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Chapter Text

He hadn't considered the fact that his favorite secret passage ran alongside the chambers his sister's brood had been given for their visit. It didn't even cross his mind as he slipped behind the stone walls.

A sudden groan brought the fact right to the forefront of his brain. "Egg~"

Abandoning his usual path, Aegon headed towards the sound of heavy breathing. There was only one person who called him Egg after all, and he hadn't heard it in years.

The gasping moan of his eldest nephew went straight to Aegon's gut. Heat pooling in his abdomen as he watched through a grate as Jacaerys fisted his cock. His other hand was buried in his hair, pushing dark, sweat slick locks off his forehead as he groaned out Aegon's name again.

Aegon wasn't drunk, far from it, but he'd had enough wine at dinner that he didn't think through his decision to step in to the room. Jacaerys was arching off the bed, head thrown back and eyes squeezed shut. His legs were twisted in the sheets, his breeches pushed down just enough to reveal the thick shaft.

Licking his lips, Aegon closed the hidden door and stepped deeper in to the room. His gaze dragging up Jacaerys' bare chest as his nephew whined, "Egg~"

"I quite enjoy the way you say my name," Aegon drawled as he leaned against the wall beside the bed. Grinning down at the younger man when Jacaerys startled, his whole body spasming, hands flying to the sheet to cover himself as he sat up. Aegon hummed, reaching a hand forward to trace a finger over Jacaerys' heaving chest, "I never knew you thought of me that way, nephew."

"What're you doing here?" Jacaerys huffed, voice husky and Aegon shuddered. He gulped down several breaths, eyes narrowing on Aegon when he leaned over the bed.

"I come when called," Aegon smirked, parting his lips as he ducked his head closer to Jacaerys. His hands gripped the headboard as he whispered, "And you're the only one I ever let call me Egg."

His face had been red before, but Jacaerys flushed regardless. Eyes fluttering, he swallowed thickly, "I am?"

"Mhmm," Aegon's gaze dropped to his lap. The sheet was pulled over his cock, but Aegon could see it's outline just fine. His fingers twitched on the headboard. He hummed against Jacaerys' ear, tongue slipping out to trace the top edge, "We both know you were always my favorite."

Jacaerys whined, head falling back. He was between Aegon's arms. Caged in. Aegon bit at his bottom lip.

"Shall I do what I promised hmm?" Aegon teased, chuckling darkly. Jacaerys looked up at him, eyes dark, pupils dilating.

"Gonna show me where to put my cock, uncle?" Jacaerys arched a brow, chin rising. Aegon's gut twisted, molten want settling low as Jacaerys brought a hand up to tug at the buttons of his doublet.

In the next moment, Aegon was on his back. He kicked his shoes off, shimmying out of his trousers as Jacaerys ripped open his shirt and doublet. With a shout, Aegon arched up as Jacaerys lowered his lips to his stomach. He mouthed downward, panting against pale flesh as it pebbled. Jacaerys had plump lips and they were soft. Aegon moaned as they brushed against his abdomen.

A flash of panic was quickly drowned out as Jacaerys took his cock into his mouth. Aegon groaned, thrusting into the warmth. Jacaerys held his hips down, fingers digging into his flesh. His nephew's lips vibrated against his shaft as the man moaned. He pulled off, kissing down Aegon's erection to mouth at the base.

"Done this before, have you?" Aegon choked out, hands twisting in the sheets as Jacaerys licked up. His breath warm and his eyes half lidded. Aegon's cock was thoroughly coated in his saliva and his nephew was half-drooling as he sucked lightly at the tip. His tongue flicked over the slit.

Aegon was shaking as he watched the display. Hands fisting in the sheets. Jacaerys looked up at him through his lashes, smirking as his mouth popped off. He kissed the tip. A little peck. Jacaerys hummed, lips shimmering with Aegon's precum smeared over them, "Why? Am I good at it?"

Hands stroked over his thighs and Aegon swallowed thickly. Jacaerys maintained eye contact as he mouthed at the base of Aegon's cock. Fingers grazed over his balls. Throat bobbing, Aegon's voice cracked on his name.

"Jace-" he gasped, head falling back as Jacaerys took him into his mouth again, down to the base. Nose skimming over Aegon's stomach. His cock twitched as Jacaerys swallowed. Aegon groaned, hips rocking forward.

A finger slid further back. Jacaerys hummed, eyes fluttering. Aegon stiffened. The finger pressed against the slit behind Aegon's balls, partially hidden, and entirely wet.

"Wai-" Aegon moaned as Jacaerys pushed inside. His finger swirled. Jacaerys rose up, face hovering over his uncle's as Aegon went red.

"What's this, uncle?" Jacaerys asked, eyebrow arching as he crooked his finger. Aegon grunted, breaths heavy. His cock twitched. Jacaerys smirked, lips ghosting over his as he pushed another finger into the moist hole, "Egg?"

Whining, Aegon writhed beneath him as Jacaerys began to thrust his fingers in and out, "You know what it is!" He gasped, hand flying up to grasp Jacaerys' arm. His body shuddering as he clenched around the fingers, eyes squeezing shut, "Fuck, that feels good."

"Has no one ever fingered you properly?" Jacaerys chuckled, pressing their chest together. He nosed at Aegon's cheek when he shook his head.

"No, no one's ever... ever touched me there," Aegon wrapped his other arm around Jacaerys' neck as he began to rock his hips. He spread his legs a bit, whining as Jacaerys pushed deeper. "No one knows."

Jacaerys stilled his fingers and Aegon whimpered, head falling back against the pillow. Lips captured Aegon's, harsh and demanding. Jacaerys sucked on his bottom lip. Aegon moaned, loudly.

"Sh..." Jacaerys whispered, voice breathless as he pulled away. He scissored his fingers. Aegon arched up, clutching at Jacaerys. Nails digging in to his nephew's back as Jacaerys grunted, "Tell me, Egg, come on." He teased another finger, tracing the edge of the hole, the soft lips Aegon tried so desperately to ignore even as his body ached with want. His cunt clenching around his nephew's fingers.

"Mother... she told me not to, not to let anyone find out," Aegon admitted, mouthing at Jacaerys' neck. He shuddered as a third finger joined in the next thrust. "Mellos called it a defect. An... an abnormality. Said only one would work."

Biting at his lip, Jacaerys breathed out, "Oh, it works just fine." He ducked his head back down to steal another kiss. Aegon grabbed at his hair and Jacaerys pulled his fingers out. Head bowed, their foreheads pressed together, Jacaerys met Aegon's eyes, "You can't have children then? Can't... can't get pregnant?"

"I have two children," Aegon gulped down air, pupils trembling. He panted, chest heaving as he held to Jacaerys, clutching at his body. "I... me and Helaena. We only had to lay together once. My seed took. So..."

"Then, tell me, uncle," Jacaerys breathed out. His lips twitched as he shifted, settling between Aegon's legs, pulling long limbs around his waist as he chuckled, "Where should I put my cock?"

Aegon reached a hand between them. Jacaerys groaned, pressing his forehead to Aegon's shoulder as fingers wrapped around his throbbing shaft.

It was thick. Aegon had taken thicker, in his ass. He pumped his hand and Jacaerys' hips twitched forward. Warm breaths tickled his collarbone. Jacaerys puffed out another as Aegon lined him up, spreading his legs wider.

"Fuck!" Jacaerys cursed as the tip of his cock pressed at the entrance of Aegon's cunt. He pushed deeper, rocking his hips forward and grabbing Aegon's thighs to angle himself properly.

Their mouths met again as Aegon pulled his nephew's head down. Jacaerys devoured him, lips hard and tongue insistent. Aegon's brain was a haze of pleasure. His cunt squeezing around the intruding cock, sucking Jacaerys deeper. He'd never felt this before, this stretch. It burned in the most pleasant manner, heat curling in his gut.

Every thrust had him clenching around his nephew, pulling him closer, deeper. The thick cock dragged against a spot that had his vision going white.

The room filled with the consistent squelch of their coupling, with their panting breaths and grunts. Aegon dug his heels in to the sheets as his back arched. His mouth fell open in a gasping scream as his cock spasmed. His spend coated their stomachs.

Jacaerys grabbed at the headboard with one hand. His knuckles went white as he stilled inside Aegon. His head thrown back, Jacaerys cried out. His face twisting beautifully as Aegon's cunt tightened like a vice around his cock. It sent him over the edge. His seed spilled deep inside, a rush of fluids that tickled at overwarm flesh as Aegon smiled to himself.

"So..." Jacaerys grinned, eyes fluttering as he pressed their foreheads together once more. Aegon lay beneath him, chest heaving as Jacaerys grazed fingers down his side. He arched a brow as their sweaty bodies lay together, pressed together, "Does this count as me deflowering you?"

Aegon snorted, red dusting his cheeks, "I was hardly a maiden." Jacaerys hummed, rocking his hips a bit even as his cock softened. Aegon slapped a hand over his mouth to suppress another moan.

"You certainly sound like one though," Jacaerys teased, nipping at his lips. He chuckled, kissing lightly. Chaste little kisses that he peppered over Aegon's lips, his cheeks, even his eyes.

He pulled out, settling beside Aegon on the bed. Aegon let out a soft laugh, almost a giggle. He pushed his hair away from his face, eyes closing as he said, "Fuck me in the ass, I assure you, I sound the same."

A hand cupped Aegon's face. He grinned. A thumb pressed at his bottom lip. The grin twisted into a smirk as Jacaerys breathed against his throat, lips rumbling against Aegon's flesh as he spoke, "Is that an invitation, uncle?"

"Depends," Aegon hummed, turning on his side, pressing their chests together as he trailed a hand down over Jacaerys' side, over his thighs. He slipped his hand between them, taking hold of the younger man's shaft as he drawled, "How many rounds do you have in you, nephew?" Aegon stroked his cock and Jacaerys' throat bobbed.

Dark eyes burned gold as Jacaerys' hand twitched against Aegon's cheek, his grip firm, "As many as you want, uncle."

The next kiss was far from chaste.

-.-.-

Aegon was insatiable. In a single night, they'd had more sex than Jacaerys had managed in his whole life before probably. His body ached in ways he hadn't known possible. A pleasant throbbing that had his mind racing. Adrenaline coursing through his veins. Want.

"Jace?" Aegon mumbled, hand reaching across the bed. His hair was splayed out over the pillow. Lips parted in a soft groan as his fingers found only an empty bed. He pouted, lips puckering as he twisted in the sheets.

"Go back to sleep, Egg," Jacaerys instructed, approaching the bed. He tightened the laces of his breeches as his gaze slid down his uncle's body.

His greedy desire was burning even still, no matter how many times he fucked his uncle. Buried his cock in Aegon's ass, his cunt.

Toned muscles and long limbs were covered in their sweat, in their spend. Jacaerys reached a hand to Aegon's face, tracing fingers over his jawline and up in his hair, tangling them in silver strands. Aegon didn't open his eyes. Bruised lips spread wide into a mischievous smirk as he arched up though. Jacaerys dipped his head.

"You should come to Dragonstone," Jacaerys breathed against his lips as they kissed. Sloppy and slow, their mouths merging together. "Visit me, Egg. I promise I'll make it worth your while."

"I doubt either of our mothers would allow that," Aegon snorted, wrapping an arm around Jacaerys' neck.

Groaning, Jacaerys held the headboard, keeping Aegon from pulling him back down. His eyes flicked towards the window as he pushed Aegon into the sheets. Chest heaving, Jacaerys pursed his lips, "I'll invite you, once my mother is queen."

Aegon's eyes snapped open. His body stiffened. Jacaerys traced a finger down his jaw.

"I'll be Prince of Dragonstone. You, Helaena, the kids, you can all come to stay with me. My mother wouldn't deny it then. Dragonstone will be my seat, not hers." Jacaerys bit his lip, head tilting. "Would you want that?"

"You'd... you'd have us all? At Dragonstone?" Aegon's throat bobbed. His eyes trembled and Jacaerys felt like he was drowning in them. In a pool of vivid violet, dark and heady. Filled with lust. He nodded sharply.

"Luke and Rhaena will go to Driftmark soon. Baela might enjoy Helaena's company," Jacaerys told him. He glanced down, eyes drinking in the languid body that had enthralled him. His cock twitched, thickening again as a blush rose on his cheeks. Jacaerys cleared his throat, "I'd certainly enjoy yours."

The arm around his neck tightened and Aegon sat up slightly, angling his body to press their chests together, "Keep me in your bed will you?" His eyes grew dark, his gaze heavy. Chest rumbling softly as he groaned. Aegon's eyes raked over Jacaerys' body and he shuddered. Aegon licked his lips, "Not even married yet and you already want a mistress."

"I want you, Egg," Jacaerys admitted, ducking his head. He blew out a breath. Aegon's lashes fluttered. "Baela and I have an understanding. She'll provide my heirs, and then she can do as she pleases. As can I."

Combing a hand through Aegon's hair, Jacaerys raised his head to meet his uncle's gaze. He'd grown still again. His breathing light.

"No bastards, from either of us," Jacaerys continued. His lips twitched up. "It's not the only preference we share, funnily enough."

"So... we'd be safe, Helaena, the twins?" Aegon asked, voice quiet, breathy even. His fingers slid up in to Jacaerys' hair. He held him there, their gazes locked, Jacaerys hovering over him.

Nodding sharply, Jacaerys kissed Aegon's forehead, "I'd see you all live happily in my home, Egg." His uncle's lips twitched up.

"If our night together has been any indication," Aegon drawled, tone shifting as he leaned back. Jacaerys stepped away as his uncle chuckled, dragging a hand down his chest, teasing him. Taunting him. Aegon smirked, "I'd enjoy that immensely."

With another glance towards the window, Jacaerys frowned, biting at his lip. The sun was rising. He looked back at Aegon. His hand reached towards his laces.

"Jacaerys!" Daemon's shout was joined by a banging on the door. He startled. It was locked, but Aegon scrambled away regardless.

"Coming!" Jacaerys yelled back, already rushed for his clothes. He pulled a clean shirt on before reaching for his doublet. Glanced back at Aegon, Jacaerys watched the man roll off the bed and grab for his clothes.

His uncle tugged his trousers back on without even a look towards the wash basin. Aegon blinked, head rising from the ties of his shirt when he noticed Jacaerys lingering by the door.

"I look forward to your invitation," Aegon smiled softly, nearly whispering. Jacaerys grinned, nodding quickly before he slipped out.

Neither of them knew the king already lay dead in his chambers. That Otto Hightower was already moving, silencing whispers until Jacaerys and his family had departed.

Aegon disappeared back in to the hidden tunnels of the Red Keep, retracing his steps as dragon wings soared above the Blackwater.

Chapter Text

Helaena was still asleep when Aegon slipped into their chambers. Hers really, as he much preferred to sleep in the room across the hall when he stayed at the Red Keep at all. He crept towards her bed, whispering as the entrance to the tunnels closed silently behind him.

"Hels, wake up!"

A groan and a groggy scowl were the only response. He rolled his eyes.

Aegon knew better than to touch her, to jostle her. He snapped his fingers in front of her face instead.

"Hels!" Aegon huffed.

"What're you doing here?" Helaena wrinkled her nose when her eyes fluttered open. Her gaze flicked down and then back up to his face, eyes narrowed, squinting at him, "That's not what you wear to the brothel."

"Didn't make it there," Aegon chuckled, a smirk splitting his face. He pushed a hand through his sweaty hair, the frizzy waves starting to curl. He bit at his lip, "I don't think a whore will ever sate me properly again."

Head tilting, Helaena sat up and Aegon steped away as she rose from the bed. He followed her through their chambers as she checked on the twins, ducking her head into their room for just a moment. He wrung his hands before him.

"I spent the night with Jace," Aegon admitted with a quiet whine. Helaena's head snapped around, eyes widening.

"You... spent the night with Jacaerys? Our nephew?" Helaena stuttered out, almost breathless. He nodded. She gaped at him, "Are you insane?!"

With a shrug, Aegon stepped closer, lowering his voice, "He wants to keep me as a mistress, on Dragonstone, once his mother is queen." The panic in Helaena's eyes did not abate. He gasped out, running a hand over his neck, whining again, "He said he'll invite us all, the four us. You and the twins will be safe."

"Does he... does he know about..." Helaena's gaze dropped briefly and Aegon flushed. He turned his head, avoiding her eyes.

"He does," Aegon swallowed, "He fucked my cunt several times, actually." Helaena wrinkled her nose. He huffed, brow furrowing, "I don't understand your distaste for it, sister," Aegon's lips twitched up, glancing back at her, "It feels amazing, taking a cock like that."

Rolling her eyes, Helaena crossed her arms, "He obviously agrees, if he's willing to shelter us from his mother in exchange for you warming his bed."

"More than warming it," Aegon grinned, leaning against the wall as Helaena settled on a bench. She clasped her hands together, brows furrowing. He tilted his head back, waiting. His sister leveled her gaze on him.

"Have you drank moon tea?" Helaena sighed, lips pursing as he groused. Aegon crossed his arms. "You bleed, Aegon. You could-"

"I can't," Aegon snapped, scowling at her, "Mellos said I'd only be able to father children or carry them, not both. The twins are evidence of which I can do."

Biting her bottom lip, Helaena did not respond. Aegon swallowed. His hands shook. Growling, he straightened, arms flying out.

"I can't just ask for some anyway," Aegon reminded her, ruffling a hand through his hair as he began to pace. "I haven't lain with a woman, and Mother would be furious if she thought it was for you."

"She'd be more furious if she knew it was for you," Helaena mused and Aegon stiffened, spine going rigid. His steps stumbled.

He'd agreed, years ago, when he'd bled for the first time, that he'd never let anyone touch him in that way. That he'd live as if there was nothing extra between his thighs. Aegon had never so much as touched the slit behind his balls for anything he didn't need.

All of that had gone out the window the second Jacaerys had slipped a finger into his cunt. Aegon rubbed at his neck. His body was warm still, burning from the inside out. He'd liked it. The cock inside him. He'd always enjoying being fucked, but this had been different. The sensations new. His cunt grew wet just thinking about the seed still dripping out of him, from both holes.

"He took me other ways too," Aegon whispered. Helaena hummed. He continued his pacing. "It doesn't matter." He blew out a breath, gesturing shortly, "What matters is that we have a way out, a way to ensure the children's safety that doesn't involve me wearing that stupid crown."

"You're certain he'll keep his word," Helaena chewed at her bottom lip, forehead wrinkling. She rocked to the side, hair cascading down her back as she arched a brow.

He was. Aegon turned to her, nodding, "Jace is a good man. Honorable."

"He wants to keep you as his whore," Helaena snorted, hands wringing. Aegon's cock twitched. A smile tugged at his lips as his sister huffed, "He fought with Aemond at dinner and fucked you a few hours later."

Aegon stilled. He swallowed thickly, exhaling slowly. Shoulders rolling back, he approached her. Kneeling before his sister, Aegon placed a hand on the bench, fingers digging in to the cushion on either side of her hips. Helaena's gaze snapped to his face. He smiled tightly.

"Jacaerys will protect us, I know it," Aegon promised her. He held her gaze, eyes wide, almost begging. She nodded mutely. A sharp bob of her head.

"You've always liked him best," Helaena laughed quietly, a smirk twisting at her face as Aegon blushed. She leaned forward to hum beside his face, teasing him, "Always touching him, finding excuses to spend time with him..."

Rolling his eyes, Aegon stood up, "We were children." Helaena clicked her tongue She raised her chin as he stalked away, towards the pitcher of wine left on a table nearby.

"You weren't children last night though."

They were both silent as Aegon filled his cup. They did not speak of the blush rising on his cheeks. On his neck. Nor the way his eyes darted over the floor.

"When the king dies, we'll need to be prepared," Helaena narrowed her eyes on her hands. Her fingers twisted over her rings. "Grandfather will try something. Our nephew can't do anything if Rhaenyra thinks you're trying to usurp her throne."

"So, I make sure I'm not here to be the usurper," Aegon shrugged, drinking heavily from his goblet. He gestured with it. Arms wide as he laughed nervously, "No one else's claim is as strong as mine."

Helaena'a grip tightened, her knuckles and fingers going white. She frowned. "They'll look for you."

"If I can get to the Dragon Pit, I'll be fine," Aegon huffed, arms crossing. He looked at his sister, at the mussed hair on the back of her head. "You could come with me. The twins too. We each take one with us, on Sunfyre and Dreamfyre. The tunnels I use to get to Fleabottom."

"No," Helaena shook her head. She looked over her shoulder at him. She smiled sadly, "We'll slow you down."

Aegon gulped down the last of the wine. He sagged forward, hands bracing on the table, "I'm the main threat, for Rhaenyra. If I'm alive and refusing to challenge her, Jaehaerys and Aemond can't be used against her."

"Where will you go?" Helaena quirked a brow, "Daeron's in Oldtown. Could-"

"No, the Hightowers want me on the throne," Aegon snarled, lips curling. His eyes squeezed shut. He gripped the edge of the table, knuckles white, chest heaving.

Her voice was small when Helaena whispered, "It'll be soon. A council is already convening." Aegon nodded, cringing as his body shook.

Helaena was always right about these things. She could never explain, not properly. But Aegon recognized the certainty in her voice.

A knock sounded at the door. Helaena's head turned, "One moment!" Aegon glanced at his rumpled and crusty clothes. With a few quick steps he slipped behind the divider Helaena used for changing.

"Helaena, where's Aegon?" their mother's voice was sharp, trembling, "Please tell me he's here."

"He rarely sleeps here," Helaena did not lie as she opened the door properly.

Their mother was frazzled. Her eyes wide, her face pale. She grasped Helaena's shoulder, "We must find him." Helaena blinked and Aegon's gut twisted as his mother gasped out, sobbing, "The king is dead."

With careful words and a shaking head, Helaena took a seat on her bench. Their mother followed. Their backs faced Aegon's hiding spot.

He didn't hesitate to sneak back into the tunnels. He didn't hesitate to flee the Red Keep itself, tugging on the threadbare clothes that he used as a disguise in Fleabottom more nights than not.

Sunfyre. He just had to get to Sunfyre. If he got to Sunfyre, he could go anywhere.

Fleetingly, Dragonstone crossed his mind. His thighs were still caked with the evidence of his time with Jacaerys. He smelled of sweat and sex. Even the musk of dragons wouldn't hide that.

"Hello, my love," Aegon greeted Sunfyre with a quiet sigh. He climbed on to his dragon's back. The golden beast grumbled at being mounted within his lair. Aegon rarely did so.

Their grandfather would send Aemond after him shortly. The moment Sunfyre was spotted leaving the Pit even. Even if his pride would let him face Rhaenyra dressed like a beggar and looking like a whore, there was a chance Vhagar would catch him first.

He couldn't go east. There was no place to hide. Vhagar nested in the Kingswood south of the bay. West. He could find somewhere in the Crownlands to hide, or the Riverlands maybe. Not with a lord.

North. Along the coastline.

Aegon ran a hand over golden scales, humming softly, "Once we're out of the city, we'll fly low, find an island or some abandoned cave. A few days, hmm? Maybe more?"

A shriek from Sunfyre and Aegon gave the command. They burst from the Pit, startling the dragonkeepers. There were a few screams. Aegon didn't hear them. They were already sailing above the clouds, racing from the walls of King's Landing.

-.-.-

Helaena did her best to comfort her mother. Alicent was distraught, tears on her cheeks. She kept muttering about Rhaenyra and the king, half words that Helaena didn't understand.

"Aegon left the city," Aemond entered her room without knocking, brow already furrowed. His eyes fluttered and he froze when he saw their mother. He looked to Helaena, "What's happened?"

"The king is dead," Alicent croaked, rising to her feet. Aemond approached her, wrapping her immediately in a hug. Helaena nodded mutely as their eyes locked over her shoulder. Aemond's lips pursed into a thin line upon his face.

Aegon would not return, not till Rhaenyra was crowned.

"We should safe guard the children," Aemond straightened, chin rising. Helaena glanced towards the door to their nursery. There were some quiet rumblings that signaled they would be rising soon. Waking with the sun, as Aegon so often did, just like his dragon.

She hummed, head tilting, "That's what Aegon has done." Her fingers flexed. There was an ache in her chest, in her abdomen. "Though he doesn't know it."

Jacaerys had wanted to make Aegon his mistress. He'd need to do more than that now.

"The seed is strong," Helaena looked up at Aemond, eyes wide. He frowned, forehead wrinkling. "Go to Dragonstone. Tell Rhaenyra that Aegon doesn't want the throne, but she must take it now, before grandfather can declare on his behalf."

"Helaena?" Alicent's voice cracked. Her fingers were bleeding, ripped worse than they had been in years. Helaena looked at them, rising to her feet. She stood firm. Gaze hard on her little brother.

"Go, now, before grandfather can stop you," Helaena commanded him and, slowly, Aemond nodded.

Somewhere along the Blackwater, Aegon squirreled away. As he finally washed, the next heir to the Iron Throne was taking root in his womb.

Chapter Text

The arrival of Vhagar on Dragonstone was unexpected. Unimaginable, even. His mother had found it necessary to restrain Daemon with a hand on his wrist before sending Jacaerys up to lead his uncle towards an acceptable landing spot. One far from the castle.

"What's happened?" Jacaerys asked, forehead creasing as he led Aemond back to Dragonstone, into the main keep. They'd left King's Landing at dawn. It had hardly been long enough for anything of consequence to happen.

He had never been so wrong in his life.

"The king is dead." Aemond told him, throat bobbing and eyes wide, "Aegon fled the city."

Jacaerys stopped in his tracks. He blinked at Aemond. His uncle was taller than him. A better fighter. The definition of intimidating since they were children.

And he was shaking. Body thrumming with tension. Swallowing thickly, Aemond raised his chin, "My mother and sister sent me to tell Rhaenyra. To... inform the new queen of recent events."

"Recent events?" Jacaerys blinked. Aemond pursed his lips and they started walking again. He led his uncle directly to his mother. Daemon stood menacingly in the background as Rhaenyra beckoned them into her solar.

"The king is dead, your grace," Aemond bowed low once he stopped in front of his sister. Jacaerys watched his mother freeze. Her eyes widened, tears on her lashes even as her face became stone.

Throat bobbing, Rhaenyra rolled her shoulders back, "What happened?"

"My mother went to rouse him this morning, to break their fast together, and discovered he had... gone, in his sleep," Aemond informed her, head still bowed. His hands shook at his side and Jacaerys could see his uncle's jaw clenching.

"Your mother?!" Daemon strolled forward, stopping only when Rhaenyra raised a hand. Jacaerys took a step closer to his uncle, standing between Aemond and Daemon.

"The Hand is already moving, your grace, to force Aegon onto the throne," Aemond raised his head finally. He met Rhaenyra's gaze, eye trembling, "Aegon left the city before they could do so. My mother and sister hope that your arrival will stop their scheming and allow my brother to return home."

Silence stretched in the room. Even Daemon was quiet, eyes fluttering as he stared at Aemond. His uncle was a shadow of the man they'd dealt with the night before. No smirk, no smug show of strength. Nervous. Frightened even.

Jacaerys watched his mother. Her face and her hands, her expression and her reaction. All of them carefully still. Cautious.

"Aegon fled the city? To protect my claim?" Rhaenyra cleared her throat. Aemond nodded. He pulled something from his doublet. A piece of paper, well-worn and creased from folds.

When his mother took it, the air around her went cold. Her next breath was shuddering as she opened it up. Jacaerys straightened as his mother looked away, tears falling down her face.

Lips pursed, Rhaenyra looked back to Aemond, "What did Otto Hightower do exactly?" He rolled his shoulders back.

"He had the Small Council vote to make Aegon the king's successor," Aemond swallowed, planting his feet, "Beesbury voted for you and Cole had him taken to the Black Cells."

"A coup, Otto's staged a coup," Daemon snapped, hands fisting at his side. Aemond nodded shortly. His gaze flicked towards Daemon, his hands and his sword, before quickly falling to the floor.

Rhaenyra hummed, clasping her hands over her pregnant stomach. Her chin rose and Aemond stiffened as she spoke, "It is difficult to stage a coup, when your would be king is against you."

"Aegon fled the city with Sunfyre. He does not want our grandfather's actions to be seen as his," Aemond's throat bobbed and his gaze rose, flicking from Rhaenyra to Jacaerys. "Especially after last night."

Face flushing, Jacaerys struggled to focus on the uncle in the room with him as he thought of Aegon writhing beneath him. They'd fought. Him and Aemond. At dinner. Before.

"I assure you, brother, I have no intention of holding Hightower’s actions against you or Aegon," Rhaenyra smiled softly as she stepped closer, past Jacaerys. She squeezed his shoulder and Aemond took a breath, audibly.

"Your brother's departure does make it difficult to be certain of his loyalties though," Daemon drawled, lips twisting up as he looked not at Aemond, but Jacaerys.

"If Aegon wanted the crown, Aemond wouldn't be here," Jacaerys snapped at the man, scowling as Daemon laughed. It was a hollow thing, dark and curling at the end. His mother's husband was not nearly so controlled as he appeared in that moment.

Rage was boiling behind his eyes. He wanted a fight. An enemy. Jacaerys clamped his mouth shut. He wouldn't be that enemy, and he certainly wouldn't let Daemon make Aegon the enemy.

"Helaena said he'd come back once Rhaenyra took the crown and Aegon could be sure we'd all be safe," Aemond ducked his head, throat bobbing. Rhaenyra squeezed at his shoulder again and his head rose, "Daeron is still in Oldtown. We cannot move against the Hightowers. Not without risking him."

Daemon's head snapped to him, frown deep and eyes wide. This was perhaps the one thing about the man Jacaerys liked, the one thing they had in common: Daemon loved his brother. And the fear hidden in the shadows on Aemond's face made it obvious he loved his as well.

"I know," Rhaenyra sighed, nodding slowly, "That was likely Otto's reason for sending him there." Her grip tightened on the paper in her hand.

"We should retrieve him," Jacaerys suggested, turning to face his mother. He rolled his shoulders back, "I could go."

Aemond shook his head, lips twitching down, "He won't go with you. Daeron will think you mean to execute him, to remove him as a threat to your mother's claim."

Rhaenyra's eyes fluttered. She took a step back, breathing slowly as her nostrils flared. Something dark crossed her expression and her throat bobbed as she blinked away tears.

It was Daemon who said it, who sneered, "Is that why you're so twitchy, Aemond? Scared you've been sent to your death?"

"I've never been given reason to think you wouldn't kill me, uncle." Aemond snapped back, chin rising. They all straightened.

That was more like it, like the Aemond he'd fought with at dinner. As children. His uncle's temper burning like ice as his words sunk in.

Jacaerys cleared his throat. He looked to his mother, "I could find Aegon first." He turned his head to Aemond, "Would Daeron come with me if Aegon is there?"

"Probably. Aegon could convince him, if he was reluctant." Aemond inclined his head forward. His gaze flicked to Rhaenyra, eye narrowing on her face.

"You're certain you can find Aegon?" Rhaenyra arched a brow at Jacaerys. He could feel Daemon's gaze on the back of his head, hard, pointed. Jacaerys nodded.

"I am," Jace told her, clasping his hands behind his back, "There's only so many places he could go without arousing suspicion. Where Sunfyre wouldn't reveal his location to Hightower."

Daemon chuckled, head falling forward, "And you were always his favorite. Know all his best hiding spots?" Jacaerys twitched and Rhaenyra hummed. Her eyes narrowed and her gaze hardened.

The tears lingered there. Clinging to her lashes, but her face was stone. A true mask. A queen's mask. Her lips spread into a soft smile as she grabbed his arm, "Go. Bring your uncles to King’s Landing. We'll meet you there."

With a sharp nod, Jacaerys bowed and left the room. It took everything in him not to run. Daemon shifted and he took half a step before Rhaenyra called for him to escort her to her rooms.

"He didn't know whether my mother had sided with our grandfather or not, when he left," Aemond was quick to catch up to him. His eye widening as he grabbed Jace's wrist.

"He didn't know if you'd be sent after him, you mean," Jacaerys arched a brow. He tugged his hand away and waved Aemond into his rooms ahead of him.

His uncle paced his receiving room as Jacaerys changed into his riding clothes. Aemond's fingers twitched, grip tight in his surcoat.

"When exactly did he leave?" Jacaerys asked as he came back into the room. He spread a map over his table.

"Early. Within a hour or two of your own departure from the city, from what Helaena said," Aemond pursed his lips and Jacaerys' brow furrowed.

His palms splayed across the table, Jacaerys swallowed thickly. He knew what Aegon had looked like when he left him. And a nagging in the back of his head had him wondering if the older prince had even bothered to change before fleeing the city. Something in his gut twisted at that thought.

"North," Jacaerys said, throat bobbing as he tapped a finger to the coastline of the bay. "An island, a beach, maybe a cliffside. Someplace he could hide Sunfyre using the natural elements."

"Nothing can hide those golden scales," Aemond's nose wrinkled and Jacaerys shrugged.

Enough trees. A cave. Aegon just needed to find one spot. Uninhabited. Maybe difficult to get to without a dragon.

"Aegon will be expecting your grandfather to send you, he'd pick someplace Vhagar couldn't go," Jacaerys hummed, head tilting as he bit into his bottom lip. He ignored Aemond's huff and ran a hand through his hair, "He won't have gone far though. He didn't have time."

He could fly across the bay towards the Crownlands and then follow the coast southward first. If he was lucky, Jacaerys would be able to spot Sunfyre's scales in the sun.

"Aemond..." Jacaerys breathed out, head rising to catch his uncle's gaze. The older man straightened.

"Jacaerys?" Aemond arched a brow. His lips pursed tightly into a thin line. "If this is about last night-"

"You came here because Helaena sent you," Jacaerys cut him off, arms crossing. Aemond blinked slowly.

It was not an admission, but Jacaerys knew his uncle well enough. For better and for worse, they'd grown up together, been fairly close even, before Driftmark. Jacaerys took a deep breath.

"Did you really think my mother might kill you?" Jace asked. Aemond raised his chin, both eyebrows rising now.

"I'm not entirely convinced she won't, even now." Aemond told him stiffly. He turned his head. "Helaena seems to think Aegon's saved us all, leaving like he did. She said he made a deal with you. That you'd protect him."

Swallowing thickly, Jacaerys thought of what he'd said, what he'd offered. Aegon had gotten into his bed before Jacaerys had brought up him coming to Dragonstone. Jacaerys hadn't meant it as a trade, as a deal.

"We're family, you don't need a deal, I'm not going to hurt any of you," Jacaerys told him and Aemond snorted. He ducked his head. When he looked up, his eye was dark and his lips twisted in a cruel smile.

"Forgive me if I have a hard time believing that, nephew."

Nodding stiffly, Jacaerys grabbed a satchel. He tucked a spare pair of clothes and a few essentials inside before slinging the strap over his shoulder.

Meeting Aemond's gaze, Jacaerys inclined his head forward as he stopped at the door, "I'll prove it to you then, when I bring your brothers back to King’s Landing." Aemond narrowed his eye and nodded mutely. Jaw clenched tight.

He headed straight for Vermax then, for Aegon, hopefully.

Chapter Text

Aegon sunk into the cool water of the bay with a sigh. He dunked his head beneath the surface, fingers combing through his hair.

They were somewhere south of Duskendale. When Aegon rose back up, he looked upon a sheer cliff face. It wasn't overly tall, certainly climable, if he were wearing appropriate footwear.

At the base of the cliff, Sunfyre was coiled up in a cave barely large enough to fit him. Pouting as the Blackwater lapped at his tail. The golden beast whined when Aegon turned in the water to face him.

"I don't like it either," Aegon chuckled, rubbing at his face. His dragon huffed. Sighing, Aegon ducked his head, "A few hours. We can find somewhere better tonight, when it will be harder to see us."

Harder to see him anyway. As beautiful as Sunfyre was, his scales were not subtle. Bright and golden, reflecting any light that so much as glanced his way.

Swimming back towards the rocky shore inside the cave, Aegon considered the clothes he'd left there. Dropped really, into a messy pile. A smelly pile.

The breeches especially. Aegon had cleaned himself as best he could in the water, scrubbing at his skin with his palm, but the fluids had dried well before they arrived. On Aegon and on the fabric.

Whining, Sunfyre shifted, tail whipping around as his wings folded closer to his body. Nostrils flared, eyes narrowed. Aegon rolled his own.

"Stop complaining," Aegon splashed at his dragon and Sunfyre shrieked softly. His tail landed in the water and it arced over his head.

Aegon sputtered as he was driven into the shore by the sudden current. He glared at Sunfyre, but his beast merely tittered, head turning to ignore him.

"Maybe we'll stay here till tomorrow evening then... just to be safe," Aegon drawled, chin rising as he pushed his wet hair from his face.

A low rumble echoed in the cave as Sunfyre looked back at him. Aegon smirked. The dragon groused, tail flicking at him. Gentler this time. The water barely moving.

"That's what I thought!" Aegon cackled, arms going wide as he grinned up at the great golden toddler before him. Jaehaerys was less whiny than his Sunfyre. He reached for his - now drenched - clothes.

Dunking the breeches under with him, he scrubbed what he could from the fabric. Then he used the vaguely cleaner cloth to get the last of the cum clinging on his body.

Crawling out of the water, Aegon laid out his clothes to dry and then sprawled on the rocks himself. The sun was shining, casting most of the shore in its light.

Sunfyre was hidden. Mostly. And surely Aemond wouldn't be flying low enough to see him. He'd have bigger issues then, if his brother caught him like this.

"What do you think will annoy him more? My being naked, or the fact that I didn't bring another set of clothes?" Aegon tilted his head back, smirking at Sunfyre.

A short chirp. Aegon laughed as Sunfyre nudged lightly at his side with his tail. He ran a hand over the rough scales, petting lightly.

"Yes, yes, you're right," Aegon hummed, eyes closing, "He'll be far too busy yelling about having to come find me in the first place to even notice my state."

His little brother had his priorities. Berating Aegon for being irresponsible always beat complaing about his lack of decorum. Truly hysterical, considering Aemond's behavior the night before.

Cock stirring, Aegon rolled his hips. He exhaled softly, "He certainly got Jace's blood up though." He whined, biting at his lip, "Always had a temper, my nephew, underneath those charming smiles."

Perhaps it was a Targaryen trait, Aemond was the same. And the twins. Jaehaerys was a happy lad, giggly and playful. Right up until he was told no or it was his sister's turn with a particular toy.

"Perhaps all dragons are little terrors," Aegon cracked an eye open to grin at Sunfyre. A low growl was accompanied by a snap of his jaw. He chuckled, closing his eyes again. "Proving my point there, Sun."

Jaehaera was a little calmer. Her anger was cold, like his. Jacaerys, Aemond, even his little Jae, they all ran hot. His daughter was different though. Quiet and observant, like her mother. She noticed everything.

"Haera is the one we ought to be afraid of though," Aegon mumbled to himself, basking in the sun as his body dried. He was warm. Content.

If he didn't think about it, Aegon could almost pretend he wasn't hiding from his family to avoid being named king and starting a war with his sister.

Almost.

A sudden gust of wind had Aegon's eyes snapping open. He scrambled back towards the cave, towards Sunfyre, as a dragon shrieked above him.

Not Vhagar. Nor Caraxes.

He'd been certain that, if Rhaenyra had discovered whatever nonsense his grandfather was up to, she would've sent her husband to find him.

Apparently, he'd been wrong.

It was a green dragon skimming low over the water. His rider's head turned to survey the cliff with narrowed eyes.

Vermax gave a shriek, lips curling back. Sunfyre growled behind him. Aegon shushed him, but his dragon's body rumbled at his back. A warm buzz needling beneath his skin as Sunfyre grew agitated. Angry.

Aegon's own fear fueling his dragon's protective instincts. Driving him to action.

Golden flames shot out of the cave entrance as Aegon's heart beat wildly in his chest. He trembled, eyes wide as Sunfyre roared.

"No!" Aegon hissed, turning to soothe his dragon. Shaking hands ran over golden scales. Sunfyre growled. He coiled around Aegon, tail curling around him as Sunfyre's head ducked low. Flames rising in his mouth again.

"Egg? Are you okay?" Jacaerys called out to him. A splash echoed around them and the ground shook. Vermax huffed as he ducked into the cave.

The smaller dragon kept his head down, though his nostrils flared. Sunfyre did not relax, but his mouth closed. Smoke escaping rather than flames.

"I'm guessing we startled you?" Jacaerys chuckled nervously, voice shaking. He dropped from his saddle. Vermax groused as he was shooed away. Bright eyes narrowed on Sunfyre.

"Yeah," Aegon swallowed as Sunfyre nudged at his side with his maw. He patted at the dragon's head. "I wasn't expecting you."

When Vermax took off, the tension bled from Sunfyre's body. He whined softly, cooing at Aegon as he sniffed at him. Checking him over.

"I'm fine, you silly beast," Aegon whispered to him, smiling just the same. He flushed as Sunfyre's tail shifted away.

Jacaerys' gaze swept over him. Pupils dilating as he approached, slowly. His throat bobbed, breath hitching, "Aemond, uh, Aemond said you left not long after we did, so I brought you some clothes."

"Aemond said?" Aegon's eyebrows shot up. His eyes fluttered, "Why- How are-"

"He came to Dragonstone, to inform my mother of the king's death and the Hand's attempted coup," Jacaerys inhaled, biting his lip. He pushed a hand through his dark curls.

Lips pursing, Aegon hid a smirk as his nephew tried - and failed, quite obviously - to stop looking at him. A heavy gaze lingered on his lips, nostrils flaring.

"I'm gonna need you to be dressed, so we can... talk," Jacaerys reached for the flap of his bag. With a hum, Aegon leaned back against Sunfyre, legs spreading apart. His nephew choked, eyes fluttered as he whined, "Egg~"

"What is it you want to talk about exactly?" Aegon ran a hand over his chest, dragging his fingers lightly over the skin. Jacaerys groaned.

Eyes squeezing shut, Jacaerys fisted the leather of his bag. Clothes forgotten as Aegon smirked. He beckoned his nephew closer and Jacaerys rushed him.

Their mouths met quickly, Jacaerys cupping his face as he pressed their lips together. He was gentle, fingers sliding into damp hair to hold Aegon still. His kiss was soft, plump lips moving slowly, carefully.

Aegon had no patience for that. With a huff, he tugged Jacaerys flush against him. The texture of his nephew's riding leather was bumpy and Aegon shuddered as it dragged against his skin.

"It wasn't a deal," Jacaerys gasped out, words muffled against Aegon's lips. He whimpered as Aegon pulled open his laces, a hand wrapping quickly around his cock.

Eyebrow arching, Aegon hummed, "Cock first." He nipped at Jacaerys' bottom lip, chuckling as the younger man groaned. "Talk after." Aegon deepened their kiss, slipping his tongue inside as his lover shivered.

With a hand pumping at his cock and Aegon's tongue tracing at the ridges at the top of his mouth, Jacaerys still managed to drag Aegon's head back. He was gasping, eyes bright. The golden color burning like a bonfire as he panted.

"It wasn't a deal, I didn't... if you thought you had to agree, to save your family, I..." Jacaerys grunted, eyes rolling back as Aegon's thumb flicked over the tip of his cock, "I'll protect you, Egg... you don't have to sleep with me for it."

"We've done very little sleeping," Aegon whispered against his cheek. Behind him, Sunfyre growled. The beast shifted, rising slightly as he lumbered from the cave.

A snap of his jaw back at the two of them echoed off the stone, then a low grumble, before he took off, joining Vermax in the sky. Aegon tossed his head back, laughing as his dragon's tail whipped about to splash a bit of water towards them.

"I suppose... that's a good sign?" Jacaerys stared after the golden beast, eyebrow arching. A hand slid down Aegon's throat, knuckles skimming over his side.

"No one knows my mind like Sunfyre," Aegon grinned at him, squeezing at his nephew's cock.

A hand settled on his ass, palming at the curve as a finger dipped between the cheeks. Aegon pushed Jacaerys back, guiding him towards a stone seat, a pile of boulders that would serve his purpose. Jacaerys swallowed as his back hit the rock.

Licking at his lip, Aegon pressed their foreheads together. Against Jacaerys' lips, he hummed, "And my mind is quite focused on just one thing right now."

"Take it," Jacaerys breathed out, kissing him lightly. His other hand quickly joined the other. "Take me." He let his head fall back against the rock, moaning, "Take whatever you want, Egg."

The angle was odd, Jacaerys was hardly flat. Aegon raised his legs regardless, letting his nephew hold him up as Aegon gripped the man's hips with his thighs. He was wet again. Slick. Aching between his legs.

"Fuck!" Aegon hissed as he lowered himself down, his cunt spread wide around Jacaerys' cock. White spots danced in his vision as he sunk down.

He clawed at the rippled leather, the textured vest on Jacaerys' chest. Aegon found purchase on the shoulder straps. He fisted them, holding fast as he began to bounce. His own cock slapping against his stomach.

Moving up and down, rolling his hips. Whores had taken his cock like this before, Aegon had watched them move in his lap and he mimicked them, chasing his own pleasure.

It was an odd angle, yes - Jacaerys half holding him, Aegon clinging to his riding leathers for balance. But it was exquisite. The pleasure building quickly, coiling inside him as Aegon dragged his nephew's cock in and out, pressed hard against that little spot inside that had his nerves buzzing.

"Gods, you're gorgeous!" Jacaerys shouted, hips rising to meet him, thrusting wildly. Aegon cried out, words incoherent, half babbling. Jacaerys chuckled, whining softly as Aegon squeezed around him.

Hands squeezed at his ass in response and Aegon mewled, head falling forward. He met his nephew's gaze, eyes half lidded. "Finger," Aegon demanded. Mouth falling open, Aegon let his eyes close when a soft squeak escaped. His nephew had always been a quick learner, a good listener. A man of action.

Jacaerys' eyes flashed as he scooped up the slick from Aegon's cunt. His cock slammed deeper and Aegon choked out a moan. A slick finger pressed to the rim of his asshole. Aegon screamed.

"Yes~" Aegon arched his back, knuckles white, nails digging in to leather. His chest heaved. He felt like a ragged doll, writhing against his nephew's body. Cock thrusting into his cunt, a finger knuckling at his prostate.

The pleasure was overwhelming, his whole body a roiling ball of heat. Head thrown back, Aegon moaned, begging for more.

Lips pressed to his chest. He keened. Jacaerys swirled his tongue around Aegon's nipple. A second finger dipped into his ass.

Screaming, Aegon's body convulsed, limbs spasming as the climax ripped through him. Jacaerys groaned. His cock twitching as Aegon squeezed him, body clenching tight.

"Woah!" Jacaerys caught him, arms wrapping around Aegon as his body went limp.

His head swam. He smiled as he felt Jacaerys' seed spilling into him, the sudden throbbing of a hard cock as it released, softening inside Aegon's cunt.

"Hey, you okay?" Jacaerys panted against his cheek. A hand combed through his hair and Aegon hummed. He nosed at Jacaerys' jaw, laughing softly.

"Yeah," Aegon closed his eyes, head lulling against his nephew's shoulder as he was picked up. He whined when Jacaerys pulled out. His cunt clenching uselessly at the cock as it slipped from his body.

Hands grazed down his sides, over his thighs and his arms. Light touches. Soft. Aegon moaned. He was laid out on the ground a moment later.

Above him, Jacaerys was cleaning himself up. He watched his nephew take a damp rag to his cock. Jacaerys bit as his lip, eyes fluttering.

"Come prepared, did you, nephew?" Aegon teased him, blinking slowly as Jacaerys laced his breeches back up. A flush rose on the younger man's cheeks. The rag moved to his riding leathers, wiping away the cum Aegon's release had left behind.

With a sigh, Aegon stretched, nuzzling at the cloak beneath him. Blue fabric, soft. He chirped. Jacaerys groaned.

"You gonna fuck me again, Jace?" Aegon spread his legs wide as his nephew sunk down to kneel over his body. He was fully aware of what he had to look like, slick shiny on his skin, cum on his stomach, his thighs. Debased, messy.

"Egg~" Jacaerys whined, head falling forward. Lips claimed his, desperate and hungry. Aegon opened his mouth. They were sloppy, half panting against each other as their tongues moved together.

His thighs trembled as a damp cloth moved between his legs. Aegon licked at Jacaerys' lip, "Clean me up, then make me messy again? Is that the plan?"

Jacaerys dragged his head up, eyes half lidded as his gaze moved over Aegon. He groaned. Aegon cupped at his crotch, at the thick cock growing hard again.

"Or you could leave me messy," Aegon arched a brow, trailing a fingertip over the laces, grinning up at Jacaerys as he batted his lashes, "Use your own seed to slick me up." He dug his heels in to the dirt and angled his hips up, "Which do you like better, my cunt or my ass, nephew?"

-.-.-

Rhaenyra did not land in the Dragon Pit upon her arrival. She circled the Red Keep twice as Daemon sunk into the small dragon yard near Maegor's. Only once he'd strolled into the keep itself, unaccosted, did she land.

On the steps, before the Great Hall, with Syrax shaking the very walls of the castle as the wind beneath her wings cleared the area. Rhaenyra sat, spine straight and chin high, upon her dragon.

"Your grace," Alicent arrived at the double doors before Daemon did. She sunk low into a curtsy, "I am glad to see you, despite the circumstances. It is good you have returned to us so promptly."

"Your son was quite concerned, when he arrived at Dragonstone," Daemon drawled, sauntering up behind Alicent. "And Vhagar isn't known for her patience." His fingers twitched over the pommel of his sword and Rhaenyra shot him a quick look. He frowned, half pouting.

Caraxes' gave a shriek that was quickly echoed by Vhagar from behind her in the Dragon Pit. Syrax growled, nostrils flaring as Rhaenyra caught sight of the blood wiped clean on Daemon's trousers.

Alicent's gaze rose with her as she stood, trembling eyes fixed on Rhaenyra, "I am... greatly concerned myself." Her throat bobbed as she gestured back into the castle, "The sooner we sit you on the Iron Throne the better, your grace."

Dropping from her saddle, Rhaenyra hummed, "Aemond said there were... whispers, against my being crowned." Her gaze flickered around at the spectators, mostly knights. Guards who protected the Red Keep, sworn first and foremost to the king.

Some wore Targaryen colors. Others green. Rhaenyra narrowed her eyes.

Alicent had not yet addressed her as queen, as Aemond had done on Dragonstone. Her brother had said it was the Small Council that voted for Aegon. Alicent was on the Small Council.

"Aegon's gone, I hear." Rhaenyra stated and Alicent's lips pursed. Her next nod was small, a quick and vigorous bob of her head.

"He left on Sunfyre," Alicent's voice cracked, "Shortly after you, yourself. I'd barely had a chance to look for him, after... after finding the king." Her lashes fluttered. With a breathy laugh, she croaked, "The Hand has placed my grandson under guard, given Aegon's quick departure. For the boy's safety, of course. And Helaena too."

That would make things difficult. Aemond had said they could not explicitely support her with Daeron at the Hightower. Aegon's children were of an age were her youngest, little more than babes in a nursery.

Behind Alicent, Ser Criston Cole was scowling. The man tried to hide it, but Rhaenyra had known him a long while and his expressions betrayed him. The little twitches on his face.

"Let us put down any whispers then," Rhaenyra held out her arm as she approached the queen.

The dowager queen.

Rhaenyra offered a small smile as Alicent interlaced their arms. "I will have all your sons returned to you before the day is up, I think," Rhaenyra said, laying her hand over Alicent.

"All?" Alicent straightened. Her hand squeezed at Rhaenyra's arm. Lifting it's partner to her lips, Rhaenyra pressed a kiss to her knuckles.

"All," Rhaenyra assured her, holding her gaze until the woman exhaled. Red curls bounced around her face as she ducked her head.

A little laugh escaped Alicent's lips, half hysterical and entirely wet. She sniffled, chin rising, "I would be most grateful for that, my queen."

They swept into the keep together. Daemon following close behind. All along their route, heads bowed. Rhaenyra surveyed the halls.

Daemon's path to her from the dragon yard was obvious. A few knights in green doublets remained slumped against walls and crumpled on the ground. Blood pooling around their corpses.

"They attacked you, did they?" Rhaenyra asked her husband, glancing back over her shoulder. A twisted grin spread over his face.

"I will suffer no words spoken against my queen," Daemon told her, nose in the air. His eyes slid towards Ser Criston as the knight walked a few steps to the side, flanking Alicent. Lips curled back as Daemon growled, "From anyone."

Rhaenyra hummed. She smiled faintly, "I know, my love." Her head turned back to the large double doors looming on the horizon. She spoke plainly, her words firm, "If it is words they raise and not swords, you will bring them to me to face the crown's justice."

"Yes, my love," Daemon agreed with a huff. Rhaenyra gave him a quick smile. He nodded mutely, blinking slowly as his eyes fell to the floor.

The Great Hall went exceptionally quiet as the doors opened. No announcements or proclamations echoed off the stone walls. Rhaenyra looked up into the faces of her ancestors.

Four Targaryen kings. Aegon. Aenys. Maegor. Jaehaerys.

It would fall to her to add her father's statue to one of the pillars leading up to the Iron Throne. Her son would add hers across from him, one day.

With a nod from her, Daemon took up a position at the base of the Iron Throne. Rhaenyra escorted Alicent to the spot directly across from him. The two flanked her at the bottom of the dais as she climbed the steps. Alone.

She felt the eyes on her back. The heavy gazes of the lords and their knights, the ladies and their maids. Servants filtered in, people coming from across the Red Keep to watch her, to judge her.

Sitting back, Rhaenyra exhaled as she leaned into the cold embrace of her new seat. The iron and steel far from welcoming as she laid her arms along the sides, over the sharp edges of old swords.

None pricked her.

"I present to you, your queen!"

It was Alicent who raised her voice, who rolled her shoulders back and proclaimed the titles. Words steady. Hard.

"Rhaenyra of House Targaryen, First of Her Name, Queen of the Andals, the Rhoynar, and the First Men," Alicent's chin rose, hands clasped before her stomach as she took a breath, "Protector of the Realm."

Daemon knelt. Head bowing low. Breath hitching, Rhaenyra surveyed him, then the room. The courtiers and the servants, scattered together as they knelt before her.

"The Queen of the Seven Kingdoms!" Alicent turned then, facing her. Their eyes met briefly before she ducked her head and sunk to her knees.

In the back of the room, Rhaenys stood. The only one. The lone tall figure in a sea of heads bowing. Rhaenyra looked to her, her father's cousin. The Queen Who Never Was.

Eyes crinkling, a soft smile graced the older woman's face. She inclined her head forward. Not a bow, or a curtsy.

Heart pounding in her chest, the warm gaze had Rhaenyra's breath stuttering. Tears gathered on her lashes and she blinked them away before anyone else could see them.

"Your grace?" A soft voice called out from the sea of people. Small and nervous. Alicent's head snapped up and Rhaenyra followed her gaze to the little girl dressed in black.

She was little more than a babe, with silvery gold hair and a button nose. Big eyes, like Alicent's, but lilac, with waves in her hair. Aegon's daughter then.

"Princess Jaehaera?" Rhaenyra arched a brow and raised her hand up. The girl nodded mutely as she rose to her feet. She stumbled a bit, reaching for her nanny as the weight of her gown unbalanced her.

Smiling softly, Rhaenyra rested her chin in the palm of her hand as she beckoned the girl forward. The whole of court seemed to inhale as one, holding their breath as her brother's daughter approached the Iron Throne.

"That's a lovely dress, princess, did you wear it for me?" Rhaenyra asked her, half expecting a well practiced courtesy to come from the girl's lips.

Black was Rhaenyra's color at court, or so many claimed. She wore purples and reds more often when she visited, but that meant little to those who played at the game of thrones.

"No," Jaehaera shook her head and her pale hair flew around her face at the sharp gestures. Rhaenyra blinked. A hand ran over the dark fabric as Jaehaera giggled, "Kepa bought it for me cause it matches my dragon." She looked up at Rhaenyra, eyes bright, "Morghul's scales are the darkest of any dragon's since Balerion, Uncle Aemond said so."

"Perhaps I can confirm that for you?" Rhaenyra offered leaning forward slightly. She ran a hand over her stomach, "My father took me flying on Balerion, when I was your age."

Jaehaera perked up, hair bouncing a bit as she glanced towards Alicent, eyes wide. The girl bit her lip and produced a letter, pulled from the depths of her skirts and folded so small it was no bigger than her palm.

Her voice was half a whisper, the Valyrian a bit stilted on her tongue, "Muna said to give you this." She held up the crinkled paper.

Daemon reached for it and she shied away from him, holding the letter to her chest. She hunched her shoulders inward and avoided Alicent's hand as well.

"Muna said it goes to to Rhaenyra only," Jaehaera spoke sharply, nose wrinkling. It was a proper scowl on her face, one far too twisted for a girl so young.

"Come, sit with me then, my little niece," Rhaenyra patted at her lap. Jaehaera started up the steps and Rhaenyra opened her arms, "I use to sit in my father's lap, when he held court."

Her lips twitched downward as she thought of her father, of the last time he sat the Iron Throne. Viserys had left his bed to defend her, her claim. She straightened up.

It was her seat. She would fight for it, as he had for her.

Jaehaera giggled softly as she settled in Rhaenyra's lap. She looked down at the whole of court from their high perch, a bright smile on her face. Alicent's expression softened, as did several others.

Rhaenyra pressed a kiss to the top of her niece's head and took the letter. The seal was Helaena's, a coiled up dragon with a curly H in the Valyrian script.

The wax was golden.

Her message was short. Merely a list, in truth.

The Green Council. The men who had voted to make Aegon king, who would force her brother to take a crown that was not his according to Aemond.

Otto Hightower was at the top. Criston Cole just beneath him. Rhaenyra glanced up, gaze flickering towards the kingsguard. Her throat bobbed.

If Alicent's words had been true, if Rhaenyra had understood the implication of them correctly... Helaena had risked her life and that of her young son to send this message. Jaehaera's too.

At the bottom, in small script, she'd included one sentence. The writing smooth and unbroken.

The heir to Dragonstone has taken root.

"It seems my sweet sister finds herself unable to join us at the moment," Rhaenyra called out. She smiled at Alicent and then caught Daemon's gaze, "But she sends well wishes, as she grieves privately with Prince Jaehaerys."

Daemon's fingers twitched as she tilted her head, eyes flicking towards Ser Criston. His lips curled and she lowered her chin. He settled as she wrapped an arm around Jaehaera, her other hand on her swollen belly. The babe inside kicked and Jaehaera's head turned.

Aemond arrived then. A guard on the door announcing him with a loud voice. Jaehaera perked up, head swinging around. His good eye wide and unblinking, Aemond's mouth fell open as Jaehaera waved at him. She giggled, shouting above everyone, "Look, uncle, I'm taller than you now!"

Laughter rang through the court, some of it nervous, Alicent's included. Her brother bowed his head. A smile was plastered on his face when it rose back up, "So long as I'm still taller than your father, my princess."

Jaehaera leaned back, settling around her pregnant belly, curling around the bump. A hand grazed over her dress, the girl smiling as the babe kicked again.

"Kepa's going to have a baby too," Jaehaera whispered in Valyrian. She pressed a kiss to Rhaenyra's belly, giggling as she spoke to the babe, "Muna says you'll be my little brother's queen, cousin."

Rhaenyra blinked and glanced down at Helaena's message again. Her fingers twitched over the final sentence.

Jacaerys was his father's son in many respects. None more so than his... preferences, she knew. Though he took more pleasure in the whore Daemon had taken her son to visit than Laenor ever had a woman's body.

"Ser Criston?" Rhaenyra clicked her tongue and raised her head. She turned her gaze to the knight, the last commander of her father's kingsguard. She smiled at him.

He would not be the commander of her own guard, it seemed.

"Fetch the Hand will you, it would appear the Small Council is missing and I would not want to hold court without them," Rhaenyra waved him towards the door. She pointed Aemond to the spot the man was forced to vacate, placing her brother at his mother's side in front of her throne.

A united front. A family. Rhaenyra tucked Helaena's letter away, hand grazing over her stomach as Jaehaera traced the designs on the fabric of her gown. The girl was singing softly, a Valyrian lullaby.

She would root out the traitors before Jacaerys arrived, before Aegon returned. And then she would deal with them. With the last bit of Helaena's message.

With the Prince of Dragonstone, and his apparent heir.

Chapter Text

Helaena did not wring her hands. She sat, feet curled beneath her, in the nursery, watching Jaehaerys play with a wooden dragon painted bright green. He roared for the toy as his arm swept past her head.

"And where is Shrykos going today?" Helaena asked him as she stabbed her needle through a thick piece of cotton. Her stitches were just as clean as they always were, though her work was slower than she might have liked.

"Not Shry!" Jaehaera huffed, eyes rolling dramatically. He plopped down beside her on his bed. Wiggling, he slipped his head onto her lap and she set her embroidery aside entirely.

The wooden dragon rose into the air once more as she pet at her son's hair. It flew past her head, in front of her face. Jaehaerys shrieked softly as she smiled.

"I saw Vermax the other day from the window," Jaehaerys told her, cheeks flushing, "He looks just like Shrykos." His arms gestured wide, "But he's way bigger! Almost as big as Sunfyre!"

"That he is," Helaena ducked her head, stiffling a giggle. She ran a hand through his hair, combing the wild curls into some semblance of order, "Perhaps Prince Jacaerys will introduce you, when he arrives in King's Landing later."

Jaehaerys sprang up, eyes wide and mouth agape, "You really think so?!" He bounced on the balls of his feet and his hair flew out, "I want to meet Vermax!" He clutched his toy to his chest, "Shrykos too! She'll be so excited to see a dragon who looks like her!"

Arching a brow, Helaena tilted her head, "Does Vhagar not count? She's a green dragon too." Jaehaerys scoffed, eyes rolling. Arms flung out as he jumped about in front of her

"Nuh-uh, Vhagar is bronze!" Jaehaerys spoke with confidence, chest puffing out and his chin rising. "Her scales are more blue. And they aren't nearly as bright as Shry's or Vermax's!" With a sniff, Jaehaerys puckered his lips, "Uncle Aemond says no dragon will ever compare to Vhagar anyway."

Helaena pressed her fingers to her lips as she laughed. Her son dove back into her lap. She exhaled sharply at the sudden weight as Jaehaerys pressed his face to her chest, curling up as he whined.

"When is Haera coming back?" Jaehaerys asked, nuzzling deeper into her body. He looked up at her, fluttering his lashes. His lips trembled, "Will she and kepa be back soon?"

"Yes, everyone will be back soon," Helaena rocked him slowly, holding tight as she tucked her chin over his head. She brushed his hair behind his ear and cupped the back of his neck. He sniffled as Helaena traced a light finger down his spine.

It had been hours since Helaena had sent her daughter to see Rhaenyra, to deliver her message. Even more since Aegon had fled. The guards at their chamber doors had been changed once Aemond left. Targaryen red replaced by Hightower green.

They were kind enough. Honorable knights from the Reach, from Oldtown. Jaehaerys had spent a good hour interrogating the men on where they were from and what their training was like. He'd wanted to know if they'd ever sparred with Aemond too.

Her younger brother hadn't returned either, though she'd watched Vhagar descend into the Dragon Pit from her window. Helaena pursed her lips and sighed, fingers twitching as Jaehaerys gripped tightly at her dress.

"We'll know soon." Helaena whispered into his soft locks, more to herself than to her son. Her eyes closed and she took a breath, "One way or another, we'll know soon."

A banging outside the door had her eyes snapping open. She heard shouts. Yells. Jaehaerys pulled away, head rising up. Helaena snatched him close and rose to her feet. He whined, but she did not put him down.

Not till the door opened and her daughter came rushing inside. Jaehaera ran right for her, colliding with her legs as she giggled, "Muna! Muna! I got to sit on the Iron Throne!"

"What?!" Jaehaerys shrieked, squirming in Helaena's hold even more. He dropped from her arms with a huff, scowling at his sister, "That's not fair! I wanna sit on the throne too!"

"We can certainly see to that, my little nephew," Rhaenyra hovered in the doorway. The Hightower guards had been replaced. Their usual house guards flanked her, standing sentry beside the nursery doors.

Helaena's throat bobbed as she met her sister's gaze, "Your kindness is appreciated, your grace."

She tucked Jaehaera's hair behind her ear as her daughter pressed her cheek to Helaena's hip. On her other side, Jaehaerys mirrored his twin and Helaena held tight to the fabric of his doublet.

"You needn't have returned Jaehaera yourself," Helaena bowed her head, "I'm sure you have much to do." When her head rose up, she caught sight of a flash of green over Rhaenyra's shoulder.

The dowager queen. Her mother, pacing in the main chamber.

"Less than I expected," Rhaenyra hummed and cupped her hand beneath her pregnant belly. She flashed a quick smile, tight and nervous. "Our little brother is assisting Daemon with the last of the... messier bits." Quirking her head, Rhaenyra's gaze flickered over the children, "They'll join us shortly I'm sure."

A tug at her skirts drew Helaena's gaze down to her daughter. Jaehaera whispered, though her voice carried well, "Auntie Nyra says me and Jae can play with our cousins when they get here. Aegon and Joffrey have dragons too!"

"You're suppose to call her 'your grace' cause she's the queen!" Jaehaerys sniffed, chin rising in to the air as he corrected his sister. With a smirk, Jaehaera shook her head.

"Nuh-uh!" Jaehaera told him primly, "The queen says I only have to say that when we're in public, cause we're family, just like we do with grandmother."

Jaehaerys turned his head to look at Rhaenyra, bottom lip puckered and eyes narrowed. She laughed, head bobbing in a nod, "Yes, I did say that, and it applies for you as well, Jaehaerys."

The twins descended into giggles and Rhaenyra tilted her head back. An eyebrow arched. Helaena swallowed. She crouched before her children, "I need to speak with the queen privately."

"We'll behave, muna," Jaehaera stepped back, hands clutching at her dress. She smiled shyly, "I promise."

"Yeah, no fighting or anything," Jaehaerys straightened, snapping to his sister's side. He took her hand and grinned, "I'll keep Haera safe till you get back!" He beamed as his sister ducked her head to his shoulder. "I'm going to be her best protector! Like Uncle Aemond is for you and kepa!"

With a soft chuckle, Helaena kissed each of their foreheads before rising to her feet. She followed Rhaenyra back through the door. Her mother was sat at a bench, wringing her hands. She stood when they entered.

"Shall we discuss..." Rhaenyra paused and pulled the note Helaena had given to her daughter earlier. Alicent's throat bobbed and Rhaenyra's eyes narrowed, "...why you risked so much to give this to me?" Helaena hummed. "And why your daughter thinks mine will be marrying her little brother."

At this, Alicent's eyes widened and her head snapped to look at Helaena, gaze dropping to her stomach, "Are you-"

"Aegon and I have not lain together since our wedding night," Helaena cut her mother off. She pursed her lips and clasped her hands in front of her abdomen.

This part would be... uncomfortable, she expected. For all of them. Rhaenyra blinked as Helaena crossed to the pitcher of wine on her table. Her mother's brow furrowed as Helaena poured each of them a cup.

"While he is less discreet than I would like," Helaena continued, handing first her mother and then Rhaenyra the wine, "Our arrangement has worked well for us."

"Your... arrangement?" Alicent paled. Her hands fisted in her dress. Helaena met her mother's gaze with a soft smile and the dowager queen tipped her cup back.

Humming, Helaena rolled her shoulders back, "I have no interest in physical intimacy. Aegon has respected that." Both Rhaenyra and Alicent startled back.

She let the silence sit for a moment. sipped at her own wine. Rhaenyra cleared her throat, "So, the little brother that Jaehaera is expecting..."

"Aegon's son, but not mine," Helaena nodded, her gaze flicking to her mother, then back to her sister, "One sired by Jacaerys."

"That is not possi..." Rhaenyra trailed off. Her eyes fluttered as the dowager queen's empty goblet clattered to the floor. Slowly, Rhaenyra's eyes widened as she turned her head. Alicent brought her hands to her face, sobbing.

"He promised me!" she screeched, "He promised he would not allow anyone to know, to... to touch him in such a way."

Helaena tried to smile, "He didn't. Not before last night."

At that, Rhaenyra's eyes squeezed shut. Her nostrils flared as she guess, "Jacaerys?"

"My brother's appettite has always been... voracious, to say the least," Helaena chuckled. Her fingers twisted, "He'd not so much as... as fingered his own cunt." She cringed, pushing forward, "But I expect he will be quite diligent, in taking what our nephew offers him, now that he's been given a taste of it."

Even now, she expected, wherever Aegon had hidden himself away. Jacaerys would find him and her brother would want his pleasure. He craved physical touch, needed it in a way Helaena could not understand.

After their wedding night, he'd brought whores for her. Snuck them in to the castle so she might find pleasure as he did. Women at first, and then a man, once her pregnancy had been confirmed. Aegon had taken each of them multiple times, after she spurned their touch the same as his.

She'd asked him to keep their sheets clean and Aegon had taken to drowning himself in ectasy upon the Street of Silk instead. Kept his visitors to a room across the hall.

"If you would allow me, your grace," Helaena cleared her throat and Rhaenyra's gaze ripped from her weeping mother. Helaena held her eyes, chin high even as her throat bobbed, "I have a proposal that would benefit us all, I believe."

"Aegon is not the first Targaryen man to have a cunt," Rhaenyra told her. Her mother's breath hitched. Helaena nodded.

She tilted her head, "Nor is he the last." Rhaenyra exhaled, lips pursing. Helaena hummed as she glanced towards the window.

No dragons circled the city. The sky remained clear. Empty.

"My concern is not for Aegon's reputation," Helaena whispered, clenching her jaw.

They all knew her brother's whoring was well known. Accepted even. His drinking. No one even batted an eye when he disappeared for days at a time, giving himself over to his vices.

All they did was ignore it. Perhaps her mother had silenced those who whispered around Helaena. Or about her. But no one else had cared. Herself included.

"But the Prince of Dragonstone..." Helaena said, gaze returning to her sister. Rhaenyra paled. "I believe avoiding a royal bastard would be preferable. Yes?"

They both stared up at Helaena. Mouth hanging open, tears on her cheeks, Alicent practically gaped at her. Rhaenyra blinked, slowly.

A look was exchanged between them. Rhaenyra brought the cup of wine to her lips, shuddering through an exhale. "What did you have in mind, sister?"

-.-.-

Blood remained on the floor of the throne room when Daemon returned to it, just as it did his hands. His armor. Even his sword.

Dark Sister had taken the life of many traitors at the queen's command. Their heads now spiked upon the ramparts of the Red Keep. Whispers of the failed coup were likely racing through King's Landing. Beyond.

"I've spoken with your queensguard, your grace," Daemon ducked his head in a quick bow as he approached the Iron Throne. "Caraxes and I are quite confident in the remaining members' loyalty."

A smile twitched at Rhaenyra's lips as she turned from her throne. Her hands were clasped before her body, fingers twitching at her rings. She exhaled, shoulders falling back.

"Excellent," Rhaenyra nodded. She looked back to the throne. Her lips tugged down in a frown. Silence stretched between them.

"Is something wrong, my love?" Daemon stepped up behind her, voice dropping low. He glanced around, eyes narrowing on the guards and servants who littered the room. Some shrank beneath his gaze.

A quiet chuckle followed. Her laughter wet as she shook her head. Braids fell loosely around her face as Rhaenyra blinked away her tears, "Just thinking about my father. His reign. His... legacy."

Daemon bowed his head to her shoulder. He hummed, "My brother ruled over a peaceful kingdom, and he has entrusted it to one who shall ensure that peace continues."

"Yes," Rhaenyra sighed, "The realm must come first. He said as much many times." Her throat bobbed. Jaw trembling. "In action, I believe he... struggled, with that. Often."

"Rhaenyra?" Daemon lifted his head, eyes narrowing on her face. She exhaled again. A single tear slid down her cheek and he brushed it away.

"I love Baela, you know that, yes?" Rhaenyra turned her head to look at him, eyes wide, "I think of her as a daughter and I have done my best to honor my friendship with Laena, her wishes for her girls."

He blinked at her. Daemon furrowed his brow, taking a single step back, "What does my Baela have to do with Viserys' legacy?"

Pursing her lips, Rhaenyra inclined her head towards the throne, "Jacaerys will take this seat after me. Laena and I had long intended for Baela to be his queen, but their betrothal..."

"What of it?" Daemon tilted his head. His jaw clenched as he thought of Rhaenyra's son. He was a good man, a decent match for his willful eldest.

They shared many things, including a taste for men. He'd caught them both flirting with the same young squire over the years. Admiring the boy's soft features and silver hair.

"I thought we had put aside any worries, regarding their match?" Daemon asked, lowering his voice once more. "His heirs will be legitimate."

"They will be, yes," Rhaenyra nodded, holding his gaze, "Once he marries Aegon." Daemon stilled. She swallowed.

His eyes fluttered, "Aegon? He's a man-"

"A Valyrian man," Rhaenyra cut him off, her gaze pointed as her chin dropped, "A Targaryen man."

The tone of her voice, the slight tilt of her head. Daemon gaped at her, "He has a..." She nodded sharply. "How is that possible?"

With a huff, Rhaenyra looked back to the Iron Throne, "Alicent hid it, she thought it unnatural. Mellos called it defective."

"Viserys would have-"

"My father did not hold Aegon until he was cleaned and swaddled," Rhaenyra snorted. Her jaw clenched, "It was probably harder to keep the fact from Otto Hightower than it was the king."

Nose wrinkling, Daemon stepped back. He snarled as he paced behind her, "Still! This is... we cannot know for sure!"

"Helaena provided significant detail," Rhaenyra drawled. Her hand rubbing at her temple, she followed his steps, gaze flickering towards the servants who were now watching him warily.

With a quick word and a quicker gesture, the throne room cleared. Rhaenyra inclined her head apologetically to the maids as they scurried off. She stepped up beside him, reaching for his shoulder.

"I will verify it myself, of course, once he arrives," Rhaenyra squeezed, smile sad, "And I will speak to Baela personally, before I announce anything."

"She will not be... overly offended," Daemon groused. His arms crossed. "Baela would prefer to pick her own match anyway, I expect," he admitted, lips curling back, "If she ever makes one at all."

Rhaenyra chuckled, her forehead pressing to the side of his head. She pressed a kiss to his cheek, "Her father's daughter then." Her smile flickered across her face. Almost a smirk.

"The betrothal for Rhaena shall still stand?" Daemon checked, eyebrow arching. She nodded quickly. He hummed.

"Helaena has offered the twins, for our boys too," Rhaenyra continued, resting her hand on his arm. She leaned into him and Daemon wrapped an arm around her waist, holding her steady, "Joffrey included, though Aegon and Viserys are closer in age. She said it was up to us, as we knew their temperments best."

Chin rising, Daemon looked down at her, squinting, "Both twins?" She exhaled, nodding again. "Jaehaerys as well then?" Daemon arched a brow.

Another laugh, this one half hysterical, "You always said such men were the most fertile. The reason Targaryens have so many twins, yes?" Daemon rolled his eyes and she chuckled, "In any case, if it is true, the boy is safest, married to another Targaryen."

That much, Daemon would agree with. If Jaehaerys had a cunt and a cock... well, Westeros was not know for their appreciation of the Valyrian heritage. The only girl that he might be able to marry was his sister.

Just as Aegon had done. Obviously, Alicent Hightower was no fool, as much as he might wish otherwise.

"We have plenty of time to consider all of these betrothals later," Rhaenyra hummed. She dropped one hand to her stomach. Her head ducked low, "But Jaehaera thinks her little brother will take our daughter for a queen."

Placing his own hand over hers, Daemon smiled, "Our daughter hmm?" Rhaenyra grinned widely and tears stuck to her lashes. "Your Visenya? Finally come?"

Hiding her tears in Daemon's shoulder, Rhaenyra sobbed. He didn't know whether she was crying for Viserys or if the idea of having her long wanted girl had driven her to hysterics.

He held her regardless. The blood on his fingers ignored as he rubbed at her back. Rhaenyra wore a red dress anyway. It hardly mattered.

Chapter Text

The Hightower was a magnificent sight. Tall and imposing. Dark stone rising high into the air, it's beacon burning brighter than the setting sun.

"Brother!" Daeron practically threw himself at Aegon when they arrived, arms wrapping around his elder brother's neck. Their laughter soothed the nerves that had started buzzing in the back of Jacaerys' head upon landing.

Tessarion tittered as Sunfyre and Vermax joined her on the ramparts that ringed the top of the Hightower. All three dragons lounged about as Daeron excitedly tugged on his brother's arm and demanded to know what he was doing there.

"We've come to bring you home," Jacaerys offered, smile tight as Daeron furrowed his brow. "The king... he's died, Daeron." His younger uncle paled.

Aegon yelped as Daeron squeezed at his hand. He took half a step back, dragging Aegon with him. The knights on the rooftop with them straightened. Vermax growled.

"The queen has ordered that you be returned to your mother," Jacaerys continued, clearing his throat as he ignored the tension rising around him, "The dowager queen will need all the comfort we can provide her, in her grief, and you've been away too long as is."

"Rhaenyra is reuniting our family," Aegon whispered to his brother. He pressed a kiss to Daeron's temple, nose wrinkling as he had to rise up onto his toes to manage it. Jacaerys pursed his lips to hide a smile.

Lucerys was the same height as him now. It wouldn't be long until Jacaerys found himself doing the same. Aegon frowned, visibly displeased to find himself shorter than yet another younger brother.

"When did you grow this tall? I don't remember giving you permission for such nonsense," Aegon wrapped an arm around Daeron's neck. His brother squawked as he was tugged down.

"Brother!" Daeron whined as Aegon ruffled his hair, mussing up the short curls. With a shove, he pulled from Aegon's grasp. Daeron huffed, "It's not my fault you're so small and delicate."

Jacaerys choked on his laugh. A sharp look was leveled on him from across the flat root. Eyes fluttered all around them as Aegon sprang forward.

The brothers' shrieks echoed off the dark stone as the two wrestled about. The guards exchanged looks, but did nothing else. Jacaerys merely watched on with a smile.

He liked seeing Aegon so relaxed. So free with his smiles and his laughter. Daeron whined as his elder brother pinned him to the stone.

Tossing his hair back, Aegon cackled. His lips twisted into a mischievous grin and his eyes nearly glowed in the evening light, bright and vivid. He taunted Daeron. Merciless as he teased the younger man about his training regime.

"You cheat, brother, it's not fair!" Daeron cried, lips puckering into a pout. Aegon rolled his eyes and dropped a kiss to Daeron's forehead.

"Fights aren't fair, Daer," Aegon rose to his feet, dragging his little brother up a moment later. He sighed, arms stretching up above his head, "And I don't like losing."

Jacaerys swallowed thickly as his eyes roamed Aegon's body. His uncle wore his clothes. A pale blue shirt. Dark breeches. Both a bit loose on his thinner frame. His wiry, lithe limbs.

He licked his lips and adjusted himself subtly. Aegon had enticed him into several bouts of sex on their way. One upon Vermax even, during a short break near Bitterbridge. His cock thickened as Aegon glanced his way, a smirk spreading across his face. Just as it had then.

Daeron blinked, his eyes flicking between them. Aegon's chin rose. A quiet challenge that Jacaerys wanted to answer. That he might have tried to, had Daeron not cleared his throat. He furrowed his brow, tugging on his brother's arm, "Is... is father really-"

"Yes," Aegon turned his attention back to his brother. He rolled his shoulders back, lips pursing, "In his sleep, at least, from what I heard mother say." Jacaerys ducked his head as Daeron's eyes widened.

They'd come for a reason. With a purpose. It wouldn't do, for Jacaerys to get distract, to allow himself to give in to his whims. Not any more than he already had at least... His mother had entrusted him with a mission, he couldn't fail her.

"I fled King's Landing to avoid the chaos after," Aegon sighed as he finished his explanation. He brushed a hand through Daeron's shorter hair, ruffling the soft waves, "Our nephew came to collect me, after Aemond carried the news to Dragonstone."

It was quick work, Aegon convincing Daeron to come with them. Jacaerys expected his younger uncle cared even less about the politics of court than Aegon. He merely wanted to go home.

Lord Hightower agreed even more readily. Offering the hospitality of his House to them both for the evening, though Aegon was quick to wave it off.

"The sooner we return, the happier my mother will be," Aegon assured the man, voice thick with false courtesy. He chuckled, waving his mother's cousin off with an exaggerated groan, "She's likely quite cross with me already, given I left so abruptly. I can only hope bringing Daeron will earn me her forgiveness."

Ormund Hightower's laughter rang out then. He grinned, ducking his head in a bow, "Hightower women are not overly forgiving, my prince. I shall wish you luck in that regard."

"You didn't even say goodbye to mother?" Daeron glared at his brother as he led them deeper into the Hightower after that. "You know how she worries! About you especially!" Daeron hissed and Aegon whined, head falling back, "Really, brother, why must you always be so difficult?"

"His natural state, I expect," Jacaerys drawled, grinning as Aegon groused. An elbow dug into his abdomen and Jacaerys gasped, exhaling sharply as he finished, "He's always liked being the center of attention."

Lips pursing, Daeron muffled a quiet laugh. He turned his head into his shoulder to giggle, "He's certainly never liked *sharing* attention, that's for sure."

"I will happily let you have all of mother's attention when we return," Aegon snarked. Hands shoved at his chest and Jacaerys quickled wrapped an arm around his uncle's waist. He snapped one of his wrists up too, dragging him off his feet. He chuckled as Aegon squawked, "Jace!"

His uncle whined more, though he didn't struggle in the light hold. Quite the opposite in fact. Aegon immediately began grinding his ass back against Jacaerys. He smirked over his shoulder when he found Jacaerys already hard. Already aching.

Choking on his next breath, Jacaerys fisted a hand in Aegon's shirt. He set his uncle down, but Aegon didn't move farther away. Didn't place a more appropriate distance between them.

Daeron glanced their way, squinting at their hands as fingers ghosted over one another. He paused at a door.

The hallways were relatively empty. As were the chambers that Daeron ushered them into. His chambers, Jacaerys guessed, given a some of the drapery around them was embroidered with dragons. A black leather chest beside the wardrobe had the Targaryen sigil embossed on the front as well.

"I need to gather some things, speak to the steward about sending the rest," Daeron told them, heading for the wardrobe.

A quick glance over his shoulder. A bob of his throat. Daeron flung his arm towards a door and ducked his head, "You're welcome to rest a bit, in my bedchamber, before we go."

Cheeks burning, Jacaerys nodded mutely. He didn't have time to consider the implications of Daeron's offer before Aegon was stripping off his breeches. A hand shoved him back onto the bed the moment the door clicked shut and Jacaerys yelped as his back hit the mattress.

Aegon growled as he ripped at Jacaerys' laces. Hips rising, Jacaerys whimpered as calloused fingers wrapped around his cock. His head fell back, breath hitching. Aegon wasted no time.

"I enjoy this so much more than I ever imagined," Aegon choked out as he mounted Jacaerys. His cunt slick with his desire as it sunk down over his cock. Aegon's eyes rolled back and his mouth fell open. "We'll go to Dragonstone soon, yes? After we return?"

"Eager to warm my bed for me, uncle?" Jacaerys teased, rocking up. Aegon hummed. He dug his knees into the mattress and began to roll his hips. Riding Jacaerys like he might a horse, bouncing on his lap.

It was perhaps the most beautiful sight he'd ever seen. Silver curls flew out. Aegon clutched at the frizzy mess, moaning louding. His head flung back. Jacaerys' name on his lips.

"The moment my mother allows," Jacaerys promised, breaths shallow. He chuckled, "I'll take you to Dragonstone and we can spend a whole week like this." Aegon groaned. "You can explore the pleasure you've missed to your heart's content."

"Yes~" Aegon picked up his pace. His head fell forward. Hands grabbed at Jacaerys, tugging at his riding leathers.

Biting at his bottom lip, Jacaerys slid a hand up Aegon's thighs. He didn't grab. Didn't grope. His fingers slid over pebbling flesh gently as Aegon's rhythm stuttered.

"Jace~" Aegon keened, clenching tight around Jacaerys' cock as his hand slipped beneath the blue shirt clinging to his uncle's sweat slick chest. A quick thrust and Aegon moaned.

He let Aegon move as he wished, taking his pleasure as Jacaerys lay beneath him. Cock sheathed in the man's warm cunt, Jacaerys focused on exploring the rest of Aegon's body. His hands roaming over his chest, his back.

His lover's breath hitched as Jacaerys flicked his thumbs over erect nipples. Aegon's bouncing slowed. His hips rolled even slower. He inhaled deeply. Heavily lidded eyes locked on his face.

"Kiss me," Aegon demanded, voice rumbling harshly. His thighs trembled and Jacaerys rose up. Aegon grabbed at his riding vest again, hands fisting around the leather, "Kiss me now."

He brushed his lips over Aegon's. Dry, cracked from flying. Bruised too, from their earlier coupling. Aegon sunk into him, panting as Jacaerys licked in, slowly.

"On Dragonstone, I shall take my time," Jacaerys promised, hand rising over Aegon's back. He laced his fingers through silver strands and nipped at Aegon's trembling bottom lip, "I'll touch you in every way." He sucked on Aegon's tongue, teeth scraping over his top lip. "Kiss you. Love you."

Hands clutched at his face, fingers fisted in his dark curls. Aegon shuddered. His hips rocking forward as he moaned, "Fuck me. Fuck me now."

Flipping them over, Jacaerys did as he was told. His hands palming at Aegon's thighs, his calves. He angled his uncle's legs back and began to thrust. In and out. Hard and slow. The same pace he'd discovered Aegon liked when they fucked beside the Mander.

Back arching, Aegon flung his head back. He mewled. A smile split his face as Jacaerys moved on top of him. He met each thrust and dragged him down for more kisses.

When Daeron knocked on his own door some time later, Jacaerys had managed to provide Aegon with his release twice more. The older man lay sprawled across the bed, legs splayed out and chest heaving.

Jacaerys didn't bother to clean him up entirely. His uncle had already extorted a promise from him for another break before they reached King's Landing. Somewhere along the Mander. On Sunfyre this time.

He rather liked the way his seed dripped from Aegon's cunt at that. The way his uncle's own release stuck to his skin. Aegon dragged a sheet over his debauched body as Jacaerys headed for the door.

"Are you two done... resting?" Daeron asked, cheeks flushing. He averted his gaze, "I, uh, I can, uh-"

"Give me just a moment," Aegon called out, and Daeron's gaze snapped to him over Jacaerys' shoulder. His face went crimson as Aegon dragged a hand up his face. His voice husky, "I'll be ready in a minute." He chuckled to himself and Daeron's eyes narrowed.

With a cough, Jacaerys averted his own gaze as Daeron's eyes turned to him. He cleared his throat, "See that the servants fill the water skins, won't you?" He rubbed at his neck, "Aegon wants to pause near Bitterbridge again on the way back."

A giggle sounded from behind him. Aegon's voice low and mewling, like a cat in heat, "I think Bitterbridge may be my favorite place in Westeros, after this trip."

"Right." Daeron pursed his lips. Jacaerys chanced a glance at him. Their eyes met. His uncle's gaze hard, his nostrils flaring. Jacaerys grimaced.

He had no good reason, did he? For fucking Aegon so thoroughly. He ought to have been using the opportunity to speak with the Hightowers, testing their loyalty. Perhaps assessing their defenses.

Instead he'd spent the time burying his cock in Aegon, enjoying the pleasures of the flesh. His lover's vocal encouragement consuming him.

Many of the knights and servants looked at their feet as Jacaerys led his uncles back up to the dragons. Aegon didn't limp, but he wore a fresh shirt. One of Daeron's. The bright red marks Jacaerys had left upon his neck stood out starkly beside the deep green.

Lord Hightower gave him a tight smile as he saw them off. The man's cheeks flushed as he looked at Aegon. His uncle chuckled, ducking his head to Jacaerys' ear as he walked towards Sunfyre.

"I don't believe he'll have any desire to crown me after this," Aegon winked at him, grinning wickedly, "Not after hearing me scream your name so much."

Jacaerys gaped at his uncle, eyes fluttering. He nearly stumbled as he stopped beside Vermax. Aegon skipped the last few steps to his dragon. He cooed at Sunfyre as Jacaerys blinked after him.

At least one of them had leveraged the political opportunity of this visit...

His uncle climbed into his saddle and urged his golden beast into the night sky. Scales glittering in the moonlight, Sunfyre led them all the way back to King's Landing.

Daeron stayed in the air, when Aegon sunk low over the Mander for their short rest. Jacaerys avoided meeting his younger uncle's eyes as he urged Vermax down. The man's judgement didn't stay his hand, or his cock.

"I could... I could warm your bed in King's Landing too," Aegon panted against his cheek. One leg hooked over his shoulder. His head lulled back, eyes glazing over as he climaxed, "I know the secret passages..."

"Fuck, Egg!" Jacaerys grunted, burying himself deeper in his lover's pulsing cunt. His hand stilled around Aegon's cock. He slotted their mouths together, muffling his uncle's moans.

Even if the whole realm learned of his interest in men, of his desire for his uncle... Jacaerys didn't think he could bring himself to feel shame about it. Not when every inch of his body burned at seeing Aegon's fluttering lashes. His soft smile. The quiet affection.

"Is that a yes?" Aegon gasped out, choking on his laughter as Jacaerys groaned. He hid his face in Aegon's throat as he willed himself to breathe. To calm.

Jacaerys thought he might endure anything, so long as he had Aegon. So long as he could keep him. Touch him. So long as he could hold Aegon for the rest of his life.

Chapter Text

His muscles ached. Aegon didn't regret the sex. Certainly not when his limbs felt so loose and his mind still swam with the ecstacy of his release.

A small part of him wished he'd taken up Lord Hightower's offer to rest for the night in Oldtown. Smirking to himself, Aegon doubted that would have helped the situation, however. He glanced back over his shoulder.

Vermax flew behind him, drifting in the wake of Sunfyre's right wing. Just as Tessarion did on his opposite side. His nephew was but a vague dot on the green dragon's back. Entirely imperceptible in the darkness.

But Aegon knew what he looked like. The windswept hair. Heaving chest. Dark eyes half-crazed. Desperate as Aegon had clawed at his back.

For all that Aegon hadn't considered that he might enjoy taking a cock in his cunt quite this much. He'd also entirely miscalculated that Jacaerys' mere presence could turn him on. His kiss alone enough to send Aegon over the edge. Just knowing Jacaerys might be looking at him had pleasure churning in his gut.

Sunfyre screeched as the Red Keep appeared on the horizon. His dragon's wings fluttered. Aegon laughed. He tightened his grip on the reigns and leaned forward.

They picked up speed. Sunfyre chirping as they descended on their home. Vermax and Tessarion fell into line behind him. A flag rose up from the Dragon Pit. The roof of the great building slowly opening.

With a quick hand gesture, Aegon signaled his nephew and his brother. In quick succession, they each landed. Right in a line, just as they'd flown in. Tessarion at the center.

Daeron was grinning widely when Aegon approached him. Practically bouncing on the balls of his feet. His excitement entirely palpable. "To mother now, yes?"

"We can have your things brought to the castle later," Jacaerys offered as he came up from the opposite direction. "No need to wait here." He was already directing the dragonkeepers.

"Do we not have to wait for the-"

Horses shrieked as the doors of the Dragon Pit opened. The familiar carriage of the royal family came in to view as a few of the knights escorting it struggled to keep their mounts under control.

"I believe that answers your question," Aegon drawled. His brother blushed as Aegon teased him.

The smile remained plastered on his face regardless though. Aegon found himself mirroring it. He'd never felt this joyful before, returning home.

Part of him thought Daeron's happiness might be contagious, but Aegon knew it had significantly more to do with the brunet sitting across from them. The knowledge that Jacaerys would keep him safe.

For the first time in years, Aegon didn't feel the shadow of an executioner's blade on the back of his neck. He sunk into his seat in the carriage, legs rising up as he spread out over one side. He leaned into Daeron's arm.

"20 gold dragons says mother starts bawling when she sees you," Aegon drawled, neck arching back as he looked up at Daeron. His brother flushed. He giggled though, his smile splitting his face even wider.

Really, at some point, it had to start hurting, but Daeron just fiddled with the hem of his doublet. Still grinning. His excited energy buzzing all around them.

Jacaerys laughed, ruffling his dark hair as he stripped off his riding leathers. "My mother will definitely cry, once my little brothers come from Dragonstone," Jacaerys admitted. He tossed his armor aside and leaned back in his seat, "Joff especially. She always says he's 'her' baby, not Dragonstone or Driftmark's."

Jacaerys' eyes shimmered with amusement as Daeron stuttered out a defense. Cheeks flushing a deep crimson, his brother was adamant their mother was far too dignified to weep openly just for him.

Heart beating a bit faster, Aegon's fingers twitched as he tuned his brother out. His gaze lingered on Jacaerys, taking in the soft layers of fabric now revealed to him. The silver clasps.

He'd make quick work of those, later.

"My mother's only been separated from my brothers for a day, uncle, while yours has been missing you for nearly a decade." Jacaerys stretched his arms out, above his head, groaning as his joints popped. Aegon followed the movement with his eyes. He bit at his lip.

Those arms were quite strong. They'd look quite good, Aegon expected, tied to his bed. Or perhaps a chair.

Through the slats of the carriage behind his nephew, Aegon caught sight of the Red Keep's walls. The tall ramparts.

His throat bobbed, head spinning as he took in the red stone. The embrasures and the arrow slits.

The heads spiked on top of them.

Daeron chattered on a bit. He rambled about his studies as Jacaerys ask him about his time in the Reach. The two laughed as they complained about their maesters.

Bile rose in Aegon's throat as they crossed beneath the gates. He turned his head, taking another look through the slates on his side.

Ser Criston was hardly recognizable, but Aegon knew his face well. He found his head with ease. His grandfather's as well. Otto Hightower had a very distinctive cut to his beard that death had not dared to muss. Though Aegon was fairly positive the red in his hair had been blood, not the auburn that had long since gone grey.

The ache in his chest was familiar. A stabbing, twisting panic that Aegon swiftly shoved down. A cold stillness replaced it, settling in his gut where his pleasure had been growing moments before.

Jacaerys had promised to protect him. His siblings. None of them had done anything against Rhaenyra. Had given no challenge.

His mother had always said it was his life that brought the challenge however. Living and breathing as the first born son. Aegon swallowed thickly and pushed it all away, focusing on the present. On his next action.

Servants met them at the steps, and Aegon kept Daeron at his side, kept him from looking back at the walls with an arm thrown over his shoulder. His teasing took a harsher edge as Aegon tried to ignore the reality around them.

The danger he might be leading his little brother into. He knew the moment Jacaerys noticed. The moment his nephew clocked the tension in his shoulders.

A hand rose to settle on his back and Aegon shot a sharp look over his shoulder. Jacaerys blinked. His hand dropped, and then his head turned.

A quick glance over his shoulder and Jacaerys rolled his shoulders back. They continued up the steps without a word. Daeron trembling beside him as he fretted over his hair and his cloak. His brother smoothed out the front of his doublet.

For all his nervous muttering about how he ought to bathe before seeing the queen, Daeron took off the moment they were inside. He rushed through the hall when he spotted their mother. She was no less frantic as she called out his name, tears already falling at the sight of him.

"Mother!" Daeron wrapped his arms around her. He cried into her shoulder as Alicent clung to her youngest. Her hands sweeping over him as if she couldn't believe he was real.

Aegon's assumption had been correct.

Hair flying about, body swamped in several robes, the ever composed queen started sobbing the moment she had Daeron in her arms, holding him tight to her chest.

"I was told the threat had passed..." Aegon greeted her with an arched brow. His hands clasped behind his back. Daeron stiffened at his cool tone.

"The queen has seen to the attempted coup and all those who tried to force your ascension, yes," Alicent cleared her throat. She kept one arm wrapped around Daeron as she straightened up, "She has... questions, for you, but... you needn't worry. All will be well."

Aegon blinked. He turned his head as she reached for him. His mother pursed her lips and snatched her hand back. Her fingers laced through Daeron's hair instead as she held him, smiled at him.

"You've grown," Alicent's voice cracked and Daeron chuckled. He nodded, shoulders hunching as he ducked close to her. He laid his head on her shoulder

"That's what Aegon said too," Daeron whispered, sinking in to their mother's warm embrace. Her affection. Given far more graciously to his little brother than it ever was to him.

Daeron was *her* son. Just as Jacaerys had said. For his mother, Aegon had always belonged to the realm first, to the king. Aegon the heir, Aemond the knight.

But Daeron had just been hers. She'd missed his brother, as Aegon did not think she would have him, had he been the one sent away.

The servants ushered them forward. At first Aegon thought Rhaenyra meant to greet them in the throne room, to flex her position. Instead he found himself entering his own chambers. The ones he nominally shared with Helaena.

All of his things were in a chamber across the hall. His toys and other tools scattered about. Some spare clothes tucked away in the nursery wardrobe belonged to him, but nothing else.

His sister sat at her table, nursing a cup of tea in her night dress. Aemond paced behind her, still in his surcoat with a blade strapped to his waist. He stopped abruptly when they entered.

A wide grin split his brother's face as Daeron launched himself at Aemond next. They hugged warmly. Aegon's chest ached at the sight of their joy. Their happiness.

All it had taken was a few old men to die for him to see his brothers like this. Aegon swallowed. He paused in the center of the room, feeling entirely unbalanced. Off footed.

As if the blade that had once hung above his head now pressed against his throat instead.

"You took longer than I expected," Rhaenyra entered the room with a furrowed brow and her robe tied above her swollen belly. Aegon stiffened, but her gaze was focused wholly on her son. On Jacaerys. "Was my brother that well hidden?"

Arching a brow, Jacaerys inclined his head towards the window, "Quick enough, I think. It's good we arrived at night, though, given the view."

Mother and son stared at one another. A nearly identical expression on their faces. It had a shudder running up Aegon's spine, though he held still.

"Your uncle and I hardly needed the help," Daemon drawled. He smirked at Jacaerys as he closed the door behind himself. "We made quick work of it."

Aegon glanced towards Aemond. His brother ducked his head. He bit his lip and reached for a chair, ushering their mother to sit, then Daeron.

Their uncle leaned back against the door, trapping them all inside as his voice dropped lower, "Though I suppose it was a different uncle, who required your attention, Jacaerys."

And now Aemond was looking at him, his nose wrinkling. Daeron blushed, hiding his face in the tea Helaena set in front of him.

"Daemon." Rhaenyra warned, eyes flashing as she turned her head. With a huff, Daemon went silent. Jacaerys glared at him regardless.

Alicent whined, face falling into her hands. She cringed as Aegon stared at her, his eyes fluttering. Daeron had heard them, yes, but his mother shouldn't have understood that. Shouldn't have caught the implication of Daemon's taunt quite so easily...

"You'll have to see the twins, Daeron, before you retire to bed," Helaena said, smiling at their little brother, "They're beautiful, and eager to meet their sweet uncle who sends them such nice treats from the Reach."

"Take after you then, I assume, sister," Daeron chuckled, biting at his lip as his gaze flicked towards Aegon. The joke elicited a snort from Aemond and a giggle from Helaena.

But the tension in the room didn't break. Aegon could feel all the gazes lingering on him. Sharp eyes surveyed him. His disheveled and borrowed clothes.

Rhaenyra stared openly at the small marks Jacaerys had left on his throat, before her head turned to her son. Her nostrils flared, "My sweet sister has given me some... surprising news today."

"Is that so?" Jacaerys furrowed his brow. His head tilted as she nodded sharply, "I wouldn't think anything could compare, after Aemond's."

Her head turned back then. Her gaze settled on Aegon. His fingers twitched, lip curling back.

"What did you tell her?!" Aegon hissed, striding quickly across the room. He shoved at Aemond's shoulder as he leaned over his chair. His knuckles went white as he clutched at the wood.

"The truth," Helaena hummed, and Aegon's lips curled back. His brother stood, but Aegon snarled at him. Aemond froze. His sister looked up at him, unfazed by his anger, "The pretense of our marriage will be unnecessary now."

Daeron's eyes widened. Aemond startled back as if he'd been slapped. Aegon's throat bobbed.

"What. Did. You. Tell. Her?" He emphasized each word. His voice as cold as ice as the words fell from his lips. Helaena's grip tightened around her tea.

"You bleed, brother, just as I do," Helaena whispered. She ducked her head, "You took his seed-" Aegon slapped a hand on the table. Helaena's head snapped up, "You're pregnant. I told her you're pregnant."

The room went entirely still. Aemond and Daeron were both staring at them now. Jacaerys inhaled sharply, taking a shuddering breath.

"It's not possible," Aegon stood up. His words clipped as he exhaled, "Mellos-"

"Mellos was not aware of the history of such... differences, in the Targaryen line," Rhaenyra spoke up. Aegon trembled, his whole body shaking as a giggle pierced the quiet of his mind.

Daemon's laughter soft, and mocking, as he leaned forward. His words were just the same, a faux whispered called across the room, "Did you think you were the first Valyrian man to have a cunt?"

The tea cup shattered against the wall beside Daemon's head. He'd barely processed the sound and then Aegon realized he'd thrown it. Helaena's lashes fluttered. She reached for his hand.

"You're bleeding, brother..." Helaena touched him and Aegon flinched back. He stepped away from the table.

He shuddered, as the blood trickled over his palm, dripping down his fingers. Rhaenyra pursed her lips as their eyes met. She tilted her head, gaze almost soft. A faux comfort he didn't need.

A worse insult than Daemon's mockery even.

"Once I have Gerardys confirm what Helaena's told me, your marriage and Jace's betrothal will both be set aside," Rhaenyra explained in an even tone. Her words firm.

The king's had been the same, when he ordered Aegon to marry Helaena.

"You'll marry within the month."

A command. Plain and simple.

"You can't confirm a pregnancy this soon," Jacaerys pointed out. His mouth hung vaguely open as he stared at his mother, "What could Gerardys tell you that-"

"Valyrian men of this sort are especially fertile," Rhaenyra cleared her throat, gaze rising up to the ceiling. Her face flushed, "It's likely why Helaena only required his seed the once to conceive the twins. If you've not conceived already, well... it will not take long."

A low whine came from the table behind Aegon. His mother shaking her head, face still hidden in her hands. Ashamed, as she so often was, of him.

Aegon swallowed thickly. His mind racing as he looked from Rhaenyra to Jacaerys.

His nephew had his back to him. A solid wall, shoulders tense. Hands fisted at his side. This was not what they'd discussed. What they'd agreed to, as Jacaerys fucked him, over and over again this past day.

Daemon pushed off from the door. He took two steps further into the room. His face twisting as Rhaenyra and Jacaerys argued. Their voices low. Whispers he couldn't hear.

Aegon had no need to hear them either. No desire to listen as Jacaerys grew annoyed at having Aegon forced on him like this. As Helaena had been on Aegon.

A bedwarmer. A mistress. Their agreement had been quite simple.

Baela was meant to be his wife. The one providing Jacaerys with his heirs. His queen.

"Egg!" Jacaerys shouted after him as Aegon fled the room. He ducked past Daemon as the man reached for him. With a quick turn, Aegon slammed the door of Helaena's room and ran for his own.

Unlike his sister's chambers, no hidden door would allow Aegon to escape into the secret passageways. He couldn't run any further. His legs shook regardless.

A knock sounded at his door as Aegon stumbled towards the bed. He grabbed for the footboard, eyes squeezing shut. His breaths heaving.

"Go away!" Aegon shrieked. His voice high and screeching. The knocking grew louder. "Leave me be!"

The knob turned, but the door did not open. Hissed voices followed. Their low tones reaching through the woods, but not their words. Something hard slammed into the wood and then Rhaenyra snapped her husband's name again. Sharp enough for him to hear.

Silence reigned after that. Aegon slumped forward, bracing himself on the bed. His chest rising and falling with each shallow breath he attempted.

Bloody fingers traced the leather strap still affixed to the wood from when he'd tied some knight down earlier in the week. He'd gotten his ass fucked exactly as he liked. The man had been handsome. Well endowed.

In his head, Aegon found himself comparing the memories to more recent ones, to riding Jacaerys. The cave on the Blackwater, Daeron's bed in the Hightower. His previous lovers had provided him pleasure well enough. Men, women. With their bodies. Toys.

None of them had looked at him quite like Jacaerys did. No one looked at him like that. The soft smile. The burning eyes. Jacaerys wanted him, desired him.

Just... not as a husband. Obviously.

Aegon couldn't blame him for that, really. He wasn't a particularly good one. Helaena had to remind him of his duties quite often. She ignored his hedonist lifestyle, his frivolous spending and probably numerous bastards.

Ignoring something did not make it any less true. Did not make Aegon any more acceptable or proper.

Hand fisting the leather strap, Aegon shuddered. His head fell forward. Hanging between his arms as his shoulders shook. A quiet sob wracked through his chest, bursting from his lips entirely unbidden. Unwanted.

The door clicked open. Aegon stilled. He pursed his lips as another sob rose up. It slipped out. His body shaking with it as a hand ran up his back.

"Egg?" Jacaerys whispered. His lips brushed over Aegon's ear, "It's... it's alright. I'll talk to my mother. You shouldn't be-"

"I'd be a terrible queen," Aegon agreed readily, inhaling sharply. He scrubbed a hand down his face. His voice shook, "Baela... Baela's far better suited."

Jacaerys stiffened. The hand on his back paused. Aegon turned his head away, eyes still closed. He blew out a breath.

"If... if you don't want bastards, I can... I can take moon tea or something," Aegon muttered. He exhaled, hand rising to his stomach, fingers curling in his borrowed shirt. The soft green fabric twisted.

Helaena could be wrong. Rhaenyra. Surely... surely he'd know, he'd feel something. His mother said carrying a child was a gift from the Seven. Mystical and magical and...

"I'd be able to tell, wouldn't I?" Aegon asked, throat bobbing, "There'd be something? If I were pregnant. I'd know. I'd feel something." He hiccupped.

The way his sister had said it. The certainty in her voice. Helaena had been telling the truth.

"I'll get rid of it," Aegon promised, sobbing again, "It shouldn't be an issue. I won't... I won't make problems-"

"No," Jacaerys cut him off. A hand cupped his cheek and turned his head. Aegon's vision blurred as he opened his eyes, tears obscurring his lover's face.

"I-I don't mind," Aegon stumbled over his words, the panic rising, "You can- We agreed to-"

The grip on his face grew tighter and Jacaerys pressed their forehead together. His nephew's face swam before him, the sharp features. His clenched jaw.

"You'll take no moon teas, Aegon," Jacaerys spoke slowly, his voice just as firm as his mother's hand been. A king's command. "If I can have you as a husband, not just a lover, I will." Aegon's breath hitched, his eyes fluttered.

Blinking slowly, Aegon gaped at him. Jacaerys grazed his knuckles over Aegon's cheek. His other hand slipped around. It settled over his abdomen, over Aegon's hand, still fisted in his shirt.

"You'll be prince consort, after Daemon," Jacaerys told him, pressing a kiss to Aegon's forehead, "We'll fill Dragonstone with laughter and love until then." He chuckled, fingers tracing over the back of Aegon's palm, "And babies. Lots of babies, I think."

Their mouths slotted together as Aegon took his first steady breath. He moaned next, arms wrapping around Jacaerys as his lover claimed his lips. Teeth sunk in. A hand squeezed at his ass.

His head swam, pleasure coiling in his gut once more. Aegon drew back, gasping, "But... but I thought- You protested, Gerardys-"

"My only protest is against anyone but me inspecting this pretty cunt of yours," Jacaerys groaned, hand moving down to Aegon's thigh. He palmed at the trembling muscles beneath his hand. Aegon spread his legs.

The door opened again. They sprang apart. Aegon panting as he stumbled back into his table. One of his toys fell to the floor. The thick and curved shaft clattering across stone. Jacaerys blinked at the dildo, then looked up at Aegon.

"Gerardys is here," Helaena hummed. With an arched brow, she beckoned him to follow her, "Come, husband, the sooner you do this, the sooner I never have to call you that again."

Cheeks burning, and nose wrinkling, Aegon followed her, "You never call me that, Hels." He glanced back at Jacaerys.

His nephew's eyes flickered over Aegon's room. The toys. The straps hanging from the bed. Aegon gulped as dark eyes rose to him. Pupils blown wide, Jacaerys licked his lips.

Oh. Aegon's gut twisted. He cleared his throat and let Helaena drag him across the hall by the sleeve of Daeron's shirt.

The sooner this was over, the sooner he'd be back in his room, with Jacaerys underneath him rather than some stupid knight. Those arms of his strapped to Aegon's bed, cock buried inside him again.

Surely whatever Gerardys needed to check wouldn't take long. Mellos had only need a quick look here and there.

Chapter Text

Aegon's return to the room silenced the hushed whispers of their brothers. A sharp arch of his brow had Daeron's gaze dropping to the floor, cheeks flushed. Aemond stared openly, meeting Aegon's eyes as they narrowed on him.

"You two, with me," Aegon snapped his fingers, shoulders back as he strolled through the room. Helaena returned to her seat at the table.

A small smile played at her lips as Aegon ordered their little brothers into the nursery. Her gaze rose to find Rhaenyra's as she sipped at her tea. The smile twitched into a smirk.

Rhaenyra thought facing down Dreamfyre without her own dragon might have been less nerve-wracking.

Her younger sister had proven to be much more politically astute than Rhaenyra previously assumed. A gentle woman, but as much a dragon as Rhaenyra herself. Helaena might never take to the skies on dragonback with war on the horizon, but she'd take her pound of flesh in other ways. If necessary.

Of that, Rhaenyra was now certain.

"You may wish to leave now, uncle," Helaena turned her attention on Daemon. She inclined her head towards the door. "Aegon will not want you here."

He groused and Rhaenyra rolled her eyes as her husband began to argue, "I am the Prince Consort-"

"If you're not fucking my cunt or have one of your own, you have no business witnessing the maester's inspection," Aegon drawled as he returned.

The nursery door clicked shut behind him. A withering glare was aimed at Daemon as he remained beside Rhaenyra.

"I've no interest in an old man's cock," Aegon told him, gaze dropping as he surveyed Daemon, "So unless you're planning to go first..."

Rhaenyra choked. She pursed her lips to stop a laugh from slipping out. Her son made no such attempt, grinning broadly at Daemon. Helaena hid her own giggles in the palm of her hand.

Even Alicent's lips twitched. Her dour expression breaking for the first time since Gerardys had arrived.

The maester himself opened the door, "The prince has made his preference for privacy known, your grace. If you'd please..." He waved a hand and Daemon stomped off. His petulance at least slightly exaggerated she expected.

Her husband liked his dramatics, even when no one else appreciated them half as well as he did.

Rhaenyra cleared her throat. She ran a hand down the front of her dress and flashed Aegon a smile, "You'll be comfortable with the rest of us I assume?"

"Everyone else in this room has already seen me naked except you and your maester," Aegon pointed out. His hand fisting around the white fabric he'd returned with. It matched the makeshift bandage he'd tied around his palm to stop the bleeding.

Furrowing her brow, Rhaenyra looked from him to the nursery door. She thought of what Helaena had said about their marriage. Consummated only once.

He did not sleep here, she realized. When he visited, it was to see his children, to see the twins. Not Helaena. His clothes hidden in their room, rather than here amongst Helaena's things.

"Given this entire... thing is for you to verify what Helaena's told you," Aegon huffed. He tossed the clothes he'd brought over the dressing screen as he turned to look at her, "I hardly think my comfort with either of you being present makes any difference."

His gaze was hard, cold, but his eyes still trembled. His bottom lip. Rhaenyra nodded mutely as her little brother ducked behind the screen.

A towel was laid out over the foot of Helaena's bed. Gerardys placed his tools upon another draped over a stool beside it. As the maester prepared, Alicent fretted, pacing in front of the screen. She whispered through it.

Reassurances, by the sound of it. A reminder that this was a single moment in time, that it would pass and be forgotten. His discomfort would be short.

"Mellos was always quick about it, yes?" Alicent chuckled lightly, hand rising to her temple as she looked skyward. Tears gathered on her lashes. Alicent pursed her lips. "You can squeeze my hand again, just like last time. Or Helaena's perhaps?"

"Helaena doesn't like being touched," Aegon mumbled as he stepped out from behind the screen. "And I'm not a child."

He looked a bit like one though, dressed in a simple cotton nightdress. It barely reached his knees. More a shirt, really, except Aegon wore nothing beneath it.

Alicent clicked her tongue. She combed fingers back through his hair, tucking wayward strands behind his ear. Despite his protest, Aegon leaned into the touch. His fingers twitched at his sides.

"Can we get this over with then?" Aegon asked, shoulders rolling back as he headed for the bed. Spine straight and jaw clenched.

A hand tugged at Rhaenyra's sleeve. She turned her head to meet her son's furrowed brow, "What..." Jacaerys swallowed thickly, voice low as he ducked his head closer, "Why is Egg so nervous?"

She squeezed at his arm, smile tight, "I am not certain." Rhaenyra furrowed her brow as her brother perched on the end of the bed. He fidgeted, hands fisting in his lap. She spoke up, "You have had a proper examination before? Haven't you? I assume Mellos-"

"He checked me when I bled for the first time," Aegon cut her off. A hand rose to his neck. He rubbed absently at his bobbing throat, "And a few times, before, when I was younger."

"May I ask what sort of exam he conducted?" Gerardys asked, eyes narrowing as he pulled a chair over to the bed. He did not approach Aegon, exchanging a quick look first with her and then with Alicent.

"I don't know," Aegon huffed, shoulders rolling back. His cheeks flushed and he squeezed his eyes shut.

Alicent appeared at his side quickly, a hand rubbing at his back. She inclined her head in a slight bow, "It was merely a... cursory examination."

With a hum, Gerardys clasped his hands together. He kept his distance a while longer as he explained what he would be doing. What the tools he had were for.

"My purpose is to ascertain whether you have all of the necessary parts to carry a child," Gerardys informed him, gesturing towards Aegon's abdomen, "I will be touching the area beneath your stomach while I have my fingers inserted. You may feel some pressure as I search for the organs in question."

"Gerardys has trained with several midwives," Rhaenyra assured her brother, and everyone else.

Helaena alone remained at the table. Her fingers twitching over her teacup as she averted her gaze. Jacaerys had since climbed up on the bed, settingly behind Aegon to supply him some comfort.

To his credit, Aegon had taken in the explanation with a stiff upper lip. His eyes owlish as he nodded along.

Were Mellos not already dead, Rhaenyra might consider executing the man. Even so, the surprise on both Alicent and Aegon's face as Gerardys went into further detail had her blood boiling. The old maester had delivered all of her siblings and yet Alicent seemed to be as clueless as Aegon.

"Shall we begin?" Gerardys asked, gesturing out with a soft chuckle, "I shall tell you what I'm doing as I go as well. You need only tell me if you're uncomfortable, my prince. There should be no pain."

Nodding mutely, Aegon leaned back into Jacaerys, resting his head in her son's lap as Gerardys directed him to the lay flat. His legs rose, spreading wide as his heels dug into the mattress and his body shifted downward. Despite his earlier denials, Aegon's hand snapped out when Alicent shifted beside the bed. He clutched at her wrist until she took his hand in both of hers.

"Just breathe," Alicent reminded him, pressing a kiss to his white knuckles, "This is only a moment."

Aegon gave another nod. His throat bobbing. Jacaerys brushed his hand through Aegon's hair, frowning as her brother inhaled sharply. A shuddering little breath, almost a cry.

Rhaenyra was familiar enough with the exam. She knew exactly what Gerardys was checking for as his hand moved over Aegon's abdomen. Hovering a step away, she saw as little as necessary, and significantly more than she wanted.

"You may put your legs down, your grace," Gerardys cleared his throat as he withdrew his hands. He quickly washed them and Jacaerys flushed. The maester made no comment about what he wiped from his fingers.

Aegon dropped his legs and the bottom of his shirt fell quickly over his thighs. He hid his face in Jacaerys' stomach, shuddering through several breaths. "Are you done now? Is that-"

"I need to cheek a few more things, my prince, I'm sorry," Gerardys offered a tight smile as Aegon whimpered, "It will not require any further internal examination." Aegon sniffed.

Alicent's brow furrowed as she watched Gerardys move his hands over Aegon's stomach. Below it, truly, before rising to his chest. His hands moved with precision, fingers pressing down in a circular pattern as he explained each touch, what he was searching for.

Her brother ignored him entirely, avoiding his gaze, hiding his face in Jacaerys' shirt. Rhaenyra's jaw clenched. The maester stepped back, declaring himself finished.

"So..." Aegon asked, eyes fluttering as he sat up. Tears clung to his lashes and Aegon inhaled again, that sharp gasp had Rhaenyra's skin crawling. "Will I be... Is it all there? Whatever it is I need to have?"

"Yes, your grace," Gerardys smiled at him fondly. He chuckled, gesturing vaguely, "If he'd properly checked, I doubt Grandmaester Mellos would have told you what he did. Everything is all present and accounted for."

He smiled at Aegon, briefly, as her brother exhaled. His next breath a stuttering little laugh, "Oh. Good."

"You seem in excellent health, your grace," Gerardys assured him. His gaze flicked up to Jacaerys briefly, eyebrow arching, "Save some raw skin and a bit of bruising. I expected you'll be a bit sore in the coming days..." Chin dropping, he leveled a look on her son and Jacaerys flushed. "You may wish to be more gentle, in the future, your grace."

"Ha!" Aegon snorted, laughing brightly as he tilted his head back, grinning. Rhaenyra pursed her lips. She had little doubt on which of the two was likely rougher in bed as Aegon teased her son.

A click of porcelain quieted her brother as he tried to distract himself. His head turned and every gaze followed his, right to Helaena. Her tea cup now sitting in it's saucer as she wrung her hands atop the table. Fingers twisting about.

She glanced up, only briefly, meeting Aegon's gaze for a moment, before her eyes dropped to her hands. Helaena trembled and she bit at her lip.

Head tilting, Rhaenyra furrowed her brows. She would have thought her sister relieved, after the exam. Nothing stood between Helaena and freedom from the marriage neither of her siblings had asked for.

"I wish to speak with Baela first, regarding the engagement," Rhaenyra spoke up, cutting through the now uncomfortable silence. She smiled tightly, hands clasped together over her swollen belly. A quiet chuckle escaping her lips, "But the disillusion of your marriage shall be announced tomorrow."

A hum, a quick nod. Helaena's bottom lip bled as she continued to gnaw on it. Aegon cleared his throat. He shifted to sit on the edge of the bed. His hands twisted in the hem of his shirt as he spoke, "What of... what happens to the twins? They won't be declared bastards will they?"

"They will remain a prince and princess of the realm," Rhaenyra assured them, hands rising quickly as she stepped closer. She ran a hand over his arm as Aegon let out a quiet sigh.

"The exam," Helaena whispered, head rising just slightly. Her eyes wide as she looked at Rhaenyra through his lashes, "He... he doesn't know he's different."

Jaehaerys. Her concern was for Jaehaerys. And not just Helaena's, given the way Aegon tensed at her words. His whole body suddenly rigid.

"I will leave those decisions, along with any others regarding the wellbeing of your children, to the two of you." Rhaenyra squeezed at Aegon's shoulder.

The two of them quickly relaxed. Helaena's hands dropped to her lap as she sunk down in her seat. Aegon fell back onto the bed, laughing wetly as he hid his face in the blankets. She caught the smile, his lips turning up as he exhaled. Helaena giggled softly.

Rhaenyra's heart sank. She looked to Alicent, her brows furrowing as the dowager queen dropped her gaze to the floor. Her lips moved in a silent prayer as fingers twitched over her hands.

The question of whether anyone actually wanted this union solidly answered. No one had desired the match. No one alive anyway.

Eyes squeezing shut, Rhaenyra plastered another smile on her face, "I shall leave you then, to discuss what comes next." She ducked her head in a quick bow and beckoned Gerardys to follow.

"Wait!" Aegon shot up, his throat bobbing. She paused, but his gaze flicked to her maester, "What... would it be the same? The exam, for... he's still very young."

"Unless there is an issue - a rash or discomfort - I would recommend any sort of invasive exam wait until he is older. Until he bleeds, same as his sister," Gerardys spoke simply.

He waited till they were out of the room, out of earshot, to curse Mellos. A sentiment she quite agreed with. Alicent had choked at his words, eyes wide as Aegon's brow furrowed. Their confusion had anger burning through her veins.

"I shall be writing to the Citadel," Rhaenyra greeted her husband with flared nostrils. His eyebrows rose as she swept past, already calling to one of her guards, "Wake the grandmaester, I have questions about his predecessor, and his position."

A giggle rose behind her, vicious, as Daemon drawled, "Learned something from this exam, did we?" Rhaenyra nodded sharply, shoulders rolling back.

Their eyes met. Daemon's roguish smile slipped away. Her chin rose up, "I may require an escort to Oldtown, after my coronation, and the wedding." He tilted his head, eyes narrowing, but he nodded. Mutely.

-.-.-

Stepping into the nursery, a chill rose up his spine. Aegon paused, and a hand settled on his back. Not pushing. Palm rubbing in small circles as Jacaerys waited behind him.

"Kepa!" Jaehaerys perked up, smile wide. He dropped the toy in his hand and came running, his sister at his heels. They slammed into his chest as he knelt on the floor and Aegon wrapped his arms around them, holding them tight to his body.

Helaena hovered between their beds. A hand swept over the front of her dress as her gaze leveled on their brothers. Aemond and Daeron rose from the couch across the room.

Burying his face in his daughter's hair and his fingers in his son's, Aegon ignored the heavy weight of their eyes as the passed by him. Aemond paused, throat clearing, "We'll escort mother back to bed, yes? And discuss all that's happened in the morning?"

"Tomorrow, yes," Helaena hummed, tongue clicking as she turned to survey their children's room, "The afternoon, perhaps, as it has been a late night and we all need rest."

"Yes, sister," Daeron agreed, tugging on Aemond's arm. His brothers stopped again in the doorway behind, where Jacaerys remained.

A small hand rose to brush against his cheek. "Kepa?" Jaehaera whispered, fingers curling in the collar of his shirt, "Are you okay?"

He kissed the top of her head and then did the same with Jaehaerys, "I am well, now that I am with you." The twins giggled and he rose to his feet, one in each arm. He carried them back to their beds, to Helaena, "Your mother and I do have something to discuss with the two of you though. Something important."

"Is it about the baby?" Jaehaerys asked, nearly bouncing in Aegon's hold, hands tugging at his shirt as he shrieked with joy, "Mother says you're going to give us a little brother!"

"Yes... though, I don't know for certain it's a boy," Aegon flushed as they settled on his daughter's bed, the twins perching in his lap. Helaena took a seat across from them, on their son's bed. Her hands clasped in her own lap.

He cleared his throat, but no more words came out. Helaena spoke up then, leaning forward as her soft voice drifted over the three of them, "Tomorrow, the marriage between your father and I will be ended. We will no longer be husband and wife."

The twins nodded slowly. Jaehaerys puckered his lips and Jaehaera quirked her head. They glanced from Helaena to him, eyes wide.

"Does that mean you'll stop visiting us?" Jaehaerys asked, bottom lip trembling and tears in his eyes. Aegon shook his head, squeezing his son to his chest.

"No, nothing with change, not between us," Aegon assured him. He rocked the two of them in his arms, "I will remain across the hall for a while longer at least, until I marry again."

Jaehaera clamored forward, hands fisting in his shirt over his abdomen. She tugged lightly, "What about the baby? They'll be our sibling still won't they? Even if you marry someone else?"

"Yes," Aegon exhaled, stumbling over his words as a blush rose on his face, "I'm... I'm going to marry the man who gave me the baby. He said the both of you and your mother can come to stay with us, when we leave King's Landing, so you and your half-siblings shall be raised together."

"We'll have more than one?!" Jaehaerys perked up, smile bright even as the tears clung to his red cheeks, "I want lots of little brothers!" Jaehaera quickly joined him, demanding sisters and little dragons.

"Morghul and Shrykos need playmates!" Jaehaera giggled and ducked to his stomach, promising the baby a dragon with pretty scales and a bright fire.

Aegon's cheeks burned as the twins began to argue over who got to pick out the egg for the baby's cradle. Eyes wife, he looked to Helaena, and then to Jacaerys. Both of them staring back. Helaena smiled, but his nephew's jaw was slack, his own face flushing.

"You'll both have a chance to pick an egg, I'm sure," Jacaerys ventured closer, hands clasped behind his back. His throat bobbed as the twins turned their heads, gazes sweeping over him.

It was Jaehaera who made the connection, who recognized why Jacaerys remained and not her uncles for this discussion. She smiled up at him, "Are you the one who gave kepa a baby?" Jace nodded slowly and she perked up, "You're going to marry kepa?"

Jaehaerys pounced, jumping from Aegon's lap. With a yelp, Jacaerys caught the boy as Jaehaerys laughed, "This is great! I want to ride on Vermax when we go to Dragonstone!"

His nephew dropped to a knee as Aegon's children quickly overwhelmed him, tugging at his clothes and asking question after question. About Vermax, his brothers, Dragonstone, and the baby. Dark eyes blinked rapidly as Jacaerys tried to keep up. They gave him little chance to answer even a single query.

"It'll be a few weeks still, before the wedding," Aegon laughed as he rose to his feet, "And the baby will not be here for months after that." He picked Jaehaera up, and then Jaehaerys. The twins whined as he returned them to their beds.

After a bit of begging, Aegon let them press their hands to his flat stomach. Tiny fingers pressed in and they both smiled up at him.

"Your cousins will be here soon," Helaena reminded them, dropping down to kiss one forehead and then another. "Perhaps you can ask them what it's like, having a little sibling, hmm?"

Aegon marveled at the ease with which she quieted the twins, tucking them in with a few soft touches and half a lullaby. He retreated to the doorway as his children fell asleep, Jacaerys at his back.

Hand rising to his abdomen, Aegon ran his fingers over the flat expanse. Just as the twins had done. Another hand joined his. Fingers splayed across his stomach, Jacaerys kissed his cheek.

"Ready for bed, my love?" Jacaerys asked, breath warm against his cheek. Aegon shuddered as the man hummed, "It's been a long day for us all."

"Yes..." Aegon smiled, intertwining their fingers, "And I have a bed in need of warming..." He lowered his voice, nipping at Jacaerys' lip, "...perhaps you could assist me, your grace?"

Jacaerys groaned and Aegon giggled as they stumbled across the hall. He had not expected for his impulsive step into his nephew's bedchamber the night before to lead to anything more than a night of passion.

But he was quite pleased that it had.