#vaella & alicent

[randomestfandoms-ocs]

Vaella Targaryen & Alicent Hightower ✤ Golden Crown Of Sorrow 

“I did not need a child, Mother, I was a child.  I had not yet finished my very first courses when you had me wed to Aemond, our sheets stained by my moon blood, not my maidenhead.  And rather than offer your reassurances or any maternal care, you invited the lords of Westeros to watch, to ensure that my older brother would force himself upon me rather than try to protect me, even from himself.  I lost my baby, if you’ve forgotten, too young and fragile myself to support another life within me, and I almost lost my own life in the birthing bed – and I am rather certain that had they asked you, rather than my husband, you would have sacrificed my life in an attempt to save a child who was never to live in the first place.  And yet ever since that day, rather than concern yourself with my wellbeing or my grief, you have only ever attempted to force me to endure the same suffering, to risk my life as well as that of a child, all to satisfy your own desire for as many heirs as possible to challenge my own sister for a throne that Aegon does not even want.” 

Tag List: @airwolf92 – want to be added?

( insp – @darknightfrombeyond )

[novaursa]

Part 2

- Note: This work was fully published on AO3, so expect steady updates. I'll post regularly to engage more readers.

- Title: zōbrie ānogar

- Rating: Explicit (18+)

- Romance: (Aegon II/OFC)

- Warning: All flags are up for this work. Aegon is also a warning on his own.

- Summary: It was written by Archmaester Gyldayn that on the day Princess Vaella Targaryen was born she was supposed to die. Until she fed upon her twin, Baelon. And when she turned one and five, she sought her end in the lair of Cannibal, in Dragonmont. But instead of feasting upon her, the dragon wept with her. And Archmaester had written a lengthy thesis on how wild dragon recognized a kindred soul in the Princess, as they both dined on their kin.

- Word Count: 9 000+

- Parts: 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, Final

In the quiet sanctum of the Red Keep’s library, the flickering candlelight illuminated rows of ancient tomes and scrolls. Aegon, Aemond, Helaena, and Vaella sat around a large wooden table, listening to Maester Mellos. The rare presence of Aegon in such a studious environment, with Kingsguard standing watch nearby, was an unusual sight. However, Aegon paid little attention to the lessons, his focus entirely on Vaella. He sat beside her, absentmindedly playing with her long, pale hair, winding it around his fingers.

Maester Mellos, already irked by Aegon’s lack of interest, glanced over and cleared his throat pointedly. "Prince Aegon, please pay attention. This is important history."

Aegon gave a dismissive shrug, his fingers still entwined in Vaella's hair. "I’m listening," he lied, though his eyes never left Vaella.

Vaella cast a sidelong glance at Aegon, her lips curving into a small, amused smile. She had grown used to his antics, even if they occasionally annoyed her. The atmosphere was tense, broken only by the rustling of parchment and the occasional exasperated sigh from Maester Mellos.

The door to the library opened, and Alicent Hightower stepped in. She looked at her three children and said, "Aegon, Aemond, Helaena, come with me. Your father wants to speak with you."

Alicent’s gaze lingered on Vaella, her expression unreadable. Vaella sensed a hint of disappointment, though she knew it wasn't directed at her. She remained seated as Maester Mellos resumed his lesson, clearly uncomfortable with Vaella’s presence but bound by duty to continue.

Aegon looked at Vaella, his expression one of reluctance. He seemed ready to protest, but Alicent’s stern gaze silenced him. He hung his head and reluctantly stood, following his mother and siblings out of the library. Vaella watched them go, a sense of unease settling in her chest.

Alicent led her children to King Viserys’s chambers. The King, looking more frail than ever, sat propped up with cushions, his face lined with weariness. He smiled weakly as his children entered, though the gravity of the moment was clear.

"I have come to a decision," Viserys began, his voice thin but firm. "Aegon, you will marry Helaena. This union will strengthen our family and bring stability."

Aegon automatically stiffened, his face contorting with anger. "What?" he barked, unable to contain his outrage. "No, I will not marry Helaena! She should be wed to either Aemond or Daeron, call him back from Oldtown. I will marry Vaella."

Viserys opened his mouth to respond, but Aegon continued, his voice growing louder. "I will not marry Helaena. Vaella is the only one I will wed." He turned to his mother for support, but Alicent averted her gaze, her expression pained. It was clear her voice had not been heard, and she disagreed with her husband's decision.

Viserys sighed weakly, his eyes closing briefly as if summoning the strength to continue. "Vaella will be wed to a noble lord to further our House's standing. This is my final decision."

Aegon's face flushed with fury. "I will not wed anyone besides Vaella," he shouted, his voice echoing through the chamber. He turned on his heel and stormed out, slamming the door behind him.

The room fell into a heavy silence, broken only by Viserys’s labored breathing. Alicent looked at her husband, her eyes filled with a mix of sorrow and resignation. "Viserys," she began softly, but he raised a hand to silence her.

"This is not up for debate, Alicent," Viserys said, his voice tired but resolute. "The decision has been made."

Aemond and Helaena stood quietly, their faces a mix of confusion and concern. Aemond glanced at Helaena, who looked pale and uneasy at the prospect of her new betrothal. Alicent gathered her composure and turned to her remaining children.

"Come, let us leave your father to rest," she said gently. She led them out of the chamber, her mind already racing with the implications of Viserys’s decree.

…

Alicent found Aegon in his chambers, pacing furiously. His anger was palpable, the air thick with his frustration and hurt. As she entered, he turned to her, his eyes blazing with fury.

"How could you let this decision stand?" he demanded, his voice trembling with emotion. "You’re my mother! You should have stopped him!"

Alicent sighed deeply, her own frustration mingling with sadness. "Aegon, I tried. I have spoken to your father many times, but he is adamant about keeping Vaella away from you."

Aegon’s face twisted with anger. "I will not wed Helaena. I won’t do it."

"Aegon, please try to understand," Alicent pleaded, stepping closer. "Your father believes this is what's best for our family."

"I don't care what he believes!" Aegon shouted, his voice echoing off the walls. "He doesn't understand what this means to me. Vaella is the only one I want to be with."

Alicent’s expression softened with empathy, but she knew the futility of arguing against Viserys’s decision. "Aegon, I know this is hard, but you must try to accept it."

Aegon's panic grew, his eyes wide with fear at the thought of being separated from Vaella. "What if they marry her off to someone else? What if she's taken away from me?" He began to hyperventilate, his chest heaving with panic. "I can't lose her, Mother. I can't!"

Alicent reached out, trying to calm him, but he recoiled, his fear turning into blame. "This is your fault!" he yelled, his voice cracking. "If you had fought harder, this wouldn’t be happening!"

The accusation stung, and Alicent’s patience snapped. She slapped Aegon across the face, the sound sharp and shocking in the quiet room. Aegon stood frozen, his hand slowly moving to his cheek where her palm had struck.

"Aegon," Alicent said, her voice trembling with a mixture of anger and sorrow. "You do not understand the complexities of ruling, the sacrifices that must be made for the good of the realm. Your father’s decision is final. You must learn to accept it."

Aegon’s eyes filled with tears, his anger momentarily eclipsed by the shock of the slap and the depth of his despair. "But I love her," he whispered, his voice breaking.

Alicent’s heart ached for her son. She stepped forward and took his face in her hands, forcing him to meet her eyes. "I know, Aegon. I know how much she means to you. But you must find a way to be strong, to honor your father's wishes. This is the burden we bear as members of the royal family."

Aegon closed his eyes, a single tear slipping down his cheek. "I don't know if I can do this, Mother. I don't know if I can live without her."

Alicent pulled him into a tight embrace, her own tears threatening to spill. "You are stronger than you think, my son. And no matter what happens, you will always have my love and support."

Aegon clung to his mother, the anger and fear slowly giving way to a deep, abiding sadness. The future seemed bleak and uncertain, but in this moment, he found a small measure of comfort in her arms. 

As they stood there, wrapped in a silent embrace, Alicent prayed for the strength to guide her son through the difficult times ahead. 

…

After her studies, Vaella wandered through the winding corridors of the Red Keep, her mind still preoccupied with the events of the day. She turned a corner and spotted Aemond and Helaena standing together in a secluded alcove, their expressions troubled and somber. Concerned, she approached them, her brow furrowing with worry.

"Aemond, Helaena, what happened?" she asked, her voice gentle but filled with urgency.

Aemond glanced at Helaena before meeting Vaella’s eyes. "Father has decided that Aegon will marry Helaena," he said, his tone flat.

Vaella’s eyes widened in shock. "What? When did this happen?"

"Just now," Helaena replied softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Mother and Father called us to his chambers. Aegon was furious."

Vaella was left speechless, the weight of the news settling heavily on her shoulders. She turned to Helaena, her concern deepening. "Helaena, what do you think about this?"

Helaena sighed, looking down at her hands. "I don’t know, Vaella. I never imagined marrying Aegon. He’s always been so... difficult."

Aemond scoffed softly, shaking his head. "Difficult is putting it lightly. He’s impossible."

Vaella nodded, her thoughts racing. She knew how possessive Aegon was of her, and the idea of him being forced into a marriage he didn’t want was troubling. But her immediate concern was Helaena. "Are you okay with this?" she asked, her voice gentle.

Helaena looked up, her eyes meeting Vaella’s. "I suppose I don’t have much of a choice. It’s Father’s decision. But it feels... wrong."

Vaella reached out and took Helaena’s hands in hers, squeezing them reassuringly. "I’m here for you, Helaena. We’ll get through this together."

Helaena gave her a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Vaella. That means a lot to me."

Aemond sighed, his expression conflicted. "I hate seeing Aegon like this. But at the same time, I can’t help but feel relieved that it’s not you who has to marry him."

Vaella nodded, understanding his feelings. "It’s a difficult situation for all of us. But we have to support each other, no matter what."

Helaena nodded, her eyes filling with determination. "We will. We’re family, after all."

Vaella smiled, feeling a surge of affection for her siblings. Despite the challenges and uncertainties ahead, she knew they would face them together. "Let’s go for a walk in the gardens," she suggested. "It might help clear our heads."

The three of them made their way to the gardens, the fresh air and the scent of blooming flowers providing a much-needed respite from the tension within the castle. As they walked, they talked about their fears and hopes, finding comfort in each other’s presence.

…

Later that evening, Vaella sat in her chambers, trying to find solace in the quiet after the tumultuous day. She was lost in thought when the door creaked open, and Aegon stepped inside. His face was a picture of despair, his eyes red and swollen from crying. He looked utterly broken.

"Aegon," Vaella whispered, her heart aching at the sight of him. She knew Alicent had forbidden them from sharing a bed, but she couldn’t bring herself to turn him away. She stood and walked over to him, wrapping her arms around him in a comforting embrace.

Aegon clung to her desperately, his body trembling with sobs. "Vaella, I can't do it. I won't wed Helaena. Father is trying to keep you away from me," he cried, his voice breaking. "He thinks I'm not good enough for anything, let alone you."

Vaella tightened her hold on him, her heart breaking for her brother. "Shh, Aegon. It's going to be okay," she murmured, stroking his hair gently. "We'll find a way through this."

She led him to the bed, and they sat down together. Aegon buried his face in her shoulder, his tears soaking through her gown. Vaella held him, her own eyes filling with tears as she felt his pain.

"I can't lose you, Vaella," Aegon whispered, his voice choked with emotion. "You're the only one who understands me, the only one who cares."

Vaella kissed the top of his head, her heart aching for him. "You won't lose me, Aegon. I'm here, and I'll always be here for you."

Aegon’s sobs gradually subsided, replaced by deep, shuddering breaths. Vaella continued to hold him, offering silent comfort. Eventually, they lay down together, Vaella cradling him in her arms.

"Father just doesn’t understand," Aegon muttered, his voice hoarse from crying. "He’s always thought I was a disappointment. But you, Vaella... you're the only one who makes me feel like I'm worth something."

Vaella’s eyes filled with tears as she listened to him. "Aegon, you are worth everything to me. Don’t let Father’s words define you. We’ll find a way to be together, no matter what."

Aegon sighed, his breath warm against her neck. "I hope you're right. I can't imagine my life without you."

Vaella stroked his hair, her heart full of love and determination. "We'll make it through this, Aegon."

As they lay there, the room filled with a sense of peace and comfort. The world outside their small sanctuary felt distant, and for a moment, all that mattered was the bond between them. Aegon’s breathing slowly evened out as he drifted into sleep, his tears finally spent.

Vaella watched over him, her heart heavy with the weight of their shared burdens. She knew that the road ahead would be difficult, but she was determined to stand by Aegon’s side, no matter what. As she closed her eyes and held him close, she whispered a silent promise to herself: to protect him, to support him, and to fight for their future together.

And so, they fell asleep, wrapped in each other’s embrace, finding solace in the one person who understood and loved them unconditionally.

…

A few days later, Vaella found herself in the presence of her stepmother, Alicent Hightower. The interactions between them had always been awkward, strained by the complicated relationships and the familial tensions that seemed to pervade the Red Keep. Vaella knew that Aegon’s attachment to her was a point of contention, something Alicent had long tried to break but had recently begun to accept, realizing that Vaella’s presence had a stabilizing effect on Aegon’s more destructive habits and impulses.

The two sat in a quiet chamber, the air thick with unspoken words. Alicent was working on some embroidery, her movements precise and measured, while Vaella sat nearby, her hands folded in her lap.

"Vaella," Alicent began, her tone formal yet not unkind, "how have you been finding your studies?"

Vaella looked up, meeting her stepmother’s eyes. "They have been well, thank you, Mother. Maester Mellos has been very thorough."

Alicent nodded, her focus returning to her needlework. "That is good to hear. Your education is important, especially in times such as these."

There was a pause, the silence growing heavy. Vaella took a deep breath, deciding to speak her mind. "Mother, I wanted to thank you."

Alicent looked up, surprise flickering across her face. "Thank me? For what, child?"

"For taking care of Father all these years," Vaella said softly. "I know it must have been difficult, especially with everything that has happened."

The stern lines on Alicent’s face softened at Vaella’s gratitude. She set aside her embroidery, her hands resting in her lap. "I only did and do my duty, Vaella. As a wife, as a queen."

Vaella nodded, her expression earnest. "I know. But I am thankful nonetheless."

Alicent studied her for a moment, her eyes thoughtful. "You have a kind heart, Vaella. It is a rare quality, and one that I hope you never lose."

Vaella smiled faintly, the warmth of Alicent’s words comforting her. "Thank you, Mother. I try my best."

After a moment's silence, Vaella’s expression turned somber. "I often think about my twin brother, Baelon."

Alicent’s gaze sharpened, her interest piqued. "Do you, now?"

Vaella nodded, her voice tinged with sadness. "I feel responsible for his death. If I could, I would change places with him. Perhaps then, Father would be less miserable, and he would treat everyone better. Even you."

Alicent’s face softened with understanding, her stern demeanor giving way to compassion. "Oh, Vaella. You mustn’t blame yourself for what happened. It was a tragedy, but it was not your fault."

Vaella’s eyes filled with unshed tears. "But sometimes it feels like it is. If I had cried when I was born, if I had been stronger…"

Alicent reached out, placing a gentle hand on Vaella’s. "You were a newborn, Vaella. There was nothing you could have done. Your father’s sorrow is his own, and he carries it for many reasons. Do not take that burden upon yourself."

Vaella nodded, grateful for Alicent’s words, though the weight of her guilt still lingered. She stood, feeling the need to leave before her emotions overwhelmed her. "Thank you, Mother. For everything."

Alicent watched her stepdaughter leave, her mind swirling with thoughts. She recalled the words of Maester Mellos, the strange circumstances surrounding Baelon’s death. Vaella had not cried until after her twin brother had passed, and there had always been an air of mystery and unease about that event.

As Vaella’s footsteps faded down the corridor, Alicent sat in the quiet chamber, her needlework forgotten. Her thoughts drifted to the past, to the fateful day when Baelon had been found lifeless in his crib next to Vaella. The Maester’s words echoed in her mind, speaking of omens and strange occurrences.

Alicent sighed, feeling the weight of her responsibilities and the complexities of her family’s history pressing down on her. She had done her best to navigate the treacherous waters of court life, to protect her children and secure their futures. But some burdens, she realized, could never be fully laid to rest.

As the evening shadows lengthened, Alicent resumed her embroidery, her fingers moving deftly through the fabric. The quiet chamber was filled with the soft sounds of needle and thread, a moment of calm amidst the storm of their lives. In her heart, she carried the hope that somehow, they would all find a way to heal and move forward.

…

As Vaella made her way down the dimly lit corridor of the Red Keep, she was lost in thought about her recent conversation with Alicent. The weight of her family's turmoil pressed heavily on her shoulders. Her mind was filled with worries about Aegon, Helaena, and her father. She barely noticed the figure approaching until he was right in front of her.

"Princess Vaella," Otto Hightower's voice was smooth but commanding. He was the Hand of the King, and his presence always demanded attention.

Vaella stopped and looked up, her expression polite but guarded. "Lord Hightower."

"Have you seen Alicent?" Otto asked, his piercing eyes scrutinizing her.

"Yes, my lord," Vaella replied, maintaining her composure. "She is in her chambers, attending to some letters."

Otto nodded, his expression unreadable. As Vaella turned to leave, he spoke again, stopping her in her tracks. "My son, Ser Gwayne, has been asking about you."

Vaella's heart sank, but she kept her face neutral. "Oh, has he?" she replied politely, her tone carefully controlled. "Please send him my regards."

Otto's eyes narrowed slightly, as if trying to gauge her reaction. "You should consider speaking with him more often. He is quite fond of you."

"Thank you for letting me know, Lord Hightower," Vaella said, eager to escape the conversation. "I will keep that in mind."

With a polite nod, she turned and walked away, feeling Otto's eyes on her back until she rounded the corner. The moment she was out of sight, she quickened her pace, her heart pounding in her chest. She didn't want to think about Ser Gwayne or any potential suitors. The idea of marriage, especially after her conversation with Alicent, felt like another weight pressing down on her.

Vaella finally reached her chambers and closed the door behind her, leaning against it with a sigh of relief. The silence of her room was a stark contrast to the chaos in her mind. She crossed the room and sank onto her bed, feeling the tears welling up in her eyes.

Everything felt overwhelming. The responsibility of supporting Aegon, the tension with her father, the absence of Rhaenyra—it all pressed down on her, making it hard to breathe. She missed her sister terribly. Rhaenyra had always been a source of strength and guidance, and without her, Vaella felt adrift.

She curled up on her bed, hugging a pillow to her chest as the tears finally spilled over. "Rhaenyra," she whispered into the silence, her voice trembling. "I need you. I don’t know how to do this without you."

The room offered no answers, only the quiet sound of her own breathing and the occasional creak of the wooden beams above. Vaella closed her eyes, trying to find some semblance of peace. She thought of Aegon, of his broken expression when he had come to her that night. She thought of Helaena, who faced an uncertain future with a strength Vaella admired. And she thought of her father, a once-great king now frail and weary.

"I have to be strong," she whispered to herself, wiping away her tears. "For them. For our family."

With renewed determination, Vaella sat up and took a deep breath. She knew the path ahead would be difficult, but she was a Targaryen. She had the blood of the dragon in her veins, and she would face whatever came her way with the strength and resilience that defined her family.

As she prepared for the night, Vaella felt a small flicker of hope amidst the darkness. She might be young, and the world might be filled with trails, but she was not alone. She had her family, and she had herself. And that, she decided, would be enough.

…

The news of Lady Laena Velaryon’s death had arrived in King's Landing like a dark cloud, casting a shadow over the royal family. The raven brought with it the grim details of her passing, having died giving birth to her third child. Preparations for the funeral at Driftmark were underway, and the Red Keep was a flurry of activity as servants rushed to ensure everything was in order.

Vaella, Aegon, and Aemond were together in one of the quieter rooms, away from the chaos. Vaella was seated at a small table, carefully finishing the painting of a dragon model that Viserys had helped her create. The dragon was a tribute to her twin brother, Baelon, a way for her to feel connected to him despite his absence.

Aegon, restless and bored, lounged nearby, watching her with growing irritation. "Why are you fussing over that thing, Vaella?" he asked, his tone sharp.

Vaella didn’t look up from her work, her focus intent on the delicate details. "It’s a dragon for Baelon. It helps me feel close to him."

Aegon’s reaction was immediate and harsh. He had grown tired of hearing about the brother who had never lived, the one who seemed to hold so much of Vaella’s affection. "Enough about this dead twin of yours," he snapped, striding over and snatching the model from her hands.

Vaella’s eyes widened in shock and fear. "Aegon, please give it back," she pleaded, reaching out for the dragon.

Aegon examined the model with a sneer, his jealousy and frustration boiling over. "This is rubbish," he declared, flicking it away carelessly.

The dragon hit the stone floor with a sickening crack, breaking into several pieces. Vaella gasped, her eyes welling up with tears as she dropped to her knees, frantically trying to collect the broken parts.

Aemond, who had been quietly observing, sprang to his feet, fury in his eyes. "Aegon, how could you?!" he yelled, his voice filled with outrage.

Vaella’s tears spilled over as she gathered the pieces, her heart breaking along with the model. "You didn’t have to do that," she whispered, her voice choked with emotion.

Aegon, still fueled by jealousy and now regret, crossed his arms defensively. "You’re just being dramatic, Vaella. After all, you’re the one who killed your precious brother."

The words hung in the air like a curse, stunning everyone into silence. Vaella’s head snapped up, her eyes burning with a mixture of pain and fury. Aegon realized his mistake too late, the weight of his cruel words sinking in.

Vaella stood abruptly, her face a mask of anguish. Without another word, she rushed out of the room, her sobs echoing in the hallway. Aemond turned on Aegon, his anger palpable. "What’s wrong with you? How could you say something so vile?"

Aegon’s bravado crumbled, replaced by guilt and self-loathing. "I didn’t mean it, Aemond. I was just…"

"You were just being a selfish, jealous brat," Aemond interrupted, his voice cold. "Vaella’s done nothing but care for you, and this is how you repay her?"

Aegon hung his head, the enormity of his actions hitting him hard. "I’m sorry," he muttered, but the apology felt hollow even to his own ears.

Aemond shook his head, his disappointment evident. "Sorry won’t fix this. You need to make it right with Vaella. She doesn’t deserve this from you."

Meanwhile, Vaella fled to her chambers, her heart aching with the weight of Aegon’s words. She collapsed onto her bed, clutching the broken pieces of the dragon to her chest. Her sobs wracked her body as she mourned not just the destruction of the model, but the harsh reminder of her brother's death and the blame she had carried for so long.

The memory of Baelon, the twin she had never truly known but felt deeply connected to, was a wound that never fully healed. Aegon’s words had torn that wound open, and she felt the raw pain of it all over again. The one comfort she had, the one thing that helped her feel close to Baelon, was now shattered, just like her heart.

As the night grew darker, Vaella’s tears finally subsided, leaving her feeling hollow and exhausted. She knew she had to be strong, but in that moment, she allowed herself to grieve, clutching the broken pieces of her dragon and whispering a silent promise to Baelon that she would find a way to heal, for both their sakes.

…

Aegon stumbled through the dimly lit corridors of the Red Keep, his heart pounding with a mixture of guilt and desperation. The realization of what he had said to Vaella weighed heavily on him, and he knew he had to find her and make things right. His steps were uneven, his emotions a chaotic storm within him.

As he rounded a corner, he saw Ser Criston Cole speaking with his mother, Queen Alicent. The knight's stern expression contrasted sharply with Alicent's worried gaze. Aegon considered approaching them but decided against it, knowing that his mother would likely scold him rather than help. He pressed on, determined to find Vaella.

"Vaella!" he called out, his voice echoing through the stone halls. He received no response, only the distant murmur of servants going about their duties.

Eventually, he encountered Haelena, who was quietly observing a tapestry depicting a dragon's flight. "Haelena," Aegon panted, his breath short from the hurried search. "Have you seen Vaella?"

Haelena turned to him, her eyes distant and dreamy. "I haven’t seen her, Aegon. But you should watch out for Vaella, as something might eat her."

Aegon sighed, used to his sister's cryptic ramblings. "Thanks, Haelena," he muttered, not really listening. He continued his search, feeling the weight of time pressing down on him.

As he walked, he passed a platter of wine goblets left by a servant. Without thinking, he grabbed one and drank deeply, the wine burning his throat and dulling the sharp edges of his panic. He repeated the action with another goblet, feeling the effects of the alcohol quickly. His steps became more unsteady, but he was determined to find Vaella.

Eventually, he found her in a secluded corner of the castle, sitting on a stone bench near a small garden. She looked up as he approached, her eyes red from crying. The sight of her made his heart ache even more.

"Vaella," he called softly, stumbling slightly as he approached her. "I’m sorry. I didn’t mean any of what I said. Please, you have to believe me."

Vaella looked at him, her expression a mix of hurt and resignation. "Aegon, you can’t just say things like that and expect everything to be alright. You broke my dragon, and you blamed me for Baelon’s death. How could you?"

Aegon fell to his knees in front of her, his eyes pleading. "I know, Vaella. I know. I was jealous and angry, but I didn’t mean it. I’m so sorry." His voice broke as he spoke, the wine and his emotions making him almost incoherent.

Vaella sighed, tears welling up in her eyes again. "You always do this, Aegon. You say hurtful things, and then you apologize, and I always forgive you. But you have to understand how much it hurts."

Aegon reached out, his hands trembling. "I’ll do anything, Vaella. Just please forgive me. I can’t stand it when you’re upset with me."

They argued back and forth, Aegon’s desperation clashing with Vaella’s hurt. The conversation grew heated, their voices rising in the quiet garden. But eventually, as always, Vaella’s resolve softened. She saw the genuine remorse in Aegon’s eyes, the way he was truly sorry for his actions.

She sighed deeply, her shoulders slumping. "Alright, Aegon. I forgive you. But you have to promise me you’ll try to control your temper. We can’t keep doing this."

Aegon nodded vigorously, relief flooding through him. "I promise, Vaella. I’ll be better. I swear it."

Vaella gave him a small, sad smile. "You need to get yourself together. We’re leaving for Driftmark soon, and we need to be strong for our family."

Aegon rose unsteadily to his feet, his heart lighter but still burdened by his guilt. "I will. I promise, Vaella. Thank you."

They embraced, Vaella holding onto him tightly as if to reassure herself that he was truly sorry. As they stood there, the sounds of the Red Keep faded into the background.

Eventually, they pulled apart, and Vaella looked into his eyes. "Let’s go back. We need to prepare for the journey."

Aegon nodded, the alcohol in his system making him slightly unsteady but determined. Together, they walked back towards the heart of the castle, ready to face the challenges ahead. 

…

The funeral of Lady Laena Velaryon was a somber affair, the sky over Driftmark heavy with clouds that seemed to echo the sorrow of the occasion. The sea breeze carried the scent of salt and mourning as the royal family gathered to pay their respects. Vaella stood between her father, King Viserys, and her half-brother Aegon, who barely concealed his boredom. She nudged him discreetly, hoping to remind him of the gravity of the moment as Vaemond Velaryon began his speech in High Valyrian.

Vaella listened intently, her eyes fixed on Vaemond as he extolled Laena's virtues and spoke of the purity of their bloodline. When he reached the part of his speech that touched upon blood purity, Vaella’s gaze shifted to her uncle Daemon, standing apart from the rest of the mourners. Daemon’s quiet chuckle drew several curious and disapproving glances, adding an undercurrent of tension to the solemn ceremony.

As Laena’s body was prepared for its final journey into the sea, Vaella felt a mixture of sorrow and unease. The circumstances of their gathering were dark, but she was grateful to see her sister Rhaenyra after so long. Once Laena’s body was committed to the depths, the guests began to move, offering their sympathies to Daemon, Laena’s parents, Corlys and Rhaenys, and her twin daughters.

Ignoring Aegon’s insistent nagging not to leave him alone with Aemond and Helaena, Vaella slipped through the crowd, her heart set on finding Rhaenyra. She weaved her way past grieving nobles and courtiers, finally spotting her sister standing with her sons, Jacaerys and Lucerys.

“Rhaenyra!” Vaella called out, her voice a mixture of joy and relief.

Rhaenyra turned, her face lighting up as she saw her sister. “Vaella!” she exclaimed, opening her arms for an embrace. The two sisters hugged tightly, the warmth of their reunion a small comfort amidst the sorrow.

“It’s so good to see you,” Vaella said, pulling back slightly to look at Rhaenyra’s face. “I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too,” Rhaenyra replied, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. “These have been difficult times.”

Vaella nodded, then turned to her nephews. “Hello, Jace. Hello, Luke,” she greeted them warmly.

��Hello, Aunt Vaella,” Jacaerys said, managing a small smile despite the somber occasion.

Lucerys nodded, his expression serious but pleased to see her. “Hello.”

Vaella ruffled Lucerys’s hair affectionately, then turned back to Rhaenyra. “How have you been holding up?”

Rhaenyra sighed, glancing at her sons before answering. “It’s been hard, but we’re managing. The boys have been a great comfort to me.”

Vaella squeezed her sister’s hand. “I’m glad you have each other. And I’m here now, too.”

Rhaenyra smiled, though it was tinged with sadness. “Yes, you are. And it means the world to me.”

They stood together, drawing strength from their reunion, even as the mourners around them continued to offer condolences. Vaella felt a sense of peace being with her sister, a small respite from the constant pressures and tensions back at King’s Landing.

Meanwhile, Aegon stood with Aemond and Helaena, casting anxious glances in Vaella’s direction. He wanted to follow her, to ensure she was safe and to draw comfort from her presence, but he knew better than to disrupt the sisters’ reunion. Aemond, noticing his brother’s discomfort, smirked slightly.

“Miss her already, Aegon?” Aemond teased, his tone light but knowing.

Aegon scowled. “Shut up, Aemond.”

Helaena, lost in her own world, looked up suddenly. “The sea takes and the sea gives, but the heart remembers always,” she murmured, her voice distant and cryptic.

Aegon sighed, his frustration growing. “I just wish this was over.”

Back with Rhaenyra, Vaella felt the need to address the elephant in the room. “Rhaenyra, I heard about what happened with Harwin and Lyonel. I’m so sorry.”

Rhaenyra’s expression darkened briefly, but she nodded. “Thank you, Vaella. It’s been a challenging time, but we must carry on.”

Vaella nodded, her heart aching for her sister. “If you need anything, anything at all, please tell me.”

Rhaenyra smiled gratefully. “I will. Thank you, Vaella. Your support means more than you know.”

As Vaella talked with Rhaenyra, their father, Viserys, joined them, his presence lending an air of solemnity and gravitas to their conversation. They discussed the funeral and shared memories of Laena, finding comfort in each other's company. Nearby, Aemond took the opportunity to address his brother, Aegon, who had already managed to snatch a goblet of wine.

"Aegon," Aemond said sharply, his voice low but firm, "you should at least try to spend some time with Helaena. She will be your wife."

Aegon scoffed, his gaze drifting over to Vaella, who was deeply engrossed in conversation with their father and Rhaenyra. "I've already told you all, I will not marry her," he said dismissively, taking a deep drink from his goblet.

Aemond's eyes narrowed in frustration. "You have no choice, Aegon. You can deny it all you want, but it is Father's decree."

Annoyed, Aegon retorted, "Then you marry her, Aemond, since you defend her so much."

Aemond's face hardened. "If she were given to me, I would marry her. I would do my duty."

Aegon rolled his eyes, the word "duty" like a bitter pill. His mind flashed back to a conversation with his mother a few months ago, a memory that still stung. Alicent had found him in the gardens, her expression stern and her tone urgent.

"Aegon," she had said, "you must understand your duty. As the firstborn son of the king who should’ve been named heir after your birth, you are a threat to Rhaenyra’s claim. By simply living and breathing. You need to start behaving more reasonably."

Aegon had looked at her, his eyes filled with a mix of confusion and frustration. "I don't want any of that, Mother. I just want Vaella."

Alicent's reaction had been swift and harsh. She had slapped him, the sound echoing in the quiet garden. "You will do your duty," she had said, her voice cold and unyielding.

After that confrontation, Aegon had left, seeking solace in Vaella's chambers. The memory of that slap and his mother's words haunted him now as he stood in the dimly lit Driftmark hall.

"Do you even understand what duty means, Aegon?" Aemond asked, his voice cutting through Aegon's reverie. "It's about more than just what you want. It's about the family, the realm."

Aegon glared at his brother, his frustration bubbling over. "I understand more than you think, Aemond. I just don't care."

Aemond shook his head in disbelief. "You are hopeless."

Aegon took another deep drink, his eyes once again drifting to Vaella. "Maybe. But at least I know what I want."

Meanwhile, Vaella was deeply engaged in conversation with Rhaenyra and Viserys. They reminisced about happier times, their shared laughter and stories a brief respite from the grief that hung over the funeral.

"Father, you remember how Laena used to challenge us to races on the beach?" Rhaenyra asked, a wistful smile on her lips.

Viserys nodded, his eyes brightening at the memory. "She always had such a fierce spirit. It's a great loss for all of us."

Vaella listened, feeling a sense of warmth and belonging in their shared memories. She glanced over at Aegon and Aemond, noticing the tension between them but choosing to stay focused on her conversation.

Rhaenyra placed a comforting hand on Vaella's shoulder. "It's good to see you, Vaella. We need each other now more than ever."

Vaella smiled, feeling the love and support of her family. "I'm glad to be here with you all."

The conversation flowed, a blend of sadness and comfort, as they found solace in each other's presence. The evening wore on, the weight of their responsibilities and the loss of Laena ever-present, but the bond between them offered strength and hope for the days ahead.

Aegon, feeling the effects of the wine and the emotional toll of the day, finally made his way over to Vaella. "Vaella," he said quietly, his voice tinged with vulnerability, "can we talk?"

Vaella looked up, concern etched on her face. "Of course, Aegon." She excused herself from Rhaenyra and Viserys, leading Aegon to a quieter corner of the hall.

"I'm sorry for everything," Aegon began, his voice trembling slightly. "For what I said about Baelon, for not supporting you the way I should."

Vaella's expression softened, her heart aching for her brother. "Aegon, I forgive you. But you need to understand, we all have a duty to our family."

Aegon nodded, his eyes downcast. "I know. It's just... so hard."

Vaella reached out, taking his hand in hers. "We'll face it together. But you need to be strong, for all of us."

Aegon looked up, meeting her gaze with a mixture of hope and determination. "I'll try, Vaella. For you."

They embraced, finding comfort in each other's presence. As they held each other, they knew that no matter what lay ahead, they would face it together, united by their love and loyalty.

…

As the evening gave way to night, the royal families began to retire to their chambers. The air was heavy with the weight of the day’s sorrow and the undercurrent of familial tensions. Otto Hightower, ever vigilant, was overseeing the last of his family’s attendants when he caught sight of Aegon, clearly drunk, clinging to his half-sister Vaella. His face twisted with anger and embarrassment at the sight of his grandson bringing shame to their family.

Otto strode over, his expression severe. "Vaella, get him out of here," he ordered sharply. He then turned his ire on Aegon, his voice a harsh whisper. "You are an embarrassment, Aegon. Pull yourself together."

Vaella nodded, gently pulling Aegon away from the gathering. "Come on, Aegon, it’s time to go to bed."

Aegon, his steps unsteady, leaned heavily on Vaella as they made their way through the corridors of Driftmark. He muttered incoherently, his words slurred by the wine. Vaella remained patient, her grip on him firm but caring.

When they reached the chambers designated for Aegon, he suddenly pulled Vaella inside with him. The door closed behind them with a soft thud, sealing them in the dimly lit room.

"Aegon, what are you doing?" Vaella asked, her voice filled with concern.

Aegon, his mind fogged by the alcohol, didn’t answer. Instead, he pulled her onto the bed with him, his movements clumsy but insistent. He pressed his lips to hers in a fervent kiss, his desperation palpable. Vaella tried to break the kiss, pushing against his chest gently.

"Aegon, stop," she murmured against his lips. "Mother will be furious if she finds us like this."

Aegon dismissed her words, his focus solely on her. "I don’t care about Mother," he muttered, his voice raw with emotion. He pulled back slightly, his violet eyes searching her indigo ones. "Vaella, do you love me?"

Vaella’s heart ached at the vulnerability in his gaze. She looked into his eyes, seeing the depth of his longing and the pain he tried so hard to mask. Her own feelings were a complex web of love, loyalty, and the heavy burden of their family’s expectations.

"Aegon…" she began, her voice trembling. She cupped his face in her hands, her thumb brushing gently over his cheek. "You know I care about you deeply."

Aegon’s eyes pleaded with her, his hands gripping her waist as if afraid she would slip away. "But do you love me?" he pressed, his voice barely above a whisper.

Vaella took a deep breath, her emotions swirling within her. She felt the weight of their shared history, the unspoken bond that had always connected them. She knew that her answer carried immense significance, a promise of loyalty and support amidst the chaos of their lives.

She looked into his eyes, her own filled with a mixture of tenderness and resolve. "Yes, Aegon, I love you."

Aegon’s relief was palpable, his tense body relaxing slightly as he leaned into her touch. He kissed her again, softer this time, his desperation giving way to a deep, abiding need for reassurance and comfort.

As the night deepened, Aegon muttered into Vaella's neck, his voice filled with despair. "Nobody else loves me, except for you. You heard what Grandsire Otto said—I’m a disgrace."

Vaella held him tighter, her heart aching for him. "Aegon, you are special to me. Don’t listen to them. They don’t understand you like I do."

Aegon buried his head further into her neck, savoring the closeness before he began kissing her again, his childhood rivalry with Rhaenyra resurfacing. "I won’t let Rhaenyra take your attention again," he murmured between kisses.

Vaella closed her eyes, choosing silence over words, not wanting to ruin the moment or send him into another spiral. She cherished the connection they shared, a bond they had to hide more and more as they grew older. She wasn’t naive; she had heard the whispers of the servants comparing her to Rhaenyra’s rumored promiscuity in her younger years. It was one of many rumors she had learned to ignore.

As Aegon's kisses trailed down her body, Vaella's soft moans began to fill the room. His kisses were eager yet familiar, evoking sensations she had come to know well. When his kisses reached her thighs, her breathing grew shallow with anticipation.

Aegon lifted his head, quickly undoing his own attire. They shared a look filled with longing and determination, a silent understanding passing between them. Just as they were about to join, the chamber doors burst open. Commander Harrold Westerling, alarmed and taken aback by the scene before him, stood in the doorway.

Aegon and Vaella scrambled to disentangle and cover themselves with the sheets. Harrold averted his eyes, his voice urgent. "There’s been an incident. The king demands your presence in the throne room immediately."

Their intimate moment shattered, replaced by a cold dread. Vaella nodded, her heart pounding. "We’ll be there right away."

Harrold turned and left, leaving the door ajar. Aegon and Vaella quickly dressed, the urgency of the situation sobering them. They exchanged a final glance, their connection momentarily overshadowed by the gravity of the call.

As they left the chambers and approached the grand doors of the throne room, the faint murmurs of the gathered nobles reached their ears.

Aegon squeezed Vaella's hand, a silent promise that they would face whatever came next together. She squeezed back, drawing strength from his presence. The heavy doors loomed before them, the threshold to yet another challenge in their complex lives.

…

Aegon and Vaella walked into the throne room, their hearts pounding in their chests. The sight that greeted them was one of chaos and bloodshed. King Viserys stood fuming, leaning heavily on his cane, his face a mask of fury and grief. Jacaerys and Lucerys were standing in front of the angry and tearful Baela and Rhaena, both boys bloodied and battered. But the sight that shook Vaella the most was Aemond, sitting in a chair with the Maester just finishing his work. Aemond's eye was gone, replaced by thick, bloody stitches that adorned the empty socket.

Before Vaella could fully comprehend what had happened, Aegon was suddenly struck hard across the cheek by Alicent. The force of the slap sent him stumbling back a step. Alicent's face was a mixture of rage and despair as she hissed at him, "Where were you?"

Commander Harrold, who had followed them in, spoke up hesitantly. "Prince Aegon was in bed... with Princess Vaella."

Alicent's eyes flicked to Vaella, giving her a pained grimace and a look that promised a severe conversation about the broken promise they had made to the Queen. Turning her fury back to Aegon, she accused him bitterly, "While you indulged in your desires, your little brother was attacked and maimed!"

Aegon, holding his stinging cheek, looked around the room in a daze, his eyes wide with shock and guilt. "I didn’t know, Mother. I didn’t know," he muttered, his voice breaking.

Vaella stepped closer to him, wrapping her arms around his shoulders and holding his head against her. "I'm so sorry," she whispered, her voice trembling.

Viserys's attention shifted briefly to Aegon and Vaella, his expression one of deep disappointment and sadness. "Aegon, Vaella, we will discuss this later," he said, his voice heavy with emotion. "Right now, we must address this grievous injury to Aemond."

Vaella's heart ached as she looked at Aemond, who was staring blankly ahead, his face pale and drawn. She wanted to go to him, to offer some comfort, but she knew that her presence would only complicate matters further.

Just then, the doors to the throne room opened again, and Rhaenyra entered with Daemon following closely behind her. Her face was a mask of alarm as she took in the scene before her, her eyes widening in shock and fear.

"What happened?" Rhaenyra demanded, rushing to her sons and inspecting their injuries. "Jace, Luke, are you all right?"

Jacaerys and Lucerys nodded, though their faces were marked with cuts and bruises. "We're fine, Mother," Jacaerys said, his voice steady despite the pain.

Daemon's gaze swept the room, taking in the blood, the tension, and the wounded Aemond. His expression darkened, and he stepped forward, his presence commanding and intimidating.

"Who did this?" Daemon asked, his voice low and dangerous.

Alicent, her eyes filled with tears, pointed a trembling finger at Rhaenyra's sons. "They did. They attacked Aemond."

Rhaenyra's eyes flashed with anger as she turned to her sons. "Is this true?"

Then all hell broke loose just as Rhaenys and Corlys arrived, their faces etched with concern and confusion. Jacaerys and Lucerys began to shout, their voices rising above the din. "Aemond attacked Rhaena and Baela!" Jace cried.

Baela, her face flushed with anger and tears streaming down her cheeks, yelled, "He stole our mother's dragon! It was Aemond who attacked first!"

Aemond, bloodied and battered but defiant, shouted back, "I did not attack them! I claimed the dragon because no one else had the courage!"

Alicent, her eyes blazing with fury, stepped forward, her voice ringing out. "It should be my son telling the tale! Look at what they've done to him!"

Viserys, his face a mask of anger and desperation, banged his cane on the floor, his voice booming, "Enough! Silence, all of you!"

The room fell into a tense, uneasy silence. Aegon clung to Vaella, who looked around the room with desperation. Helaena stood nearby, looking lost and bewildered, her usual serene detachment shattered by the chaos. Vaella noticed that Laenor was absent and her sister Rhaenyra had entered earlier with Daemon, his presence a silent threat to anyone who might harm her sons.

Rhaenyra, her voice trembling with controlled fury, said, "It was my sons who were attacked. Heavy insults were levied against them."

Alicent scoffed, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "How does an insult justify my son losing an eye?"

Viserys turned to Alicent, ignoring her outburst, and asked, "What insults?" His voice was calm but laced with barely restrained fury.

Luke, his voice barely above a whisper, said, "He called us bastards."

A heavy silence descended upon the room. The weight of the accusation hung in the air, everyone feeling its implications. Rhaenyra stepped forward, her voice strong and clear. "I am the heir to the throne, and to question the birth of my sons is the highest treason."

Viserys turned to Aemond, his eyes filled with a mix of sorrow and anger. "Look at me, Aemond," he commanded. "Who told you these lies?"

Vaella noticed Aemond's gaze shift briefly to Alicent before he quickly averted it. "It was Aegon," Aemond said, his voice steady but his eye betraying his fear.

Vaella stiffened, her heart pounding. Aegon lifted his head from Vaella's embrace, his face a mask of confusion. "Me?" he asked, his voice incredulous.

Viserys quickly turned his attention to Aegon, who still clung to Vaella. "Why do you spread such lies about your nephews?" he demanded, his voice filled with disappointment and anger.

Aegon looked at his mother, then at his brother, and finally at his father. "Everyone knows," he said, his voice low and resigned. "Just look at them."

Vaella's grip on Aegon's hand tightened. The truth was undeniable and dangerous, a reality that could destroy Rhaenyra's claim to the throne. Vaella hung her head, unable to defend her sister. It was all up to their father now.

A long silence filled the room, everyone waiting for Viserys's response. The tension was visible, the future of their family hanging in the balance. Viserys, his face lined with pain and sorrow, finally spoke. "This fighting must stop," he said, his voice trembling with emotion. "If not for my sake, then for the sake of this old man, who loves you all so much."

The weight of his words hung heavily in the air, the silence deep and oppressive. Vaella felt the tension in Aegon's body, the fear and uncertainty that mirrored her own. They could only wait and hope that their father would find a way to hold their fractured family together.

Alicent's eyes blazed with fury, her voice trembling as she spoke. "That's insufficient!" she declared, her anger boiling over.

Viserys, his desperation evident, asked, "What would you have me do, Alicent? Children fight."

Vaella could see Alicent's rage reaching a dangerous peak. "I demand an eye for an eye," Alicent said, her voice cold and merciless. "I want an eye from one of Rhaenyra's children in return."

The room erupted in shocked gasps as Rhaenyra quickly moved to shield her children. Alicent turned to Ser Criston Cole, her voice a command. "Bring me the eye of Lucerys Velaryon."

Ser Criston, his expression conflicted, shook his head. "I am sworn to protect you, Your Grace, not to carry out vengeance."

Viserys, his face contorted with a mix of anger and sorrow, hissed at Alicent. "This matter is closed, Alicent."

Vaella watched in horror as the scene unfolded before her, almost as if she were in a dream. She saw Alicent's eyes narrow in determination as she grabbed Viserys' dagger from his belt as he turned away. With a cry of rage, Alicent rushed towards Rhaenyra's sons. Everyone in the room backed up in shock, and Vaella screamed her sister's name, her voice piercing the chaos. "Rhaenyra!"

Aegon's grip on Vaella tightened, his own fear palpable. Rhaenyra, reacting quickly, blocked the dagger with her hand, the blade drawing blood as she halted Alicent's advance. Otto yelled for his daughter to stop, but Alicent continued, her eyes wild with fury.

Rhaenyra and Alicent faced each other, the dagger between them, their faces inches apart. A tense silence fell over the room as everyone held their breath. "You would destroy this family for your pride," Rhaenyra hissed, her voice low and dangerous.

Alicent's eyes were filled with tears of rage and frustration. "And you would see it torn apart for your lies," she retorted, her voice shaking.

Suddenly, Alicent pulled the dagger back, slashing Rhaenyra's arm. The blade clattered to the floor as Rhaenyra clutched her bleeding arm, her face a mask of pain.

Aemond, who had been silent until now, spoke up, his voice steady and resolute. "Do not mourn for me, Mother," he said, turning to Alicent. "It was a fair exchange. I may have lost an eye, but I gained a dragon."

The room fell silent once more, Aemond's words hanging in the air. The weight of his sacrifice and the implications of his gain settled over everyone present. Vaella felt a mix of fear, sorrow, and a strange sense of admiration for her half-brother's resilience.

…

As the chaos in the throne room began to settle down, Vaella slowly let go of Aegon, who called softly after her, "Vaella, don't go."

But she gave him a reassuring squeeze before stepping away. "I need to check on Rhaenyra," she whispered, her eyes filled with concern. Aegon nodded reluctantly, watching her go.

Vaella moved through the crowd, her heart pounding. She found Rhaenyra surrounded by their family, with the Maester already working on her wound. Rhaenyra winced as the Maester cleaned and dressed the cut on her arm. Vaella knelt beside her sister, gently touching her shoulder.

"Rhaenyra, are you all right?" Vaella asked, her voice filled with worry.

Rhaenyra managed a strained smile, her eyes softening at the sight of her sister. "I'll be fine, Vaella. It's just a scratch."

Vaella stayed with her until the Maester finished his work, offering quiet words of comfort. Once Rhaenyra's wound was tended to, Vaella turned her attention to Aemond, who had moved to stand closer to Aegon. She approached him cautiously, her heart aching at the sight of his injury.

"Aemond," she said softly, "does it hurt?"

Aemond, trying to put on a brave face, shook his head. "It doesn't anymore," he replied, his voice steady.

Vaella smiled gently, her admiration for his strength evident. "Congratulations on claiming Vhagar," she said, her tone sincere.

Aemond nodded, a flicker of pride in his remaining eye. "Thank you," he said softly. "Rhaena told me I stole her mother's dragon."

Vaella frowned slightly, shaking her head. "Dragons can't be stolen, Aemond. They choose their riders."

Aemond's lips curled into a small smile. "I know. I hope you get a dragon soon, too, Vaella."

She returned his smile, feeling a warm sense of connection with her younger brother. "I'm content for now, Aemond," she said, her voice gentle.

Aegon, who had been watching the exchange, stepped forward and placed a hand on Vaella's shoulder. "Can we go back to bed now?" he asked, his voice laced with fatigue and longing.

Vaella nodded, giving Aemond one last reassuring smile. "We'll talk more later," she said softly.

As Vaella and Aegon turned to leave, she exchanged a final look with Alicent. The Queen's eyes were filled with a complex mixture of emotions—pain, regret, and a touch of resignation. Vaella held her gaze for a moment, silently acknowledging the unspoken understanding between them. Then she turned and walked away with Aegon, their footsteps echoing through the now silent throne room.

As they made their way back to their chambers, Aegon leaned into Vaella, his arm wrapped around her shoulders. "Thank you," he murmured, his voice filled with gratitude and exhaustion.

"For what?" Vaella asked, glancing up at him.

"For being here. For always being here," Aegon replied, his eyes softening.

Vaella smiled, resting her head against his shoulder. "Always, Aegon."

They reached their chambers, the tension of the night's events still hanging heavily over them. But as they settled back into the familiar comfort of each other's presence, a sense of peace began to wash over them. The world outside their small sanctuary was filled with turmoil and uncertainty, but in this moment, they had each other.

As they lay down, Aegon pulled Vaella close, his arms wrapped protectively around her. "I don't know what I'd do without you," he whispered, his voice filled with sincerity.

Vaella looked up at him, her indigo eyes meeting his violet ones. "You'll never have to find out," she replied softly. Aegon sighed, his tension slowly melting away.

They closed their eyes, the warmth of their bond shielding them from the harsh realities of their world. And that, for them, was enough.

[starogeorgina]

𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐬

Pairing: Harwin Strong × Targ oc

Warning: Childbirth, mentions of violence, swearing, blood, character death

3.09

“If he wasn’t my kin, I’d have his head on a fucking spike!”

Harwin gently tilts your chin up so you’re facing him. His fingers are coated in your blood from your nose, but it seems insignificant in comparison to what your son has suffered. “You need to have a maester check you over, Vaella.”

“And take them away from our sons?” Feeling overwhelmed with his hand on you, you brush it off and start pacing again, using the movements as a way to not only cope with the adrenaline of anger bubbling inside you but also the pain slowly seeping across your body. You felt as if a sudden fever was coming on, but you refused to let up. “I don’t understand why he would do such a thing to his own flesh and blood.”

“Some people are just inherently bad.”

“But he’s my brother,” you weep. “That should mean something.”

Tears sting your eyes as you look at your sons through the doorway as they speak with the maesters. Aerion's eyes were red and puffy from crying, and when you excused yourself to go clean up your nose, which had started bleeding again, distressing Aerion further Harwin asked Elinda, your sister's handmaiden, to stay by your side. The young woman was coddling him as if your eldest son were her own. Vaegon was lying flat on his stomach in a deep slumber due to the high volume of milk from the poppy he had consumed, with maesters surrounding him. Each of them is trying to figure out the best way to treat injuries to his lower back.

“Oh, my baby, my baby.”

Harwin chokes back a sob. You had expected him to be full of rage, but instead he looked defeated. Exhausted from the worry and frustrated from not being able to help. The palms of Harwin’s hands had small crescent-shaped cuts on them from him clenching his hand so tight.

When you feel your nosebleed has stopped, you go and sit beside Aerion again, holding him close to you as he sobs, “It’s my fault. I couldn’t stop him; I couldn’t protect my brother.”

“Shh, none of this is your fault.”

“He called us bastards,” Aerion sobs. “And Jace, Luke, and Joff. He said I was the only one who didn’t know.”

You look up at Harwin; his eyes are glimmering with what you suspect is fear. Harwin crouched down to be level with him and spoke softly, “Listen, lad, I will tell you the truth. This isn’t about bastardy, the greens... They don’t want a woman sitting on the throne. They will say anything to discreet princess Rhaenyra and her sons, so the king's firstborn son sits on the throne.”

Aerion looks from Harwin to you, confused. “But if anything happened to Princess Rhaenyra and her sons, the throne would go to my mother before it did to my uncle; she’s the second-born child of the king.”

The sweet innocence in his voice breaks your heart.

“They would just do the same to your mother, lad. The Hightowers want the firstborn of Alicent to rule.”

“Will they kill us so Aegon will be the heir?"

You kiss the crown of his head multiple times and say, “No, SweetPea, it won’t come to that.”

—

You let out a sharp breath as the maester explained the extent of damage your son was suffering. Vaegon had snuck out to confront his uncle after overhearing Aemond say Aegon would be king one day. When Vaegon told him he was wrong, Aemond called your son’s bastards, then pushed Vaegon down the concrete steps.

Aerion squeezed your hand; your poor boy blamed himself. He saw his brother leaving and chased after him, but Vaegon inherited your stubbornness and refused to go back to their rooms.

“Unfortunately, it’s too early to tell if the price will ever walk again.”

Tears sting your eyes, making your vision slightly blurred. “Is he able to travel, or will it cause him more pain?”

“I’d advise a high dose of milk from the poppy for the boat ride back to avoid any distress... but in truth, Princess Prince has lost feeling below the waist.”

You grip tightly onto Harwin’s arm; none of it seems real. You glance at the door when Elinda enters the room; she reminds you of a frightened mouse with how she trembles as she walks over to you. The handmaiden had been sent to bring your daughter and to inform your sister and father that they needed to come as a matter of urgency.

“Where is Ada?” Harwin is alarmed.

“Ser Harwin, Princess... She is with Princess Rhaenyra in the great hall. There has been another incident involving Prince Aemond.”

—

All eyes are on you when you burst through the Great Hall’s main door. The handmaiden who informed you of the incident was running not far behind; she had briefly filled you and Harwin in on the conflict that transpired between the children and the adults. The first thing you notice are the drops of blood on the floor and Rhaenyra holding her bleeding arm while your father's dagger lies by Alicent’s feet. There was a clear divide in the room, with your family standing on one side and Greens standing on the other.

“Ada?” You call for your daughter, and panic sets in when you can’t see her among the various bodies in the room. “Ada!”

“I’m sorry!” She comes out from behind Lord Lyonel and runs to you, her cheeks flushed from crying. She clings to your growl and sobs, “I’m sorry, I’m sorry.”

You brush her hair out of her face and say, “It’s alright, my sweet, it’s alright.”

You clap your hand over hers, keeping her firmly by your side; she grabs ahold of Harwin’s hand as well. You look to your father for any kind of indication of what he was planning to do, but he seems lost in his own thoughts, so you turn to Alicent.

“Did he tell you what he did to—”

“The king already knows about the slander hurled towards my sons,” Rhaenyra says.

You feel blood dribble from your nose onto your lip as you stare at Rhaenyra, speechless. You quickly wipe it away with the sleeve of your dress. An insult was the least of your worries. But she didn’t know; none of them did. One son suffers in agony, while the other's heart fills with guilt. All the while, your brother went off and happily claimed a dragon. You glance at your Aemond, feeling void of sympathy that he’d lost an eye. He was smiling beneath his bandage; he was proud of what he’d done.

“Do you have any remorse for what you did to my son?”

Your father finally finds his voice. “Vaella, what happened to my grandson?”

Aemond looks down at his feet, the smugness on his face fading, which only infuriates you further. Your voice cracks as you speak, “I’ll give you one last chance; tell them what you did.”

Alicent looks at you stunned; it’s clear she has no idea what you’re referring to. She waits a beat, then speaks thickly, “My son was attacked by Prince Lucerys. He lost an eye.”

“An eye? Prince Aemond said the Hightowers were planning to usurp my sister's throne, and then he almost killed my son. ” You turn to face your father and say, "Your grace, your grandson has been maimed and may never walk again! And his brother is traumatized from witnessing such a horrendous act.”

Madness and rage were spreading inside you like poison; perhaps you should have listened to your husband and stayed with your sons.

“Vaella…”

Harwin tries to say something to you, but you storm over to the king, who looks just as defeated as the rest of you. “Father,” you speak in High Valyrian. “This is them; this is the greens. I’ve told you again and again about the agenda that they have been pushing. That a woman isn’t fit to rule and your grandsons are bastards, and now the lies have run so deep that her son thinks it’s okay to physically attack mine and Rhaenyra’s children.”

“Vaella,” he sighs. “I cannot change what has been done; I cannot mend the wounded.”

“Do something.” Tears roll down your cheek. “Aemond is just a boy repeating what his mother and grandsire said. Alicent has just assaulted the heir to the throne and attempted to harm Lucerys. Arrest her, and I’ll feed that traitor who dare calls himself your hand to Varos!”

“Alicent is my wife.”

“Your wife?” You scoff. “The Hightowers are parasites feeding off dragon's blood. My love for her children is the only reason I’m not bringing fire and blood down upon their entire house.”

Harwin places his hand over your chest, urging you to step back. Harwin wasn’t fluent in High Valyrian, but he knew it well enough to recognise the threats you were making. “The king wishes to do nothing.” He picks Ada up with one arm and takes your hand with the other. “The best thing we can do is get our family back to Dragonstone.”

“I’ll have a ship prepared immediately,” Lord Corlys says. “It will be ready within the hour.”

Harwin nods and says, “Thank you.”

You felt your heat tearing itself apart; not only were your sons suffering, but your father had become so weak he was no longer able to defend your house. Shaking your head, you go to leave the great hall with your daughter and husband but stop when you reach the doorway. You thought you could handle the pain in your lower abdomen, but a sudden sharpness causes you to claw at the fabric of your dress. You sway on your feet slightly, and Harwin wraps his arm around you, keeping you up right.

“Send for a maester!” Daemon calls out.

“Fuck,” you grit your teeth and squeeze his arm tightly, feeling blood trickling down your thighs. “The babe is coming.”

—

“You need to push, princess.”

“I am fucking pushing!” You bark. “This shouldn’t be happening; it’s too soon.”

You grit your teeth and try to focus on the warmth of your sister's hand on your back, grounding you in the present moment. Harwin was waiting in the next room with your children; you were glad. You couldn’t bear to look at him, not when this was your fault. You should have made sure the knights posted outside the room your children were supposed to be sleeping in were capable of stopping them from sneaking out. You shouldn’t have allowed yourself to become so upset. If anything happened to your baby, it was your fault.

Rhaenyra’s eyes were focused on the bloodstained sheets below. You had been pushing for hours with no results. “Don’t let them do it to me,” you sob. “I don’t want to die like our mother.”

Tears roll down her cheeks, but she forces a smile. “You will have a baby in your arms soon, and the pain will be over.”

The contractions come hard and fast now, like waves crashing against rocks. Sweat trickles down your forehead; the pain intensifies, but you know it's nature's way of telling you to start pushing again. You bear down with each passing moment, feeling the muscles in your abdomen tense and release as if they were being pulled apart.

A few more moments of agonizing pain pass, and then the room is filled with a baby’s cries. The midwife cuts the cord and then places the baby on your chest. “It’s a girl.”

“Cassandra, her name is Cassandra.” Tears of happiness streamed from your eyes. Your beautiful girl had thick, dark hair and eyes to match her fathers. “She’s perfect—oh fuck, I think another one is coming.”

One of the midwives pushes your legs open and says, “The princess is crowning.”

The room fills with the sound of people rushing around, and blood starts spilling onto the ground. The bleeding was heavier than before. One of the handmaids gives you an apologetic look as she lifts the baby from your chest and says, “I’ll clean her up, princess.”

“Take her to Harwin.”

Rhaenyra wipes a cloth over your forehead. “Sister, are you sure?”

“I don’t want her in the room when I die.” You let out an agonizing scream. “Just take her and go!”

Your eyes become heavy, and your vision fades as you watch the handmaid wrap your daughter in a blanket. Rhaenyra shakes your shoulder, yelling for you to stay awake, but your sight is locked firmly on your newborn. Before she disappears from sight, your vision goes black.

—

Feeling his wife’s absence, Harwin opens his eyes and sits up in the bed, squinting. He looks around the room, hoping to see her, but Vaella is nowhere to be seen. He looks down into the crib next to him and sees Cassandra scrunching her face up while sleeping. His little girl was smaller and sickly-looking, but she has fed well from the wet nurse and is now sleeping soundly. Getting to his feet, Harwin goes straight to the door and is about to order the knights on the opposite side to search for her, but hearing a humming noise, he stops.

He follows the noise to the balcony and finds Vaella sitting on the ground, rocking, and Rhea in her arms, as if the dead baby would take comfort in being in her mother's arms. When the handmaid brought Cassandra through to the other room, he knew something was wrong and went to be beside his wife. The maester and midwife tried to force him out of the room, insisting it was no place for a man to be.

“And which one of you is going to make me leave my wife’s side?”

Rhaenyra interjects before anyone else can respond, “Ser Harwin will be staying by my sisters side.”

Harwin had felt so helpless when he first saw her laying on the birthing bed, with him unable to do anything to help his wife, who no longer had the energy to scream. Aerion, Vaegon, and Ada needed their mother's strength and courage, something no amount of love from him could provide them. Vaella was covered in sweat and blood; he was so sure he’d lose her. But his princess was a fighter and pulled through, yet the second girl she gave birth to did not.

Harwin was conflicted; he didn’t want to disturb her, but he didn’t want his wife to feel alone.

His decision is made when Vaella looks up at the sky, watching the dragons flying above, and begins talking out loud. “The golden dragon is Sunfyre; he’s bonded with your uncle Aegon. The blue one flying beside him is Dreamfyre, your auntie Helaena’s dragon. The largest one is your brother Vaegon’s dragon, Nightmare.”

Harwin fights back at Sob when Vaella’s voice breaks when she mentions Vaegon. He backs off slowly. She needed the time with Rhea as their daughter's funeral would be held once they arrived on Dragston. Ser Laenor and Rhaenyra had left on Dragonback, so arrangements would be made for their arrival. The maesters advised waiting until Vaella was fully healed before traveling home due to her blood loss, but she was desperate to return home. So did he. Harwin didn’t doubt the masters of Driftmark’s capabilities since they worked miracles to save his wife, but he also didn’t trust any maesters he didn’t know to care for his children.

Hearing a soft knock at the door, Harwin goes over and answers. His mouth goes dry. “Brother.”

“I hope I haven’t woken the princess.”

Harwin steps into the hallway, closing the door behind him. Without being asked, the knight on duty goes and stands at the bottom of the hallway, giving them privacy. From the way the sun peeked through the clouds, Harwin guessed it was roughly five in the morning. “Is this an urgent matter?”

“Yes.” Larys puts his weight against his stick and whispers, “My bees have been busy. And I’ve heard whispers.”

“I’m not interested in gossip.”

Hints of a smirk appear on the clubfoot’s face. “It involves Princess Vaella and the unfortunate events that took place last night.”

Rage burns inside of him, and Harwin fits a clench at his side. “What do you know?”

“Do you remember what type of tea the princess was drinking?”

The question throws him off. “It was red and had a horrid smell to it. Vaella said it was her first time tasting it.”

“Hmm, that’s what I feared. One of the ladies cleaning the room said the smell reminded her of barberry.”

“A fruit tea?”

Larys nods, as if the answer were obvious. “For you and me, it’s perfectly safe, but not for pregnant women, as it can trigger miscarriages. Tell me, did the princess suffer from any vomiting or nosebleeds prior to going into labor?”

Harwin gulps down. “She spat the tea out.”

“But she may have ingested it in small doses without knowing,” Larys leans in again. “Between us, brother, I find it rather particular that princess Vaella was perfectly fine on Dragonstone, but as soon as she arrived on Driftmark, she’s poisoned.”

“My daughter is dead. We will speak of this another time.”

Harwin enters the room and presses his back against the door. If what Larys said was true, then this was... He couldn’t even begin to process what it all meant. Not now, not when he needed to grieve.

[lovedreamer11]

Where did the idea come from that Jaehaera could be a great queen, or a powerful consort like Alysanne?

I don’t hate the little innocent girl (I’m not Alicent), but let’s admit the truth. Even if we don't take into account the traumatic events that the princess went through during the war, the book said that there was something wrong with Jaehaera from the moment she was born. She didn't cry or laugh, she grew up slowly, and on the asoiaf wiki website Jaehaera is listed in the category of nobles lackwits, just like Princess Gael, Princess Vaella, Lady Lollys Stokeworth, Lady Beatrice Butterwell, Robin Greyjoy.

Can you please tell me if Jaehaera could rule the country on her own or be an influential politician?

Aegon was truly the best candidate to become ruler.

[witchofhimring]

Aemond and Y/n's family (the daughters, daughters in law and grandaughters)

This takes place in the same universe at this post. I will do a post on the boys next.

Queen Daenerys Targaryen:

Daenerys Targaryen was the first born child of Y/n and Aemond, coming into the world eleven months after their marriage. Rumors about Daenerys's illegitimacy stemmed from the fact Daenerys did not inherit her fathers white hair and had a fear of dragons. She spent the first few years of her life at Blackhalt, a island just off the coast of the Westerlands. At six she was taken to the Red Keep to be presented to Queen Rhaenyra and was chosen as the wife for Rhaenyra's grandson Viserys. As a future Queen guardianship passed from her parents to future Queen Baela. Rhaenyra died a year later and a fortnight after King Jacaerys was crowned. At ten and five Daenerys was married, against the protests of her grandmother Alicent Hightower who felt she was too young. At twenty Daenerys would give birth to her first child Rhaenyra. Shortly after Daenerys took Syrax as her dragon. Four years later Daenerys gave birth to her second child Alicent. At twenty and five Daenerys became Queen. Her tenure as Queen Consort was only five when her husband passed away. Given the political situation the council feared a child on the throne. Seven months with child, Daenerys became Queen Regnant. Three months later Daenerys gave birth to her third and final child, Baela. Daenerys would rule for fifteen years before dying of an ulcer in her belly.

Vaella of Blackhalt:

Vaella Targaryen was the second born child of Y/n and Aemond. She was first married off to Orwen Hightower, however no children came from that marriage. At twenty she became a widow and returned to Blackhalt. There she remained as regent for her mother Y/n, who was very ill. When her sister became Queen Vaela was married to the Warden of the North. She gave birth to two children, Caergin Stark and Selene Stark. She had a happy marriage and during her husbands long military campaigns acted as the Norths ruling Lady. She died in her sixties from a fever.

Elara Targaryen:

Like her eldest sister Elara was not born with Targaryen hair. Along with being born in Dorne, this once more brought rumors of Y/n's sexual conduct. In order to silence rumors Elara one day snuck into the dragon caves on Driftmark and took Cannibal as her dragon. Willful, many thought that what she lacked in Targaryen looks she made up for in spirit. She was closes to her brother Hardin who was only a year older. Elara would also make her own marriage by marrying Corin Velaryon, son of Lucerys Velaryon and Rhaena Targaryen. Elara was briefly imprisoner for this but quickly released. Elara accompanied her husband on his expeditions. Their marriage hit a hard place after a few years, however they worked to make it work and managed to end up very happy together. She had six children, Nymeria Velaryon, Naerya Velaryon, Helaena Velaryon, Saera Velaryon, Cora Velaryon and Rhaena Velaryon. At four and three Elara found herself suddenly pregnant. She gave birth to her final child Rhaena and passed away two weeks later from childbed fever.

Vissera Targaryen:

Vissera was the younger of the twins, with Elara being born two hours earlier. Unfortunately Vissera died at nine months from a fever. Her short life was spent at Blackhalt. She was buried in her families mausoleum in the Red Keep, much to her mother Y/n's displeasure.

Alice Targaryen:

Alice Targaryen was the final child of Y/n and Aemond and was the result of her parents grief. Her birth nearly killed Y/n and no more children were born to the couple. She was brought up in Blackhalt but only had her brother Viserys for company. At ten she moved to Oldtown as it was suggested she might become a Septa. This did not happen as Alice did not take to monastic life. Alicent resided in Oldtown until she was twenty and two. Despite her shyness Alice attracted unwanted attention for male suitors. Aegon Targaryen, son of Rhaenyra and Daemon, considered marrying her. Alice was quick to marry Roan Baratheon, heir to Storm's End. The next year Alice gave birth to Corbin Baratheon. She and her husband ruled Storm's End together. Alice died at forty and five from a lump in her breast.

Visenya Targaryen:

Visenya was the only daughter of Rhaenyra Targaryen and Daemon. She grew up in the Red Keep. At ten and five she met Elarion Targaryen, son of Aemond. She became a ward to Y/n Blackhalt and moved to the island. Visenya rode Meleys The Red Queen. At twenty and five Visenya eloped with Elarion and only came back when she fell with child. Her first child was Y/n Targaryen and a year later triplets Visenya, Aegon and Rhaenys were born. Visenya convinced her brother the King to give Elarion a dragon, Caraxes. Later on she would have three more children, Raellah, Veylara and Laenor. Visenya died at fourty along with her husband in battle.

Y/n of Essos:

Y/n Targaryen was born to Visenya Targaryen and Elarion Targaryen. She was named after her paternal grandmother Y/n. Most of her childhood was spent in Essos with her parents and siblings. At ten and six Y/n was spotted by Vaeserion Targaryen, son of Jacaerys and Baela. At ten and seven Y/n and Vaeserion married. Despite the age different the two had a happy marriage. Ten years later Y/n's husband passed leaving her a widow with two stepchildren and a two year old daughter. She spent the next two decade as a single woman, being called "Lady Royal". In her forties, Prince Rhaenar, heir to the throne, falls in love with him. Y/n becomes his mistress however Rhaenar wanted to marry her. Horrified, Y/n fleed to Storm's End which was under the rule of her cousin. Eventually Y/n and Rhaenar come to an understanding. Y/n retires to Essos and died at six and eight.

Visenya the witch of Blackhalt:

Visenya Targaryen was born the youngest of a set of twins. She was raised in Essos and at ten and six went to Westeros in order for her parents to secure a match. They had originally intended for her to marry Prince Edwin Targaryen however the match cancelled when her twin married Vaeserion. Visenya went back to Essos for a time and resided in Pentos. Visenya established her own court in Pentos and married a Pentoshi nobleman, Corbin of Pentos. Her firstborn child Astaria was shortly followed by a brother named Kiran. Visenya fought against slavery and was responsible for multiple slave riots. Visenya and Corbin would go on to have two more children, Alyara and Sephrone. She was assassinated at forty and one by slave masters.

[sayafics]

Temptation - Chapter I

Sorry guys, I've been working this whole weekend, so I haven't had time to update much. But chapter III of Dance of Shadows is in the works, and chapter X of Ghost is up next.

Anyways I hope you enjoy this chapter!

Prologue

Next Chapter

Masterlist

The room was hushed, strained in the depths of a bitter silence as Rhaenyra Targaryen stood to speak.

The eyes of her family - old and new - lay upon her like a heavy weight. She did not shy away from their glowers and glares. She instead stood straighter as she proposed a toast only moments after Viserys had quietened.

"I wish to raise my cup to Her Grace, the Queen."

Rhaenyra began, her words solemn and her voice raw with grief of a friendship lost, "I love my father. But I must admit that no one has stood... more loyally by his side than his good wife."

She shared a long look with her old friend, eyes welled with emotions, "she has tended to him with... unfailing devotion, love, and honour. And for that, she has my gratitude... and my apology."

Alicent felt as though she was staring back at the girl that was her friend all those years ago - no longer a foe, no longer full of hatred. She felt her eyes cloud as she spoke in turn, "your graciousness moves me deeply, Princess."

Rhaenyra looked across the table, eyes falling upon her children and Daemon's, scanning over the drunken form of her brother, the dazed eyes of her sweet sister Helaena, the guarded form of Aemond before flitting to land one she likened to be a quiet and tame girl who sat next to him - Vaella Targaryen.

She was Aemond's twin, born only seconds after the boy had twisted and turned his way out of his mother's womb.

Viserys had wanted to name her Visenya, but Alicent knew of her old friend's fondness for the name - she still did not know if she denied his wishes out of spite or love.

Vaella felt the weight of her sister's stare, could hear the hesitation as she began to speak again - "now I speak to you all as the heir to the Iron Throne."

Vaella watched her brothers share an amused look, Otto stiffening at her words as they watched her in suspicion.

"Our two families have been at war far too long, but no more. Lucerys is the heir of the Lord of the Tides, bethrothed to my dear cousin Rhaena Velaryon. Jacaerys is the heir to the throne after I pass, and Baela is to be his Hand. It is time our families united as one, it is time there was no more green or black, blue or red. We are Targaryens, and we should rule as one."

Rhaenyra stood straighter, eyes wide and pleading as she looked towards Alicent for her support.

The Queen's lips were parted in surprise, unexpecting of such words to pass so quickly when Rhaenyra had made her disapproval of the Greens known from the moment she had returned to the Keep.

"What is it you are asking, Princess?"

Otto almost spat his words out, eyes darting between Rhaenyra and his daughter as even Daemon leaned forward in curiosity. This was not something Rhaenyra had spoken to him about before their arrival - this was new, spontaneous. And that was what made it dangerous.

"Years ago, my Queen, I had asked you for your daughter's hand in marriage for my eldest son. You rejected such an offer," Alicent threw a glance at her eldest daughter, Helaena, who sat quietly at Aegon's side, playing with a gift he had exchanged for her forgiveness of his brash words. She thought about what her life would be like had she married the Velaryon boy instead of her own brother.

Would she be happy?

Perhaps happier than she is now.

Helaena did not meet her gaze. Instead, she looked to Vaella, who stared at her with pitying eyes. The girls shared a sad smile as Aegon shifted uncomfortably.

Aegon had not wanted to marry his sister, did not want to fulfil his duties as a husband to her. But he had to, Alicent said he did.

So he did under the guise of ales and rum, of wines and tonics, to bear the guilt and disgust which burrowed under his skin at every facade and every act so he could pretend what he was doing did not feel wrong.

"I ask you again today. Jacaerys is unpromised. He is the heir to the Iron Throne. Helaena may be wed, but Vaella is not."

There was a sharp intake of breath from the knight standing by the door. His presence went unnoticed by most, but Daemon watched him with sharp eyes.

Ser Criston Cole watched over the Princess as his heart began to ache in panic, he watched as her hand slipped under the table - no doubt finding her brother's grasp and hoping, praying that Rhaenyra would not say what they all believed she would.

Daemon's lips twitched in amusement, he could see Criston's wide eyes and how he paled under his helmet. What an interesting prospect, indeed.

"Wed her to me," the words were a distant echo of those Daemon had asked of Viserys so long ago. Words Viserys had denied. Words Jacaerys hoped he would accept today, so they may live in peace - so his mother could have her throne and then him.

"Give me Vaella's hand in marriage. She shall be taken care of, she shall be Queen one day. She will know no difficulties at my side, and she will know no hardship. Let us make this sacrifice for our families."

Vaella had frozen, hands trembling in Aemond's grasp as he raged silently in his seat. Aemond would not speak out of turn, not yet.

Her lips parted, a whisper of protest ready to escape when the King had cut her off with a boisterous wheeze in place of his intended joyful laugh.

"Yes! Yes. A most gracious offer, a most prosperous opportunity. Then it shall be. My grandsire will take the hand of Vaella, my family will become one and I will die a happy, old man."

His eyes were fogged with emotion. He was decaying away, and still, he was merry at the prospect his family would unite under one crown. His crown.

Alicent could not find it in herself to speak out, trapped between her duties to a dying husband and the ghost of an old friend.

Vaella's frantic eyes looked for her Shield, searched for him amongst the sea of silver and her expression shuttered when it met his broken gaze. Her eyes were full of horror, welling up as she realised that she had been pawned away so quickly and no one had even asked her if it was what she wanted.

She had sat, quiet and prim, and watched her body be sold for the price of friendship. For the price of a crown.

Criston wanted to move closer to the girl, to provide her comfort and reassurance. Though haunted by his wreckless desires for months as Vaella's Sworn Shield, he had stayed true to his vows and never once acted upon the fantasies that plague him.

Vaella had never sought out another man, content in teasing and testing the boundaries Criston had wrapped himself in.

They had formed a tentative friendship, an obsessive bond.

But it was one which could only be played with within the shadows of her chambers, every hushed promise and teasing touch. But never did it lead to more.

Vaella knew of her duties, and Criston was loyal to the crown. To the Queen.

So Criston stood at his place on guard, a hand fisted tightly around the length of the pommel of his sword as the other groaned lightly against the force of his metal glove furling closed with unbridled anger.

How dare they try to take the princess? To ask for her hand in marriage?

She was a Targaryen princess through and through.

And Jacaerys was simply a bastard. Undeserving. Unworthy.

A tear slipped down Vaella's face, and she could not find it within herself to brush it away and keep a facade of nonchalance.

Criston felt his body heat with rage as he took in Jacaerys' crestfallen expression at the sight of her tears - he had caused this. He had upset her. He had no right to look at her that way. Vaella was not Jacaerys' to look at. Not his to wed. Not his to touch.

Vaella looked away from Jacaerys' apologetic gaze, turning towards her one-eyed brother who brushed the tear softly from her cheek. They shared a mournful look, and she gave him a waning smile.

Aemond could not protest. And if he did, then it would only fare to make things worse.

Rhaenyra mayhaps play up Aemond's tumultuous anger. She may feign fear for the purity of the girl her boy intends to marry, or the life of her children should Aemond lose himself to his anger.

And if that were the case, Vaella may be wed to the dark-haired bastard sooner than she wished and possibly shipped off to Dragonstone - a place she could never leave.

She wondered if they would let her take Criston.

She hoped they would.

Nothing much was said after that - Rhaenyra and her family were jovial as they passed around food. They remained ignorant to the buzzing tension that swamped over the Greens. Or perhaps they were simply that great at pretending.

Vaella sat deflatedly upon her seat, trying so hard to wipe the sour expression off her face. She could feel Aemond fidgeting beside her, as though he was physically holding himself back from spewing words of hatred towards the boy who deems himself worthy for her hand.

She shifted closer to him, her arm pressing up against his own, hoping it would be enough to sate his anger. She played with the food upon her plate, no longer hungry as her stomach filled with lead.

Her eyes kept flitting to the fixed stare of her Shield. Criston was too afraid to take his eyes off of her, fearful that one glance away would cause Jacaerys to grab the girl and disappear.

They continued to catch each other's gaze, as though finding reassurance that the other was still there. Seconds passed into minutes before a hand entered her line of vision, cutting out the man she sought in the small hall.

She followed the hand up, eyes bulging with incredulity as she met the earnest gaze of Jacaerys. She felt pity for him, suddenly - seeing the desperation strewn across his face as he held a hand out with determination.

Vaella bit back a sigh, and she leaned away from the boy's hand frantically searching for something. Someone.

Someone to tell her what to do. What to say.

She could not see Criston, and Aemond was too far to her right for her to turn to him. She could feel the anger rolling off of him in waves at the bawdy gesture, could hear Aegon's amused snickers, could see Helaena buzzing in excitement.

She glanced across the table, meeting her uncle's gaze with a hesitant ease. He nodded in concession, eyes stern and expectant - she did not know why he nodded, but she knew it was for her.

She bit her lip softly in contemplation, unable to meet Jacaerys' eyes as she heaved herself up from her seat.

Aegon's amusement had been quickly doused at that, ever hopeful that his sister would have humilated the boy instead of concede to his wishes.

But she would do her duties, even if it was for today - for her mother, if not for herself. For her mother, because she would dare not do this for Viserys.

She met her mother's eyes as she slipped her hand into Jacaerys' awaiting grasp. They shared a grim smile as her mother teetered between a heart full of guilt and a mind full of nostalgia.

Jacaerys spared her of any words as he pulled her into the middle of the hall, he nodded towards the musicians who began to play something much more lively. Something so blatantly not her.

He pulled her close, hands placed on the dips of her waist even as she resisted his persistent tugs. He stepped forward with a resounding huff, pretending he was amused by her reluctance to be near him.

She would learn to love him. She would have to. They were to rule the Seven Kingdoms together. She would have to bear his children and the weight of a crown.

She would be a mother and a maiden, a virgin and a whore. All at his request.

Criston watched the pair as an ache settled within his chest, watched as she stumbled to his steps and stayed at arms length. Watched as she held her breath and mumbled curses under it.

The song was too lively, too animated, too cheerful.

No - Vaella was a symphony of melodies rich and smooth.

She was a single instrument playing a simple melody of calm and quiet, or she was a harmony that was bountiful and deep.

She would move gracefully to warm and melodious tunes.

Instead, in the arms of a bethrothed she did not want, her moves were stilted and strained.

Criston wondered how she would fare in his embrace. Would the melody wash over them with ease? Or would they struggle to meld into one, as the bastard boy and the Princess did now?

He hoped not.

He prayed not.

Jacaerys tried to meet her gaze, head twisting and turning to match the speed of her own. But the girl was admant in her ways and avoided him at every turn.

With gritted teeth, he forced a smile, playing pretend to simply wear away at the thin shred of patience that shielded him from his uncles' wrath.

He held back a snicker at the glares they exchanged, aghast by his depsicable behaviour - how dare he touch their sister? How dare he deem himself worthy? How dare no one protest?

Why had they not protested?

Aegon glanced at his grandsire, who watched with a pointed glare, whilst Aemond met the pleading gaze of him mother.

Bound by their duties.

As it seemed all the children of Viserys were, aside from the eldest.

The dance had ended much quicker than Jacaerys had wished, his hands unrelenting in its grip as she forcefully held herself as far from him as he would allow.

The King was carried away on his seat, a promise of the milk of the poppy passing from the Hand's lips at his departure.

The air was swamped with a stifling quiet, and Vaella had no interest in appeasing the boy's wishes any longer.

She tore away from him, a firm nod in his direction, but no words spared. She was ready to move back to her seat, find comfort in her brother's affection.

But it seemed Aemond's warmth had been sparked into a raging fire.

A roasted pig had been placed in front of him, and at Lucerys' twitching lips and arrogant smirk, Aemond had lost himself in the anger that plagued him since his childhood.

Gone was the brother she knew as patient and rational - in his place stood a wounded boy fuelled by a vicious past and horrific consequences.

He leapt up with a resounding thud as his fist met the wooden table, his hunched shoulders slid into a clean form as he began - a cup of dornish wine raised his amongst the half-blooded boys sat around him.

"Final tribute," he annouced, "to the health of my nephews, Jace... Luke... and Joffrey."

There was a twitch across his lips, and Vaella pursed her own to refrain from letting out a bubble of laughter.

It seemed she did not need to, as Jacaerys' eyes narrowed at her attempt to hide her amusement at such an insult against him and his brothers.

"Each of them handsome, wise... strong."

"Aemond." But he paid no mind to his mother's warning.

"Come, sister... let us drain our cups to these three... Strong boys."

Vaella grinned at his words, ready to walk towards him and reach for the accompanying glass he held within his grasp, but a figure barged past her with unrestrained anger.

Jacaerys marched towards Aemond, his shoulder knocking the Princess off balance.

Aemond bristled at the sight, vowing to make the boy regret such an act of cowardice as Jacaerys strided towards him and threw a weightless hand across his cheek.

Aegon blocked Lucerys from reaching his target, fearful the boy would scar his siblings permanently as he had done so before. He slammed the boy onto the table with gleeful pleasure, never once letting his sisters and brother escape his peripheral vision. They had to be safe.

It was his responsibility to ensure they were.

Vaella wobbled where she stood, hands raised to try and keep her balance at the rough shove as she tried to refrain from tripping over her skirts.

An arm around her waist stopped her from meeting the solid ground. It hoisted her back against something cold and hard and tightened around her waist.

"Princess, are you okay?"

Criston.

His voice was devoured by concern, but there was a tinge of something else riddled amongst his worries.

She turned in his grasp, pushing out the sounds of a fight breaking out as her brothers and nephews fought each other with renewed livery.

Unbeknownst to them both, Daemon watched their interaction intently. He watched how she clenched her hands, as though restraining herself from touching his silver-plated chest, how she fluttered her eyelashes and passed shallow breaths under his hot words and warm touch. He squinted his eyes as Vaella placated the man, and it was only then he released her from his grasp, reassured that she was fine. That she was okay, that she was safe.

The fight had ended all too quickly, and a stand-off between Aemond and Daemon had led to the yoinger of the two to walk away in amusement.

As he reached the door, Aemond turned to look over his shoulder, his raging eyes flitting over the escaping forms of his cousins and nephews to fix itself on his sister.

"Ser Cole, see to it my sister is returned to her chambers safely, and that there are no unwanted shadows circling her."

Vaella knew who she meant, wary of Jace's intense stare as he was forced out of the small hall by his mother. There was a part of her terrified, too, that Jace would seek her out to exact revenge for the humiliation they faced tonight.

"Of course, my Prince."

Criston nodded in acsent, watching as the boy walked away and Aegon followed in his wake.

The chaos had settled and the small hall filled with quiet, "come, Ser Cole. I tire of these fickle matters. I want to return to my chambers."

"After you, Princess."

Vaella could not face her mother's disappointed glare, did not want to wait and hear their scheming whispers. She wanted to go to her chambers, to lie in her bed, and hope it consumed her so she could escape the reality she would be forced to face when the sun rose.

Her throat burned as she made her way through the long and quiet corridors, it was only the sounds of Ser Cole's breathing - a flurry of raging gasps as he forced himself to calm in the Princess' presence - that kept her focused enough to find her room.

She did not wait for him to open her chamber doors. Her steps sped up as she barged through them and closed the doors behind her. She stumbled to the bed with gasping breaths as the reality of the fate she had been handed finally settled in.

Vaella has to marry Jacaerys Velaryon.

She is to be his wife. The mother of his children. Of his heir.

She is to be Queen of the Seven Kingdoms. A Consort.

She did not want that.

She did not want him.

[kckt88]

Drowning Inside You V

Summary:

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

MINORS DO NOT INTERACT!!

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

Word Count: 5829

Author Note: An Alpha/Omega Story.

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

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

Comments, likes, and reblogs are very much appreciated.

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

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

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

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

“Welcome back my Prince”

“Ser Criston” muttered Aemond politely.

“Another babe. Congratulations”

“Gratitude Ser Criston” said Aemond curtly.

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

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

“The Queen awaits”

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

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

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

“Your Grace” replied Aemond stoically.

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

Who’s fault is that?

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

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

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

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

“Indeed” muttered Aemond.

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

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

“How beautiful”

Wait. What did she just say?

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Why the sudden change mother?” asked Aemond.

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

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

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

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

“As you wish mother” muttered Aemond.

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

“W-Who goes there?” wheezed Viserys.

“Grandsire. It’s Valaera”

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

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

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

“A-Aemond. Thank you”

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

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

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

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

“I-It’s more in-“

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

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

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

“I shall” muttered Viserys.

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

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

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

“Indeed, he is” replied Valaera smiling.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“I hate family gatherings” whined Aegon.

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

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

“Not good” muttered Aemond.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“What’s fantastic” asked Valaera.

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

“Is everything ok?”

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

“How are my nephews doing?” asked Aegon.

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Not me I can assure you” snapped Aemond.

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

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

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

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

They were going to be ok.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Let us have some music” exclaimed Viserys.

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

“I hope I didn’t embarrass you”.

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

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

Oh, gods I don’t even want to know.

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

Even Alicent was smiling as she held hands with Viserys.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Is everything ok my sweet?”

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

“A-Are you sure?” asked Aemond.

“Yes, I’m ready. I want you”.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“AEGON” shouted Alicent.

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

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

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

“A-Aemma. I-I’m coming”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The people of the realm applauded his victory.

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

“YES! YES!” screamed Valaera.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Relentless and deep.

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

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

Harder. Deeper. Faster.

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

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

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

Aemond could feel Valaera clenching around him.

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

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

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

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

"Please. Aemond" whimpered Valaera.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Yes” groaned Aemond loudly.

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

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

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

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

“A-Alpha” gasped Valaera.

“Hm”

“You-Your amazing” said Valaera smiling.

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

“I think we should bathe” muttered Valaera.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“I’ll need moon tea” whispered Valaera.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Ah yes the future King” replied Aegon sarcastically.

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

“Had an argument with Jace” muttered Aegon.

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

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

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

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

“No she got with child-“

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

“Is that right?” asked Aegon smiling.

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

“Shut up” growled Aemond.

“You absolute whore” laughed Aegon.

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

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

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

“Made you look,” laughed Baela.

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

“And how will you do that good brother?”

“You’ll see” muttered Aemond.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“I’m not sure” replied Aemond quietly.

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

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

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

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

“NO” snarled Aemond.

“Excuse me?” questioned Rhaenyra.

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

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

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

“What? No, I didn’t” replied Aegon.

“Aemond. That’s enough” warned Jace.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“NO” yelled Valaera.

“Valaera” gasped Rhaenyra.

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

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

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

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

“Valaera. Please” muttered Rhaenyra.

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

“That’s enough Valaera” warned Jace.

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

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

“You don’t have to do that”.

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

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

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

“The opportunity never presented itself” muttered Valaera.

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

Jacaerys Targaryen. Sounds really weird.

“Did we overreact grandsire?” asked Valaera.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Better to sort things out now” replied Corlys.

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

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

“You want to what?” asked Aemond.

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

“Hm”

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

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

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

“I agree. We decide” replied Valaera.

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

“Me too” whispered Valaera.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Enter” stated Aemond firmly.

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

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

“I wish to extend my apology to you”.

“M-Me my Prince why?” asked Tarla.

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

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

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

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

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

“N-No my Prince I cannot”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Where is Lord Corlys?” asked Rhaenyra.

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

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

“No, it is not”.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Well, I thought about Maela” replied Rhaenyra.

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

“W-What. To whom?” asked Rhaenyra.

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

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

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

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

“Such as?” asked Rhaenyra.

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

“So, his betrothal to Daena is provisional?”

“Yes” muttered Valaera.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“I love you my sweet girl”.

“I love you mother” replied Valaera.

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

“D-Did I do ok?” asked Valaera.

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

“I wasn’t too harsh, was I?”

“No, you acted accordingly” said Aemond smiling.

“What are you smiling at?”

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

“Even if I am Strong” whispered Valaera.

“Hm”

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

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

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

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

“Is that right?”

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

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

[daenystheedreamer]

aegon (visenya rhaenys) [aenys maegor] aenys (alyssa) [rhaena aegon viserys jaehaerys alysanne vaella] maegor (ceryse alys tyana jeyne rhaena eleanor) jaehaerys (alysanne) [aegon daenerys aemon baelon alyssa maegelle vaegon daella saera viserra gaemon valerion gael] viserys (aemma alicent) [rhaenyra baelon aegon helaena aemond daeron] rhaenya (laenor daemon) [jacaerys lucerys joffrey visenya aegon viserys] aegon (helaena) [jaehaerys jaehaera maelor] aegon (jaehaera daenaera) [daeron baelor daena rhaena elaena] daeron baelor (daena) viserys (larra) [aegon naerys aemon] aegon (naerys) [daeron daenerys] {daemon aegor brynden gwenys mya shiera willow rosey lily balerion bellenora narha} daeron (myriah) [baelor aerys rhaegel maekar] aerys (aelinor) maekar (dyanna) [aerion daeron aemon aegon daella rhae] aegon (betha) [duncan daeron jaehaerys shaera rhaelle] jaehaerys (shaera) [aerys rhaella] aerys (rhaella) [jaehaerys shaena rhaegar viserys daenerys] viserys daenerys (drogo hizdahr) [rhaego drogon viserion rhaegal] I AM THE BEAST

[bvidzsoo]

Pure-blooded (Part 1)

 Author: bvidzsoo

 Warnings: the use of the word ‘bastard’, nothing else

 Pairing: Aemond Targaryen x oc

 Word count: 5942

 Summary:  A story about a girl called Vaella Velaryon, who after more than six years, returns to King's Landing due to her brother, Luke, being questioned about his right as heir of Driftmark, and she meets Aemond. A changed man. A vicious man who is set to have his revenge, unknowing that Vaella would do anything for her family.

 A/N:  *khm khm*(does a shameful walk) As a simple mortal, I had no choice but to crumble when I saw this man, so...my brain started working, and here I am, writing about Aemond *sighs* A little heads up, this will be a mini-series and we’ll see how many parts it’ll have, because I initially wanted to write three but uhm well, I keep getting ideas sooo yeah. I can start a taglist if people are interested, just comment on this post to let me know. Your feedback is strongly appreciated, so I hope you will leave your thoughts for me to read. You can find my story on Wattpad as well, under the username ‘Arfina8′. Enjoy now!

↳ Masterlist

              Serenity and peace was something King’s Landing had been lacking ever since King Viserys decided to marry Alicent Hightower. The friendship and trust had been broken forever between the two girls, Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and Lady Alicent Hightower. Rhaenyra felt betrayed, but tried to understand. Her father and her friend, who seemed to drastically change once her title was given, Queen Alicent Hightower. She had no business sitting on the throne next to the King, but Otto Hightower was a vile man, who out of greed would do anything to see his family succeed. Rightfully or not, it was no surprise to anyone anymore. Everyone from Rhaenyra’s family knew of the distrust and disrespect the Hightowers kept sending her way, time and time again, questioning her rightful title as heir to the Iron Throne and the legitimacy of her children. In some ways, it had become taboo to speak of such thing, unless you wished to grant yourself a very painful death. It was visible to everyone’s eyes, how different her sons were compared to her husband, Laenor Velaryon. And despite sharing the Targaryen features as much as her mother’s temper, Vaella was no different to her brothers. Her long platinum blonde hair and gleaming purple eyes wouldn’t save her from the whispers of others calling her a bastard as well. Why? Even in plain sight it was quite obvious that she shared none of her father’s qualities nor personality despite being raised by him. Laenor was a kind, patient, a bit clumsy and irresponsible, but loving man. Vaella, however, was brash and impatient. She didn’t take orders from anyone but her mother and alleged uncle, Daemon, and of course, herself. She was her own master and thus followed no one else but her own mind and heart. She was a soldier, never to be tamed, and a free spirit who sought justice and fairness. She wanted peace and most importantly to be accepted by her people for once and for all. She hated the whispers as much as her brothers, Jacaerys and Lucerys, did, as Joffrey was too young to understand what being called a bastard meant. And despite Princess Rhaenyra doing her best to protect her children, who meant the world to her, she was questioned time and time again, their legitimacy brought as center of discussion more than once. Vaella hated feeling powerless and uncapable of doing anything as a young girl, watching the pain in her mother’s eyes any time someone accused her brothers of looking like Ser Harwin Strong. As a young girl, she never understood why the people at Red Keep would stare at her with spite anytime she opened her mouth. But as time passed and she grew, she started to understand. She looked nothing like Laenor, yet resembled Daemon as if she were a fierce copy of his. She never dared question her mother, out of respect and fear of knowing the unspoken truth, but she knew. She knew the second her and Daemon were forced to meet at his beloved wife’s funeral, Laena. Their eyes held the same harshness and determination. Their hearts beat for justice and validation as they both felt like they deserved more than what life has given them, and most importantly, they both would burn bridges for Rhaenyra and slay anyone who dared mistreat the Princess. Vaella couldn’t explain why, but her love and loyalty lay deeply with her mother. She swore to protect her until her last breath were to be taken and give her anything she wanted. Sometimes, Rhaenyra would laugh, and say she was the son she never asked for but got in the form of a daughter, secretly wishing that she could name Vaella as heir to the Iron Throne. But Vaella was content with her position and the probability of inheriting Dragonstone one day, she didn’t yearn for the throne. That was to be Jacaerys’ as the second born, but first son of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and Prince Laenor Velaryon. Yet after everything they have done for the King’s second family, the Hightowers, they even moved out to let them be in peace, they would still take and take from them. They would not rest until they have seen Rhaenyra destroyed and with nothing. They wanted her dead, especially Otto and Alicent, and it was no secret to anyone. Vaella hated that family with a passion and always wondered how such a sweet man like her grandsire, King Viserys, fell into their trap. Perhaps, that is why he fell into it, because he refused to see their true nature. Now, with the sole existence of Prince Aegon and Prince Aemond Targaryen, Princess Rhaenyra’s succession to the throne would be questioned and debated over and over again. Those bastards would never have enough, not until they see the rightful heir and her family burning. Something that would never happen on Vaella and Daemon’s watches, not if they would strike the Hightowers first, but for that, they had to be patient. And that is why Daemon sent a raven to Vaella, discreetly asking her to join them at King’s Landing as Lucerys’ legitimacy had been questioned once again as her uncle Vaemond was petitioning against him inheriting Driftmark. Vaella’s blood boiled when she read the letter from her father and without much explanation she went to get her dragon, Silverwing, to fly to King’s Landing. Vaella was a traveler, therefore she resided both on Dragonstone and Pentos, the later being a place her father suggested she’d frequent. Daemon loved the libraries they had there and figured he could send her daughter to enjoy what that place had to offer for her. Vaella didn’t complain once she saw the beauty of that place and all the lectures it had to offer her. She might’ve been a soldier, but her heart yearned to study and learn as much as she could about her heritage, history, and curiosities of each land.

           The ride to King’s Landing had been swift, Silverwing could sense his rider’s anger and displeasure as they flew through the air. It came as no surprise to see nobody waiting for her once she arrived to the Red Keep, the courtyard empty as she waltzed through it, head held high. Not being welcomed to the place she once called her home didn’t affect her in any way. What did anger her, however, were the disgusting changes brought to it. The place was littered with green and the emblems of the Hightowers, making her feel sick. This place rightfully belonged to the Targaryens, her own family, and she couldn’t believe the plain disrespect brought upon the still living King by none other than his wife, who Vaella refused to acknowledge as Queen. When she was a child, she didn’t understand the seemingly obvious hatred directed at her by the woman or why she was trying to keep her sons away from her and her own brothers. Her uncles were nice kids while they were growing up, until they weren’t, until their mother’s words got to them, forever imprinted in their minds. Vaella was never one to instigate anything or hate people for no concrete reasons, but that faithful night, when Lucerys cut their uncle’s eye out accidentally, she realized there was no turning back. Aemond had looked at them with disgust and hatred, when he saw them rush to into their mother’s arms, Princess Rhaenyra. Vaella wasn’t a witness to the event as Aegon had stolen one of her dagger’s and was running around the castle drunkenly, hiding from her. She felt horrible when she heard what had happened. It made her hate herself how instead of being there to protect her younger brothers and cousins, she was running after Aegon, who was just being his usual jester self and annoying her. Despite their current hatred for each other, she had fond memories of Aegon, as the two of them would bicker quite often and chase each other around the castle. While they were growing up, Aegon was good with a sword and secretly would train her from time to time as being a lady and a Princess didn’t grant her the same privileges her brothers and uncles had. Aemond was never too fond of her, recognizing the power she held inside her at a young age already. He saw her as someone who would challenge him and outshine him in the future, getting his eye taken by her brother only made matters worse between the two. Vaella wasn’t fond of Aemond either, even before that faithful event, as she thought he was too soft and easy to pick on. He had the potential in him, yet he allowed everyone to walk all over him. Vaella hated people like that, people who willingly allowed themselves to be victims without standing up for themselves and instead running to their mothers to cry about what had happened. If Vaella were to be like that, she’d be nowhere today. She wouldn’t be a soldier, she wouldn’t have one of the most powerful dragon’s under her control, she wouldn’t have earned so many men and women’s respect, and most importantly…she wouldn’t be her mother’s most loyal and sworn protector. Lost in thought, she made her way up the stairs to the second floor of the castle, having in mind to visit her grandsire, but four guards came rounding the corner and stopping her in her tracks. Her body tensed as her left hand grabbed the handle of her sword strapped onto her hip.

“Princess Vaella,” the commander spoke up, bringing the princess’ gleaming eyes onto him, “your mother, Princess Rhaenyra, asked us to escort you to her chamber once you have arrived.”

Vaella stared at them for a second before nodding her head, releasing the handle of her sword. These guards were harmless, and they would lead her to her mother. The commander nodded his head silently and they started walking, two guards disappearing as they descended the stairs to their left, leaving her with two guards only. Despite being a soldier herself, Vaella didn’t wear armor unless she had to partake in a battle. She found the clothing too heavy to bear all day and opted for a simpler outfit, one that wouldn’t restrain her if she needed to fight. She wore tight black, leather pants, and two daggers gifted by Daemon, were hidden in her two boots which reached just above her knees. The laces were tightly tied together, the steel of her daggers lightly digging into her clothed leg, a constant reminder that she had them there. Her camisole was always beige and tucked away underneath her usually burgundy or black flowy shirts. Vaella wore them always off her shoulders and tucked inside her leather pants, accompanied by her usually black corset which came over her shirt and hugged her torso firmly. She didn’t like wearing her corset too loosely or too tightly as it mattered a lot when it came to combat offering her more mobility or restricting her of some movement. Her burgundy cloak was eye catching and everyone would stare at her when she passed by them, she wasn’t afraid or ashamed of her heritage. She wore it proudly and loudly, letting everyone know who she was. The daughter of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and Prince Laenor Velaryon. Those who valued their lives stayed away from the fierce Princess. The guards stopped in front of double doors and knocked on it before they allowed Vaella to step inside. She opened the doors and found herself looking at her mother and father. Rhaenyra was cradling her bump as Daemon looked outside the window, eyebrows drawn together.

“Mother, father.” Vaella greeted and bowed her head as a wide smile spread onto her mother’s lips.

“Vaella, finally,” She let out a sigh of relief and approached her daughter, “I was afraid you wouldn’t make it here in time.”

“None sense, mother.” Vaella’s eyebrows furrowed as she embraced her mother, careful of her bump, “I shall never miss out on such a hideous hearing. Will they ever let us rest—”

“Vaella, darling,” Daemon’s fatherly voice interrupted Vaella’s full of anger rant, “we had a rather straining day today. Let us not aggravate Princess Rhaenyra furthermore.”

Vaella gulped and bit her tongue, refraining herself of saying the insults she had in mind directed at the Hightowers, “My apologies, but tell me, what is the matter?”

Rhaenyra sighed and glanced at Daemon, who nodded lightly, “The King is very sick…I do not know for how much longer he will be amongst us.”

Vaella could hear the heartbreak in her mother’s voice and it broke her own heart seeing her like that, and hearing the condition of her grandsire. She loved the man a lot, he always protected them, he always took their side and shut down each and every accusation thrown their way. She might hate the Hightowers, and despite King Viserys choosing to marry such a snake as Alicent, it always left her impressed how much he’d go against his wife to protect his only child from his one and only love, Princess Aemma. Vaella always wished to meet her, but Her Grace died when her mother was a blooming girl; it was a very long time ago.

“Is there anything to be done?” Vaella found her voice as she looked at her father. He shook his head with a sigh, seeing his brother in such state bothered him a lot.

“I’m afraid it’s too late for anything to be done, daughter.” Daemon’s voice was low and Vaella nodded, sensing from his tone that they were done talking about the King’s condition. She looked at her mother and willed herself to smile at her.

“How is the baby, Princess? I haven’t seen you all in over a moon.” Rhaenyra smiled down at her bump and looked back at her daughter.

“She’s doing well.”

“So it seems I’ll have another baby sister?” Vaella smiled as she glanced between her parents, having accepted Daemon’s daughters as her own sisters the day her parents got married. She held no ill intentions towards her half-sisters, perhaps a little envy that they go to grow up with her real father, but she never held that against them. It was never their fault.

“Your mother had decided that it will be a girl and so I have agreed with her.” Daemon said with a chuckle as he brushed his hand against Rhaenyra’s baby bump.

“A wise choice, my Prince.” Vaella chuckled and Daemon smiled at her, noticing the two daggers gifted by him hiding in her boots and the red stoned ring also gifted by him sitting proudly on her left pointer finger. Vaella’s unashamed show of her heritage always amused him, but also made him adore her more. He was content of having a daughter which resembled him so much, yet he was grateful Vaella was lucky enough to inherit Rhaenyra’s level-headedness, which stopped her from being completely reckless as he was.

“Vaella, your brothers have dearly missed you. I think you should meet them.” Vaella’s eyes lit up at the mention of her brothers and she eagerly nodded her head at her mother’s suggestion, “They are probably headed to the courtyard, I heard them talking and saying they wanted to see the training grounds—”

Vaella bowed her head at her father and mother and turned to leave, but her mother’s final words made her stop by the door, “And please, Princess, stop them from engaging into anything stupid. And I also hope I can expect the same from yourself, Princess Vaella.”

Vaella smirked to herself, her mother knowing her too well. If she were to be provoked, there were less chances she’d back down and more that she would stand up to the challenge and accept it, “Of course, mother, do not worry.”

           Finding her brothers was no hard task, as they were quite loud while chatting. They were eagerly running around the castle, looking and checking every nook and cranny they were allowed to. Vaella, just to amuse herself, crept after them quietly, wondering when they’d notice her. So far, she had been tailing them for ten minutes and they seemed oblivious to her presence. Or so she had thought, because rounding the corner which lead to the stairs taking them downstairs to the main entrance, fours hands had her pinned against the wall. Her brothers eyes widened and instantly released their sister, shocked and happy at the same time. Vaella grinned at them and pulled them both into a bear hug, having missed them.

“Sister!” Luke exclaimed and held onto her arms, “We were not informed you would be joining us here!”

Vaella rolled her eyes and scoffed as she leaned a bit down, “I wouldn’t miss such an atrocious event, Luke. Somebody has to make order in this damned castle—”

“And you wish to be doing that, right?” Jace interrupted her inner thoughts spilling out and Vaella smirked at him, leaning her arm on his shoulder as Luke released her. She was taller than both of her brothers, but they were still growing, she was sure one day she’d have to look up at both of them as they would outgrow her.

“I wish to slit every throat that dares question the legitimacy and loyalty of my family.” Vaella answered them darkly as she glared at nothing specifically, letting her dark thoughts control her. Luke gulped nervously as he glanced at Jace before grabbing onto Vaella’s hand, bringing her back to the present.

“You can be so scary sometimes, sister.” Luke muttered as Jace took her other hand and they suddenly started pulling their sister with themselves, heading down the stone steps and marching towards the huge door. Vaella ignored Luke’s comment and let her brothers drag her with themselves, not complaining, as she had missed their presences. She loved them dearly and enjoyed spending her time with them. Being a few years older, she would read to them when they were younger and she’d help them learn high Valyrian, finding amusement at Jace’s repeated mistranslations. Once outside, Jace released his hold on his sister and ran up ahead Luke and Vaella, feeling full of excitement as he took in the place. In his eyes, nothing much had changed. Luke seemed hesitant in following after his brother, but still holding onto Vaella, he was forced to descend the stone steps. She noticed his hesitancy but said nothing, taking in the scenery before them. People had gathered here and there, some chatting as well as walking around. A smaller group had gathered around two fighting knights.

“Smaller than I remember.” Luke commented as Vaella and him glanced at two identical looking knights training, their swords clashing together. Vaella was itching to hold her sword and challenge a knight, but she remembered her mother’s words and refrained from doing so.

“It looks exactly the same.” Jace scoffed at his brother and hurried down the steps, glancing back at his sister and brother, urging them to follow him, “Ah, Luke, Vaella, come on!”

“In fact, it does not look exactly the same.” Vaella whispered to Luke with a grin and he shook his head, suddenly releasing her hand. Vaella looked at him with a questioning gaze until she noticed Jace tensing up and slowing down his walk to wait for his siblings to catch up to him. It didn’t take much for Vaella to realize why her brothers turned suddenly so stiff and alarmed. Everyone passing by them in the courtyard was staring. She hated it. The instant whispers and judgmental stares thrown their way, she wished to cut out their tongues and poke their eyes out. Her hand twitched to grab onto her sword, so instead, she allowed her hand to rest on Luke’s shoulder as Jace suddenly ran forward, towards a wall, with a missing piece in it. Luke and her stopped in front of a table full of various weapons, watching Jace’s excited face.

“See? I told you this would still be here.” Jace walked back towards them as Luke smiled to himself bashfully, “And you thought you could swing Criston’s morning star. And you almost took your own head off.”

No doubt Jace was recalling one of their trainings at which Vaella back then wasn’t allowed to participate, having been deemed too barbaric and un-ladylike. She couldn’t give a shit about it, but she didn’t want to upset her grandsire and her mother, so she stayed inside, and pretended to take an interest in sewing. When in reality, she absolutely hated it. As Vaella grabbed onto a weapon, her and Jace inspecting it, she felt Luke turn his head. She could feel his discomfort still and having her hand on his shoulder, she turned him back towards the weapons, giving him a glare.

“What’s your problem?” Jace asked as he noticed the exchange. Vaella forcefully placed the weapon back on the table as she felt Luke stealing a glance at her.

“Everyone’s staring at us.”

“Let them stare, brother.” Vaella snapped and looked around, catching the eyes of a few ladies and men, making her scowl at them. Everyone knew of the Princess’ reputation and they were afraid of her, her outbursts being sudden and brutal. Jace took a sword in his hand and pointed it at Vaella and Luke playfully, chuckling when Vaella raised an eyebrow at him. To his shame, his sister was a much better swordsman than he would ever be.

“No one would question me being heir to Driftmark—If—if I looked more like Ser Laenor Velaryon than Ser Harwin Strong.” Vaella sighed loudly as Jace stopped playing around with the weapons and looked at his brother.

“It doesn’t matter what they think.” Jace’s answer brought a smirk onto Vaella’s lips, appreciating his mindset which was similar to hers, and it left Luke looking at his two siblings smirking at each other cheekily. He sighed, feeling frustrated that seemingly he was the only one bothered by the stares and whispers. Luke knew Vaella didn’t care about anyone else’s opinions and he knew that while Jace cared, he never let it show. But Luke was different, he couldn’t hide his emotions well and being away from Dragonstone, which was his safe place, he felt uncomfortable and mistreated. However, he feared voicing his thoughts, knowing his sister would slay every soul standing in that courtyard if that meant it would make him feel better. He loved his sister, but she scared him more often than not. The siblings attention was caught by loud gasping coming from the crowd gathered around two fighting knights behind them. Jace, still excited about being back here, turned and ran up to the circle and it promptly made Luke and Vaella follow him. Vaella’s hand still rested on Luke’s shoulder and he didn’t mind, because it brought a sense of familiarity and reassurance to him. She was the only one making him feel safe underneath those judging eyes and he wished he could tell her, but knew his sister didn’t appreciate weakness from the people around her. Luke always tried to act tough around his sister, but sometimes failed miserably, yet it brought no change to Vaella’s thoughts about him. He was her baby brother and she knew he was scared of the world and their judgmental words, but she also knew he would grow up to be a powerful and proud man.

Vaella’s attention landed on the fighting knights and her body instantly tensed at the sight of Ser Criston Cole. She hated that man with her whole being and wanted nothing more than to cut out his tongue before torture him for the vile things he’s said and done to her family. However, her attention went as quickly as it came from that bastard as she watched the tall man fighting him. The platinum blonde hair made him easily recognizable as it could be no one else but a Targaryen. Having his back facing them, she couldn’t identify him, but she assumed it was Prince Aegon. He had been a fine swordsman while growing up, and as he loved attention she wouldn’t be surprised to see him fighting Ser Criston in front of a little crowd, gloating later on. That is, if he changed and became more mature…however, Vaella doubted her uncle was possible of changing much. Luke being a bit shorter tried to see better the fight and Vaella pulled him in front of her, letting go of his shoulder as she watched the fight closely. Ser Criston Cole was swinging his flail at the Targaryen prince, who was ferociously trying to dodge his blows while trying to gain advantage and swing at him with his sword. The fight was violent and the little crowd cheered when the Prince made a futile attempt at an advance, but Ser Criston swung his flail at him harshly, breaking the Prince’s shield in half. It took the later man off balance and Vaella smirked as she watched her uncle lose his footing for a second and slip, but her little amusement disappeared instantly when the two man changed positions, the prince now facing them and swinging at Ser Criston with his sword aggressively. It was not Prince Aegon, but Prince Aemond. Both Luke and Jace took a step back in shock, stepping onto Vaella’s feet, and when they turned to apologize, they saw how much her body language had changed. Vaella’s jaw was tight as her eyes focused on Prince Aemond only, following his every step as he turned around again, recoiling at Ser Criston’s continuous attacks. Vaella’s heart was thumping so loudly that all she could hear was that as she tried to ground herself, waiting for her shock to dissolve. The Aemond she knew was a frail and scared boy, running to his mother to seek refuge after every little inconvenience. But the Aemond before her looked ruthless in his swings and with a final swing from Ser Criston, Aemond swung his sword at him, taking him off guard, and winning the fight altogether. Vaella gulped and felt Luke’s hand sneakily holding hers, giving her a comforting squeeze. She quickly composed herself and placed her other hand on Jace’s shoulder, standing tall as the crowd started clapping for Prince Aemond.

“Well done, my Prince.” Ser Criston said smugly, “You’ll be winning tourneys in no time.”

“I don’t give a shit about tourneys.” Prince Aemond’s stoic expression was accompanied by his harsh words, surprising Vaella and her brothers even more. The frail little boy was gone, and a ruthless, cold man stood in his place. It was a change which Vaella never imagined would happen.

“Nephews.” Prince Aemond’s good eye fell on the siblings, its stare pinning them to the ground, “Have you come to train?”

Luke and Jace stepped back at his words, stepping onto Vaella’s feet again, prompting her to hold onto both of her brothers’ napes to hold them in place. She felt Aemond’s eye on her, taking her in. They haven’t seen each other in over six years. Aemond was tall now, and his eyepatch seemed to scream in their faces, as his piercing blue eye ran up and down Vaella’s body, noticing the changes the years brought to her. Her muscles were firm but not too much, and he could see the discipline in her body, making it obvious that she was a fighter. And if not her body stance, the sword tied to her hips made it very obvious. Her face had also gotten fuller and more mature, her round eyes more hollow looking than they were before. Her purple eyes could slice anyone in half, and he felt just that as she stared him down, hatred mixed with surprised showing on her features. Aemond’s face had changed too, it’s what took Vaella off guard the most. His jaw was sharp and his cheekbones high, his light blue eye paired with his eyepatch making him look dangerous. She wasn’t scared of him, knowing of his nature before his transformation, but the fight she had just seen told her that her uncle might surprise her more than once during her family’s visit to the Red Keep.

“Niece.” Prince Aemond finally found his voice, not surprised at Vaella’s defiance as she refused to speak first. He knew her as a chatty girl, yet her own harsh exterior came as a surprise, making him think that the once cheerful girl he knew was long gone.

“Uncle.” Her voice was firm as she greeted back, not afraid to stand up to him. She intended on walking away, but as she started tugging on her brothers napes to make them walk, a guard shouted for the gates to be opened and in walked Prince Vaemond Velaryon. Vaella didn’t miss the smug smirk on Aemond’s lips as he watched Ser Vaemond walk inside, meanwhile her brothers started fidgeting under her hold, the Prince sending a dirty look their way. Vaella stood tall and gave a glare to Ser Vaemond, but was ignored just as her brothers were. Ser Vaemond and his guards having passed them, headed up the stone steps, inside the castle. Vaella sneered and made a move to leave when her uncle spoke up.

“A fight, before you leave?” His right eyebrow raised as he watched Vaella looking at him with an amused smile.

“I was given instructions not to engage in any provocation to a fight—”

“I wasn’t talking to you, niece—”

“Why? Are you afraid a woman might be able to defeat you?” Vaella taunted, raising her eyebrows and felt Luke trying to make her walk as Jace looked at Aemond with a glare. Their uncle chuckled but remained unphased by her words.

“I have unfinished business with my nephew, Luke.” Hearing his name, the boy tensed and looked at Vaella with pleading eyes, asking her to start walking back inside the castle.

“You have no—”

“Bona iksos olvie unfortunate, uncle.” (That is quite unfortunate, uncle.) Vaella cut off Jace as she switched to High Valyrian, smirking at her uncle as his jaw clenched. Without waiting for an answer, she leaned her head down between her brothers and smiled, “Let’s go steal some snacks from the kitchen.”

Jace snickered at his sister’s words as she started walking them, still holding onto her brothers napes, feeling Aemond’s eye on her, as she held her chin high and looked only ahead, refusing to make eye contact with him. She wished nothing more than to engage into a fight with him, kick him to the ground and point her sword at his neck, but her mother has asked her to behave and keep her brothers out of trouble as well. She didn’t want to upset the pregnant woman, therefore decided to walk away. The air was a bit tense between the three as they started ascending the stone steps and Vaella cracked a grin, glancing back towards where the small crowd was now dispersed but Ser Criston and Prince Aemond remained. She caught the eye of her uncle and immediately turned her head, jaw clenching at being caught looking. There was something very alluring about the man and she hated how her curiosity sparked after their interaction, sensing the distaste and hatred oozing out of Aemond as he looked at them yet dared not to touch them.

“Did you see the mistake he made?” Vaella spoke up with a vile smirk, recalling the slip up of her uncle.

“Who?” Luke muttered confused, glancing up at his big sister as Jace opened the doors for them, and Vaella finally released the boys from her firm hold. It was a tactic to keep them under control but it was also something she would quite frequently do; they didn’t mind it after all.

“Our uncle, of course. When his shield broke, he was distracted and almost toppled over.” Vaella chuckled and placed her hands behind her back, following her brothers down to the kitchen, “Cricket Horn almost got him—”

“Cricket Horn?!” Jace exclaimed outraged and Luke had to press a hand against his lips as his loud laughter broke out of him suddenly. Vaella tried to remain unphased but couldn’t help her own laughter bubbling up.

“Criston Cole, I thought of finding a more fitting name for him.” Vaella managed to say between her laughter and her brothers were now stopped and toppling over in laughter. She knew she was distracting them from their dire moods and felt content watching her brothers forget about the whole ordeal which has happened in the courtyard. They started coming up with more hilarious names as they continued their walk to the kitchen and Vaella listened to them amused, their versions getting more and more creative. It made her realize that they were still young and underserving of the accusations the Hightowers and their own family was bringing to them. It made her blood boil, but being here she knew she could keep them safe and away from harm. Even if that came in the form of their uncle, she could take the man, she wasn’t afraid. And she was certain she’d be able to defeat him too, his fighting combat being that of the usual she saw in battles. Her father made sure to teach her tricks and so did her masters at Pentos and Dorne, making her a very talented fighter. She took pride in that.

“You know,” Luke muttered as they reached the kitchen, “I thought uncle Aemond wouldn’t hold a grudge against me—I should’ve known better, Vaella. I’m too naïve.”

Vaella sighed and looked at Jace as he ruffled his brother’s hair, “You are not. Yes, your uncle lost a very important asset of his, but he should not hold a grudge against a child who was just trying to defend his own brother. Do not be afraid of him, Lucerys, he will not lay a finger on you.”

“Because you will have his fingers cut and fed to Silverwing?” Luke asked quietly, grinning up at his siblings. Jace chuckled and looked at his sister amused, knocking his shoulder into her arm.

“Have I told you that you are a fast learner?” Vaella raised her eyebrow and grinned at her brother with mischief. Luke nodded his head proudly and Jace clapped his hands together, looking eager to raid the kitchen now. He was starving for some sweets.

“Shall we go now?” Jace held the handle of the door and Luke nodded eagerly. Vaella leaned down and licked her lips.

“Remember, we must be quick and under no circumstance can be caught, yes?” Her brothers nodded, mischievous smiles on their faces. They would do this frequently at Dragonstone, raid the kitchen and take as many snacks as they could without being caught. Then they would run to their dragons and fly to the nearest island, which was just ten minutes away, and devour their snacks before going for a swim in the ocean, if it was warm enough that day. Vaella knew there was no island they could fly to right now, but she knew of a forest with a beautiful meadow not far from here. Rhaenyra was the one who had shown it to her and ever since then it became Vaella’s favorite spot in all of King’s Landing.

Jace started counting from one to three and when he pushed the door open, Luke and Vaella slipped inside, making a run for the table filled with snacks.

↳Next part 

[naerys-arryn]

•・⋅⚵⋅・•

House Targaryen of the Stepstones

Naerys Arryn (82 AC) & Daemon Targaryen (81 AC)

-> Aerion Targaryen (102 AC) & Laena Velaryon (92 AC)

-> Larissa Targaryen (116 AC) § Aeneas Targaryen (117 AC)

-> Rhaegel Targaryen (105 AC)

-> Maekar Targaryen (105 AC) & Alaena Bracken (103 AC)

-> Daena Targaryen (120 AC)

-> Jon Targaryen (107 AC) & Celia Hightower (108 AC)

-> Alyssa Targaryen I (109 AC) & Roger Estermont (95 AC)

-> Danielle Estermont (113 AC) (Daughter of Roger’s First Wife)

•・⋅⚵⋅・•

House Targaryen of King’s Landing

Aemma Arryn (82 AC) & Viserys Targaryen (77 AC)

-> Rhaenyra Targaryen & Laenor Velaryon

-> Jocelyn Targaryen (115 AC)

-> Alyssa Targaryen III (115 AC)

-> Aemon Targaryen (118 AC)

-> Aemma Targaryen (119 AC)

-> Viserys Velaryon

Alicent Hightower & Viserys Targaryen (77 AC)

-> Aegon Targaryen (107 AC) & Helaena Targaryen (109 AC)

-> Rhaekar Targaryen

-> Vaella Targaryen

-> Aemond Targaryen (110 AC)

-> Daeron Targaryen (114 AC)

-> Viserra Targaryen (115-6 AC)

•・⋅⚵⋅・•

House Bracken of [Redacted]

Gael Targaryen (80 AC) & Brynden Bracken (78 AC)

-> Aenys Bracken (102 AC) & Alayne Royce (97 AC)

-> Rhaena Royce (118 AC)

-> Baela Royce (118 AC)

-> Alaena Bracken (103 AC) & Maekar Targaryen (105 AC)

-> Daena Targaryen (123 AC)

[Redacted] & [Redacted]

[randomestfandoms-ocs]

HOTD OC Introduction

(world's biggest thanks to @ginevrastilinski-ocs for dealing with me being very annoying and helping me figure this all out)

1 – Saera Targaryen ( Elle Fanning ): Aemond ship, Rhaenyra & Daemon’s daughter from the night Rhaenyra snuck out – very scandalous, very secretive, but the implications of her being the child of two potential heirs is a big deal to those who know

2 – Carlys Tully ( Charlotte Hope ) in Death By A Thousand Cuts: Aegon ship, toxic heartbreak but also she is/was in love, he claimed her as his wife and she never had a say, little miss "I can fix him (no really I can)" to queen "i can fix him (whoa maybe i can't)"

3 – Lyria Hightower ( Millie Bobby Brown & Synnove Karlsen ): Alicent’s twin sister

4 – Dorian Tyrell ( Timothee Chalamet): Alicent ship, second son of House Tyrell, recently became a knight, is there when Alicent wears the green dress at the wedding feast and is just immediately so devoted and knows he would die for her, asks Alicent’s permission to serve as her personal guard and has been by her side ever since

5 – Vysenia Targaryen ( Freya Allen & Morfydd Clark ): Rhaenyra’s younger twin, loyal to her sister but also has been in love with Alicent since they were children

6 – Cyrissa Cole ( Summer Bishil ): Criston Cole’s younger sister, ends up involved in things when Criston becomes a member of the Kingsguard but will probably have her own plot in Dorne too

7 – Vaella Targaryen ( Suki Waterhouse ): Alicent’s daughter, Aemond takes her as his bride because Targaryen tradition but is a very absent husband (at least at first), holds her at arms length and she is desperate for his affection

8 – Daessa Velaryon ( Millie Brady ): Rhaenyra’s daughter, the eldest of her children with Harwin Strong, has long since figured out who her real father is but won't say anything. If Rhaenyra is queen then she is heir to the throne, and she won't sacrifice that just for the "truth"

9 – Ayron Targaryen & Rhaella Targaryen ( Henry Cavill x Jodie Comer ): Ayron is Viserys & Daemon’s middle brother, technically heir until Viserys names Rhaenyra as his heir. Rhaella is Rhaenys’ younger sister, thinks her sister should have been queen, they are a ship and both just trying to survive the war

[crimsonsbled]

࣪𓏲ּ   ֶָ   𝑤𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑜𝑠𝒕𝒗   ⁝              charlie  hunnam  ,   forty-one  ,   male,   he/him.      announcing   the   arrival   of   AERION   of   house   TARGARYEN  ,   the   LORD  HEIR   of   CASTAMERE  &  MASTER  OF  COIN.   whispers   among   the   court   name   them   to   be   both   DEBONAIR   and   ARROGANT   in   disposition,   and   those   closest   to   them   speak   to   their   interests   in   swordsmanship.   if   we   bards   could   compose   a   song   for   them,   it   might   tell   stories   of    it   might   tell   stories   of   it  is  charm  you  are  raised  for,  how  you  yearn  for  your  place  among  the  dragon-kings  of  old  -  to  paint  your  place  among  them  in  the  histories  for  something  more  than  just  your  name  but  never  sincerity  -  for  from  your  first  moments  you  know  just  how  to  twist  the  world  to  your  desires  ,   dressed  in  gold  and  red  ,  the  colors  of  unified  houses  you  wear  proudly  on  your  back  ,  symbolisms  of  your  ambitions  and  aspirations  .  the   seven   whisper   to   their   most   devout   queen   as   she   sleeps,   making   her   question   where   their   loyalties   truly   lie.   are   they   right   to   whisper?   for   their   loyalties   truly   lie   with   THE  TARGARYENS/THEMSELVES  

━━  𝒅𝒐𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒆𝒓

𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐈𝐂  𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍

full  name  :  aerion  targaryen age  :  forty-pme  years  old date  of  birth:  the  21st  of  the  first  turn  (  januart  )  hometown  :  castamere,  westerlands gender  &  pronouns  :  cis  male  +  he  /  him orientation  :  heterosexual  +  heteroromantic marital  status  :  married religion  :  faith  of  the  seven titles  &  occupation  :  lord  heir  of  castamere,  master  of  coin

𝐏𝐇𝐘𝐒𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐋  𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄

hair  colour  :  blonde eye  colour  :  blue height  :  1.83  m  /  6’0  ft face  claim  :  charlie  hunnam

𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐘  𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐓𝐒

moral  alignment  :  chaotic  neutral positive  traits  :  debonair,  meticulous,  patient negative  traits  :  arrogant  ,  jealous  ,  manipulative hobbies  :  swordsmanship

𝐅𝐀𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐘

father  :  lord  lucerys  targaryen mother  :  lady  alys  targaryen  nee  marbrand siblings  :  lady  vaella  manderly  nee  targaryen,  lady  maesella  targaryen,  lady  jaehera  targaryen,  lady  margery  targaryen spouse  :  lady  jocelyn  targaryen  nee  lannister children  :  daemon  targaryen  (10),  aemond  targaryen  (8),  alicent  targaryen  (3) dragon  :  starfyre 

𝐁𝐈𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐏𝐇𝐘

tba.

[novaursa]

Part 4

- Title: zōbrie ānogar

- Rating: Explicit (18+)

- Romance: (Aegon II/OFC)

- Warning: All flags are up for this work. Aegon is also a warning on his own.

- Summary: It was written by Archmaester Gyldayn that on the day Princess Vaella Targaryen was born she was supposed to die. Until she fed upon her twin, Baelon. And when she turned one and five, she sought her end in the lair of Cannibal, in Dragonmont. But instead of feasting upon her, the dragon wept with her. And Archmaester had written a lengthy thesis on how wild dragon recognized a kindred soul in the Princess, as they both dined on their kin.

- Word count: 9 000+

- Parts: 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, Final

The grand dining hall of Dragonstone was filled with the subdued clatter of utensils and the murmur of conversations, but there was a noticeable tension in the air. Vaella’s absence was glaringly apparent, and Aegon, seated next to Aemond, was visibly unsettled, glancing repeatedly at the empty seat beside him. King Viserys, weary and in pain, finally looked up from his untouched meal, his expression one of concern and frustration.

“Where is my daughter?” Viserys demanded, his voice carrying over the hall.

The knights of the Kingsguard exchanged uneasy glances but remained silent. Daemon’s patience snapped, and he barked at them, “One of you should have been watching the Princess! Speak up!”

Ser Harrold, their commander, stepped forward reluctantly. “Your Grace, it is not uncommon for Princess Vaella to sneak past us to seek solace. She often orders us to leave her be.”

Rhaenyra’s eyes flashed with anger. “That is not acceptable. She is to be protected at all times.”

Alicent shared a look with Ser Criston, who grimaced before addressing the king. “Your Grace, I saw the Princess walking towards Dragonmont earlier. I believe I can catch up to her.”

Viserys, leaning heavily on his cane, nodded. “Then do so, Ser Criston. Bring her back safely.”

Aegon suddenly stood up, his face a mask of determination. “I will go with Ser Criston.”

Alicent, her eyes widening with concern, quickly interjected, “Aegon, sit back down. This is not the time—”

But Aegon cut her off, his tone resolute. “No, Mother. Vaella is my betrothed. I need to ensure she is safe.”

Viserys, seeing the resolve in his son’s eyes, allowed it, much to Alicent’s annoyance. “Very well. Go with Ser Criston, Aegon. But be quick.”

Alicent’s expression hardened, but she held her tongue as Aegon and Ser Criston left the hall together. The tension in the room was high, the clinking of utensils gradually ceasing as everyone watched the pair depart.

The journey to Dragonmont was swift, Aegon’s heart pounding with each step. The path was familiar, but tonight it felt more foreboding, shadows deepening as the sun dipped below the horizon.

“Aegon, stay close,” Ser Criston advised, his hand never straying far from his sword.

“I know these paths,” Aegon replied, his voice tight. “We must find her quickly.”

They navigated the rocky terrain, the sound of distant dragon roars growing louder. The entrance to Cannibal’s lair loomed ahead, a dark and ominous cavern. The scent of death and decay grew stronger as they approached.

“She’s in there,” Aegon said, his voice barely above a whisper. “I can feel it.”

Ser Criston nodded, his expression grim. “Stay behind me.”

They entered the cave, their footsteps echoing in the oppressive silence. The dim light revealed the grisly remains of Cannibal’s meals, bones and carcasses littering the floor. In the gloom, they saw her.

Vaella lay on the ground, unconscious, with Cannibal coiled protectively around her. The dragon’s eyes glowed menacingly, but there was an odd sense of calm in his posture.

“Vaella!” Aegon cried out, rushing forward, but Ser Criston held him back.

“Careful, Aegon. We don’t want to provoke him.”

Cannibal’s green eyes flicked towards them, his gaze assessing. For a moment, it seemed as though he might attack, but then he slowly uncoiled, allowing them to approach.

“Vaella!” Aegon cried out, rushing forward and dropping to his knees beside her. His hands trembled as he shook her frantically. “Vaella, wake up! Please, wake up!”

She didn't respond, her body limp in his grasp. Panic surged through Aegon, and he shook her harder, his voice growing desperate. “Vaella, please!”

Ser Criston quickly intervened, prying Aegon off Vaella with firm hands. “Aegon, move aside! Let me see her!”

Aegon resisted for a moment, his desperation making him cling to her, but Criston's strength prevailed. He pulled Aegon back, causing the prince to stumble and fall. Ser Criston knelt beside Vaella, checking her vitals with a practiced efficiency.

“She’s alive,” he said, relief evident in his voice. “But we need to get her back to the castle immediately.”

With a grunt, Ser Criston lifted Vaella into his arms, cradling her unconscious form against his chest. Aegon, still shaken, scrambled to his feet, his eyes never leaving his beloved sister. “Be careful with her, please,” he whispered, his voice choked with emotion.

“Stay close, Aegon,” Criston instructed, leading the way out of the cave. Cannibal watched them leave, his green eyes glinting in the dim light, but he made no move to stop them.

The journey back to the castle was swift, Aegon’s protective grip never faltering. As they entered the dining hall, a collective sigh of relief echoed through the room. Viserys stood, his expression one of immense relief.

“Vaella,” he said softly, his eyes filled with concern.

Vaella remained unconscious in Ser Criston’s arms, her face pale and serene. Alicent, despite her earlier annoyance, moved to her son’s side, her hand resting on his shoulder. “Thank you, Aegon.”

Aegon nodded, his eyes fixed on Vaella. “I’ll always be there for her, Mother.”

Ser Criston gently laid Vaella on a couch, his expression serious as he addressed the king. “She’s alive, Your Grace, but she needs rest and care.”

Viserys nodded, his relief palpable. “Thank you, Ser Criston. We will see to her care.”

…

Vaella was carefully placed in her bed under the watchful eye of the Maester, who tended to her with gentle hands and a concerned expression. The room was filled with the low murmur of voices and the tension of worry. Daemon stood beside Rhaenyra, her two eldest sons, Jacaerys and Lucerys, and his own twin daughters, Baela and Rhaena, their eyes all fixed on the still form of Vaella.

Aegon sat by Vaella’s bedside, clinging to her hand as if his touch alone could bring her back to consciousness. His face was a mix of anguish and determination, unwilling to leave her side. Daemon’s gaze shifted from Aegon to Ser Criston Cole, who stood nearby, his expression a blend of annoyance and concern.

“Cole,” Daemon called out, his voice cutting through the hushed atmosphere. “Where exactly did you find her like this?”

Ser Criston straightened, meeting Daemon’s piercing gaze. “The Princess was unconscious in Cannibal’s cave. The dragon was coiled around her.”

Daemon’s eyes narrowed skeptically. “And Cannibal didn’t attack you?”

Ser Criston’s jaw tightened, a hint of irritation flashing in his eyes, no doubt fueled by their shared contentious history. “No, he did not. If he had, we wouldn’t be standing here now.”

Daemon smirked at the knight’s snarky response, appreciating the unspoken challenge in his tone. He then leaned closer to Rhaenyra, whispering in her ear. “If what Criston says is true, your sister just claimed a dragon—or perhaps the dragon claimed her. And not just any dragon, a particularly nasty one. We need to verify this.”

Rhaenyra nodded, her face a mask of concern and curiosity. “Be careful, Daemon.”

“I will. I’ll take the Dragonkeepers and inspect the cave myself,” he replied, his eyes glinting with the thrill of a new challenge.

Meanwhile, King Viserys, leaning heavily on his cane, made his way to Vaella’s bedside to observe the Maester’s work more closely. He placed a trembling hand on Aegon’s shoulder, offering silent support as he watched his daughter’s pale face.

“Maester, will she recover?” Viserys asked, his voice fraught with anxiety.

The Maester, without looking up from his work, replied with measured calm. “She is strong, Your Grace. With rest and care, she should recover. But it will take time.”

On the other end of the room, Otto and Alicent stood with Aemond and Helaena. Otto’s eyes flicked over the scene, his mind already calculating the implications of Vaella’s condition and the rumors surrounding Cannibal.

Alicent, her face tight with concern, leaned closer to Otto. “This bond with Cannibal… it could be both a blessing and a curse.”

Otto nodded, his expression grim. “Indeed. We must tread carefully. We could use this in the future.”

…

King Viserys turned to Maester Mellos, his voice strained with concern. "Maester, what exactly happened to my daughter?"

Maester Mellos, still busy attending to Vaella, looked up and adjusted his spectacles. "It appears to be a head injury, Your Grace, but I cannot find the mark where she might have hit it when she fell." He paused, then added in a quieter tone, "It is... interesting."

Viserys's brow furrowed with worry. "What do you mean by that, Mellos? Explain yourself."

Mellos waved a hand dismissively. "Just the ramblings of an old man, Your Grace. Nothing more."

The tense atmosphere in the room grew thicker until Aegon broke the silence. "When will she wake up, Maester? How long will it take?"

Mellos sighed, his expression thoughtful. "It is difficult to say, Prince Aegon. It could be an hour, or it could be days. It depends on the severity of the injury."

Rhaenyra, standing beside her sister's bed, gazed softly at Vaella. "We should let her rest. Come, Jace, Luke, Baela, Rhaena. Give your aunt some peace."

With gentle coaxing, she ushered her sons and Daemon's daughters out of the chamber. Alicent and Otto exchanged a look before following, their faces etched with concern. Viserys, leaning heavily on his cane, was the last to leave, his heart heavy with worry for his daughter.

Maester Mellos finished his work, checking Vaella's vitals one last time before stepping back. The room quieted, leaving only Aemond, Helaena, and Aegon with Vaella. Aegon refused to let go of her hand, his eyes never leaving her face.

Aemond broke the silence, his voice admiring. "Vaella showed great bravery, seeking to claim such a fierce dragon."

Aegon shook his head, his expression troubled. "Vaella never talked about wanting to claim a dragon. She was content with Sunfyre and with me. Something else must have happened."

Helaena, still lost in her world of cryptic whispers, spoke softly. "The bond of fire, not of choice, called by sorrow and unseen voice."

Aegon glanced at her, not fully understanding her words but feeling a deep unease. "Whatever it was, I just want her to wake up. I need to know she’s alright."

Aemond nodded, his gaze shifting to the unconscious form of Vaella. "We’ll find out the truth, Aegon. For now, we must be patient and hope for her recovery."

The room fell into a heavy silence, each of them lost in their own thoughts. The bond between Vaella and Cannibal, the mysterious circumstances of her injury, and the uncertainty of what lay ahead weighed heavily on their minds. Aegon’s grip on Vaella’s hand tightened, his resolve strengthening. No matter what it took, he would be there for her, ready to protect her from whatever darkness threatened to encroach upon their lives.

…

Daemon moved purposefully through the corridors of Dragonstone, his face set with determination. He had resolved to uncover the truth about Vaella’s encounter with Cannibal. The thought that his niece might have bonded with such a fierce and unpredictable dragon filled him with a mix of concern and intrigue.

He gathered a small group of Dragonkeepers, their experience and knowledge crucial for what lay ahead. Caraxes, his own formidable dragon, followed closely, his presence both comforting and intimidating. The night air was cool, and the scent of the sea mingled with the ever-present tang of dragonfire.

As they approached the entrance to Cannibal’s lair, the Dragonkeepers exchanged uneasy glances. The cave loomed dark and foreboding, the air thick with the scent of death and decay. Bones and half-eaten carcasses littered the ground, a stark reminder of Cannibal’s ferocity.

“Stay alert,” Daemon instructed, his voice steady. “We’re here to confirm the bond between Cannibal and Princess Vaella. We proceed with caution.”

The Dragonkeepers nodded, their hands resting on their weapons as they moved forward. Caraxes let out a low growl, his eyes fixed on the darkness of the cave ahead.

As they entered, the oppressive atmosphere seemed to close in around them. The light from their torches flickered, casting eerie shadows on the walls. The cave was a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers, the air growing colder the deeper they went.

“Spread out,” Daemon ordered. “But stay within sight. We need to find any sign of Vaella’s bond with Cannibal.”

The Dragonkeepers obeyed, their movements cautious and deliberate. Daemon’s eyes scanned the area, looking for any indication of what had transpired here. The ground was littered with the remains of Cannibal’s meals, and the walls were blackened with soot.

Suddenly, a low rumble echoed through the cave, and Cannibal’s menacing green eyes appeared in the darkness. The dragon was coiled in a protective stance, his massive form blocking their path. Caraxes growled in response, but Daemon raised a hand to calm his dragon.

“Easy, Caraxes,” he murmured, stepping forward. “We mean no harm, Cannibal. We’re here to understand.”

Cannibal’s eyes locked onto Daemon, his gaze intense and unyielding. Daemon took a deep breath, meeting the dragon’s gaze with a mixture of respect and authority.

“Princess Vaella,” Daemon began, his voice steady. “She is my niece. If you have bonded with her, show us a sign.”

For a tense moment, the cave was silent except for the faint crackling of the torches. Then, slowly, Cannibal uncoiled, revealing a space on the ground where a faint outline of a human form was visible. The dragon’s movements were deliberate, almost gentle, as if he was aware of the significance of this act.

One of the Dragonkeepers stepped forward, his eyes widening in realization. “It’s true,” he whispered. “Cannibal has bonded with the Princess.”

Daemon felt a surge of relief and wonder. The bond between dragon and rider was a powerful and sacred connection, and the fact that Vaella had bonded with Cannibal was extraordinary. He turned to the Dragonkeepers, his voice filled with a newfound respect for the fierce dragon.

“Cannibal has chosen Vaella,” Daemon said. “We must respect this bond and ensure her safety.”

Caraxes growled softly, sensing the significance of the moment. Cannibal, too, seemed to relax, his posture less aggressive. The tension in the cave eased, and Daemon felt a deep sense of accomplishment. He had come seeking answers, and he had found them.

“Return to the castle,” Daemon instructed the Dragonkeepers. “Inform the King of what we’ve discovered. I will stay here a while longer.”

As the Dragonkeepers made their way back, Daemon approached Cannibal, his eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and reverence. “You have chosen well, Cannibal. Vaella is strong, like her sister.”

Cannibal’s green eyes flickered, and Daemon felt a strange sense of understanding pass between them. The bond between dragon and rider was more than just a partnership; it was a meeting of souls, a connection that transcended the physical world.

As Daemon stood in the dark cave, the flickering torchlight casting long shadows, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. He would protect Vaella and her bond with Cannibal, ensuring that their connection would be a source of strength for the Targaryen family.

With a final nod to Cannibal, Daemon turned and made his way back to the castle, Caraxes following closely. The night was quiet, the stars shining brightly overhead. 

…

The Dragonkeepers made their way back to the castle, their steps quick and purposeful. They carried the weight of significant news, and as they approached the grand hall, their expressions were solemn. Inside, King Viserys was engaged in a quiet conversation with Rhaenyra. The warmth of the fire in the hearth contrasted with the cold tension in the air.

Viserys looked up as the Dragonkeepers entered, his eyes narrowing with concern. "What news do you bring?" he asked, his voice heavy with the weight of recent events.

One of the Dragonkeepers stepped forward, bowing respectfully. "Your Grace, we have just returned from Cannibal's lair. Prince Daemon and we have confirmed that Princess Vaella has bonded with the dragon. Cannibal has chosen her."

Rhaenyra's eyes widened in surprise, her concern deepening. "Vaella has bonded with Cannibal? Are you certain?"

The Dragonkeeper nodded. "Yes, Princess Rhaenyra. Cannibal's behavior and the signs we observed leave no doubt. He has accepted Princess Vaella as his rider. We will begin constructing a saddle for the dragon immediately so that the Princess may take her first flight with Cannibal back to the capital."

Viserys leaned back in his chair, a mix of awe and worry crossing his face. "This is extraordinary news. Thank you for your diligence. You are dismissed."

As the Dragonkeepers left, Rhaenyra turned to her father, her brow furrowed with worry. "What would possess Vaella to seek out that dragon? Cannibal is known for his savagery and unpredictability. What drove her to such a perilous decision?"

Viserys sighed, his gaze drifting to the flickering flames in the hearth. "We will have to ask her once she wakes up. For now, we must be content with the knowledge that she has accomplished something remarkable. Bonding with Cannibal is no small feat. It speaks to her strength and courage."

Rhaenyra nodded, though the worry in her eyes did not dissipate. "She has always been strong, but this... this is something else entirely."

Viserys placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Vaella will need our support now more than ever. The bond between dragon and rider is powerful, and Cannibal is a force to be reckoned with. We must trust in her strength and guide her as best we can."

Rhaenyra sighed, her gaze softening as she looked at her father. "I just hope she understands what she has taken on. Cannibal is not like the other dragons."

Viserys nodded. "She will learn, and she will adapt. We have always been a family of dragon riders, and Vaella is no different. Her bond with Cannibal may be a challenge, but it is also a testament to her spirit."

The room fell into a contemplative silence, both of them lost in their thoughts. The fire crackled softly, casting dancing shadows on the walls. The future was uncertain, but one thing was clear: Vaella’s bond with Cannibal would change everything. It was a new chapter in the Targaryen legacy, one filled with both promise and peril.

Viserys's voice broke the silence, soft but resolute. "For now, we must wait and prepare. Vaella will wake, and when she does, we will be there to support her. Together, we will face whatever comes."

Rhaenyra nodded, a sense of determination settling over her. 

They sat in quiet solidarity, the bond between them strengthened by their shared concern for Vaella. 

…

Two days had passed since Vaella was found in Cannibal’s lair. The castle had been a place of hushed whispers and anxious waiting. Aegon had remained steadfastly by her side, refusing to leave her room even for meals, his worry etched deeply into his features. He sat by her bed, holding her hand and silently willing her to wake.

As the morning sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a soft glow across the room, Vaella's eyes fluttered open. She blinked against the brightness, her vision blurry and unfocused. Aegon noticed immediately, his heart leaping with hope.

"Vaella," he called softly, leaning closer. "Vaella, can you hear me?"

Her eyes slowly focused on him, narrowing slightly from the light. "Aegon?" she whispered weakly, her voice barely audible.

Aegon's face lit up with relief and joy. "Yes, it's me. You’re awake! You’ve been unconscious from your fall and your head injury."

Vaella frowned, confusion clouding her thoughts. "I didn't hit my head," she murmured, trying to piece together her fragmented memories.

But Aegon, too excited by her awakening to fully register her words, kissed her cheek quickly. "I have to tell the others! I’ll be back soon, I promise." With that, he rushed out of the room, eager to share the good news.

Left alone, Vaella tried to lift the fog from her mind and recollect what had happened. She felt a profound sense of sorrow and loneliness, emotions that seemed to have overwhelmed her completely. The last clear memory she had was of standing in Cannibal’s lair, the dragon’s menacing green eyes staring into her soul.

Cannibal.

The name sent a shiver down her spine. She remembered feeling an inexplicable connection with the fierce dragon, a bond forged in the depths of their shared loneliness. She tried to sit up, her head throbbing slightly, and closed her eyes, focusing on the events that led her to this moment.

Meanwhile, Aegon burst into the main hall, his face flushed with excitement. He found his family gathered there, still deep in conversation about Vaella’s condition and the recent discoveries.

“She’s awake!” Aegon announced, his voice filled with relief. “Vaella’s awake!”

The room erupted into a flurry of movement. Viserys, leaning heavily on his cane, looked up with hopeful eyes. Rhaenyra and Daemon exchanged relieved glances, while Alicent and Otto stood up, their expressions a mix of concern and curiosity.

“We must see her,” Viserys declared, his voice filled with determination.

Back in Vaella’s room, she lay back against the pillows, her mind still clouded with confusion. The door opened, and her family entered, led by Aegon who returned to her side, taking her hand once more.

“Vaella,” Viserys said softly, his eyes filled with relief. “How do you feel?”

Vaella turned to her father, her voice still weak. “I... I’m confused. I don’t remember hitting my head. All I remember is... feeling so alone. And Cannibal.”

Rhaenyra stepped forward, her face etched with concern. “What happened in that cave, Vaella? Why did you seek out Cannibal?”

Vaella closed her eyes, trying to piece together her fractured memories. “I felt a pull, like something was calling me. The sorrow and loneliness... it was overwhelming. When I found Cannibal, it was like he understood. I don’t know how to explain it.”

Daemon nodded, his expression thoughtful. “The bond between dragon and rider is powerful, Vaella. It’s possible that Cannibal sensed your emotions and responded to them.”

Viserys squeezed her hand gently. “You did something extraordinary, Vaella.”

Aegon leaned closer, his eyes filled with admiration and relief. “You’re safe now, and that’s all that matters. We’ll figure out the rest together.”

…

In the following week, as Vaella slowly recovered, she spent much of her time with her sister Rhaenyra and her nephews, Jacaerys and Lucerys. Their presence brought her comfort and a sense of normalcy. King Viserys, despite his ongoing health issues, ordered preparations for their return to the capital. The castle buzzed with activity as servants packed belongings, readied dragons, and made arrangements for the journey back to King’s Landing.

During breakfast on the day of their departure, Vaella found herself seated between Aegon and Aemond. The atmosphere in the hall was tense, the boys exchanging hard glares with their nephews, Jacaerys and Lucerys, who sat at the opposite end of the table. A silent storm brewed, hinting at future conflicts.

Aegon’s attention, however, was soon entirely on Vaella. He placed a comforting hand on her knee beneath the table, his touch a silent promise of support and affection. Aemond, noticing his brother’s gesture, smirked slightly.

“I look forward to racing Vhagar with you and Cannibal back to the capital,” Aemond remarked, his tone teasing. “I can’t wait to see the people's faces when we arrive together.”

Aegon frowned, his competitive streak flaring. “That’s not fair, Aemond. Vaella should ride with me on Sunfyre.”

Aemond shook his head, his expression mockingly sympathetic. “You can’t hog Vaella’s attention on dragonback anymore, Aegon. She has her own dragon now.”

Vaella shook her head at her half-brothers' bickering, a small smile playing on her lips despite the tension. “I’m not even sure if Cannibal will obey me,” she admitted, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Aemond’s expression grew serious. “You must make him obey, Vaella. You’re his rider now. Show him your strength.”

Aegon scoffed, giving Vaella’s knee a reassuring squeeze. “You’ll do just fine, Vaella. Sunfyre listens to you, doesn’t he?”

Vaella sighed, her gaze thoughtful. “Sunfyre is different, Aegon. Cannibal was a wild dragon. It’s not the same.”

Aemond nodded, his expression understanding yet firm. “He was wild, but he chose you. That means something. You have to believe in that bond.”

Aegon leaned in closer, his voice softening. “And I believe in you, Vaella. You’re stronger than you think.”

Their words, though conflicting, offered her a mix of comfort and challenge. Vaella knew she had to find a way to assert her bond with Cannibal, but the uncertainty gnawed at her. She glanced down the table at Jacaerys and Lucerys, their youthful faces set with determination, and felt a pang of worry for the future. The tensions between their families were palpable, and she feared what lay ahead.

The rest of the breakfast passed with subdued conversation and the occasional sharp glance exchanged across the table. As the meal ended, Viserys stood, leaning heavily on his cane.

“We leave for King’s Landing shortly,” he announced, his voice steady despite his frailty. “I expect all of you to be ready.”

The family dispersed to make final preparations. Vaella lingered a moment, watching Aegon and Aemond as they argued good-naturedly about the upcoming flight. She felt Aegon’s hand slip into hers, a silent reassurance.

“Let’s get ready,” he said, his eyes filled with a mixture of concern and determination.

Vaella nodded, squeezing his hand back. “Yes, let’s.”

…

The time had come for Vaella to bid farewell to her family on Dragonstone. She approached her sister Rhaenyra, her heart heavy with emotion. Rhaenyra embraced her tightly, her voice thick with concern and love.

“Take care of yourself, Vaella,” Rhaenyra whispered, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. “And remember, you can always rely on your family.”

Vaella nodded, holding back her own tears. “I will, Rhaenyra. Thank you for everything.”

She then turned to her oldest nephews, Jacaerys and Lucerys. Jacaerys gave her a firm hug, his youthful face set with determination. “Stay safe, Aunt Vaella. And if you ever need us, we’ll be there.”

Lucerys, a bit more reserved, nodded solemnly. “Good luck, Aunt Vaella. You’re stronger than you know.”

Vaella smiled, her heart swelling with affection for the boys. “Thank you, Jace, Luke. I’ll miss you both.”

Next, she approached Daemon’s twin daughters, Baela and Rhaena. Baela, ever spirited, grinned at her. “Show them what you’re made of, Vaella. Cannibal’s lucky to have you.”

Rhaena, more reserved, gave her a gentle hug. “Be careful, Vaella. We’ll be thinking of you.”

Finally, Vaella turned to Daemon himself. He stood with his arms crossed, a rare soft expression on his face. “Thank you, Daemon, for ensuring Cannibal is ready to be ridden back to King’s Landing.”

Daemon nodded, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of pride and concern. “It was no easy task, but you’re ready. Show them what it means to be a Targaryen.”

With her farewells said, Vaella turned towards Dragonmont, where the castle met the endless caverns. The air grew cooler as she descended into the dark, the echo of her footsteps mingling with the distant sounds of dragons. Cannibal waited for her under the care of Dragonkeepers, who still looked wary of the massive beast.

As she approached, Cannibal’s huge head turned to her, their eyes locking. A soft, almost purring sound emitted from the dragon, encouraging her to come closer. Vaella felt a strange sense of longing and connection as she stepped forward, caressing his scales on the side.

“Hello, Cannibal,” she whispered, her voice filled with affection. The dragon’s green eyes watched her intently, a deep understanding passing between them. Unable to resist, Vaella hugged his side, feeling the warmth and strength of his body.

She looked up at the saddle made for her. It was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, made of black leather reinforced with steel, designed to accommodate the dragon’s unique structure. It had intricate silver embroidery, depicting dragons in flight, and a high backrest for added security. The Dragonkeepers had worked tirelessly to ensure it was both functional and regal.

“It was a challenge to put it on him,” one of the Dragonkeepers said, his voice respectful. “But we managed to bribe him with a large bull.”

Vaella smiled, appreciating their efforts. “Thank you for your hard work.”

She closed her eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath to steady herself. When she opened them, her resolve was clear. She started to climb up to the saddle, her movements confident despite the lingering nervousness. Once secured, she felt a surge of adrenaline and excitement.

“Sōvēs,” Vaella commanded in High Valyrian, her voice ringing with authority.

With a powerful roar, Cannibal obeyed, his massive wings unfurling as he launched himself from the cavern. The rush of wind and the sudden brightness of daylight hit them both as they soared into the sky. Vaella’s heart raced with exhilaration, the sensation of flight overwhelming her senses.

Joining Sunfyre, Dreamfyre, and Vhagar in the skies, Cannibal roared in triumph. The other dragons acknowledged their presence, and together, they formed a magnificent procession, following the ships below as they made their way back to the capital.

…

As Vhagar and Cannibal soared over King’s Landing, the small folk below looked up in awe and trepidation. The sight of Vhagar, a legendary and immense dragon, alongside Cannibal, the feared and wild dragon, struck a mix of fear and wonder into the hearts of the people. Whispers and shouts filled the streets as children pointed to the sky and adults murmured prayers and exclamations of disbelief.

“By the Seven, look at the size of them!”

“Is that Cannibal? I thought he was just a legend!”

“What does this mean for the city? Are we safe?”

The dragons’ shadows cast long and ominous shapes over the buildings, creating an eerie contrast against the bright sky. The people of King’s Landing knew they were witnessing history, and the arrival of these magnificent creatures signaled the start of a new chapter for the Targaryen dynasty.

In the weeks that followed, the Red Keep buzzed with activity as preparations for the royal wedding of Prince Aegon and Princess Vaella were underway. Every corner of the castle was filled with bustling servants, decorators, and courtiers, all working tirelessly to ensure the ceremony would be a grand spectacle befitting the royal family.

Vaella paced slightly in one of the smaller sunrooms, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. Helaena, sitting calmly with her embroidery, seemed a world away from the chaos surrounding them. She worked diligently, her fingers deftly stitching a delicate canopy design.

Vaella watched her half-sister for a moment, then turned to her, trying to distract herself from her wedding anxiety. “Helaena, how is your work coming along?”

Helaena looked up from her embroidery, her serene expression never faltering. “It’s going well, Vaella. This piece is for the new canopy in the gardens. It helps to keep my mind busy.”

Vaella smiled faintly, appreciating Helaena’s tranquility. “That sounds lovely. It must be nice to have something calming to focus on.”

Helaena nodded, then paused, her eyes meeting Vaella’s with an uncharacteristic intensity. “Are you looking forward to your wedding to Aegon? It’s all he talks about these days.”

Vaella frowned, her emotions conflicted. “I am looking forward to it, Helaena. But the way it was achieved casts a shadow over it. Aegon’s admission, even though it was a lie, could have impacted me quite differently if Father had reacted another way. Like he did with Rhaenyra.”

Helaena listened quietly, then returned her gaze to her embroidery. “Aegon does that a lot. He doesn’t think things through. But he loves you, Vaella. More than anyone, I think.”

Vaella sighed, her heart heavy with the complexity of her feelings. “I know he loves me. I just wish he had considered the consequences of his actions. It’s hard to forget how close I came to being disgraced, all because of a lie.”

Helaena’s hands moved gracefully over her work, her voice soft and reflective. “Sometimes love makes people act without thinking. It’s a flaw, but it’s also a sign of how deeply they care. Aegon’s love for you is strong, Vaella. Strong enough to drive him to desperate measures.”

Vaella nodded slowly, taking comfort in Helaena’s words. “You’re right. And I do love him, despite everything. I just need to find a way to reconcile that with what happened.”

Helaena looked up again, her serene eyes filled with understanding. “You will, Vaella. Love is complicated, but it’s also powerful. It can heal the deepest wounds if you let it.”

Vaella smiled, feeling a sense of peace wash over her. “Thank you, Helaena. You always know what to say.”

Helaena returned her smile, a rare warmth in her expression. “We’re family, Vaella. We’ll get through this together.”

As the two sisters continued their conversation, the sunroom filled with a quiet sense of solidarity and hope.

…

Aegon sat in the ornately decorated chamber with his mother, Queen Alicent, and his grandsire, Otto Hightower. The room was filled with the soft glow of afternoon light filtering through the tall windows, casting a serene atmosphere over the otherwise tense discussion. The table before them was strewn with wedding preparations—lists of guests, fabric samples, and intricate designs for the ceremony.

Alicent leaned forward, her expression serious and maternal concern etched in every line of her face. "Aegon, you must not make a debacle out of this wedding. It’s an important affair, not just for you and Vaella, but for the entire realm. The eyes of the court and the smallfolk will be upon you."

Aegon, trying to appear nonchalant but feeling the weight of his mother’s words, nodded. "I understand, Mother. I’ll make sure everything goes smoothly."

Otto, sitting with his hands clasped in his lap, his expression one of stern disapproval, added, "It's already a debacle, Aegon, considering how this situation came to be. Your actions could have caused irreparable damage. But it is what we have to work with now. We must salvage what we can and turn this into an opportunity."

Aegon bristled slightly at his grandsire’s harsh words but held his tongue. He knew that Otto had every reason to be displeased. "I know, Grandsire. I regret how things happened, but I love Vaella. I’ll do whatever it takes to make things right."

Alicent sighed, her eyes softening as she looked at her son. "We know you love her, Aegon. But love alone won’t smooth over the damage done. You must be mindful of your actions from here on out. This wedding needs to be perfect to reassure the court and the realm of our family’s unity and strength."

Otto leaned back, his gaze piercing as he studied his grandson. "You need to demonstrate responsibility and maturity, Aegon. This marriage is not just about your personal desires. It’s a political alliance that could stabilize or destabilize our position. Show the realm that you can be a capable leader, worthy of the Targaryen name."

Aegon took a deep breath, absorbing the gravity of their words. "I understand. I’ll make sure the wedding is flawless. Vaella deserves nothing less."

Alicent reached out and placed a hand on Aegon’s. "Remember, this is also about setting an example. The people need to see that you can be a strong and dependable leader, not just a prince who acts on impulse."

Aegon nodded, feeling a mixture of determination and apprehension. "I’ll prove myself, Mother. I’ll prove myself to all of you."

Otto’s stern expression softened ever so slightly. "Good. Then let’s discuss the final details of the ceremony. We need to ensure everything is in order."

…

Aegon and Aemond stood in the training yard, the clinking of their armor and the thud of their practice swords echoing through the space. Their armor was crafted in shades of grey and green, a nod to their Hightower heritage, a decision pushed by their mother, Queen Alicent. Viserys, too tired to argue, had let the change pass. Their armor lacked the traditional Targaryen black and red, a shift that symbolized more than just a change in fashion.

Ser Criston Cole, their instructor, watched them with a critical eye, his own armor gleaming in the morning sun. The boys' armor was adorned with motifs of the Faith of the Seven, another of Alicent's implementations in the Red Keep, which had become more prominent as the king's influence waned. The Faith's symbols pleased the devout but displeased those loyal to House Targaryen, who saw it as a dilution of their heritage.

As Aegon and Aemond sparred, their swords clashed with force, each trying to best the other. They moved with the fluidity of years of training, their bodies honed and strong.

Aegon grinned as he parried Aemond's strike. "The wedding is within the next moon. I can’t wait for the marital activities," he said, his voice dripping with anticipation.

Aemond, quicker and more precise with his strikes, used the opportunity to pull Aegon close, his voice a harsh whisper. "Control yourself, Aegon. You've done enough damage to Vaella's reputation and your own. Servants still find you in her bed. You need to show some restraint."

Aegon shrugged, annoyed. "It doesn’t matter anymore. We’ll be married soon. People should be happy their prince and princess have a healthy attraction to each other."

Ser Criston Cole, catching the end of their conversation, stepped forward, his expression stern. "Prince Aegon, you should show more respect when speaking about your future wife. This is not the talk of a man, let alone a prince."

Aegon frowned but held his tongue, a rare show of restraint.

Criston turned his gaze to both brothers, his tone sharp. "Focus on your training. You need to be prepared for more than just weddings and festivities. The realm looks to you both for strength and leadership."

The brothers resumed their sparring, their movements more precise, their minds focused. Aemond, always the more disciplined of the two, used the moment to drive his point home. "Aegon, you need to think beyond yourself. Our actions reflect on the family, on the realm."

Aegon grunted as he blocked another strike, his annoyance clear. "I know, Aemond. But sometimes I just want to live. To feel free."

Aemond sighed, his tone softening. "I understand. But we have responsibilities. Especially now."

Their sparring continued, the rhythm of their practice providing a brief respite from the weight of their duties. Criston watched, his expression a mix of pride and concern. He saw potential in both princes but knew that their path would not be easy.

As the sun climbed higher, the training yard grew warmer, and the brothers' movements became more intense. The clashing of swords, the shouts of exertion, and the occasional words of advice from Criston filled the air. It was a scene of discipline and determination, but also of underlying tension.

In the days leading up to the wedding, these training sessions became a constant, a way for Aegon and Aemond to prepare not just for the ceremony, but for the future that awaited them. The tension between their Targaryen legacy and their Hightower heritage, the increasing influence of the Faith, and the shifting dynamics of power within the Red Keep all weighed heavily on their shoulders.

Yet, amidst the chaos, they found moments of camaraderie and understanding. Aegon’s brashness balanced by Aemond’s discipline, Criston’s guidance, and the silent support of their mother and grandsire. It was a fragile balance, but for now, it held.

As they finished their sparring, sweat-drenched and breathless, Aemond placed a hand on Aegon’s shoulder. "Remember, we’re in this together. For Vaella, for the family, and for the realm."

Aegon nodded, a rare moment of seriousness crossing his features. "I know, Aemond. And I’ll do my best. For all of us."

Criston Cole watched them with a nod of approval. "Good. Now, clean up and prepare for the day. We have much to do before the wedding."

The brothers left the training yard, the weight of their responsibilities a little lighter for the moment. They knew the challenges ahead were many, but together, they would face them, as princes of House Targaryen and Hightower.

…

Vaella sat with her father, King Viserys, in his private chambers. The room was filled with the soft glow of candlelight, casting gentle shadows over the intricate model of Old Valyria that her father had painstakingly worked on for years. The table was cluttered with tiny buildings, miniature dragons, and detailed landscapes, all representing the glory of their ancestral home. Viserys's hands trembled slightly as he tried to place a small tower in its designated spot.

Vaella watched him with a mixture of admiration and sorrow. Her heart broke at the sight of her father, once strong and vigorous, now struggling with the simple task. She reached out to steady his hand, guiding the piece into place.

"Thank you, Vaella," Viserys said, his voice weak but filled with gratitude. "My hands aren't as steady as they used to be."

"It's alright, Father," Vaella replied softly. "I'm happy to help."

They continued working together, Vaella's nimble fingers handling the more delicate pieces while Viserys directed her with quiet instructions. Despite the joy she felt in sharing this moment with him, she couldn't ignore the pang of grief that twisted in her chest. Her father was fading, and there was nothing she could do to stop it.

After a while, Viserys's movements slowed, and he leaned back in his chair, exhaustion overtaking him. "Vaella, I think that's enough for today. Help me to bed, please."

Vaella nodded, gently supporting her father as he rose from his chair. She guided him to his bed, the journey slow and careful. As she helped him settle under the covers, his eyes met hers, filled with a deep, unspoken sadness.

"Vaella," he began, his voice barely above a whisper. "I regret how little time I had for you. I was always so busy with the affairs of the realm. And now... I miss Rhaenyra, away on Dragonstone, and your mother. Your dear mother."

Tears welled up in Vaella's eyes as she listened to her father's heartfelt confession. "Father, don't say that. You've done so much for all of us. For the realm."

Viserys shook his head slowly. "But not enough for you, my sweet daughter. I wish I could have been there more. For you, for Rhaenyra, for all of you."

Vaella's heart ached with a familiar guilt. She felt responsible for the death of her mother, Queen Aemma, and her twin brother, Baelon, who had died shortly after birth. She believed that Baelon should have lived instead of her, a burden she carried silently.

"I miss them too, Father," Vaella whispered, her voice breaking. "Every day."

Viserys reached out and took her hand, his grip weak but comforting. "You mustn't blame yourself, Vaella. Your mother and brother... it was not your fault. You are a blessing, my child, and you have brought me so much joy."

Tears spilled down Vaella's cheeks as she squeezed her father's hand. "I love you, Father."

"I love you too, Vaella," Viserys replied, his eyes closing as he succumbed to his exhaustion. "Never forget that."

Vaella sat by his bedside, holding his hand until his breathing evened out and he drifted into a deep sleep. She watched him for a long time, her mind a whirlwind of emotions. The weight of her family's legacy, the upcoming wedding, and the personal guilt she carried felt almost unbearable.

Yet, in this quiet moment, she found a small measure of peace. Her father's words, though filled with regret, also carried a profound love that she would hold onto. She wiped her tears away and kissed his forehead gently.

"Rest well, Father," she whispered.

…

It was a warm summer night in the Red Keep, and Vaella was just preparing to retire for the night. The soft glow of candles illuminated her chambers, casting a warm and serene atmosphere. Vaella’s handmaiden, Lyanna, was helping her finish her nightly routine, their conversation light and filled with laughter.

“Thank you, Lyanna,” Vaella said, smiling as she ran a brush through her long, silver hair. “You’ve been a great help.”

“It’s always a pleasure, Princess,” Lyanna replied with a gentle smile. “Is there anything else you need before I go?”

Before Vaella could answer, the door to her chambers burst open, and Queen Alicent stormed in, dragging a visibly drunk Aegon behind her. The abrupt entrance startled both Vaella and Lyanna, and the room fell into an awkward silence.

“Alicent, what is going on?” Vaella asked, her voice filled with worry as she took in Aegon's disheveled appearance.

Alicent dismissed everyone in the room with a wave of her hand, her expression one of barely restrained fury. “Out. Now.”

Lyanna hurriedly left the room, casting a concerned glance at Vaella as she exited. Vaella turned her attention back to Alicent and Aegon, her heart pounding with concern.

“What happened?” Vaella asked, her voice trembling slightly.

Alicent's eyes flashed with anger. “Your brother thought it would be amusing to challenge several knights to a drinking contest in the middle of the training yard. He ended up toppling the practice dummies, breaking several valuable pieces of armor, and nearly setting the entire yard on fire when he knocked over a lantern. All while laughing like a madman and making a complete spectacle of himself.”

Vaella gasped, her worry deepening as she looked at Aegon. “Oh, Aegon…”

Aegon, his eyes glazed and unfocused, stumbled forward and clung to Vaella, burying his head in her neck. “Vaella…” he mumbled, his voice slurred. “I just wanted to have some fun…”

Alicent’s fury didn’t abate. “Set him straight, Vaella. He can’t be seen in this state around the Red Keep. He doesn’t listen to me and continuously humiliates our family. He needs to learn some responsibility.”

Vaella nodded, her voice calm but firm. “I’ll take care of him, Alicent.”

With a final, frustrated glare, Alicent turned and left the room, leaving Vaella alone with Aegon. She gently guided him to sit on the edge of her bed, his grip on her never loosening.

“Aegon, what were you thinking?” Vaella asked softly, her eyes filled with concern as she looked at her brother.

Aegon sighed, his head still resting against her shoulder. “I wasn’t… I just wanted to forget everything for a while. The pressure, the expectations… it’s all too much sometimes.”

Vaella stroked his hair gently, her touch soothing. “I understand, but you can’t keep doing this. You have to find a better way to cope.”

Aegon looked up at her, his eyes pleading. “I know. I just… I feel so lost sometimes, Vaella. But when I’m with you, it all feels better.”

Vaella’s heart ached for him. She knew the burden he carried, and she wished she could take it all away. “You’re not alone, Aegon. I’m here for you, always. But you have to promise me you’ll try to do better.”

Aegon nodded, his expression earnest despite his drunken state. “I promise, Vaella. I’ll try.”

Vaella smiled softly, her hand still gently stroking his hair. “That’s all I ask. Now, let’s get you to bed.”

Aegon clung to her as she helped him lie down, his grip on her hand firm. “Stay with me, Vaella. Just for a while.”

Vaella nodded, sitting beside him and holding his hand. “I’m not going anywhere, Aegon.”

As the night wore on, the room remained quiet, the warmth of the summer night wrapping around them.

Vaella looked down at Aegon, her expression gentle and filled with concern. "Aegon, our wedding is in a few days. Your mother and grandsire will take your head off if it ends in disaster because of your behavior."

Aegon sighed heavily, his eyes closed as he battled the effects of the alcohol. "I know, Vaella," he murmured, his voice a mix of resignation and frustration. "I know."

After a moment, he opened his eyes and pulled her closer, his gaze softening as he inhaled deeply. "You smell nice," he whispered, a faint smile playing on his lips.

Vaella rolled her eyes, a fond smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "You're drunk, Aegon."

He chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Tomorrow, when I wake up, I won’t be. And you’ll still smell nice."

Vaella's gaze softened further as she pondered what she would do with him. He was a handful, but he was her handful. Aegon pulled her closer, his lips meeting hers in a kiss that quickly deepened. His hands roamed over her familiar curves, tracing the contours of her body with a need that had been building for far too long.

Just as he feverishly began to undo the lower parts of his attire and moved to adjust her nightwear, Vaella stopped him through their kiss. Aegon halted sharply, his hands stilling, but he whined into another kiss, his frustration evident. "Why? We’ll be wed soon, and nobody really cares anymore."

His frustration boiled over, his voice desperate. "We’re always so close, but someone always interrupts us, or you stop it abruptly. I know you want it too, Vaella."

Vaella blushed as he continued to kiss along her jaw, her resolve wavering. He then asked, his voice low and insistent, "Why do you think my mother brought me to your chambers? She doesn’t care anymore either. She wants you to control me, by any means.”

Vaella’s eyes widened in realization. Alicent just ignored her own upbringing and what Faith was teaching her. Alicent was even bypassing the base decency she always tried to maintain. This was a calculated move, a way to bind Aegon to her more tightly, to ensure he behaved.

The weight of the realization hit her, but as Aegon’s kisses grew more insistent, her thoughts became hazy. She felt his hands on her skin, the warmth of his body pressing against hers, and the deep connection they shared.

As they continued to kiss, Vaella’s mind raced with conflicting emotions. She loved Aegon deeply, and the thought of being with him in every way was both thrilling and terrifying. But there was also the responsibility she felt, the need to ensure that their union was strong and respected.

For now, she let herself be swept away by the moment, her worries fading into the background. Aegon’s touch was familiar and comforting, and for a brief moment, she allowed herself to simply feel, to be in the present with the man she loved.

Vaella’s resistance slowly melted away under Aegon’s fervent kisses and tender touches. As her resolve weakened, Aegon seized the opportunity to continue, breaking their kiss to look deeply into her eyes. His gaze was feverish, filled with a longing that had been building for what felt like an eternity.

“Go on,” he whispered huskily, his breath warm against her lips.

Vaella took a deep breath, her heart pounding in her chest. She guided his manhood into her slowly, gasping as the pain of her maidenhead breaking surged through her. She stilled on top of him, closing her eyes tightly as she tried to come to terms with the reality of what they were doing and the myriad of sensations coursing through her.

Aegon, for his part, basked in the pleasure of the moment he had wanted for so long. His fingers dug into her hips, holding her steady as he whispered soothingly. “You’re doing great, Vaella. I’m here with you.”

She nodded, her breath hitching as she adjusted to the new sensations. After a moment of stillness, she began to move tentatively, prompting a small moan from both of them. The initial pain started to fade, slowly shifting to a budding pleasure.

“You’re incredible, Vaella,” Aegon murmured, his voice filled with admiration and love. “I’ve wanted this for so long… to be with you like this.”

Vaella’s movements became more confident, and she could feel the pain giving way to a new, unfamiliar pleasure. She opened her eyes and looked down at Aegon, who was gazing up at her with pure adoration.

Their movements became synchronized, the rhythm of their bodies matching the beating of their hearts. As the intensity of their connection grew, so did the pace, each thrust and motion more urgent and desperate than the last. The world outside their intimate bubble ceased to exist, leaving only the sensations they shared.

Vaella was swept away by the new and overwhelming sensations coursing through her. She felt a mixture of emotions: the lingering ache of pain giving way to waves of pleasure, the uncertainty of their actions replaced by the certainty of their love. Her breaths came in quick, shallow gasps as she moved with Aegon, their bodies working together in perfect harmony.

Aegon's hands guided her hips, his touch both firm and tender. He whispered words of encouragement and love, his voice rough with passion. "You're amazing, Vaella. I love you so much."

Vaella's own voice was breathless as she responded, "I love you too, Aegon. I love you so much."

Their shared rhythm grew more frantic, the peak of their pleasure approaching rapidly. Vaella felt herself teetering on the edge of something profound and beautiful, a sensation she had never experienced before. She clung to Aegon, her nails digging into his shoulders as she sought to reach that peak with him.

"Together," Aegon murmured, his voice a mix of command and plea. "Let's reach it together."

Vaella nodded, her eyes locked onto his, their gazes filled with mutual need and love. She focused on the feeling of Aegon inside her, the way their bodies moved as one, and the incredible rush of sensations building within her.

The world around them seemed to blur and fade, leaving only the intensity of their shared experience. As the waves of pleasure built to a crescendo, Vaella felt her body trembling, her breath hitching in her throat. Aegon’s grip tightened, his own breaths growing ragged and urgent.

With one final, synchronized movement, they reached their peak together. Vaella cried out, her voice a mix of ecstasy and relief, as the sensations washed over her. Aegon’s own release followed, his body shuddering with the force of it. For a moment, they were lost in the sheer intensity of their shared pleasure, their bodies and souls entwined.

As the waves of their climax subsided, Vaella collapsed onto Aegon, her heart racing and her body spent. Aegon wrapped his arms around her, holding her close as they both caught their breath.

"That was... incredible," Vaella whispered, her voice filled with awe and love.

Aegon kissed the top of her head, his own voice tender. "It was. I love you, Vaella. More than anything in this world."

Vaella snuggled closer, feeling a deep sense of contentment and connection. "I love you too, Aegon. Always."

In the quiet aftermath, they lay together, their bodies still entwined. The challenges and uncertainties of the future seemed distant and insignificant in the face of their love. For now, they had each other, and that was enough.

[starogeorgina]

𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐬

Pairing: Harwin Strong × Targ oc

Warnings: Mentions of blood

3.08

Puffing out your cheeks, you watch as Otto Hightower gleefully receives praise from lords from Old Town for resuming his old position as hand of the king. Alicent had poured her honey in your father's ear and assured him her own father would be the best choice. Lord Lyonel spoke with your father not long after you arrived at Driftmark, and they decided it would be for the best if Lord Lyonel temporarily resigned from his position at court. But in truth, you doubted he would ever return.

“Vaella, you look more like my mother as the days go by.” Your father says this before embracing you and kissing you on the cheek. “Have you spoken with Daemon?”

“I have, and I do believe he misses you,” you sigh. It has been so long since your father and uncle spoke; their reuniting would be the only positive outcome from this horrible situation. “You should go to him, father; Daemon is far too proud to reach out first, but he needs you.”

He glances at Daemon, who is talking to his daughters, then shakes his head. After staring at your uncle for a few seconds, your father chuckles. “Lord Lyonel says you have repeatedly insisted he stay on Dragonstone.”

“Harwin has lost far too much.” You run your hand along the reddening patches spotted across your neck. “Perhaps it’s selfish of me, but I want your former hand close for my husband’s sake.”

“And if he had chosen to return to court?”

“Then we would have moved back to King's Landing.” You pause, feeling your throat go dry. “I’m not ignorant of the gossip at court, and I’m aware of why Lord Lyonel was hesitant for his son to marry me, especially since Harwin almost died when he was my sworn protector. But he is a good man who has served you faithfully over the years. Lord Lyonel needs his family to help him overcome his terrible loss, and I would never rob him of that.”

“You may look like your grandmother, but you have your own mother's kindness.” Your father leans forward and kisses your forehead. “Now, I shall attempt to speak with my stubborn brother.”

When your father walks over to Daemon with a member of the king's guard close behind him, you are left standing alone, but Harwin is by your side swiftly.

The wake for Lady Laena was being held in a cliffside courtyard on High Tide Castle, and it was by far the most awkward funeral you had ever attended. Almost all conversations seem forced, as many lords and ladies gossip about how Jace, Luke, and Joff lacked Velaryon features. As tragic as the reasoning for the gathering was, there was something rather magical about watching Varos, Ashwing, Nightmare, Caraxes, Seasmoke, Sunfyre, Syrax, Meleys, Dreamfyre, and Vhagar gathered together around the cliffs of the castle.

Noting Harwin's hardened expression as he and Criston stare at each other, you take his hand, so Harwin’s focus is off him. Criston and Alicent’s sly looks and snide comments hadn’t gone unnoticed by your husband. Quietly, you say, “He’s not worth it; besides, they are probably doing it deliberately, waiting on you to react.”

You didn’t know Laena well, but her death had cast a dark shadow over your family. Daemon was devastated, and your heart broke for Baela and Rhaena. You knew firsthand how painful it was to be without a mother so young.

Harwin places his hand on your lower back and says, “It’s getting late; we should get the kids to bed soon.”

Feeling the baby kick, you rub at your stomach, feeling the movements, and nod in agreement. You glance around the small groups gathered across the courtyard at Rhaenyra, whose eyesight is firmly locked onto Daemon, who seems to be in an intense conversation with your father.

“Mama!”

Ada pushes her way through the small crowd to reach you and buries her face into your side, weeping. You brush the back of the hair with your fingers, being careful not to pull on the black bow, which is identical to your own. “What’s happened, sweet girl?”

Between sobs, she squeals, “I don’t want Daddy to die!”

Her loud sobs attract the attention of others, many of them pulling sympathetic facial expressions. Concerned Lord Lyonel excuses himself from the conversation he’s in and comes over, waving Vaegon, who is standing with your younger siblings, to come over.

In one swift moment, Harwin lifts her up and wipes away her tears with his thumb. “Now what would make you say a thing like that?”

Ada doesn’t answer him; she just cuddles with her father and continues to cry. Harwin sighs. “I’m going to take her inside.”

Noticing the uneasy look on Aerion’s face, you get the sense that he knows something but doesn’t want to address it to everyone. “I’ll join you shortly; I’m going to get Jace and Luke.”

When Harwin is out of earshot, you take Aerion’s hand and gently rub the back of it. “Whatever it is, you can tell me.”

When he tells you Varos roars loudly in the distance as anger boils inside you, it takes everything inside you not to snap. You pat the back of your son's hand and say, “Go back inside with Ser Harwin and your sister.”

—

You feel as if you’re floating in the ocean, with blood seeping from an open wound and the scent of dragon's blood attracting the sharks as you cross the courtyard to where the greens are standing. Otto, Alicent, Criston, and Lord Hobert, the head of house Hightower, watch your actions carefully. You come to a stop and clear your throat, making your presence known in front of the man who was quickly becoming the root of many of your family's issues.

“Princess.”

The smug look on Larys face threatens to cause the simmering fire inside you to combust, but you manage to keep your composure. “Lord Larys, my condolences on the loss of your stepmother and sisters.”

“Thank you. It has been a difficult time for myself, as I’m sure it has been for my father and brother.”

“The fire at Harrenhal was nothing short of a tragedy, but I’m sure you thank the gods that Harwin and Lord Lyonel weren’t caught up in it.”

His smugness is replaced by a look of irritation.

The fierceness you feel to protect your children causes the invisible cord connecting you and Varos to pull. The dimming sky is suddenly aflame with the fury of your dragon's breath, Varos’s wings beating the air with a thunderous roar. Seconds later, Ashwing and Nightmare join him. All three dragons startle the onlookers below with their boisterous behavior.

“Pray tell me, Lord Larys, what makes you think it’s wise to speak to a girl who is only nearing her sixth name day about her father dying?”

“I was trying to clear up any confusion she may have had. I was under the impression that my niece wasn’t aware she would be the heir to my family's home once my own father and brother had passed.”

Darkness overshadows where you stand as Varos flies dangerously low and your eyes blaze with an unyielding fury. You glare at Larys, silently daring him to continue. It was becoming clear just how dangerous Larys was; you’d even bet on him playing a hand in his father's mystery illness, which seems to have vanished when he left the red keep.

When he says nothing, you turn to walk away and briefly lock eyes with Alicent, whose expression is hard to read.

“Does my brother know about this misunderstanding? He is a reasonable man, but a father's love will make the best man do unspeakable things.” Larys gets to his feet, making a show of dragging his foot behind him. Nervously, he licks at his lips. “I truly hope you pass on my deepest apologies; I meant no offense.”

“Of course,” you say quietly, so only Larys can hear your next words. “But if you make another one of my children cry again, this will be the next funeral we attend.”

—

Harwin’s voice fills the bedchamber as he laughs at the sight of you scrunching your face up and spitting out the tea in your mouth. You rinse your mouth out with water before spitting it back into a bowl, then accept the cup Harwin is offering you.

“Not as nice as the tea you usually drink?”

“No, that was overly sweet.”

He picks up the tea and smells it. “That is rather vile. I’ve never seen a tea that shade of red before.”

You sit on the side of the bed and watch as Harwin removes his shirt in preparation for bed. He often slept naked due to how warm he’d become during the night. You smile. “The children are all safely tucked up in bed.”

Harwin grins and walks towards you.

“So,” you reach out, looping your fingers into the top of his trousers. “I suggest you join me in bed, husband, as we will have an early rise in the morning.”

Your heart flutters with excitement when Harwin gently takes your face between his large hands and kisses you passionately.

—

You smiled, feeling Harwin holding you closer as he nuzzled his face into the back of your neck, his hardness poking into your back. But you were utterly exhausted from having your bodies entwined in dances of desire for most of the night, and you needed a moment to catch your breath. Against your skin, he mumbles, “That tea is really strong-smelling.”

“We could throw it out!” you laugh.

“Hmm, I’m rather comfortable like this.”

Feeling Harwin part his lips and place soft kisses against your bare skin, you’re unable to resist him. Rolling on your back, you lean into him, desperately craving to feel his lips against yours once again, but he suddenly pulls away and sits upright.

“What’s wrong?”

He swipes his thumb under your nose and says, “You’re bleeding.”

Quickly, he climbs out of bed, gets a cloth, and holds it to your nose. “I should get the maester.”

“It may pass.”

Harwin quickly redressed, then helped you put your nightgown and robe on while you pinched your nose, attempting to stop the bleeding. Harwin shakes his head. “I’m going to send for the maester.”

Just as he goes to unlock the door, there’s a knock at it. He opens it, and one of the knights of the king's guard steps forward.

“Ser Erryk.”

“Ser Harwin, princess. There has been an innocent involving prince Vaegon and prince Aerion.”

[lemonhemlock]

Jaehaera has a disability for narrative purposes, because GRRM needs to quickly explain away why the greens somehow stop demanding that Andal inheritance law be respected. Aegon III had to be king, so he's making his way backwards to fit his ending.

This gets even weirder when you realize that there's ANOTHER case of a young Targaryen girl getting passed over for the iron throne because of a disability - Vaella, who needed to get passed over because Aegon V was the one who is supposed to be King. Her claim is "immediately" dismissed despite the fact that she's the only child of the King's eldest son, presumably because of both her gender and her disability.

In fact, there's a... Weirdly significant number of Targaryen girls who are described as "simple-minded," or otherwise appear to be coded as intellectually disabled: Gael, Jaehaera, Vaella, and potentially Daella as well. Daella dies of childbirth at 18, Gael drowns herself at 19 after being "seduced and abandoned by a traveling singer," and giving birth to a stillborn baby, Jaehaera dies at 10, either by suicide or murder, and while we don't know what happens to Vaella, the fact that she's never mentioned at all after that event means either she lived an unremarkable ignored life and then died before present times, or that she died young. That's a weird amount of "simple-minded" Targaryen girls who die young. Idk if this pattern means anything, but I've noticed it before and it sticks out to me.

(while I do want Jaehaera in the show to have a character and not just be portrayed as an "simple-minded" little girl, I do hope they keep her as autistic. I think there's plenty of room to give her a ton of depth without simply erasing her neurodivergence and I really want the showrunners to realize that potential.)

Anonymous asked: not talked enough about how Jaehaera witnessed her twin's death. y'know the brother who grew up healthy and fit unlike herself. the brother who had a little too much of everything: toes, fingers. now he's down a whole head! I also believe Alicent was already planning their marriage when they were still kids lol. bedside reading time with granny Ali and she pulls out the tales of Jaehaerys and Alyssane again 🙄🙄 we get it grandma! tbh not so sure about the detailed timeline, but I thought it interesting that Jaehaera died shortly after ser Willis Fell (her larys-assigned KG) died from fever. like that was her guy! whom she had all for herself and now he's gone away commanding the KG, and now he's gone away for good. I'm probably one of the few who loves all 3 of Aegon III's little girl wives (tho Daenaera ranks lowest). I really felt for Myrielle and thought the whole doll-bit so needlessly cruel from Aegon III? his random af decision to marry Daenaera? he said fuck it we ball.

Anonymous asked: This fandom is so disgustingly ableist and no surprise here when many team green members have disabilities. And the show's treatment of disabilities is questionable to say the least. I have questions for GRRM too........

I received these additional asks about Jaehaera and was meaning to answer them, but I got distracted.

I want to clarify the fact that IMO the problem isn't if Jaehaera had a disability or was autistic/neurodivergent, the problem is that the author chose to incapacitate her so much that she is/would be incapable of taking care of herself. She is described as having some kind of mental setback ("she is eight going on four"), weeps inconsolably when she is corrected, wets her bed every night, doesn't laugh, has to be drugged to sit still at her own wedding. I cannot imagine how she could consent to a marriage or to marital relations in the future, with the whole trouble of child-birthing and rearing.

And what is the point of all this, I have to ask? Because this is very much not Jaehaera's story. It's not about how Westeros is so ill-equipped to handle mentally impaired individuals. In fact, the narrative doesn't know how to get rid of her quicker. After fighting a bloody civil war over Andal Law, the greens conveniently decide to disregard all that and don't push for her claim (that's how disabled she is). Everyone who could conceivably be on her side is quickly killed - her father, her grandmother, Ser Willis Fell. The new 15-year-old Lord Lyonel Hightower suddenly can't raise another army for the greens because he is too busy fucking Lady Sam. (?!) Jaehaera dies a horrible, graphic death, lingering in tremendous pain for half an hour. Couldn't she have received at least the mercy of a quick death?

This is why I see her being incapacitated for narrative purpose. All of this happens in favour of Daemon's freaking children - it's like they all had to band together to help erase Jaehaera from the annals (three of them at least). There is no reason for all of them to survive, considering how FB has no issue with inventing random events just to get rid of characters. Yet they do. Of course Aegon III becomes king at Jaehaera's expense, of course his brother Viserys II also gets to become king at some point, because why not? Daemon should get to have two kingly sons, not one, as a treat. Baela and Rhaena get this stupid gotcha moment at the Maiden's Day Ball when they bring their six-year-old cousin Daenaera to replace Jaehaera as Queen, as if that's some sort of triumph and not inappropriate AF.

This is why I dislike the introduction of characters like Daenaera and Myrielle - because they're been intentionally placed there to replace a traumatized and damaged little girl with a trauma-free, suitable, lovable consort. Don't get me wrong, these two girls don't get a chance at their own story either, they exist only to replace Jaehaera and to please Aegon III.

I also deeply dislike and do not understand why there are so many "simple-minded" Targaryen princesses - Daella and Gael have particularly awful stories. Vaella's story is just a repeat of Jaehaera's, but with less awfulness and violence. What's the point? Get some interviewer grill these questions into GRRM ASAP.

So, I do hope that they change this in the show somehow to make it less awful. I would not want Jaehaera reduced to an invalid, her claim passed over, and I would not want her to die. Of course, if she lives, then I would have to contend with her being the mother of Aegon III's senseless children, so, honestly, I don't know which is worse.

[witchofhimring]

Aemond and Y/n's Daughters/Son in laws

Part 3 in "Aemond and Y/n's family". Originally Visenya Targaryen was placed with the "daughters of Y/n and Aemond" but I changed that.

Viserys Targaryen

Parents: Jacaerys Targaryen (father) Baela Targaryen (mother)

Spouce(s): Daenerys Targaryen

Children: Rhaenyra Targaryen, Alicent Targaryen, Baela Targaryen

Birth: 135 AC

Death: TBA

Rickon Stark

Parents: Cregan Stark (father) Arra Norrey (mother)

Spouce(s): Jeyne Manderly, Vaella Targaryen

Children: Sansa Stark, Serena Stark, Caergin Stark, Selene Stark

Birth: 135 AC

Death: TBA

Clerissa Blackhalt

Parents: Mara Blackhalt (mother) Baron Swann (father)

Spouce(s): Jaehaerys Targaryen

Children: Jhaenna Targaryen, Celgar Targaryen, Lyna Crow (bastard daughter born to a lover she took six years after the death of her husband)

Birth: 134 AC

Death: TBA

Elarion's spouse is still being decided.

Corin Velaryon

Parents: Lucerys Velaryon (father) Rhaena Targaryen (mother)

Spouce(s): Elara Targaryen

Children: Nymeria Velaryon, Naerya Velaryon, Helaena Velaryon, Saera Velaryon, Cora Velaryon, Rhaena Velaryon

Birth: 137 AC

Death: TBA

Roan Baratheon

Parents: Aegon Targaryen (father) Cassandra Baratheon (mother)

Spouce(s): Alice Targaryen

Children: Corbin Baratheon

Birth: 134 AC

Death: TBA

Visenya Targaryen

Parents: Rhaenyra Targaryen (mother) Daemon Targaryen (father)

Spouce(s): Viserys Targaryen

Children: Y/n Targaryen, Visenya Targaryen, Aegon Targaryen, Rhaenys Targaryen Raellah Targaryen, Veylara Targaryen, Laenor Targaryen

Birth: 129 AC

Death: 169 AC