Daemon’s sharp eyes immediately locked onto Aemond. He noticed Rhaena standing close to Aemond, and his expression darkened.
“Rhaena,” Daemon said sharply, his voice carrying a note of authority that brooked no argument. “Go to your chambers. We’re leaving later today.”
Rhaena hesitated, her eyes flicking to Aemond, but she nodded and quietly slipped away. Once she was out of earshot, Aemond turned to Daemon with a sly smile. “You seem tense, Daemon. Is there something on your mind?”
Daemon’s expression remained impassive, though there was a flicker of disdain in his eyes. "Nothing that would concern a boy," Daemon replied smoothly, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips. "I was merely reflecting on how quickly some people grow up, thinking they’ve mastered the world after a few short years. But experience has a way of teaching humility, doesn’t it?”
“Obviously some of the elderly haven’t properly been taught.”
Viserys, oblivious to the tension between them, smiled at his son. “Daemon and I were just discussing potential wedding proposals for his and Laena’s girls,” he said. “There are many fine Lords in the realm who would be eager to make such an alliance.”
Aemond’s smile grew sharper. “Proposals, yes. But what if those daughters were…sullied? Would these lords still be so eager?”
Daemon’s expression remained impassive, but there was a gleam in his eyes that hinted at a deeper current of thought.
“Lords can be particular, it’s true,” Daemon responded, his tone casual. “Luckily I won’t have that problem.”
Aemond’s smile didn’t falter, though there was a flicker of something sharper in his gaze. “Interesting, indeed. Though I suppose some stories are better left untold, especially when they involve family matters. We wouldn’t want to sully anyone’s reputation unnecessarily.”
Viserys, oblivious to the undercurrents in their exchange, continued with his well-meaning attempts at conversation. “It’s good to see finally speaking to your uncle Aemond. We’ve had enough division in the family, haven’t we?”
Aemond inclined his head slightly, his voice smooth as he replied, “Of course, Father. Family is everything. We wouldn’t want to see anyone, tarnished,by unfortunate associations.”
Daemon’s smile was cool, his eyes holding Aemond’s with a steady intensity. “No, we wouldn’t. It’s always best to keep thing in the family, where they belong.”
The tension simmered just below the surface, neither man willing to show his hand too openly.
“Yes,” Viserys agreed, completely unaware of the charged atmosphere. “Family is what matters most. Which is why it’s important we secure the future with good matches.”
Aemond’s smile sharpened ever so slightly. “Indeed, securing the future is paramount. But one must always be careful. Ensure that what we’re securing is as pure as we believe it to be.”
Daemon’s eyes narrowed, but his voice remained calm, almost amused. "Purity is such a relative term, don’t you think? Sometimes what seems less than ideal, flaws and all,” He paused to stare at Aemond’s eye patch before continuing, “turns out to be exactly what’s needed.”
Aemond shrugged lightly, his tone just as light. “Perhaps. Though I’ve always believed in maintaining the highest standards, especially when it comes to matters of blood.”
The exchange continued, each man's meaning of their words hidden beneath a veneer of politeness. Viserys, still oblivious, seemed content to see them interacting at all, completely unaware.
Finally, after a pause, Daemon gave a slight nod, his smile never quite reaching his eyes. “Standards are important. But so is knowing when to bend the rules a little. Life has a way of surprising us all.”
Aemond returned the nod, his smile equally tight. “It does. And it’s those surprises that keep things… interesting.”
With that, the conversation drew to a close, the tension between them lingering even as they parted ways. Aemond turned and walked away, leaving Daemon standing there with Viserys, both men knowing that the exchange had been anything but innocent.
Rhaena made her way back to her chambers, her mind racing with urgency. She needed to act quickly.
As she entered her room, she forced herself to remain calm, focusing on the plan that had been forming in her mind over the past week. She would pretend everything was as it should be, giving no indication of the turmoil or the decisions she had made. Her father would expect her to follow his orders, to obediently return to Dragonstone with him.
And that’s exactly what she would do. At least, at first. She would go back to Dragonstone, gather her belongings, and do everything expected of her. But once there, she would quietly take what she truly wanted: one of the dragon eggs he’d gotten the week beforw, her link to the future she had begun to envision.
With that egg, she would have the power to chart her own course, to leave behind the life that had been decided for her. She wouldn’t be bound by any one. She would take her destiny into her own hands and run. Run to wherever she felt she could finally be free.
As she began to pack, Rhaena’s resolve hardened. She’d have to send a letter to Baela after she got settled. She would go through the motions, play her part until the moment was right. And when it was, she would slip away, leaving behind everything and everyone who had ever tried to control her. With that dragon egg in her possession, she could start a new life, one where she made the rules. Rhaena thought back to the lie she’s been telling Aemond the past few days, that she’d come back to be with him. She wondered how long she would be gone before he realized she left Dragonstone, but not for King’s Landing.
She smiled to herself, a small, determined smile. Soon, she would be gone, and no one would ever hold her back again from her own destiny.
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Sully Family Modern AU Headcanons
Characters: Jake, Neytiri, Kiri, Tuk, Neteyam, Mo’at, Lo’ak
Warnings: None :)
Summary: Just some headcanons of what the Sully’s would be like in our modern world
Taglist & Masterlist
Jake
Jake would def be a military dad and sometimes be doing too much but Netyiri always drags him back to earth
Goes all out for his kids’ extracurricular activities. He’s always there with a camera or trying to tell his kids what to do
Sometimes can get hard on his kids (esp Lo’ak) bc he wants to them to not make the same mistakes he did
Runs a nonprofit to help warriors who lost their limbs and/or struggling with PTSD from the first war
A girl dad all the way, he folds so hard when it comes to Kiri and Tuk
Is best buds with Tonowari and is always trading embarrassing stories with him
Much to their children’s dismay
Sometimes they go on camping trips together
Loves to prank his children and embarrassing them lovingly
Finds it hard to talk about Tommy and Tsu’tey but wants his kids to know their uncles so he pushes through
Listens to classic rock and country, you cannot tell me otherwise
Tries (and fails) to get his kids into it
Neytiri humors him at times and would admit (not to his face tho) that some of it is good
Neytiri
She is an instructor at a really good archery school
Loves to drink tea and Kiri always buys her different kinds from her “impulsive drives”
Still does all of the kids’ hair and retwist Jake’s locs for them
Save money and she makes it into a self-care for the person
And the kids do her hair as well
Is a mama bear and not afraid to tell someone off to protect her family
Is really into sustainable to protect Pandora
She mostly listens to podcasts but has a shared playlist with Jake
Teaches her kids self-defense and takes it very seriously
Helps out with fundraising for her kids clubs and schools if needed
But not really involved in the pta unless it involves her kids directly
She respects boundaries but really hates it when her family is in distress and won’t say anything
Goes on walks and hikes with Jake
They have a weekly date night to de-stress from the kids
Neteyam
School President and captain of whatever school team he plays for. Maybe soccer or volleyball
Girls, guys, honestly anyone whoever is attracted to guys def looked Neteyam’s way twice
But all those good looks but no rizz at all
What a shame
Lo’ak said it skipped Neteyam and went straight to him
Into mangas but his taste in them are all over the place. One day reading Haikyuu the next reading The Promised Neverland
Big 180
Similarly, his tastes are the same in music. Some day into indie the next heavy rock. But if asked, his favorite is indie full stop
Would be valedictorian of his school and all the teachers love him
Saved up for his first car and would die before he lets Lo’ak get behind the wheel
Road rage driver and got it from his parents
Is a tutor who does it for money but will help someone outta the kindness of his heart if needed
Feel immense pressure to be the best at everything he does. Which leads to burnout and his family stepping in
That intervention led to lots of hugs and tears
Promises to do better on Jake’s part
Had a Hamilton the musical phase, and sometimes will go back to the songs he really likes
Kiri
Really into crystals, plants, and herbalism
Has a garden in their backyard that is extremely well-taken care of
Into activism for many groups but her main focus would be the environment
Doesn't want Pandora to turn into Earth now
Has a well-known blog dedicated to plants and helps inform ppl about the dangers of greenhouse emissions
Her fashion taste is long but breathable dresses and doc martens
Goes thrift shopping with Neytiri and that's how she met Tsireya and her mom
While their moms had a rocky start the two girls were besties since the beginning
Prolly sapphic if I'm being honest with you
The only one that Neteyam trust with his car
A vegan and convinced her family to have non-meat Mondays
Has been bullied in the past for being “weird” and now has a silver tongue. People think twice before saying something slick to her. Bc it’s either her words or her brothers’ fist
Cuts her own hair. The first time was an impulse but she loves the way it looks so she continued
Has this really calming presence around her that attracts ppl but she prefers to do her own thing.
Lo’ak
Definitely into hip-pop,rap, and r&b (I will not be convinced otherwise)
Wears a lot of street wear style clothes but those Nike techs got him in a chokehold
Always in detention for fighting someone or playing a prank that blows up in his face
Room a mess 24/7 but somehow has an order to it that only he understands
Like Neytiri or Neytam would ask him to find something and he’ll get it within 5 seconds
One of those to joke flirty with a lot of girls but if it’s someone he really like (like Tsireya for example) he get real shy around her
Owns a skateboard and is always at the skatepark. It’s how he made peace with Rotxo after their lil scuffle on the first day of school
And by proxy Ao’nung
When he wants to, he can get really deep and have personal conversations with a person
Will probably play a sport like hockey or something that’s really action based
He got that W rizz on lock, at least that’s what he claims
Into animes like Blue Lock, AOT, Chainsaw man
But can't get into the mangas for some reason
When he was younger a stray dog saved him. Convinced his parents to adopt the dog. Named him Palkan
Tuk
An iPad kid and loves Toca Boca
Also kids bop and the family hates it
She’s a picky eater
Bc the songs are just stuck in their heads
Wants to do every sport and join every club.
Settled on girl scout for the cookies and friends, but mostly cookies
Charges her family extra for boxes
Always gets her way bc everyone is wrapped around her finger
And honestly, Jake and Neytiri gave up on parenting
Definitely called Ao’nung a penis face at least once
After that Jake and Neytiri had a serious discussion around what can and cannot be said around a 7 year old w/ the older kids
Has caught Lo’ak sneaking out on multiple occasions and uses it to blackmail him
Most ppl (at least Tsireya) think he’s a loving older brother. But the fam knows something is up
Is not in charge of packing her own lunch bc it's literally all junk food
Once a month,she, Kiri, and Neytiri have a girl’s day. Each of them can choose what they do each month.
Gets the most money from Grandma when birthdays comes around
She is in love with Starbucks and mainly spend her cash money on getting drinks that sounds or looks good. If she don’t like the drink, then she gives it to Kiri to finish them
Bonus:
Mo’at
Spoils her grandchildren way too much
But there is not much Jake and Neytiri can do about it
Says she has no favorites but it is 100% Kiri
Still thinks about her dead husband and is sad that he’ll never meet his grandchildren or his son-in-law
Has seen and know it all
If the kids are having trouble they go to her for advice but she so wise in all matters
Has traveled the world more than once and would love to do it again
But is still a homebody
Really spiritual and it’s something she and Kiri bond over
For all her loving, she will give her family a harsh talking to if needed
Total badass, where you think Neytiri got it from?
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Like, repost, comment if you wish. See ya in the next one 👋🏿
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