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Chapter Text

Chapter Text

Daemon proved to be an excellent teacher, the man had patience, taking him step by step on what to do when riding Sȳndror. Surprisingly enough he also calmed him down when he panicked mid-air and almost fell to his doom. Again.

Yorbert wasn't sure what to make of their relationship, Daemon seemed to be trying in earnest to form a bond but good lord he went about it in the weirdest ways, it was becoming clear with time he did not know how to be a parent.

"Well done, you're getting better with each passing day," His father praised him. He dismounted from his dragon and together they started walking back home.

"You're a damn good teacher I'll give you that father," Yorbert indulged.

His father hummed, his unfocused eyes staring ahead, "I wish to tell you the true purpose of my visit..." He turned to face him, "My wife and I are expecting a child, I had hoped for you to meet your sibling, Laena convinced me to leave Pentos and come back to Driftmark so that we may be closer,"

Yorbert did a double take, "You're going to have children soon? And you're back in Driftmark? Would the king even allow that?" He knew that Viserys eventually forgave Daemon, but that was after his daughters were born.

"Viserys believes that traveling has mellowed me out, he is correct of course. I no longer crave war. I wish to spend time with my wife and children, all of my children," He gave his son a pointed look.

Yorbert hesitated a bit before accepting, "I guess I would like to meet my stepmother and my siblings,"

His father laughed, "Siblings? Hah! Laena would kill me if she had to give birth to two babes in one day," His eyes lost their spark as he came to a stop and sat down on the grass, and beckoned him to sit as well, "Judging by your carelessness and lack of urgency I think the Maester and everyone else has chosen not to tell you the most important detail you forgot when you fell from Sȳndror..."

"Okay, you're making me nervous right now...what's the matter?" Yorbert laughed uneasily.

"Your marriage to Rhaenyra Targaryen-"

Yorbert shot up, "Whoah! Whoah! Isn't Rhaenyra supposed to be married to Laenor?!"

Daemon sighed, "Laenor and Rhaenyra did not get along due to his...exotic taste in partners shall we say. She had an outburst in court that led to Laenor disappearing with his dragon and rumored lover,"

Yorbert laughed bitterly, how the fuck were things this messed up? Did his presence here change things? Fuck! If Rhaenyra didn't like Laenor because of his preference then she was in for a nasty surprise.

He turned to his father, "Was her outburst about Laenor's attraction to men?"

Daemon hummed, "Yes, she remarked that Laenor would be more interested in her brothers than her and refused to marry him, her father has since threatened to remove her as his heir if she does not marry you so you have nothing to worry about,"

Oh god, I'm gonna be sick! Yorbert thought, maybe he could just run away like Laenor. That would work, wouldn't it? He dismissed the thought. He knew no one in Runestone let alone outside of it, where would he run to?

"Most would be delighted to marry Rhaenyra and be her King consort, and yet here you are looking as if you're about to vomit all over me," His father laughed before whispering, "If you're nervous about bedding her don't be, I know how the knights here take their honor seriously, so I doubt you have visited any brothels, but I know a few in the area. I could take you there and you will get some practice sadly I will not join you,"

Pushing back the rising bile, Yorbert leveled his father with a glare, "None of such will be happening, to even suggest-" He cut himself off before he went on a rant, "When is this wedding happening?"

Daemon smirked, "In a month..."

"But...I...can they not cancel? I don't have any memories for fucks sake!" This was too much, he just fucking woke up, what hateful fucker decided to do this to him?

"Rhaenyra needs an heir, soon might I add, they cannot cancel even if they wanted to,"

He needed to plan, it hadn't taken him long to confirm that he was still very much attracted to men, and gods be damn he was not going to allow for any strong pups to be brought into the world while he was married to Rhaenyra.

They cast doubt on her and Laenor's marriage but they also brought into question her claim to the Iron Throne. The dance of the dragons is going to happen whether Rhaenyra has bastards or not. He reminded himself.

He couldn't Politik to save his life, but he could try. He would have children, hopefully, boys, and engage them with Laenas kids. That would all but secure the Velaryon's support when the dance starts.

He wasn't sure what to do about the Vale as he was sure Jayne was a lesbian and would not produce any heirs so he couldn't offer a marriage pact in exchange for their support.

He could use Rhaenyra's heritage as an Arryn to foster relations and support. Yorbert nodded to himself, the Starks had already sworn to honor Rhaenyra's claim so they would not break their promise. He will sit down with Rhaenyra and come to a compromise on their relationship.

But first, he had to meet his stepmother. His father insisted on him coming to Driftmark for a few days, so he could bond with Laena. 

A part of him regretted accepting but honestly, right now his father was the only person he was close to, his cousins all came to check up on him, wished him good health, and then fucked off to god knows where.

Yorbert nervously adjusted his clothes as he marched beside his father,

"Stop it, you look presentable and Laena will like you. So calm down for heaven's sake," Daemon rolled his eyes.

"You should have told me Rhaenys and Corlys will be here! Shit, I can't believe I have to stay here until the wedding," He grumbled.

"We will only be staying here for three days then it's off to Kings Landing to partake in the celebrations. This will also give you time to know Rhaenyra better," His father continued, "And Rhaenys and Corlys will like you as well...I think..."

"You think!?" Yorbert barked out, "Anyways I don't understand why we have to show up at Kings Landing as one happy family."

"Because we are a family, whether we will be a happy family remains to be seen..." The rogue prince sighed.

Yorbert eyed his father as they were escorted inside, his father had groomed Rhaenyra and later killed Laenor to marry his niece, would he do the same to him?

Better to think about that later, Yorbert held his head high as the Velaryons came into view.

"I present prince Yorbert Targaryen, heir of Runestone and the future king consort!" The servant's strong voice rang out, "And this Lord Corlys lord of the tides and master of Driftmark, and his lady wife, the princess Rhaenys and their daughter and heir, Laena Velaryon!"

Heir? He supposed it made sense, with Laenor gone someone had to inherit Driftmark.

"Your child is going to inherit Driftmark? would Corlys even allow that?" From what he knew Corlys was an ambitious man, he plotted to put his blood on the Iron Throne, to think he would let Driftmark be inherited by children bearing the Targaryen surname...

"He has been haggling with me to give our children their mother's name, I know he hopes for a girl because he can marry her to his brother's son," Daemon whispered. 

Very smart, Daemon was going to have two daughters, he knew that for a fact. So in the end the Velaryon name will end up ruling Driftmark since they will take their husband's name.

Corlys came up and gave him a firm handshake, "It is nice to meet you, son. Daemon had not told us you would be so grown!" The dark skin man appraised.

"Welcome to drift mark," Laena greeted him, "It is nice to finally meet you Yorbert,"

"Yes very nice indeed," Rhaenys added, she gave a small smile but her eyes remained frosty.

"Thank you for welcoming me into your home, Driftmark is more beautiful than I imaged," Yorbert began, "I was hesitant when father suggested we all meet and arrive at Kings Landing as one, but I must say, I'm glad I listened to him,"

"Well then come, we have prepared a feast to celebrate our unification," Corlys sat down, and servants rushed in and filled the enormous table with a variety of food. 

Yorbert squared his shoulders and followed the Velaryon's lead, it was going to be a long three days.

"Are you excited about your wedding? Princess Rhaenyra is a fine match," 

He was startled at Laena's question, "Yes-yes! I hear she is very wonderful?" In all honesty, he expected her to be spoiled and selfish. 

"I imagine you have, how is your head? do you truly not remember anything?" Corlys eyed him with curiosity. 

"My head is fine my lord, and yes I still do not remember anything," An idea blossomed, "Father has been teaching me how to ride so that I don't fall again, princess Rhaenys and lady Laena are competent riders, mayhaps you could also give me few lessons? If you are free of course,"

"Laena is not in any condition to fly, but I'm free and can offer guidance," Rhaenys replied, "I saw your mount, quite the magnificent creature,"

"Yes, Sȳndror is magnificent, but she pales next to the red queen," Rhaenys' cold eyes warmed a bit at his words.

Yorbert's own body started to sag a bit as the tension left him bit by bit, he expected this dinner to be a disaster but so far it was going well. 

Chapter Text

Yorbert ducked as Meleys shot past him, the red Queen folded her wings as she sped up. Caraxes let out a sparse roar as a large shadow befell them all.

When Yorbert had first laid eyes on Vhagar he had been in disbelief at the sheer size of the dragon. She was glorious and oh-so massive, but she was slow as a result. He did not have time to gawk at her beauty since the great beast mainly kept to herself. 

He smirked as Sȳndror copied Meleys, the dragon's wings folded as she sped up, Vhagar and Caraxes remained side by side, no doubt his father wanted to make sure nothing happened to his heavily pregnant wife who refused to listen to the Maesters advice to not mount Vhager in her condition.

The dragon pit came into view as Sȳndror descended, the dragon lowered one shoulder as he carefully dismounted. He commanded the dragon to take off as soon as his feet touched the ground.

No way was he allowing Sȳndror to be put in the dragon pits, it's best he let the dragon keepers know his dragon would be spending time with Vhager outside the pits.

He paused as a roar rang out from the sky, and another dragon came into view. Syrax gave a small huff as the dragon keepers ushered her into the dragon pit. "Cousin, I noticed your dragon flew off," A loud rumble was heard as Vhagar landed, Rhaenyra's eyes darted to eye the beast, but her eyes moved to Caraxes where they lingered.

"Sȳndror has grown outside of captivity all her life, I don't think she will like the dragon pit," He gave an awkward bow.

"I heard you fell from your dragon, did it cause damage to your head?" She laughed, "You seem very different...more confident,"

She seems pleasant, Yorbert thought, perhaps being married to her will not be so bad. "Ah yes, I don't have any memories you see. When I woke up I did not even know my name,"

Rhaenyra hooked their elbows and led him away from prying eyes, "That is sad to hear cousin," She came to a stop when they reached a deserted area, "It would seem we will have to discuss our...unique arrangement once more,"

"I'm assuming you mean my attraction to men?" To his surprise, Rhaenyra nodded. From what he could tell the old Yorbert had kept his homosexuality status strictly under wraps.

"You made it very clear you would do your best to rid yourself of your...disposition. Which was laughable in itself, you would think in the sixteen years of your life you would have tried to lay with a woman at least once," 

"You don't seem to hold me in the same regard as Ser Laenor, what changed?" He asked

"My father has threatened to remove me as his heir if I don't marry you," Rhaenyra sighed, "I no longer have the privilege of choosing my husband, we must marry and produce an heir at once,"

He sighed, "I think it is in our best interest to perform our duty and provide the realm with an heir or two. After that, we will be free to pursue our own interests, however..." Yorbert stopped and looked at the princess, "Under no circumstances are you to allow yourself to give birth to another men's child,"

The princess whispered as a green-clad woman approached them, "I'm not that foolish, and I must say I like this version of you better than the meek mouse I met before,"

 Gee thanks a lot. Seriously though, what's with everyone shitting on past Yorbert?

"Rhaenrya, getting acquainted with your future husband I see. It is nice to see you again prince Yorbert, I hope she won't drive you off like the last one," Alicent's smile was as cold as her eyes.

Rhaenyra's face turned to stone as the women eyed each other, "The King wanted to see us as soon as Yorbert arrived, perhaps we can talk another time stepmother?" She all but dragged him away from Alicent Hightower.

"What a fine couple you two make!" Viserys laughed gallantly, he looked several decades older than his actual age. His silver hair was already thinning and his purple eyes always looked tired, even when he was happy.

Yorbert bowed, "Thank you, your grace, I will do my best to honor and support Rhaenyra,"

"Hear that Otto? When my daughter seats the Iron Throne she will have a worthy consort by her side," Viserys must have been blind not to see the sour expression on Otto's face. The other man wanted his grandchildren on the throne. Yorbert wondered how close Otto and the King were since he had been dismissed as Hand but was present for Rhaenyra's wedding. 

"Come! Come! Yorbert tell me all about how life has been since you woke up,"

"Where do I begin your grace? naturally, I was confused after waking up with no memories, the maester, and father were of great help. Father even invited me to meet the Velaryons and my stepmother to help ease the pain of my mother's passing," All bullshit of course, Yorbert had no emotional attachment to his mother.

"What did I say? I told you all that Daemon is a changed man. Fatherhood suits him," The King leaned back in his chair in satisfaction.

"I noticed that your dragon did not enter the dragon pit. Why is that?" Otto asked

Yorbert fought to keep the smile on his face, this was so boring! "Sȳndror is not accustomed to the dragon pits, she is also a bit large, so it would be a tight squeeze,"

"You hatched your dragon eleven years ago yes? It's incredible for a young dragon to grow so large, why she is larger than Syrax and Seas-" The King cut himself off with a forced cough. It seems the topic of Laenor was still being avoided at all costs.

Yorbert turned to Rhaenyra and silently pleaded for her to say something, anything to cut the awkwardness that settled over them, the princess merely shrugged and looked to the side.

"So uh...I see the Queen is with another child. I pray for a safe deliverance," He offered.

Viserys let out a deep sigh, his eyes briefly scanning his daughter before he answered, "Yes, I'm to be blessed with another child,"

Yorbert shifted uncomfortably as silence descended upon them once more. I hate it here.

"He is different from what I expected, gentle and soft-spoken," Corlys commented. 

"Must we be here? If another person wishes me luck on finding Laenor one last time I will set Meleyes upon Kings Landing," His wife growled as she watched the joust taking place, Viserys insisted upon throwing lavish parties and balls leading up to the wedding of his daughter. 

The princess of Dragonstone was latched on to the heir of Runestone, covering her face with her intended's arm when blood was sprayed when the two contenders dismounted their houses and fought steel on steel. That could have his son with the princess.

Corlys felt a blinding fury grip him before he forced himself to calm down, Laenor ruined his perfectly laid plans. By now he should have been married to Rhaenyra and produced heirs, but he let his perverse emotions rule him. 

When they received word that his son had taken residence in Volantis Rhaenys wanted to climb upon Meleyes and retrieve him at once but he discouraged her. The boy made it known to the world that he loved another man, he did not need him to be associated with his House, not until he rid himself of his affliction. 

A single night at a whorehouse would have solved this all,  After all no man can resist a warm cunt. 

But still, there was hope,

"Yorbert approached me before we left for Kings Landing," He whisper shouted over the noise, "He wanted to engage one of Daemon's children to his own," Corlys had been shocked by the offer, he truly had not been anticipating something like this, but once the shock passed he gladly accepted the proposal. 

Rhaenys didn't even turn to look at him, "I assume you accepted, knowing how obsessed you are with putting someone of your own blood on the Iron Throne,"

He nodded absently at her words,  he just hoped this opportunity was twatted once more, "It would seem our King Consort is smarter than we gave him credit for," That caught his wife's attention, and her strong eyes commanded him to explain, "When he proposed the idea of a union he made me promise the might of the Velaryon fleet, he said a civil war is brewing, so we must prepare as soon as possible,"

Yorbert drummed his fingers nervously on the tabletop, everyone around them was having a seemingly wonderful time. He avoided his father's gaze as he stilled himself, I can do this, just announce that you are retiring to your bedroom. Who was he kidding, he felt like throwing up.

Rhaenyra nudged him and gave him a stare that clearly suggested she wanted to get the night over and done with. After weeks of celebrations, their wedding was finally upon them. He honestly could not remember what happened during the day but he was very aware of this moment. The lords were leering and letting out whistles, they're expectant gaze rested heavily upon him.

It was at this moment that he was grateful he convinced the King to do away with the bedding ceremony, he wouldn't be able to handle being undressed by complete strangers.

He stood and offered his hand to his wife, "My wife and I will be retiring to our bedchamber now," He ignored the noise that followed them, and instead focused on giving a bashful smile to make it seem as though he was excited at the prospect of what was to come.

Rhaenyra wasted no time in taking off her dress and layers when they reached their room, "Did you get what you wanted from the maester?"

Yorbert gave a nod as he took out a pouch and emptied a brown powder into a glass of wine, "I spun the maester a tale of how it might not always get up when I'm nervous and he fell for it hard,"

He downed the wine in one go, Well that was fast. He felt his pants tighten uncomfortably not a second after he set the glass down, "Lay down, I want to make this pleasurable for you as well,"

"Why would I lay down?" Rhaenyra eyed him with mild suspicion.

"Because wife, I'm about to introduce you to the pleasures of the tongue,"

Chapter Text

Staying in Kings Landing took a massive toll on him, he had to constantly watch his every move and carefully craft his words around everyone. Yorbert adjusted his grip on his sword, he had taken to learning how to fight. Something his other self had neglected to do, honestly why wouldn't his older self know how to fight with a sword when he was shit when it came to flying a dragon.

Ducking under a well-aimed strike his leg snaked out and sent his opponent sprawling to the ground, "Your strange way of fighting never stops surprising me,"

"I won't be able to beat you if I fought normally," He held his hand out to Darnis Wyl, a lowborn skilled knight, and unfortunately for him, his skills never got him far due to not having the right family name.

Darnis gave him a dimpled smile, "I still can't believe you never trained to be a knight, one would think Daemon Targaryen's son would be a skilled warrior,"

Yorbert went to answer him when the other men suddenly went ramrod straight, turning around he spotted his wife, "I need to speak to my husband, I hope you don't mind?"

Darnis gave and deep bow and practically ran out of their sight, "Wife, to what do I owe this visit?"

"I'm bored and lonely, so I figured I should come to you for entertainment," Her voice lowered, "And if I have to listen to Alicent give me birthing advice I will rip my hair out!"

Yorbert laughed, placing his hand on his wife's protruding stomach, thankfully it didn't take long for her to get pregnant. They had only had sex a handful of times before they were able to conceive a child.

Gods willing it would be a son so he can engage him with one of Daemon's daughters, which would hopefully secure the Velaryons' support as well, speaking of the Velaryon family Laena had given birth to two beautiful girls, Baela and Rhaena. He and Rhaenyra had not been present during the birth but they made sure to visit his siblings as much as possible in drift mark.

Daemon's twins were born around the same time as Daeron, which confused him greatly because that didn't align with what he knew of the timeline. Better to just discard it all now.

"Have you given much thought to my suggestions?" Yorbert asked.

Rhaenyra sighed in irritation, "Our child is still in the womb and here you are already deciding their fate, but I do agree with the name you suggested, it will please father greatly,"

Yorbert hummed, he didn't know if Rhaenyra was just dense or clueless, she knew the Hightower's didn't agree with her being the heir, hell Otto was dismissed as the hand of the king because he kept badgering the King to make Aegon his heir. I'll have to have a serious talk with her when she has given birth. He would avoid the topic, for now, to avoid stressing her during her pregnancy.

"Come, I know you still enjoy flying despite the Maesters warnings, let us go for a ride. I will take the full blame when his grace finds out,"

His son was born early next year, and the wetnurses and Maesters rushed in and out of the Rhaenyra's room. Yorbert held her hand and supported her through all of it, he wished he could say it was an easy birth but well he had never given birth before so he wouldn't know, but since she didn't die in childbirth he considered it a success.

His son didn't exactly look like any of them but the small white hair and purple eyes made him sigh in relief. His heart melted when the infant yawned a bit, "Isn't he precious?"

Beside him, Viserys eyed him with impatience, "I would know how precious he was if you stopped hogging him all to yourself,"

Chuckling he gave the baby to his grandfather, who made cooing noises at the baby. The older man turned to Rhaenyra and asked, "Have you given him a name yet?"

Yorbert nodded encouragingly at his wife, "Viserys, we decided to name him Viserys father,"

"Oh" Viserys let out a breath, he didn't even bother trying to hide his tears of joy, "Now that is a name fit for a King,"

"You have both made me a happy man today," The King laughed.

Yorbert went to sit beside Rhaenyra and began stroking her hair, "It was all Rhaenyra's doing your grace, I cannot take credit for this moment,"

The King raised a brow. "I doubt Rhaenyra put this child inside herself Yorbert,"

"Father!" The princess turned red as the Viserys laughed merrily.

"You should rest daughter, I will take care of my grandson for the time being,"

"How is Ser Darnis?" His wife asked, her eyes holding a suggestive glint.

"I told you Rhaenyra he is not like that, he very much enjoys the company of whores in the Street of Silk," Not to mention Yorbert was terrified of being caught with another man, logically he knew his status as a prince would give him protection, but still he held himself back.

Rhaenyra gently rocked Viserys, "You said we should both be free to pursue what makes us happy, I have found someone who makes me happy. I think you should as well,"

He perked up, "Is it a certain Strong man?" Yorbert has already seen her giving Mr. Breakbones moon eyes from afar, he just thanked the Gods that they kept their attraction to each other at bay when in public.

"Harwin is...everything I want in a man. He makes me feel safe, when I'm in his arms I don't have to worry about all the problems in the world," She scooted closer, "But most importantly he does the pleasures of the tongue very well"

He let out a startled bark of laughter, of course, that was what she took note of, "I'm happy you are happy princess,"

"I would be happier if you keep true to your word and find someone to make you happy as well," She quipped.

"Time will tell, so tell me how have the small council meetings been going?" He asked.

"Boring, but you were right on one account. Alicent has been trying to make father name Aegon as his heir and the small council seems to be in agreement, their relationship seems strained these days," She sighed, "Rhaenys told me that the men of the realm would not allow a woman to sit on the Iron Throne. I'm starting to believe she was right,"

"Then let us gather allies, the only way for them to get Aegon to the Iron Throne would be to go against your father's wishes and that would mean war," Yorbert's gaze shifted to their son, "It would mean killing any challenges to Aegon's claim to the Iron Throne,"

Her gaze hardened, "Very well then, we will start to carry out your plans. We will begin by engaging Viserys with one of Daemon's children, which would gather support from him and the Velaryons. I will take my duty as heir seriously and be active in the small council, I will show father that he did not make a mistake when he named me his heir,"

She finally gets it, Yorbert thought. He was not entirely sure how we would deal with the dance once it comes but one thing was for sure, he needed as many allies as he could gather.

Alicent sighed in frustration at Larys' uselessness, it has been four years since Yorbert married Rhaenyra and he had not stumbled even once, he served Rhaenyra faithfully, and they were about to welcome a second child now.

It was not uncommon for married men to entertain whores to ease their minds or forget about their marital problems, at first she had assumed he had a preference for men since he spent a large amount of time with a no-name commoner but alas it was not so. They simply trained in the way of the sword and did not engage in any iniquitous behavior.

The boy was known as the peasant prince because of his charitable causes in Kings Landing, opening an establishment that housed homeless children and women who had nowhere to go and providing plenty of food for the unfortunate. He had gathered goodwill among the commoners of Kings Landing. Rhaenyra on the other hand exercised her power as heir and began to actively take part in the decisions of the small council, going as far as to accompany her father all over the Seven Kingdoms so that she may be familiar with the realm she would one day rule.

All in all, they were a perfect couple, save for one matter...

"If Rhaenyra is truly seeing Harwin Strong perhaps that child she is carrying might not be prince Yorbert's?" Larys' suggested.

Alicent dismissed the idea as soon as it came up, Rhaenyra would not be so brazen, especially with her wanting to appear as the model heir. Having bastards would sully her name.

But we can use this, Alicent thought. She could use this information to turn Yorbert against Rhaenyra, perhaps with his support they could expose Rhaenyra. She could also use this moment to make her father the hand of the king once more.

Alicent felt herself hesitate, if she revealed this it could spell the end for Rhaenyra, not to mention her children's parentage would be questioned and they may be executed. She cannot afford to use children to seat hers on the Iron Throne. A dark part of her whispered, To secure Aegon's claim Rhaenyra and all her heirs will need to die. And it was true wasn't it? Rhaenyra would hardly sit by and allow her birthright to be stripped away from her.

She needed her father, he would know what to do at the moment, "Is there anything you can do to get rid of the current hand of the king and bring back my father?"

Larys only nodded his head, "I will ensure that it is done,"

The death of Lyonel Strong came as a shock, his chambers had caught fire, and much to the fury of her father, everything pointed towards foul play. Logically Lyonel should have been able to escape his chambers as they were locked from the inside. The intensity of the flames was a dead giveaway seeing as the Red Keep was mostly made out of stone, so someone must have used flammable liquid to start the fire.

Rhaenyra went to fill Corly's cup and he predictably declined, wanting to keep his mind sharp as always. Yorbert's suggestion to betroth Viserys and Baela worked in bringing the man back into the small council, and since his granddaughter is to be queen one day he has a reason to make decisions that benefit her.

"Your grace, I believe we have to discuss the matter of who is to be your hand now that Lyonel has passed," Mellos said as soon as she sat down by her father's side.

"I had hoped we would mourn Lyonel but I suppose my council is eager to resolve this matter. During his time as my hand, Lyonel served me faithfully and gave me invaluable council," His eyes met hers, "One such council was that I make Rhaenyra my hand in order to introduce her to the ways of ruling,"

"You honor me father, I will do my best to serve the realm," She gave a small curtsey. 

"Your grace, princess Rhaenyra hardly has the experience to fill such an important seat surely we can find someone more qualified?" Grand maester Mellos immediately interjected. 

Rhaenyra knew that the old man somewhat supported her claim, she didn't need to take his words to heart he just wanted what was best for the realm. She and Yorbert were already working on finding a replacement for him, the old coot was already one foot in the grave. 

"I must concur with Grand maester Mellos, the realm needs someone who is competent to serve as Hand of the King," Alicent commented, her presence in the small council annoyed Rhaenyra greatly. Why her father even lets her in here is beyond her, her stepmother undermined her at every chance, always trying to shut down any suggestions she presented to the council. 

"Baelon briefly served as Hand of the King under his father before his sad passing, in the position he was able to learn a great deal on how to rule the Kingdom, I say Rhaenyra be named heir. She is to inherit the Iron Throne after her father, this is the easiest way to introduce her to her future duties," Corlys commented.

She bit back a pleased smile, her father valued Corlys' advice, and he was still tiptoeing around the Seasnake to avoid driving him away from the council once more.

"This is not a matter of discussion, I have decided to name Rhaenyra my hand and that is the end of it," Her father breathed out, "I will also look to make room for Yorbert in the small council, he has been diligently serving the smallfolk of Kings Landing, a seat in the small council will be a great reward for him,"

Chapter Text

The night of Laena's funeral all hell broke loose. Aemond had decided that this would be the perfect time to bond with Vhagar, the small boy had slipped by unnoticed and claimed the great dragon. This led to a confrontation between the children, resulting in Aemond losing an eye.

Yortbert wanted to laugh, of all the things that would remain the same why this moment? The greens now had the most powerful dragon firmly on their side, if he was a lesser man he would have assassinated the young boy but alas, the blood of a ten-year-old was not something he wanted on his hands.

"My son lost an eye! how can I possibly be calm about it?!" The queen hissed at the King, and the old let out a ragged breath as his eyes darted about.

"Aemond was going to hit Baela with a rock, Viserys was only protecting us! Father, I swear he was just-"

Daemon scooped his daughter up and began consoling her, "Aemond was a guest in the Velaryon home, he chose to use the family's moment of grief to steal a dragon,"

"I agree with father, while I understand that a dragon is not property, what Aemond did was in bad taste. I do not, however, condone my son's actions, taking Aemind's eye was wrong and he will be punished," Alicent eyed him with stark surprise, she was not anticipating his words.

"I demand an eye for an eye, Viserys blinded my son and the same should be done to him," She demanded, Criston Cole moved to unsheath his blade when Yorbert spoke up.

"I will decide my son's punishment, he will be sent to foster in Runestone until he is ten and three whereby he will return to Kings Landing to resume his duties as heir," He suggested.

"That is not punishment he should-"

"You are not suggesting that I blind our heir, your grace? Viserys is to inherit the Iron Throne after his mother, are you suggesting I take out the eye of the future King of the realm!?" Yorberts voice rose several octaves, "Please take Aemond so he can rest, it is not right to question him while he is in immense pain, that is simply cruel to the child, your grace,"

The King seemed to snap out of whatever stupor he was in, "Yes! Yes! let Aemond rest, tomorrow Viserys will apologize and be sent to Runestone as punishment. Now let us put this matter behind us once and for all,"

"Runestone?! if you think I'm going to allow you to send my son away from me-"

"Calm down! I understand your worry but try to think logically, he has to be dealt punishment and I chose one that benefits us. Runestone is not that far when riding a dragon. We can visit him whenever we want," Yorbert tried to soothe his seething wife,

"At this point, you are going to send me into early labor," Rhaenyra huffed, they're first two pregnancies had resulted in boys, the second they named Baelon, another calculated move on his part to pull the heartstrings of the King, and the princess nagged him for another one because she wanted a girl, judging by how swollen her stomach was even though she had two months to go, he suspected they were going to welcome twins.

Yorbert licked his lips, "We can accompany him ourselves, you can stay there for a moon to make sure he will settle in well,"

His wife raised an eyebrow, "You will stay behind?"

He nodded, "I need to foster relations with Jeyne Arryn to get the Vale on our side. She is in conflict with her bastard brother who wants her seat now is the perfect-"

"Always scheming! You took this moment and used it to further your ambitions you-" She cut herself off and took steadying breaths.

"Your father is wasting away Rhaenyra, sooner rather than later he will die. We should be prepared for it, you will stay in Kings Landing and continue your duties while I gather more allies," He coldly reminded her. They had already replaced many in the small council will her supporters, they also had the full support of the Crownlands, The North, and Riverrun. Lady Jeyne was experiencing conflict in the Vale, now would be the perfect time to swoop in foster relations under the guise of offering help with the civil war that broke out.

"I'm going to be spending the night with Harwin, I fear I might strangle you in your sleep if I stay here," Yorbert merely gave a curt nod at his wife's words, they rarely spent time in their separate rooms to present as a couple who were still smitten with each other.

"You will slip out when the guards go to rotate, no sooner,"

"Lady Jeyne, I must say rumors of your beauty do not do you justice, your beauty is enough to make a man forget himself," it had not been long since he arrived at the Vale before being summoned to a private audience with the Lady of the Vale, well almost private Yorbert thought as he eyed Jessamyn.

"I must say I'm curious why you brought your son here when he is supposed to be fostered in Runestone," Jeyne's hard eyes assessed him.

"My Lady, the Queen voiced her concerns about Viserys' punishment being too light, hence why we are here instead of Runestone, I thought sending him here would appease her," A bald-faced lie, as soon as Rhaenyra left Runestone he hauled Viserys and his little dragon, Telarion, and brought them to the Vale. 

The two lovers eyed each other, "Coming to the Vale instead of Runestone does not make his punishment any harder, so I will ask again. What brings you to the Vale?"

Yorbert straightened to his full height, dropping all pretense, "I have heard troubling news about your bastard brother, he is gathering power to overthrow you,"

"I fear that my wife will encounter the same problem once her father passes, the only difference being that her brother has a legitimate claim to the Iron Throne and many will support him. So I offer you my dragon and men from Runestone and in exchange, you will promise the full power of the Vale when the war for the Iron Throne begins," He finished.

Jessamyn spoke up when before Jeyne could, "We, like many entertained the idea of a civil war breaking out but you speak as if it is inevitable,"

"My wife and I have heard disturbing reports of Otto Hightower gathering allies in the shadows, proclaiming that Aegon is the true heir, so yes, it would seem that the civil war will indeed come to pass,"

The ruler of the Vale set back with a heavy sigh, "The bastard has gathered strong allies I'm afraid, he has united many of the mountain clans and paired with his strategic mind, he has been winning every battle we have fought and I honestly do not wish to throw the Vale of Arryn into chaos if I can avoid it,"

He grinned, "Oh my Lady, you now have an advantage your enemies cannot beat," Overhead Sȳndror let out a roar that shook the walls of the Eyrie.

"Sȳndror and I can scout at night, she is near invisible in the night," His mount's dark scales let her blend in with the shadows. 

"I will call the Lords who are present and we will discuss our options," 

Rhaenyra let out ragged breaths as she held her children close to her chest, Baelon tried to sneak a peak at his siblings but the King dismissed him,

"A shame Yorbert could not be here," Alicent commented as she came close and peaked at the twins, indeed Yorbert had not come back when he was supposed to, instead he sent her a letter informing her that he will be taking part in the civil war happening in the Vale. Rhaenyra wasn't concerned about him because while he was an atrocious swordsman he rode his dragon rather well and Sȳndror has grown at a baffling rate in the last few years. She was considering letting Syrax out of the dragon pit every once in a while to see if she will also grow larger.

What she was concerned about was how to break the news to her father, Yorbert was to be the King Consort so his every action was linked to the crown, the excuse he told her to give might be believable.

Her father came and gently took one of the children and began to gently rock them, "Did you and Yorbert decide on names before he left?"

They had not but, "We did father, the one you are holding will be named Aemma," Ignoring his father's emotional cooing at the newly named Aemma Rhaenyra continued, "And this one here is Lyonel,"

Alicent leveled her with a shocked and disgusted stare while her father's brow crumbled in confusion.

"Lyonel was a great hand! I wanted to name my children to honor his memory, he greatly shaped the way I want to rule father. His wisdom was unmatched," Alicent let out a quiet scoff and glided out of the room, while her father seemed to believe her lies.

"Well since you discussed it with your husband there should be no problem," She let out a breath of relief, Harwin was still greatly affected by his father's passing, and she hoped this would bring him joy.

"Father I have received word from Yorbert, when he arrived in Runestone he received a letter from someone claiming to be the late Lord Arryn's bastard son," Her father stood to attention at her words, "He asked for his help in disposing of lady Jeyne as the ruler of the Vale since my mother was an Arryn I didn't think twice about sending a letter instructing Yorbert to fly to the Eryie and offer his support to lady Jeyne," 

"Yorbert has gone to war? If he is hurt-"

"I trust him, father! He will not be hurt," She quickly injected, "He is a competent rider, atop his dragon very few things will be able to cause him harm,"

"What would you have me do then? send men to the Vale to protect it?" Her father was a man who valued peace and avoided conflict at all costs, Rhaenyra doubted he would risk war. 

"No, my husband said he would send for help if they get overwhelmed,"

"As you can see my lords, Lord Yorbert flew from Runestone to the Eryie as soon as he found out what has been happening," Lady Jeyne's eyes swept across the gathered lords, "I have gathered you all here to discuss possible strategies  now that he has offered his dragon to our cause," 

Yorbert eyed the old man gathered here, he knew many of them hoped to win Jeyne's hand in marriage. Poor fellas.

"What strategy is there to discuss? Just burn the fuckers!" A burly man shouted, "Start with Arnold that treacherous cunt," 

Arnold Arryn, Jeyne's cousin had tried to depose her multiple times, and joined forces with Eldric Stone. He also convinced the House Donniger and Borell to join the bastards' cause. 

"Please settle down lord Jaime, all those who stand against me will receive their just punishment but we must not rush it," Jeyne's eyed turned to him, "Lord Yorbert if you would please relay what you learned when you went scouting for the enemy,"

"Of course my lady, it would seem Eldric is unaware of my arrival since he has not commanded his army to retreat to the mountains. He has won many battles so far so his caution must be at an all-time low," He moved to point at the map, "His army is currently resting near the Redfort no doubt they plan to attack within the next few days, their supplies must be low, which I think they plan on raiding the Redfort"

"Such brazenness! to think to attack my home...why I should be there to defend it!" Lord Redfort nearly combusted with anger.

"I have my men slowly making their way to the Redfort-"

"Slowly? they should already have met the enemy in battle by now!" 

"Rest assured my lord no harm will come to your home, the reason I have them slowly make their way is that I plan to use my dragon to attack while their in open field, dragon fire does not discriminate you see, I can't have my man caught in the crossfire," Lord Redfort calmed down a bit at his words. 

"Dragons can cover a vast amount of distance in a relatively short amount of time, and with our men surrounding the enemy we will make quick work of them,"

Yorbert took a steadying breath as they flew through the clouds, he was making his way to the Redfort. A part of him dreaded what was to come but he needed to do this, he had never killed before and today he was going to try and incinerate an entire army. 

His mount let out a roar as they dove down, instantly the men below started to panic, whatever flimsy formation they had they broke when they spotted Sȳndror.

"Dracarys!" Screams of pain rang out as grey flames enveloped the army, those who were smart got on their horses and made to flee, This isn't as bad as I thought, Yorbert directed his dragon's flames to the gathered archers, his armor still had weak spots and he would be damned if a random arrow did him in. 

Sȳndror flew high, allowing him to survey the entire battlefield, it didn't matter where Eldric's men ran to, they were surrounded and with their men scattered it was easy to pick them. 

They would have to finish this battle here and now, if their enemy retreated to the mountains it will be hard to hunt them down. 

Chapter Text

Rhaenyra watches with bated breath as Yorbert rocks Lyonel, to anyone else he looks to be brimming with happiness, but she knew better. She has become used to him, she recognized the mask he put on when he didn't want to fight in public.

Alicent's face is smug as she opened her mouth, "Isn't Lyonel just precious? I must say it was kind of you to name him after the late hand, especially with such foul rumors abound..."

Her father glares at his father, "Alicent!"

Her husband merely laughs, "Lyonel was a great man who strived to better the Kingdom with every decision he made, his memory should be honored, as for the rumors? You yourself said they are foul, so we should not give them any weight"

"Precisely Yorbert, these are just baseless filthy rumors, I should remove the tounges of anyone who dared to utter them," the King gives Alicent a pointed look and the young woman paled several shades.

"If you don't mind your grace, my wife and I would prefer to be alone, that way no one can hurl insults at us in front of our children,"

Viserys stands at once, Alicent also stands and squares her shoulders, no doubt anticipating a verbal confrontation.

As Alicent and the King filed out Yorbert turned to their son, "You should go find Daeron, go to the dragon pit, and train your dragons some more," Baelon let out a shriek of joy and bolted out the door. She knew he missed his brother greatly, but thankfully Viserys would be present for the upcoming wedding between her brother and sister.

"I do not regret it, you had the honor of naming our first and second born," His jaw clenches at her words, and various emotions shift in his eyes, too fast for her to fully comprehend them.

"You know very well that I'm not angry you named them without consulting me, Lyonel? really Rhaenyra are you that stupid?" His voice is low and cold, Yorbert never shouts, and no matter the circumstances he never lets himself be lost to anger.

"I understand you love Harwin but did it occur to you what will happen if it ever comes to light that you are intimate with him? They will question the legitimacy of our children, starting with Lyonel," he hisses the last part out.

Her eyes lowered, she had not been thinking, she just wanted to soothe Harwin, and she did. He held Lyonel and openly wept, he cradled the child as if he was his own.

"I and Harwin are careful, we will not be caught." She grounds out, "If you had someone you loved you would understand.."

"But I don't! Because I don't want to jeopardize this family's safety! Who knows what you will be willing to do for him next time? If he asks you to run away will you do it? All because you are in love," Rhaenyra jerks back as if struck.

"That is not my fault! We made a promise to each other to pursue our interests and find the happiness that our marriage can't give us," He deflates at her words.

"I'm sorry, that is my anger speaking, I do not truly blame you or my children, to be truthful with you it is my cowardice that stops me from pursuing my own happiness, but you have to remember that our actions have consequences," She knew that. The court was buzzing with gossip when she named her child after Harwin's father, but in her mind, small gossip didn't amount to anything. Her father was still set on her as his heir and he showed no signs of wavering. 

"I will talk to Mysaria, and have her squash the rumors about you, maybe I will tell her to spread ones about Larys and the Queen," Mysaria, Daemons' former whore met Yorbert through his work for the common people, and has since become his master of whispers. She didn't understand why someone as careful as Yorbert would work with the former whore, it was clear he had no trust in her.

She worked on his 'public image' as Yorbert put it, continually inflating his contributions to the small folk in order to build up goodwill. As a result, Rhaenyra was still regarded as the realm's delight.

"...So I need rumors of Rhaenyra and Harwin squashed, I can't afford for my wife's virtue to be questioned." Mysaria, smirks from across him, her dark eyes mocking.

"But they are not rumors, are they? sometimes I wonder about you, what sort of man allows his wife to disrespect him in such a manner? Your father would never have allowed it," Yorebert wanted to laugh, not even his own master of whispers suspected his arrangement with Rhaenyra, she was as clueless as the rest of the realm.

"What can I say? The Targussy has me in the trenches," He crackled.

Mysaria eyed him strangely, "Targussy?" she mouthed to herself.

"Look the point is I want the rumors gone, replace them with something else that will hold the court's attention," He sighed, he was sure she wouldn't be caught if she spread rumors about the Queen, but she was still hesitant. '

"I have not received a letter from Drift mark for quite some time, I think your father may be on his way to Kings Landing," Yorbert blinked at the sudden change in topic, he knew Mysaria still spied for his father. It's why he was careful with the information he entrusted to her.

Speaking of his father, he didn't know whether he should fear him or not, Daemon did after all murder Laena's fiance in order to marry her, and he did the same to Laenor in order to marry Rhaenyra. He really hoped his pedo father would be content with having his blood on the Iron Throne.

"I must say Daemon seems to be invested in your marriage, it is almost creepy. But I suppose for you Targaryens' it is normal no?" She continued on.

"I'm assuming he knows about Rhaenyra and Harwin?" Yorbert did not doubt his father knew about the happenings of Kings Landing, he didn't know how he would take the news of Rhaenyra cheating on her 'devoted' husband.

"As I said, your father is very interested in your marriage," Mysaria intoned.

He had to give it to his father, using Aegon and Helaena's wedding as an excuse to slither into Kings Landing is genius, since the loss of his wife Daemon has been scarce. He barely attended his grandchildren's name days and when he did his longing gaze always lingered on his wife. He knew Rhaenyra still felt something for his father as well, it was clear as day. He just hoped that Harwin's love will stop her from doing anything foolish.

"Papa look I'm grown now!" His eyes wander down to his son, Viserys is clinging to his leg and uses his waist to measure his height against his. He lets out a laugh as the prince attempts to stand on his toes to enhance his height.

"Indeed you have grown. Sooner you will be as tall as your father!" He cajoles, and his son vehemently shakes his head.

"I want to be as tall as Grandfather Daemon," Viserys' purple eyes critically assessed him, "Your very short father, so I don't want to be as tall as you,"

Ouch! kids sure can be mean, "You wound your old man's heart!" He exclaimed, dramatically clutching his heart, Viserys let out fits of giggles, his younger brother Baelon was a pure mommy's boy and opted to scurry off to his mother as soon as he was finished getting ready for the wedding. He wondered where his father was, he assumed he would be present for the festivities leading up to the wedding, but it was now the day of the wedding and he was nowhere to be seen.

"Father, when will Baela and I get married?" Yorbert almost choked on his spit, his son's serious eyes looked at him expectantly.

He wasn't happy to see Aegon and Baela marrying so young, she was thirteen for heaven's sake! But he had to give it to the Hightowers, they knew how to milk a moment.

Parading Sunfire and Dreamfyre the day before the wedding, he must admit it was fun seeing how comically small Sunfyre was next to Dreamfyre. What the dragon lacked in size made up for it, in beauty. It was truly the most beautiful dragon he has ever seen. Deep down he also rejoiced that the greens didn't think to marry Aegon and Helaena to different houses to gather allies.

He blinked as Viserys roughly tugged his clothes, "Uh! Well, you and Baela won't have to marry for quite some time, son. So there is no need to concern yourself with that,"

"I like Baela. She is not like other girls, she likes to wrestle us and always manages to pin Daeron down! He won't ever admit it though," Viserys' face twisted with impatience, "When is the wedding starting? I have to peeeee!"

Aegon and Helaena's wedding felt like a momentous celebration, it was grander than anything he had ever seen.

A part of him applauded Alicent and Otto for the marriage, they were painting Aegon as a true King, with a sister-wife by his side, much like the conqueror.

The sane part of him wanted to throw up, these were children, twelve and thirteen. It had taken everything he had not to jump to his feet and stop the bedding ceremony.

Instead, he busied himself with keeping an eye on his children, Baelon at least kept to his mother, no doubt dreading having to communicate with faces he was not accustomed to.

It was Viserys he was worried about, ever since he returned from Runestone for the wedding he has been unruly, not in a bad way but ever since his dragon reached a mountable size he frequently tried to sneak off to the dragon pit.

Thankfully the dragon keepers were always there and kept the children out of trouble, in his peripheral he noticed Gerold Royce make his way toward him.

He really did not want to deal with him, especially today, Gerold kept badgering him to take revenge on his father for supposedly killing his mother, and let's say Daemon really did kill his mother what was he to do? He can't fight him hand to hand and win, nor could he take his father in the skies.

His father was a seasoned dragon rider and Caraxes was still larger than his own mount by a considerable margin.

"Cousin, it is good to see you once more," Gerold greeted with a terse smile.

Yorbert dipped his head, "It is good to see you as well,"

"I must admit I regret how our last meeting ended, so I have come to make amends," Gerold poured himself some wine, "The Royce family has ruled over Runestone for quite a number of years, to see our family name erased in one fell swoop is disheartening,"

"And as I already told you, Ser Gerold, there is not much I can do. It was my own mother who agreed for me to bear the Targaryen surname." Yorbert sighed as Gerold's eyes got misty, the older man's surname clearly meant a lot to him.

Yorbert had thought of naming Aemma heir to Runestone and having her married to Gerold's youngest son and have their children bear the Royce name however, that would mean that she would not be allowed to claim or hatch a dragon, and Rhaenyra would sooner kill him than allow their only daughter to be shipped off to an arranged marriage.

Not to mention he would be passing Baelon over in the line of succession, and he did not want to open that particular can of worms.

I planned Viserys' and Baelon's marriage before they were even born, yet here I am hesitating when it comes to my daughter, Yorbert thought to himself.

He turned back to Gerold, "I must leave for now, it seems like my son has snuck off once more,"

Otto Hightower watched as Yorbert went to his wife and whispered something in her ear, then boldly stole a kiss in front of the guests.

How could he have such devotion to his wife when she herself engaged in extramarital activities? The boy must only be half a man to tolerate such behavior.

Yorbert glided out of the room, he might as well have given birth to his children himself with how motherly he was with them. No doubt he was going to look for his eldest who had a habit of sneaking out with his youngest grandson.

His eyes surveyed the room, noting the tension between Harwin and Daemon, for the rogue prince, was openly staring at his niece with thinly veiled lust. Targaryen's and their queer customs, he ignored the part of him that called out his hypocrisy.

Marrying Aegon to his sister was a necessary step, his grandson needed to paint the picture of a King, much like Aegon the first, he was made to rule the seven kingdoms.

He was not blind to the black's machinations, by engaging their eldest son to Baela they all but secured the Velaryon's support, and now they were seeking the support of Dorne by proposing a marriage between Aliandra Martell and Rhaenyra's second son Baelon. Qoren was going to refuse of course, that much he knew.

He had not assumed Rhaenyra would be capable of such, the girl was sharp but nothing special. Her husband was clearly the brains behind their schemes.

Otto brought his mind back to the scene before him, he suspected that Daemon stood with his son and niece but there was no telling with him and the way he was eying his daughter-in-law...

Otto knows that Daemon is reckless, but would he be so reckless as to seduce his son's wife?

Rhaenyra gasped when Daemon caught her wrist, his dark purple eyes burnt into her own, she opted to look at the floor instead,

"Daemon you are drunk! If Yorbert saw us like this-"

"Yorbert knows you are being fucked by Harwin Break Bones and does not seem to be particularly bothered about it," He cut her off, and she felt her blood rush as he nibbled on her neck.

God's she really should not be doing this, how can her uncle have such power over her after all these years?

Her thighs parted as his hand moved further up, his touch was harsher than Yorbert's but still softer than Harwin's touch,

Harwin! Her eyes snapped open and she roughly pushed Daemon off her, "We should not be doing this, I'm married to your son and we are happy," She could not afford to betray Harwin this way.

"Come now Rhaenyra if you were so happy you would not have sought out another person's company while you are married to my son," he scoffed.

Rhaenyra held her tongue, it was Yorbert's decision on who he revealed his nature to, and knowing his caution she was probably the only one who knew.

"The state of my marriage should be of no concern to you uncle, but if you want clarity I suggest you talk to your son," Daemon sighed at her words.

The rogue Prince took a step away from her and fixed himself, "Very well, I will. I suggest you head back to the hall for the celebrations before people start talking,"

He sent her a wink and off he went, Rhaenyra hoped Yorbert would not take this wrong the way but he need not fear rejection from Daemon, the man would accept him wholeheartedly.

"Son, glad I caught you. We must talk," His eyes veered to Viserys and Daeron, "Off you two go, leave the adults to discuss adult matters."

Yorbert was tense he noted, he kept flexing his fingers, "Why so quiet? Are you not happy to see your father?"

"Forgive me, father, I must be tired from all the celebrations, how are you?" His son smiled.

The smile didn't reach his eyes, his guarded eyes. What was he hiding from him? He was certain he had his son figured out.

Best to just address the matter directly, "I just had a wonderful encounter with your wife, she suggested I come to you and ask about a certain matter that had been bothering me,"

Yorbert eyes, (so much like his own) narrowed, "Oh? ask about what exactly?"

Daemon smirked, "Ask about why you are letting your wife be fucked by the commander of the city watch?"

Yorbert gaped, purple eyes staring at him with thinly veiled surprise before they narrowed, Daemon could almost see his brain cooking up an excuse.

I will have none of that, only the truth, "Are the children yours?" The look he received was enough to send lesser man cowering, So they are not bastards, good to know.

"I assumed you and Rhaenyra are not happy in your marriage and have decided to seek what you lack from others, she found that from Harwin. Yet you...you have not sought out the company of anybody." Daemon eyed his son critically. He had not thought about what the facts put together would entail but now it was so clear...

"Come with me," He commanded.

Yorbert resisted the urge to fidget as he followed his father through a dark passage. The older man had insisted he comes with him, and he wasn't sure he could say no.

His father came to a stop at a very familiar location, "This is a whore house, what are we doing here?"

"Been here before I assume?" Daemon asked.

"I employed Lady Mysaria as my master of whispers. She had me meet her here a couple of times," His reply was defensive.

Moans of pleasure assaulted his ears as soon as he walked in, he didn't know what his father's plan was bringing him here, but he supposed he would soon find out.

He was brought to an empty room, and his father signaled for the Lady of the house to bring entertainment for the night.

He expected women to walk in, so his body immediately went rigid when men and boys walked in, naked as the day they were born.

His father came behind him, "Have never wondered what it would be like to experience pleasure? to lie with someone you can feel a connection to," His breath felt hot on his ear, and Yorbert's breeches tightened uncomfortably as his eyed the man in the room.

Well, he certainly doesn't seem to mind, Yorbert thought as his father paid no mind to his boner, instead he redirected his attention to the entertainment,

"The boys, dismiss them. I don't feel comfortable with them here," The small boys filed out at his words, and he turned to his father, "Are you sure they will not talk?"

"Positive, though I can't stay, so you will have to choose another person to pleasure you," Yorbert flushed, he thought his father wouldn't mention the boner he got when he whispered in his ear.

His eyes briefly scanned the room before resting on a redhead with blue eyes. The man was larger than him and taller, "I want him,"

Chapter Text

"My lord, princess Rhaenyra has called for the small council to be summoned," Ser Erryk jerked him awake, he had taken residence under a tree to rest.

"Surely she can manage without me?" Yorbert wiped the drool from his mouth, and a lazy smile settled on his lips as he remembered getting his brains screwed out.

"She insisted I personally escort you to the meeting," Ser Erryk shifted, "She commanded Ser Harwin to fetch Daemon so I assume it is something important,"

Immediately he got up, "Did she not tell you what the matter is?"

Erryk shook his head as they speedily made their way to the council chambers, Yorbert felt his worry mount. What would be the cause for such secrecy? it couldn't be the kids, he had just seen them, and they were perfectly fine. Baelon had joined his brother in the dragon pit earlier this morning, they should be at their Valyrian language classes, while the twins were still with their nanny.

"Rhaenyra, is there something wrong?" He burst into the room, all the eyes gathered there eyed him strangely. He quickly gathered himself and moved to the seat beside his wife. In recent years the King's health had declined considerably. Rhaenyra as his hand ruled the Kingdom in all but name.

He eyed the gathered men, he and Rhaenyra had managed to fill the court with people they trusted but that required having a valid reason for removing an existing member of the council. Much to his displeasure Larys always covered his tracks well, he could not find anything linking him to the death of Lyonel. He had the habit of cutting out the tounges of the people he took under him.

But they did manage to replace him with Mysaria, the former whore was extremely useful. Her contacts spread all over Kings Landing, allowing them to move information easily

"Niece, what is the meaning of this? I have things to do, places to be," His father was decked in his dragon riding attire, and Darksister was secured comfortably at his hip. Was he leaving? He thought Daemon might stay a little while longer.

"My father is dead," A deadly silence settled over the council, and Yorbert felt his own mind go blank over the news. Shit! shit! He forced himself to take deep and steadying breaths.

"Then you must be crowned," The words left his mouth before he could stop them, he had not anticipated the King passing on so early, Aegon was still thirteen. His eyes found his father's, "Aemond, he must not be allowed to reach Vhagar,"

Daemon didn't even wait for him to finish, he flew out of his seat and out the door in a flurry, "Lord Corlys can you handle the preparations for her crowning, it must be today preferably,"

Corlys nodded, "The dragon pit my lord, her Grace can be crowned there for all to see,"

"And where are you going?" Rhaenyra asked him as he got up. "You have to be by my side when I'm crowned,"

"I need to summon Rhaenys from Driftmark, we need Meleyes here. With her and Caraxes here it will deter anyone from trying to undermine your ascension, " He didn't even wait for an answer, instead he went to find his mount.

He could not give the message to Viserys, but the boy was five. His dragon was barely ridable, he would not take such a risk.

"Come on girl, we have to reach to reach Driftmark before sundown," He spoke as he mounted his dragon.

Rhaenyra resisted the urge to adjust the crown on her head, Corlys' voice boomed as he spoke.

"All hail her Grace Rhaenyra, first of her name Queen of the Andals, and the Rhoyner, and the first men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms and protector of the realm!"

The sudden cheers nearly deafened her, and men and women shouted her name. She could not explain the sudden swelling she felt she felt in her chest as she raised Blackfyre into the air.

Her eyes found Corlys' who gave a pleased smile and a shallow bow, as soon as the man righted himself the ground shook from underneath them. Ser Erryk barely pushed her out of the way as pale blue flames exploded from underground.

"Escort the Queen to safety!" Corlys shouted, Rhaenyra watched with horror as a large piece of rock slammed into the Lord of Tides, and his body crumbled limply into the ground.

That was the last sight she was as Ser Erryk and the Queensguard surrounded her and took her into one of the many secret tunnels leading out of the dragon pit.

"That was Dreamfyre, Helaena must have reached her somehow but how did news of my father's death reach her so quickly?" She asked no one in particular. It must have been one of the maids who was present when she found her father's dead body.

She was sure she reported to Larys Strong who in turn reported to her enemies, she started as a sparse roar rang out. Caraxes? Shouldn't Daemon be watching Aemond?

"Your Grace, Prince Daemon is in pursuit of Aegon and Helaena," Harwin pushed his way through the Queensguard and took his place beside her.

"Should he not be guarding Aemond?" She asked.

"Aemond is dead, he tried to fight your uncle and lost,"

Rhaenyra sucked in a harsh breath, her uncle was a kinslayer. All in her name and now he was pursuing her brother and sister.

"Ser Erryk are the children still safe?"

"Yes your Grace, we housed them under the tunnels in Red keep," That brought her some relief, but she still needed a plan.

"Bring me a quill and paper, I need to send a message to all the Lords of the Seven Kingdoms demanding their fealty, anyone who does not do so will be branded an enemy of the Crown,"

"The King is dead, I have left Lord Corlys in charge of the crowning ceremony, I have no doubt that by now my wife is the Queen of the Seven Kingdoms," Rhaenys blinked in surprise as Yorbert marched into the room. The younger men did not even spare a greeting before unloading such news upon her.

"And why have you come to Driftmark? Corlys is there to swear fealty on behalf of House Velaryon,"

"We wished for you to come to Kings Landing with Meleyes, my father is there as well. We hope that with you two present it will deter the greens from carrying out any attacks,"

"You want me to leave High Tide undefended? The greens have four riders among them, they can easily fly here and seize my husband's seat of power in my absence,"

"They have one dragon rider, we have seized Aegon, Aemond, and Helaena, and Daeron is still in Old Town. Not to mention the boy is only six years of age, his dragon is a tiny thing, he will outgrow it in a few years,"

Rhaenys set back as she weighed her options, if only Laenor was here. She would have had him stay in Driftmark while she flew to Kings Landing. As it was now she needed to ensure Baela and Rhaena's protection.

"Very well I will take the twins with me and leave Driftmark in Vaemond's care," She decided.

"I need you to bring a message to Rhaenyra, I will not be coming back for some time, I need to secure Dragonstone. There are unclaimed dragons there and if push comes to shove we can find Valyrian bastards and have them claim the dragons,"

Shock rippled through her, It would seem the King Consort was full of schemes.