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Chapter Text

Aemond and Ser Criston returned to the castle with no sign of Aegon, he was still missing and Aemond simply knew that his grandsire had not found him either. His mother was not at all happy when they came back empty handed.

She glared heavily at Ser Criston like it was his fault, then convincing herself that his grandsire, her father, had found him and was hiding him. She started pacing and Aemond sighed softly. “He never wanted to be king.” Helaena said from behind them. “And he never will be as far as he is concerned.”

Aemond turned to his sister, the girl was quiet after that as their mother stared at her. She was always quiet though.

“Yes, he does.” Alicent said, still trying to convince herself that they were all doomed if Aegon didn’t sit on the throne.

“Perhaps, speaking with Princess Rhaenrya… could do?” Helaena asked with a tilt of her head, there however was a strange spark of fire in her eyes, as if she planned on going to talk to their half-sister, Rhaenyra, whether or not Alicent said okay. Aemond wouldn’t even be surprised if Helaena already knew what their mother’s answer would be but asked it anyway.

“No.” Ser Criston stepped in and Aemond almost sneered, this man almost always jumped in like he was apart of their family. He wasn’t and never would be as long as Aemond was still on this earth. He hated the man.

Helaena paid him no mind, staring directly at Alicent. “No, if we surrender, there will only be bloodshed.” Their mother spoke quickly.

Helaena stared at her. “Have you thought about… maybe surrendering ourselves to Princess Rhaenrya… that all bloodshed could be avoided?”

“She would never allow any of you to live.” Alicent scoffed. “You all are threats to her throne.”

Helaena stared at Alicent blankly, Aemond saw the flash of angry in her sister’s eyes but the women turned around and left the room in one swift move. Alicent said no more, going over to the window and watching the skies.

–

Aemond stepped into his sister’s rooms and watched as she played with her children, the sweet beautiful children. “You know where Aegon is, don’t you?”

Helaena gave him a broken smile. “Of course I do, dear brother. He’s not in Kings’Landing… if that’s what you are wondering.”

Aemond stopped dead, how had they not thought about the dragonpit? Was Sunfyre gone? “Yes.” Helaena said in the middle of his thoughts. “He ran off as soon as he heard father’s death.” She said softly.

“Where is he then?” Aemond asked.

“You’ll figure it out eventually.” Helaena said, turning back to her children and proceeding to ignore Aemond’s very existence.

–

Alicent entered his chambers later that night and stared at him. “Why haven’t you gone and found your brother yet? You’re the only one with a dragon other than Helaena… and she won’t go. She doesn’t trust leaving her kids.” His mother said with a scoff, like she could fandom why Helaena might be that way.

Aemond scoffed. “Because… he doesn’t want to be king, mother. Why force him?”

“He doesn’t know what he wants.” His mother insisted.

“Yes, he does. He has every right to make choices of his own, dear mother.” Aemond said and then sighed, “I’ll go look for him…” He agreed and his mother brightened a bit. “But I will not force him back here.”

His mother did not look pleased with that answer whatsoever.

–

His grandsire, Otto Hightower, approached him right before Aemond was about to enter his chambers for the night. “Grandsire.”

“Aemond,” he said. “I suppose you are going to go look for your brother in the morning?”

“Of course, my mother has asked it of me.”

Otto slapped him. “You and your mother.” He cursed. “You will bring Aegon to me when you find him.” Aemond had all but run off before his grandsire could speak to him early.

Aemond flinched but nodded, ignoring the slight sting.

Otto nodded. “Good.” He said and started walking away.

Aemond, despite his entire soul telling him against it, would refuse to bring Aegon to him, ever. He likely wasn’t even going to bring Aegon himself back. He had already said he wouldn’t if Aegon refused to come back.

–

Aemond was about to leave to find Vhagar outside the city when Helaena approached him. “I would go with you… but I don’t trust our grandsire near my children…” She whispered, looking over at where her three children were planning in the grass with toys.

“It’s okay, sweet sister.” He said softly with a smile. She gave one of her true, real smiles not one of her far away smiles. Aemond kissed her on the cheek and then left her.

–

It had taken hours for Vhagar to finally find Sunfyre. Aemond didn’t like the fact that they were flying over Dragonstone right now, that meant that Aegon was here. Had he ran off to surrender his crown? He definitely had and Aemond couldn’t blame him considering how much he had been against it.

Aemond was also convinced that Aegon never would have been a good king. Aemond debated landing or not and ended up on the other side of Dragonstone, landing Vhagar.

It was not long before his half-sister, of all people, found him, course it wasn’t hard considering how big Vhagar was. “Prince Aemond.” She spoke softly, she was alone too. How strange.

Aemond said nothing at first, taking in her appearance. Dressed in the Targaryen colors, red and black, dark lilac eyes on him, her hair in the classic Targaryen braids, the round curve that was the growing third baby of her and Daemon’s. He had never taken the time to truly admire his sisters appearance and nearly had the urge to smirk. “Princess - or is it Queen now?”

Rhaenyra stared at him. “My brother surrendered… considering his dragon is here and in one piece.”

Rhaenyra didn’t respond at first, watching her half-brother closely. “Alicent wanted you to find him, didn’t she?”

“He doesn’t want the throne. What’s the point of forcing him to come back?”

“Perhaps, you do actually have a brain.” She said, lightly joking, “Yes, he surrendered… However, that does not count either Alicent or Otto.” She said and he began to speak before she put her hand up. Despite not wanting to, he listened to the silent command and closed his mouth. “Neither want me on the throne.”

“Grandsire… I understand.” he said slowly. “But why my mother… I’m sure - “

“She won’t… at least not immediately.” She said slowly. “Will you surrender though?”

“My brother - “

“And you have the largest dragon in the world.” Rhaenyra cut in.

Aemond nodded, that made a lot of sense. He was very much a threat with a dragon this big and experienced, probably a bigger threat then any of them. “If my brother sees you as his queen… then you’re my queen.” He answered, smirk playing on his lips now. “I’m quite surprised though… Why are you here alone? Surely uncle would’ve joined you.”

“He has training with the kids, he would never refuse them.” She answered lightly. “You wish to stay, I presume?”

Aemond stared at her and then blinked, she laughed. “Come… rooms are being made for you already.”

They walked back to the castle in absolute silence.

–

Aemond watched as Rhaenyra stepped into the Dragonstone castle. He had never been here before and decided that it was one of the most beautiful things in the world. The entire island was perfect… and surrounded by nothing but water. Not to mention, there were several unclaimed dragons that roamed the skies and mountains.

Aemond stopped briefly when Rhaenyra started speaking to one of the knights, from what he could tell… she was asking the guard to collect someone.

She stepped back up to him. “Your brother will find you shortly.” She said softly, leading him further down the hall. “A guard will remain with you at all times when you are outside your chambers…” She said and Aemond nodded, understandingly. It wasn’t a surprise that she didn’t completely trust him and he was okay with that. But he had no intention of ever harming her or any of her family.

Aemond decided that he really wanted nothing to do with his grandsire or mother any longer. Everything would be calmer here. “Your sister will be okay.” Rhaenyra said out of nowhere. “I have no intention of ever hurting her.”

Aemond smiled slightly. “Good… she's innocent in all of this. She always was.”

Rhaenyra nodded. “I know.” She turned on her heel and disappeared down the hallway. Aemond turned to find a guard watching him and he didn’t even bother to say anything, just entered the room.

–

Aegon II Targaryen didn’t know what to believe when one of the guards from the castle interrupted his drinking to inform him of his brother's arrival. He’s probably looking for me, Aegon scoffed inwardly, he wouldn’t allow his brother to drag him back to Kings’Landing though.

–

The guards led him to Aemond’s room and he knocked on the door, stepping in. Aemond was at the window in the room, watching Syrax, Caraxes, Arrax, and Vermax flying together in circles outside. His own dragon, Sunfyre was probably resting around this time. “Brother.”

Aemond looked over at him. “Brother.” He said with a light bow of his head. “So you planned on running off without a word?”

“We both know that if I was in any serious trouble… Helaena would’ve looked for you.” They knew of her dragon dreams, she always kept them to herself… or most of the time. Their mother never took interest in them, as much as she should though.

“How was Helaena… when you left her?” Aemond sighed softly, watching as Aegon asked that question. True concern was in his eyes, Aegon loved her and their kids in his own twisted way Aemond guessed, despite never giving them any attention outside of duty.

“She refused to let her children out of her sight.”

“The Queen and Prince Consort plan on taking Kings’Landing as soon as possible. I don’t think Rhaenyra will like Helaena now being left there alone.”

“She’ll be okay…” Aemond assured him and Aegon didn’t say anything further. Aemond was trying to convince himself that she could protect herself from grandsire, he knew their mother would never dare harm Helaena.

“You came looking for me, didn’t you?”

“I told mother I would look for you,” Aegon sneered. “However, I told her that I would not force you back to the Red Keep if you did not want to.” Aegon’s sneer turned into relief.

“I’m better off free.” Aegon said simply. “I was never fit to rule.”

Aemond couldn’t help but agree. “I’m surprised Uncle let you live.”

“He really didn’t want,” Aegon spoke sheepishly. “But Rhaenyra convinced him it was probably better if they wanted to try and form a truce with you and Helaena. Rhaenyra doesn’t believe that they can spare either mother or grandsire however.”

“Mother's - “

“Completely convinced that a woman should not ever be allowed to sit on the throne.” Aegon said carefully. “You should get to know our nephews, they’re actually quite nice.”

“Her bas - “

“Don’t.” Aegon said sharply and Aemond snapped his mouth shut. “They’re allowing us to live, do not go ruining that brother.”

Aemond sighed, he was right. He should not have almost called them ‘bastards.’ They were still family. However much he hated it. “I’m sure someone will come find you for dinner.” Aegon said before he left Aemond alone in his room, closing the door behind him.

–

Aemond looked back out the window once his brother was gone, watching the dragons. It was a beautiful sight. Dragons should never be chained up and forced into cells. The very thought of the dragonpit made him disgusted.

Dragons thrived better out in the open.

Aemond watched as Syrax and Caraxes curled up with each other, Arrax beside her. Dragons were quite the creatures and he loved them.

He still remembers the moment he had grown his bond with Vhagar, he had been so convinced for a long time that it would never happen. That he would never get a dragon. In truth, he didn’t even mean to claim Vhagar when he did but hadn’t even thought about the consequences. It was only when he got back that he truly remembered that Vhagar had belonged to Laena Veleryon and her children were ruthless - probably the Daemon in them too.

He didn’t exactly blame Lucerys for the loss of his eye. The kid was only seven, and Aemond had been threatening his brother’s life. That never did stop him from hating the kid though. He had a strong grudge against them - due to the fact they were bastards as well.

–

Aemond had lost track of the time, leaning on the window and dozing when he heard a knock. At this time, the sun was disappearing behind the ocean and he turned to look over at whom had disturbed him.

“Prince Aemond,” The guard spoke. “You are to dine with the Queen and her family.”

Aemond said nothing but nodded his head, standing up, figuring that the guard was probably going to have to escort him.

He was right, the guard led him down the long hallways. He wasn’t paying attention to much of anything other then the many dragons that was on the walls and everything was beautiful.

He was upset that he had never been allowed on Dragonstone before this, their ancestral seat was perfect in his eyes. It actually had Targaryen and Old Valyria written and carved all over it.

Mother had completely ruined the Kings'Landing castle with the Seven. He hated it, he out of all his siblings had taken the most interest in everything dragons and Targaryen.

He entered the dinning hall and everyone from Rhaenyra’s family was there - excluding Rhaenys… which, he wondered if ‘The Queen who Never Was’ was still stuck in the tower where his mother had locked her into her own room. He inwardly sneered at that lack of respect. Rhaenys didn’t deserve that. He also inwardly sneered at himself for forgetting that piece of information.

“Prince Aemond.” Daemon said with a mockingly smirk and then beckoned him towards one of the seats at the table, besides him. Aemond was tense as he sat down. Lucerys and Jacaerys were glaring at him, as were Daemon’s girls. Joffrey, Aegon III, and Viserys II seemed to be the only ones that didn’t hate him and that made sense. His brother was no where to be found from the looks of it.

“I’m sure he’s off whoring himself somewhere.” His uncle and the Prince Consort answered his unasked question.

Rhaenyra glared at the Prince and Aemond smirked with a look of delight when Daemon just rolled his eyes.

Despite the undying hatred between half the people at the table and Aemond, they managed to get through the feast with paece. Aemond had kept his mouth shut, not trusting himself not to make a Strong comment. Aemond figured that his half-sister and uncle had spoken to them before this.

Daemon would probably kill him like he did Vaemond, even his brother didn’t seem to like it when they called the children bastards, despite what they were.

A couple maids came in soon and took Aegon the younger and Viserys away for bed. Lucerys and Jacaerys quickly disappearing after, as if they had gotten tired of simply sitting there and glaring at Aemond. Baela and Rhaena had requested their father, his uncle, to take them to bed. He inwardly scoffed at their childish antics.

Rhaenyra leaned forward a bit and they sat in silence. “How are you enjoying yourself so far?” She finally asked.

“Your children hate him.” Aemond said plainly, finally moving his plate away from himself. He truly hadn’t ate much and he could see the concern written all over his dear sisters face, he didn’t say anything about it.

“They’ll warm up…” She said softly. “As long as you do not threat or use any vile insults on them.” She added with a sneer and he just ducked his head.

“Yes, my queen.” He said, politely.

This seemed to settle whatever nerves that his dear sister must have been dealing with. She stood up and stared at him. “You should get some sleep… I’m sure you were riding Vhagar for quite a long time before you finally found Sunfyre and Aegon here.”

Aemond nodded his agreement before standing up and they met eyes briefly. Rhaenyra actually smiled at him and he couldn’t help the half smile he gave her.

Aemond was convinced that Alicent had been hating a person that wasn’t truly Rhaenyra at all. He could see it in the Queen’s eyes, she had no intention of hurting him - or his siblings. “Thank you sister.”

“Of course,” Rhaenyra said softly, stepping closer to him and taking his hand briefly, to squeeze. “I never hated you.” She whispered softly and then left the room before he could even think about responding.

Chapter Text

Aemond wasn’t exactly sure what his life had come to at this point. The few days he had been here were peaceful, something he never truly had in Kings’Landing. Either his mother or grandsire were always demanding him of things.

He wasn’t surprised that no one had spoken to him outside of family dinners and such. Lucerys’ avoided him endlessly and understandably, anytime he saw the boy after the Driftmark incident that left him with one less eye, he had threatened the boy almost every time. Jacaerys was always at the boy’s side and he never saw Daemon’s girls, they knew how to hide themselves. 

However, he took an interest in Daemon and Rhaenyra’s shared kids. 

Aegon iii seemed to adore him and Aemond wasn’t sure how he felt about one of Rhaenyra’s doing that. He knew that the boy had successfully already claimed a young dragon, the egg having cracked in the crib, Aemond wondered what the young dragon looked like.

It only now came to Aemond’s realization just how many dragons this family held and it could have been an entire disaster had he and them went to fight. Aemond wasn’t even convinced he would have won, not with that many dragons on their side and his family only having three. Not to mention the experience Blood Wyrm had with war, as did Vhagar have. 

He stepped outside, ignoring the guard that was right behind him, he could probably disarm him and run off but he wasn’t willing to let anything happen that would stop either the soon to be crowned Queen or King Consort from trusting him.

He hadn’t gone to see Vhagar in a few days and decided that it was time to do that. He had asked Rhaenyra for permission and had been surprised when she said he was free to go, but to avoid going to Kings’Landing at all costs.

When she had said that, he could simply see it in her eyes, it wasn’t because she was afraid of him going back and telling Alicent and Otto everything but afraid he could get hurt or killed for the betrayal, there was genuine concern in them. His mother and grandsire had never truly shown any of that concern. Even if he died, Vhagar would likely burn the city to crisp. Which, he didn’t think any of them were opposed to. He knew Daemon would love to see it in flames.

As much as he didn’t want his mother dead, he would have no choice to accept whatever his sister or uncle decided upon. His mother, had told him very little of her childhood but he knew Rhaenyra had been his mother’s best friend, for years before she went and married Viserys, their father. 

Aemond scoffed, he could tell why they fell apart now. 

Otto, on the other hand, had been scheming against them for years. Aemond knew that, as did his siblings but no one pointed it out because it was for the good… since they were all thoroughly convinced Rhaenyra would kill them the second she got her hands on them. Helaena probably knew she wouldn’t but none of them would’ve believed her.

Otto was still his grandsire and he would not like to see him perish… but he had little choice. Daemon would most certainly see it happen. From what Aemond knew, his grandsire and uncle had always despised each other. Otto did everything in his power to make Viserys push Daemon away. Rhaenyra having suffered years of pain because of it.

Daemon had always been one of the biggest threats to Otto.

It was sometime later, he was lost in thought, that he finally approached where Vhagar was laying out a big clearing of grass. “Vhagar.”

The dragon responded, lifting her head and there was a rumble of happiness that escape her throat. “Hello.” He whispered softly. “How about a ride?”

The old dragon chirped a bit and then Aemond left the guard and claimed up on Vhagar, that guard was lucky he wouldn’t kill him. 

–

When he landed back on the ground where Vhagar was before, he sighed. Being back in the sky was perfect, it was calming and he had needed it.

He didn’t expect to see Meleys and Rhaenys finally flying in, he had wondered if his cousin had managed the escape. 

– 

“From what I heard… they wanted to have the coronation in the Dragonpit, forcing everyone to watch him be crowned.” Rhaenys asked, staring at Rhaenyra and Daemon as they stood on the other side of Aegon’s Table.

Rhaenyra didn’t say anything at first. “They hadn’t told Kings’Landing that the Prince was missing.”

Daemon rolled his eyes. “Still convinced they would find him in time, I’m sure,” He scoffed.

Rhaenyra looked down at the table. “Truly, how big of a threat are they now that Prince Aegon hasn’t taken the crown?” They would know soon he had surrendered it as well.

“Very little, as long as Aegon isn’t seen wearing the crown and such, not many of the lords will follow. They almost always have to be certain they’ll actually get something out of it.” Daemon answered, looking down at the pieces of the board. 

Rhaenyra had forgotten about his boys, Jacaerys and Lucerys, hiding in the corner of the room. Baela was there too now, she must’ve appeared to see his grandmother. “We need to get ravens ready...”

Rhaenys took the silence and went over to greet Baela while Jace stepped up to her. “Perhaps… you can send us instead of ravens to speak with the Lord Baratheon, Lady Arryn, and Lord Stark? We’ve got to make sure we know what side they’re on.” 

Rhaenyra snapped her head over to her sons and looked at them like they were absolutely crazy. “No…”

“Mother, dragons are far faster than ravens.” Rhaenyra looked over at Daemon.

“Perhaps, it’s a good idea. We need to figure out what side they are on before it’s too late. Each of those houses contain a fairly strong army as long as all the houses in their kingdom are behind them. I’m sure Arryn and Winterfall can be trusted not to brutally hurt a messenger… and assuming that Otto didn’t already get his people at Strom’s End.. they’ll be okay.” Daemon cut in. 

Aemond walked in at that second and stared at them all. “Prince Aemond!” Rhaenyra said. 

Aemond’s eyes sparkled a bit but no one said anything for long moments. Rhaenys stared at Aemond like she didn’t trust him, he wouldn’t trust him either if she was in her position. “My queen…” He said softly. “I can go to Storm’s End if you do not trust letting one of your own sons go.” He said, avoiding the look of anyone that wasn’t Daemon or Rhaenyra.

Rhaenyra stared at him for long moments before she approached him. They stared at each other in complete silence, no one said anything. Aemond could see that Daemon was glaring at him, obviously not trusting him. “What of your mother and grandsire?” She asked.

“Vhagar will burn them to crisp before she allows them to take me back to Kings’Landing.”

Rhaenyra seemed to heavily enjoy that response and then smirked. “Good,” She whispered softly and then turned to look at her two boys. “Luke will go to the Vale and Jace to the north.” They all seemed to be in agreement. 

–

Rhaenyra stared out at her brother, whom was beside his dragon out in the field. She approached him, holding the sealed letter tight in her hand, taking a deep breath.

She was worried that something would go wrong and Alicent or Otto would get there hands on him. She certainly didn’t need that. “Prince Aemond.”

“My Queen.” He said, smirk playing on his lips as he said it.

She said nothing about it and approached him. “I do hope you don’t have to kill anyone.”

Aemond’s smirk only grew. “I won’t have to kill them as long as they bow to my queen.”

Rhaenyra smirked herself. “Such a loyal ally…” She whispered softly, she said moving her hand to give him the sealed letter. She brushed her fingers tips against his skin and he shivered in delight to it. 

He took the letter. “I will return as soon as possible.” He whispered softly to him, their eyes met and for the first time in his life, she looked at him with a hint of trust in her dark purple eyes.

She trusted him to come back and he had every intention of coming back. 

–

Her sweet boy stood in the room, staring out at the ocean. It was only them and she approached Lucerys. “Luke.”

He had been in deep thought and turned to looked over at his mother. “Mother.” He said softly and she smiled slightly. 

“What is on your mind?” She asked.

“I’ll never be ready to take Driftmark…” Lucerys mumbled softly and Rhaenyra’s eyes softened immediately. 

“Yes, you will.” Rhaenyra said softly. “I never felt like I was going to be ready to be Queen… but we must to do what we must do.” She said softly, stepping forward and gently cupping her son’s face. “I have every intention on helping you get ready for this as my father did before me did and as your grandsire's did for Corlys.” She lied about one part - her father had done nothing but leave her to rot in a circle of snakes but she would help Lucerys - with the help of Rhaenys and hopefully Corlys - assuming the man recovered. 

“I don’t…” He trailed off. “I’ll never be as… perfect as you.” He whispered and Rhaenyra leaned forward, kissing his forehead.

“I was never perfect and I never will be, sweet boy.” She said softly. “Rhaena and yourself will do great taking care of Driftmark.”

Lucerys managed a smile and Rhaenyra pulled him into a hug.

–

Rhaenyra found Jace standing out in the water of the ocean, it was fairly calm at the moment and it reminded him of what Laenor would do all the time when he just wanted to thing.

Jacaerys tended to always showed traits that reminded her of Laenor, it was only more proof that blood or not, Laenor was their father.

She missed Laenor.

“Jace.” She spoke softly.

Her heir turned to her and managed a smile. 

“Are you ready?” She knew he wouldn't back out but she had to be sure he was okay.

“As ready as I can be…” He answered, she knew that despite being the one to come up with the plan, he didn’t feel fully comfortable separating from his family. 

None of them were. 

“Everything will be okay…” She whispered, trying to convince them both. She was really worried about what would happen at Storm’s End more then anything. 

Jace stared at her with dark blue eyes, she could see the lilac mixing into them slightly. He approached her, stepping out of the water and took her hand.

It was moments like this that she loved very much.

When her children didn’t speak to her formally or treat her that way.

“We will all be fine…” Jace mumbled softly, squeezing his mother’s hand softly. “I will be back as soon as I can.” He said, reassuring her.

She smiled, she already knew he would. Nothing could keep him away from family for long. 

–

“Now… Helaena.” Rhaenyra whispered softly looking out to the ocean, where Aemond, Lucerys, and Jacaerys were flying towards inland. Daemon stepped up besides her. 

“I plan to try and see if one of my spies can give her a letter… do you want to write it?” Daemon asked, his hand grabbing her own gently. She smiled and he moved to stand behind her, she leaned back and closed her eyes relaxing in his hold.

She didn’t exactly know what to think about Aemond. He was different then any of the Hightower children. “Yes, I’ll write it in the morning.”

Daemon kissed the top of her head softly, his hands moving to rest along her stomach and she smiled, placing her own hand over his. 

Daemon was not one to be ‘soft’ but he always made an exception for his family. She enjoyed every minute of it. “Aemond will return…” He whispered softly in her ear, she was worried about him the most. Lucerys would never be harmed by the Arryn’s due to the connection with her mother and the Starks always held true to their words. That much had been true, no Stark would go out of their way to disrespect the ongoing determination to hold true to their oaths. 

Aemond, however, was going to Storm’s End and the Lord Baratheon was complicated. He loved to switch up when it suited them, she just hoped Otto hadn’t got to them first. 

She hoped that Aemond and Vhagar returned in one piece, badly.

–

Alicent stepped into the room looking over at where Helaena was crocheting, Jaehaerys and Jaehaera were on the ground playing with Maelor. 

“Helaena.” She said sitting beside her, she was looking at her with desperation. 

“Mother.” Helaena said, moving away slightly. She hated Alicent’s touch and Alicent didn’t understand why, where had she gone wrong? 

“Do you know where your siblings are?” she asked softly. 

“They are safe.” Helaena answered calmly, looking over at her children. “I plan to keep my own safe as well.” 

“You’re not safe as long as Aegon isn’t king…” Alicent tried.

Helaena actually scoffed at her. “Grandsire and yourself pose a bigger threat to me and my children than Rhaenyra will ever be.” 

Alicent looked completely and utterly offended by this. “Helaena, dear, who - “

“Rhaenyra doesn’t want to hurt us.” Helaena said softly. “You and grandsire are the ones provoking us to fight! Just surrender.” She said softly, reasonably.

Alicent sneered and stood up. “A woman does not belong on the throne.” She said, suddenly. “Aegon doesn’t understand what he wants, which is why we must find him. Helaena, please, tell me.” 

“No.” She said and Alicent growled and then went to leave. “Aemond won’t be coming back… at least not on your side.”

Alicent stormed away completely missing Helaena saying ‘your’ and not ‘our’ side. 

–

Alicent almost stormed into her father’s chambers but then decided against it, they still weren’t talking. Both mad at the other and demanding to see Aegon before the other. She didn’t trust what he would possibly say to her boy. 

It had been several days and he was still missing.

Helaena said that Aemond wouldn’t come back and it made Alicent even more uneasy, had something happened? Were they at Dragonstone right now? Had Aegon surrendered his crown? She had said they were safe - but were they?

She shook her head, it wasn’t possible - she sighed -  it was completely possible. She had tried so hard to convince her children that Rhaenyra would kill rgem the second she got the chance but if Helaena didn’t believe her on that part, it was likely the others didn’t as well.

To the seven, she had failed her father. Rhaenyra would surely want her dead when this was all over. 

–

Aemond landed outside the walls of Storm's End. It was dark but it was not raining at the moment, he climbed off of Vhagar and the knights of Borros Baratheon were standing outside the gates. One thing he hated about have the biggest dragon in the world was having to go further to go places. He decided he didn’t care for names. “Prince Aemond.” the one in front said.

“I need to speak to Lord Borros.” He answered. The knight bowed his head a bit and then turned around and lead them back to the Storm’s End castle. He knew the guard was shaking in fear and desperate to get away from the big dragon, he was a fool for thinking he could hide from Vhagar. 

The maester took Rhaenyra’s letter out of Borros hand and began reading it. “What could the princess possibly offer us?” He scoffed.

“They are your blood.” Aemond spoke confidently, he knew their family ancestor as much as his mother hated it. “Wouldn’t want to help the people attempting to usurp your true blood and the true heir just because you can’t accept a queen?” 

Borros didn’t say anything, like he’d been shocked into silence and Aemond didn’t so much as move.

“Why are you suddenly on your half-sister’s side? Are you deceiving her?” 

Aemond's eye narrowed dangerously and he had a heavy urge to kill this man right here, right now, but they were surrendered by his knights. Rhaenyra was trying very hard to avoid more bloodshed then needed. “I would never do that to my queen. Whatever would make you have that idea? Unless, that’s what you want to attempt. That’s treason, my lord, with the punishment of death.” He spat.

“You fell right into her precious annoying hands.” Borros said quietly and Aemond’s eye twitched.

“You should respect the Queen, considering it is her family that gave your ancestor’s this seat. She could very easily take it away. Perhaps you should come speak to her yourself about betrothing's between your children’s children and her future grandchildren.” Borros finally looked like he was slightly convinced before he turned his gaze on Aemond. 

“What about you, mt Prince?” He said with a raised eyebrow and slight mock. “You’re not betrothed…”

“That is not for me to decide.” Aemond said. Rhaenyra was in charge of their family now. “Like I said, speak with Queen Rhaenyra.” 

“Fine. My loyalty and support goes to the soon to be crowned Queen Rhaenyra.” Aemond glared at him when he nearly said it out of mockery but stopped himself. Lord Borros sneered a bit.

“Good,” He spoke. “I must be getting back now, my lord.” 

“Surely, you’ll stay the night.” The Lord of Storm’s End got up out of his chair, standing to walk towards him.

“No, I couldn’t do that. I really must be getting back,” Aemond didn’t like where this was going now. Borros was acting weird now - at least more weird then before.

“Does the Queen not trust you to come back? Surely you can stay the night, Prince.” 

The longer he stayed here, the longer he was at risk of being found. “No, she does, Lord Borros.” Aemond drawled. “I’ll still be leaving now.” The Maester hadn’t handed him the signed document yet and Aemond froze.

Borros motioned his guards to surround Aemond and he sneered. “This is how you treat your Prince?” 

Borros didn’t seem to be listening to him as he was speaking to the Maester. Aemond looked at the 6 guards that surrounded him and then lashed out, cutting the throats of three of them and running. Oh, Borros was going to lose his head and he'd watch in joy.

He was not one to run but he was outnumbered here in the middle of the castle. 

–

He finally got out the gates and was caught stuck fighting two guards. He stabbed one right through the chest, the guard’s sword cutting at his leg, he nearly fell but lashed back to the other one. The guard sliced open a deep wound into his arm and he growled, grabbing the sharp blade of the guards sword in his hand, feeling as the blood surrounded his hand. 

He used the moment of shock to stab the knight through the neck, he fell down and died choking on his own blood. Aemond kicked him in the gut for a bit more pleasure. He managed to get over to Vhagar and climbed on.

Aemond growled, seeing more knights, they looked intent on going after Vhagar as well. “ Dracarys, ” He hissed in High Valyrian and Vhagar responded easily. 

He smiled at the screams and not even a few seconds later the namesake of this place started, it was pouring and Vhagar jumped up into the sky before anyone of Lord Borros’ people could come attempt to hurt them again.

He placed his blade away and covered his unwounded hand over his sliced arm wound. “ Vhagar… hurry. ” He leaned forward a bit, he was losing blood.

—

Rhaenyra was surprised when she realized that her half-brother was home much faster then she had thought he would be. The sun was starting to show over the ocean water when she heard Vhagar’s roars, she was watching the waves as the crashed against the sea. Daemon was up already busy with their kids. Of course, with this gave her a sting of concern. Vhagar never made so much noise.

That’s what led her to going out on Syrax. Vhagar accepted the presence of the other dragon easily, for which she was glad. Aemond stumbled a bit. “Sister…” He whispered.

Blood. Rhaenyra saw, smelled it, felt it when he all but landed in her arms. Vhagar cried out and Rhaenyra knew, had the dragon not been so big she would’ve brought him to the castle herself. “I will get him looked at, I promise.” She spoke in High Valyrian, staring at the oldest dragon alive. 

Rhaenyra dragged Aemond back over to Syrax, the very much smaller dragon could carry them both.

–

Rhaenyra landed while calling out to the guards to find the Maester. Aegon was stumbling back into the keep from his long night of drinking and whoring she figured, “What the fuck happened to him?” He said, despite being drunk, concern was written all over his face at the passed out Targaryen in her arms. 

“I don’t know.” Rhaenyra snapped and was glad when Aegon managed to push through at least some of his drunkenness and helped her get the unconscious Aemond inside. 

—

Aegon’s room was the closest to the door, Rhaenyra had decided to be nice to her children and not risk him heavily disturbing them in the morning so she just gave him the one closest to the door out to the small city.

Rhaenyra paced around the hallway while Aegon was drinking, as usually. He finally sighed and stepped up to her, taking her hands in his own, she had been anxiously playing with her rings, something he had noticed that she had done since he was young.

He, despite being half drunk, looked at her. Aegon’s lilac eyes meet Rhaenyra’s dark purple. “He will be okay. He has a very high tendency to get through things like this.”

Rhaenyra managed just to back away a bit from the clear call out of the Driftmark incident. “Sister, stop.” He whispered reassuringly and then squeezed her hands gently. “I am serious.” She cracked a smile and so did he.

They wanted quietly together for the Maester to be done with Prince Aemond.

Chapter Text

The Maester had come out and told them that Prince Aemond would be alright, he just need sleep and he would recover well. He had lost a lot of blood but gotten back to them in time to live. The scars would be permanent but they managed just to damage anything. Rhaenyra felt way more relieved then she should've been.

Aegon smiled sheepishly at her. “I told you so.” He said, taking yet another sip of wine down his throat.

“Maybe, you should back off of the wine.” She said softly.

Rhaenyra had every intention of taking Kings’Landing today and now felt like she shouldn’t, due to Aemond’s condition. This was something he wouldn’t want to miss.

She decided that it might be better if she just waits for the return of her sons, despite being sure that neither house would proclaim war on her, really at least point there was no other side to fight with. They'd be alone. She was still a worrying mother though.

“Never sister.” He said and then sighed. “He took my room.” He said with a groan.

She laughed, “His is at the end of the hall - take it for now. You’ll be moved back down here, trust me.”

“You really love making sure your sweet children get the sleep they need.” Aegon drawled.

“Yes, because they don't get to laze around drinking all the time, they actually have places to be early in the marrows.” She said.

Aegon smirked. “Never really tried with those.”

“You’re one of those people that only pays enough attention so that you could ride Sunfyre.”

He smirked. “You got that right sister!” He called before disappearing down the hall to find Aemond’s room so he could sleep and then wake up with a hangover. Rhaenyra entered Aegon’s room and walked over to where Aemond was still out. His leg, arm, and hand were all patched up. 

The Maester left for the time being, leaving only the guard outside the door as Rhaenyra asked for the room cleared. 

She stared at her brother and sighed softly, she hadn’t wanted him to get hurt. Anxiously messed with her rings.

She should've never sent someone to Storm’s End, she knew it was dangerous. While, Borros' father was related to Rhaenya... Borros, himself, could never be trusted. Aemond, with the biggest dragon in the world, had gotten attacked. She doesn’t even want to know what would have happened if she had willingly sent Lucerys.

If he was attacked, it probably meant that Alicent and Otto were looking for him desperately, though Rhaenyra doubted they wanted him hurt. She wouldn’t be surprised if Otto would want him unharmed just so he could be the one to harm him and then threat him with finding Aegon and bring him back once again.

Why did the Hightowers act like her house didn't have dragons?

She sneered, that wasn’t happening. Otto would never get that close to any of his grandchildren as soon as she had all of them protected. 

She walked over to the window of Aegon’s room. Unlike Aemond’s, his brother’s room looked out to the small city. She sighed softly. Daemon entered the room sometime later. 

“I got word he would be alright… so I stayed training with Baela.” He said softly, as if Rhaenyra needed a reason for him not being here. Baela had expressed an interest in combat and Daemon had been extremely pleased and ready to help her. With Lucerys and Jacaerys gone, she was sure he was bored. 

She gave a small smile. “It’s alright. Did she do well?”

“Yes, she’s learning very quickly though I think that Princess Rhaenys will want to take her back to Driftmark soon… with Corlys still recovering, she wants to continued warding her.”

“Perhaps, Luke can go with them for a few days.” Rhaenyra said softly, she had been thinking about that for sometime, Rhaenys would be a good help, Luke needed it, and Driftmark wasn’t far. 

Daemon smiled. “I think that is a perfect idea, little dragon. ” 

Rhaenyra looked over at Aemond and sighed softly. “I won’t send him out there like that again.” Daemon only nodded at her. “We just have to hope Alicent doesn’t learn about this and make it out like I sent her son there to get hurt.”

“You know that Lord Borros has probably already told whoever came up with the idea in the first place? They likely thought you’d send one of your own sons there and they could use him to get Aemond and Aegon back.” Daemon said softly.

Rhaenyra only nodded, “You’re right. We have to prepare for how they’ll respond. I’m sure Otto has some in Oldtown backing him.”

Daemon only nodded. “I’ll go send letters for the Tyrells.” He spoke softly and she only nodded. Their kingdom was one of the biggest and they weren't exactly known on going against there oaths, Rhaenyra wanted to be sure that they wouldn’t also back Otto’s useless rebellion. Daemon left her sitting by Aemond’s bedside.

–

Rhaenyra ignored the room and Daemon looked up at her, he was leaned over Aegon’s Painted table thinking to himself. He was alone as well. She heard the door close behind her and she walked over to the table. 

“I’m thinking we should send someone to talk to the Greyjoys - “

“Daemon… I’m not sending - “

“I will go if you don’t want to send anyone else.”

Rhaenyra thought about the Greyjoys - walking over to where the Iron Islands laid on the wooden table, running her hands over it. “They’ll likely ask for independence… the most we can give them is the way Dorne has it.” 

Daemon sighed and then nodded. “Then we’ll give them that.” 

“None of the northern houses would last long on independence…” She spoke softly. “I’m not sure, truly, how well they’d do with independence.”

Daemon only nodded, not asking how she knew that. “Of course, my queen.” He spoke and then rounded the corner, placing his hand carefully on her baby bump - only a few more moons and the new baby would arrive. He brought Rhaenyra into a passionate kiss which she gladly returned.

–

Aemond woke, remembering pain. blood. Rhaenyra. And then darkness. He groaned - stiff from likely laying a while. “Aemond…” His sisters voice spoke softly, near him. He opened his eyes - it was fairly dark in the room - night. With only candles. 

“Nrya…” He whispered, rolling a bit, he knew the wounds had been dealt with but it was sore. 

Her eyes sparkled with relief and maybe some tears - of course he couldn’t understand why those would possibly be there. “Shh..” She whispered softly, taking his unwounded hand in her own, rubbing circles with her thumb, and he managed a half smile. “You really must get better. Vhagar has been quite distressed.” 

Aemond sighed. “I didn’t think they’d actually hurt me - “

“I knew they’d likely do something. Lord Borros isn't known for being smart - didn't think they'd go this far though...”

Aemond sighed and looked up at her, tightening the hold on her hand. “Rhaenyra… I knew they would do something - weather you sent one of your own or myself… my mother and grandsire would do anything to get us back at this point. They’re desperate.”

Rhaenyra only sighed. “It means we will have to kill Lord Borros when we take back Kings’Landing.” 

Aemond smirked. “Of course, I’m sure uncle will enjoy himself quite a bit.”

She laughed. “I know he will. Him and Caraxes are determined to burn anyone who dares stands against me.”

“I thought your entire family was that way.” He grinned. “I would.. My queen.” 

Rhaenyra’s eyes sparkled. “I’m sure you would, brother.” Aemond didn’t miss the slight flush.

“We are to take Kings’Landing when you decide you are all better. I was certain you would not want to miss it.”

“I want to kill the Cole dude.”

“Ser Criston?” She asked and he nodded. “Then you’ll have to beat me to it.”

Aemond perked up a bit. “What did he do to you?”

Rhaenyra smirked at him. “They never told you? He was my sworn shield before he got angry over me rejecting him. Killed Laenor's sworn sheild at our feast... and tried to kill himself… cause he broke his oath by sleeping with me, I’ve heard. Alicent saved him and pardoned him from it all.” She said rolling her eyes. It still annoyed her over how petty he was. Over something that never really existed.

Aemond scoffed, “I wouldn’t be surprised if he was in my mother’s bed.” 

“I thought Larys Strong was…” Rhaenyra said, thinking to herself, smirking.

“For all I know… she probably does both of them.” Aemond said with a disgusted look. 

Rhaenyra laughed. “Larys will also have to be mine…” She whispered to himself.

“You suspect him for killing his family?” Aemond said. “I heard mother speak to him about it… he confessed it was him.” He said softly. Even when he was still a child, he had seen how Harwin was with both Rhaenyra and the bastards that were his. Even in public is was obvious they had something going on. Aemond wasn't sure how they thought they had been hiding it.

Of course, now he was starting to feel slightly angry that Criston had provoked Harwin the way he did. Now that he really thought about it, it disgusted him. He got that as young kids, Aegon and Jace had bullied him with Luke just following them around but Criston had been a full on adult bullying them - because he was petty and jealous.

Had it all been to provoke Harwin, get him sent away, and then kill him off? Larys had the most to gain out of his father and brother’s death. It made sense. “I’m sure uncle will help you with your revenge… but really save some for me.” He said looking up at her.

She smirked, her hand wondering over to his cheek. Despite everything, he leaned into her hand a bit. “You can have Criston. I trust you to make him suffer.”

Aemond smirked widely.

–

Lucerys jumped off his dragon and was greeted by the Vale guards that were posted outside the Arryn’s castle. 

“I presume you are here for you aunt?” He recognized Lord Royce immediately. 

“Yes,” He said. “It’s fairly important.” 

“Is this about the succession between Princess Rhaenyra and Prince Aegon?”

“Queen Rhaenyra requested that I give a letter to Lady Jeyne, not speak to you Lord Royce.” Luke said, trying to be at least decently polite, and he fell silent. 

They walked for a bit of time before they entered the large room that was the Arryn’s ancestral throne room. 

“Prince Lucerys!” His aunt called out.

“Lady Jeyne.”

“Your mother has done well with your manners.” She praised and Lord Royce seemed like he wanted to say something but she silenced him and then sent him off. Lucerys handed over the letter and she took it. “Come… we must get you fed.” Lucerys only nodded and let himself be led away.

Later Lady Jeyne approached him, handing him the letter, he smiled. “Thank you Lady Jeyne.”

“Anything for my niece and her children.” Jeyne said. His hand tightened on the letter, swearing fealty and loyalty to his mother once more.

“I’m quite surprised that the queen said that Aegon had already surrendered.”

Lucerys chuckled softly, “He arrived the day after grandsire passed…” He answered the unasked question. 

“Avoiding bloodshed…” His aunt spoke, “Smart move.”

Lucerys didn’t say anything else and she moved to lead him to his room for the night. 

–

“I’m going to Dorne.” Her father said, completely surprising her, why?

Alicent glared at him. “Yes, Of course, what do you plan on getting out of it exactly? They likely already know of Aegon’s disappearance. The Martell’s have never truly been on the Targaryen’s side but they won’t go for the losing side.”

“They will never want a Targaryen on the throne.” Otto agreed. “But we could always talk them into a marriage that could end with their blood on the throne.”

Alicent scoffed. “That’s only if we get Aegon back.”

“Helaena’s daughter is here…” Otto said reasonably. “We could easily talk them into something.”

Alicent stared at him, wanting to defend Helaena's daughter and say they weren't doing anything with the parents approval but he fell silent. She would rather not give herself more grief. “That’s only if Rhaenyra’s not gotten to them first, we are doomed if she’s talked to the entire kingdom by the time you actually get to Dorne. No one has answered our letters and we can already assume a good number of houses that most definitely side with Rhaenyra. Rhaenyra probably stated in every letter that my Aegon surrendered. Even then it could be a suicide mission.” She still felt completely betrayed by her children, where had she gone wrong? She never spoke fondly or goodly of Rhaenyra's family. 

“A risk we need to take.”

Alicent looked up. “They are likely planning to threaten what we have in Oldtown and our Hightower with their dragons.” She said, “Father... they have all the dragons.” 

If Alicent knew one thing, Helaena would never go against her siblings and her children's dragon were far too young.

“Daemon won’t let any of our house survive this.” Otto insisted and Alicent had to stop herself from rolling her eyes. 

Daemon was the biggest threat all their side and now Aemond was missing. Was he really missing though? Or had he just left. Her dearest child. Though, she knew that her father only saw her child as a weapon. 

Two guards knocked the door and Alicent just leaned back in her chair as a messenger walked into the room with a letter. She watched the man hand it over to her father.

“Prince Aemond showed up at Storm’s End asking Lord Borros to swear fealty and loyalty to Princess Rhaenyra again, reminding him he would likely die if he refused.” Alicent looked up at her father, staring with narrowed eyes. “He tried to capture Aemond for us but failed. Aemond killed 6 of his guards on his way out and burned 4 alive once atop Vhagar.” 

Alicent’s jaw clenched. Why was Aemond so determined to stay at Rhaenyra’s side. Aegon was the true king! Viserys had said that himself to her the night he died. Her father still didn’t believe it though. She scoffed - Aegon would be king, like it is supposed to be. All thoughts she had been thinking before left her.

“They injured him pretty badly, so we have to hope he dies - otherwise we’re in even more danger.” Otto said.

Alicent gasped and stood up. “Do not wish my son dead!”

“Hopefully, the seven will deal with him and his betrayals.”

Another messenger appeared a few minutes later and watched as he approached Otto, once again with a letter. She watched him read it and spend a couple minutes staring at it. “What is it?” She barely paid any attention when the messenger walked back out the door. 

“He’s alive and Princess Rhaenyra is angry.” Otto said.

Alicent grabbed the letter out of her father’s hand reading it. 

Otto & Alicent Hightower,

I would say that it is a pleasure to be writing to you but its really not. You two really have no smart brains - you would rather destroy yourselves before admitting defeated which is admirable... until it's not.

As you have already guess your grandson, Aegon, had surrendered without bloodshed. He came here on his own, absolutely terrified you two would force it upon him. He is not fit to be king. Even he knows that. You two certainly do but you both had every intention on working through him.

Otto, I know you convinced Alicent that I would want her children dead the second I was crowned, which is the opposite of what I wanted, we are family and my siblings share the blood of the dragon with me. 

Prince Aemond went on his own accord to go to Storm’s End for me and you and your men nearly killed him. I will not have that, Otto, I promise I’ll have your head on a spike by the time this is finished.

Alicent sneered, crunching up the letter. “She’s just using my baby for her own good!” She cried angrily.

Otto seemed to be agreeing with that but he walked out the room, not responding to her. 

–

Helaena was holding Maelor close to her when Alicent walked in. She stepped in front of her two twins on the floor playing. She didn’t want her mother anywhere near them.

Alicent sighed softly, her daughter didn’t trust her. After everything.

All because of the spoiled princess that was Rhaenyra. The bitch was slowly taking everything from her and she feared that Helaena would soon leave her too. 

“Mother.” Helaena said.

Alicent reached out to her and then nearly sneered when her daughter once again didn’t want any of her attention, truly where had she gone wrong? 

“Helaena, dear - “

“You’re hear to try and convince me that Rhaenyra will kill Aemond and Aegon and I should go to Dragonstone with Dreamfyre and burned it to the ground.” Helaena snapped, placing the kid in her hands on the ground with the others. They were played with figures of dragons and knights. “I won’t do it. That’s a suicide mission… I will risk the life of my precious dragon and myself. Who knows what you would do to the children to try and gain control once I'm long dead.”

“Helaena please - “ Alicent tried again and Helaena just shook her head. 

“Dreamfyre is my dragon! Not yours or grandsire’s.” Helaena reminded Alicent. “I should’ve freed her.” 

Alicent then stared glaring at her daughter and walked out of the room once more, she couldn’t deal with this right now. All of her children had betrayed her. She had failed her father and a woman would sit the iron throne. 

The only way to stop this was killing Rhaenyra. That’s exactly what needed to be done. 

–

Alicent sighed softly as she watched her father leave Kings’Landing on a boat to Dorne. Alicent had no way of getting to Dragonstone without being spotted. She bit her lip, playing with her fingers. 

–

Helaena entered the dragonpit, looking over at her poor dragon. Dreamfyre only had the comforts of Jaehaerys and Jaehaera’s baby dragons. Maelor’s egg had yet to hatch. 

She approached her calmly and ran her hands over her she-dragons rough blue and silver scales. “ You deserve to be free… ” She whispered. “ But we'll be out soon... Dragonstone will be fun …” Dreamfyre was her only quick way out of here if she needed it but now that her grandsire was gone...

She had been completely relieved to hear that her grandsire was going to be leaving the city to go to Dorne, far away from her children for now. Her mother wouldn't hurt her children. 

“How about a ride, my sweet girl? It’s been some time.” Helaena hummed, she needed this and Dreamfyre seemed to know that as well which caused a small smile to play on Helaena lips before she took a deep breath.

She walked over to where one her mother’s queenguards were but the man, Symon Eric, wasn’t really loyal to her mother. He was loyal to her. She had made sure of it. 

“Get a boat ready to leave… for dragonstone.” Helaena said. “We’ll leave tonight when the Dowager Queen is resting.” She said strictly and the guard bowed and left. Her mind filtering back to her sister's letter she had gotten earlier with a little smile.

Helaena turned back to her dragon and mounted Dreamfyre. They took off and she truly could not help the feeling of relief she felt finally being in the sky again. 

–

Helaena slid off of Dreamfyre and got back to the castle fairly late. However, Alicent was still awake. “Where have you been?”

Helaena stared at her. “Did you… not see the dragon?” She asked. “Dreamfyre is kind of hard to miss.” She said sarcastically.

“You ran off?” Alicent scoffed, despite using the dragons to her own advantage, hated them and hated her only daughter being bonded to one. She never said it outloud but everyone knew it.

Dreamfyre was hers. One of the few things that were actually truly hers. She would rather abandon her mother before she even thought about abandoning her dragon.

“Mother…” She trailed off a bit. “I came back.”

“Your grandsire isn’t here anymore so you what? Run off!” Alicent hissed. "How can I trust you won't get kidnapped like your siblings."

Liar.  That's all Helaena knew about her mother. She lied and lied. She lied so much that she even believed her lies.

“I’ll be going now.” She said and walked down the dark halls back to her rooms. She was met with Ser Symon on the way back. 

“Everything is ready.”

Helaena smiled. “Good. To Dragonstone it is.” Her mother was lacking support and strength to stop this even if she knew. 

Alicent and Otto truly hadn’t realized how many people had turned from them when people started to question Prince Aegon’s disappearance. 

Chapter Text

Helaena allowed her children to sneak out of the castle, standing still with only a few of the guards sworn to her standing next to her. “How long do you plan on following me?”

Alicent didn’t say anything but stepped out of the darkness, Helaena rose her hand stopping the guards from attacking or threatening Alicent. “My sweet girl - “

Helaena wanted to slap her for saying that, she wasn’t her ‘sweet girl’ anymore. She had not been for a very long time, she wished her mother saw that.

“You’re leaving.” She said softly, as if suddenly realizing it. Everything falling in place in her mind.

“Yes,” Helaena answered before getting an idea. “Bringing the children will only provide me right through Rhaenyra’s trust. She already trusts my brothers,” She also did not trust her children being left alone, Rhaenyra would protect them.

Alicent seemed to brighten slightly at the mention of her brothers, though she didn’t even ask about Aegon, the so-called ‘Future King’. “Aemond… is close to her?” Helaena knew it was because Aemond was a bigger threat than Aegon would ever be.

Helaena nodded. “Of course he is,” She smiled. “She would never hurt him…” She said slowly. 

“What of Aegon?” She finally asked.

Helaena wanted to glare at her. For someone that never believed her about her dreams until now, she had a lot of nerve to believe her now. Helaena knew they needed to be going, she wanted to be at Dragonstone as soon as they could. She did not want to spend another minute here. Truly, something about this castle bothered her, especially when it was so empty of the blood of the Dragon. It unsettled her no matter the amount of guards sworn to her. 

“My husband is off doing what Aegon does.” She said simply. “Drink, Whore, and talk to his siblings.” Aegon loved his siblings - completely, she’d already seen pieces of how close Rhaenyra and Aegon were already, despite him being there for only a handful of days. 

He had always been desperate for his big sister's approval, as much as Aegon had once been desperate for her mother’s… not that she ever noticed. 

Alicent did not look like she liked that response very well. Helaena thought it was truly insane that she hated everything her children enjoyed, as if forgetting what family she had joined. 

Helaena sighed softly. “He will never truly stop. Rhaenyra just required that he provide moon tea to ensure no more bastards were created and she would take his privileges away if he ever touched anyone that was unwilling, which I know he would never do. He is disgusted by the idea of that.” She whispered the last parts.  

Alicent looked at her with clouded eyes. “She would hurt my son?” She whispered, that seemed to be all that she got out of Helaena’s words.

Helaena knew she had sparked her anger and she figured that perhaps, her mother would follow her to Dragonstone. It would make everything so much easier on Rhaenyra’s part. 

Alicent approached her more closely when she did not respond and the guards blocked her from it, staring at her daughter in disbelief. 

“You are not planning on harming me or forcing me back to my chambers?”

Alicent stared at her with wide eyes then. “Why would I hurt you?”

“Let her come.” Helaena finally said and before she could turn Alicent rushed forward to her. 

“Let me kill Rhaenyra and then everything can be perfect.” Alicent said, grabbing her arms.

This was not the reaction she had expected from her mother.

“ Mother ,” Helaena finally stressed the word out… long and cool… and Alicent froze, it had also been a while since she had heard herself called that. “You have to listen to me.” She speaks plainly. She would not allow her Queen’s life to be endangered and no matter how much she may dislike her mother for the choices and the things she has done, she was still her mother.

“Yes, my dear?” Alicent said.

“You can not kill her, for she is the rightful Queen -  even Aegon knows that.” Helaena whispered softly, moving her arms out of Alicent’s grasp. “I know you believe that she will hurt us but she would never do it without proper reason.” She said and Alicent was looking at her in pure disbelief. “Even then…” Helaena knew this about Rhaenyra, her husband was a completely different topic - one she was not getting into. Her mother would probably try and convince her to kill off Daemon - but without Daemon, Rhaenyra would probably become a reckless mess as would the rest of their family. “She will not hurt us, mother, you must surrender… please, and for the sake of your children.” Who have already completely surrender, she did not add.

“The throne - “

“Is not Aegon’s, it was never Aegon’s, my husband does not want it nor does he even care about politics, Grandsire has used and manipulated you - as he tried to do with us.” She whispered. “He is the biggest threat to all of us, especially if one of his few remaining people get somewhere they are not supposed to be.” Helaena knew her grandsire would be fighting against Rhaenyra till his last breath, there was no stopping him. He was going to end up dead. 

Alicent looked stressed down and completely on the verge of tears. “My father - your grandsire - just wants - “

“No,” Helaena said, stopping whatever her mother was going to say. “He does not want anything other than his blood on the throne and he will do whatever he needs to do that. I am sure he plans on running around hoping Rhaenyra does not catch him but it will happen, sooner than later.”

Alicent was shaking and Helaena - despite everything, hugged her mother. She was too lost at this point in the world. “Go to Dragonstone with me and swear to Rhaenyra… everything will be okay, we will all be safe. Trust me mother, please.” She begged desperately. 

Alicent finally nodded and Helaena smiled, proud of herself. 

–

Lucerys returned to Dragonstone and jumped off of Arrax with a sigh, he had successfully made it back home.

His mother was the first one to greet him, which didn’t surprise him and made him happy. He didn’t know how long, but she had held him in a long hug. Luke said nothing because he knew how worried his mother had been. 

Of course, Luke had noticed the tenseness in her shoulders that had stayed there until she held him tight. He looked up at her when she finally pulled away. “What happened?”

“Your uncle, Prince Aemond, came back hurt.” Rhaenyra admitted. “I trusted Lady Jenye to make sure you were not hurt but people are slick little things.” She whispered softly, running a hand through his hair.

He smiled and then handed over the signed paper. “Her declaring full loyalty to you once again.” He said proudly.

“Oh my sweet boy.” She whispered. “I do truly thank you for this, you did great.” She kissed his forehead and led him back inside. It was good to be home.

– 

“You know Jace’s return is going to be a much longer wait then both of theirs?” Daemon said softly, they were standing alone in their rooms and he went and grabbed her hand. 

“Yes…” She said, she knew it would. Winterfell was the furthest away from them. Aemond had been back in a day, Luke was back in three days… but how long would it take Jace? Jace would likely stay longer then he absolutely had too but he was allowed, he needed rest and deserved to spent some time out and about. He was her Heir but he was also her child, she would not force him into a life of isolation, not like the one she had before finally escaping for Dragonstone.

“He can protect himself.”

Rhaenyra didn’t look at him or respond, but she took a deep breath and nodded, finally responding: “You’re right, not to mention he has a dragon…” She said softly. “But that will not stop me from worrying.”

Daemon only nodded. “Perhaps you spend some time with the girls before Baela leaves with Rhaenys and Corlys for Driftmark.” They were going for a few weeks… while Corlys’ recovery was fairly slow, but he was getting there. They were all carefully watching. Though they likely would not go until after Rhaenyra was crowned in Kings'Landing.

Rhaenys refused to leave Corlys side for longer than necessary and the girls had been spending a fair amount of their time there. They were barely seen outside meals.

Rhaenyra could also tell that her cousin was ready to go home. 

“I will not make them spend time with me if they do not want it.” She said slowly. 

“Rhaenyra,” Daemon only smiled at her. “They adore you, I do not think they would ever not want to spend time with you - Rhaena is usually with you for a lot of your pregnancies.”

She nodded, leaning into his hold. 

She understood why Rhaena did it - she feared losing Rhaenyra like she lost Laena… Rhaenyra would not let it happened. She refused. She had too much in this world that would suffer without her. She simply knew the world would be burn if she died, as it would if anyone in their family died unnaturally. 

–

“How’s it going there, brother?” Aegon asked as he watched his brother stumble a bit. His wounds were healing but it didn’t stop the lingering pain that was in his leg.

“Just fine - “ Aemond snapped, looking over at him. “Enjoying it so very much.”

“I’m sure you are.” Aegon smiled, this was one of the few times in life where Aegon wasn’t completely drunk or hungover. He would remember this moment. Aemond groaned again. “I’m sure our sister would help you.” He said with a smirk.

Aemond froze. Rhaenyra. She had been by his side a lot more than he would’ve ever thought she would be. She had visited him several times and even came late at night to ‘check on him’ - Aemond was certain she just couldn’t sleep. Worried about both her sons. 

“Lucerys is successfully home, safely.” Aegon added. “Seems the Vale truly stand with their own.”

Aemond rolled his eyes at his brother. “Unlike the idiot...” Aemond started wondering if the Maester had twisted Rhaenyra’s words and reminded Lord Borros that Otto was likely threatening for his head. Borros was an idiot.

–

“We’re sending the ravens out confirming that Aegon indeed surrendered his crown and bowed to Rhaenyra since a few Lords seem to be refusing to answer. Which includes Lord Tyland.” Daemon said, looking over the conquerors table as Rhaenys stood beside him. Rhaenyra was watching the ocean quietly, deep in thought, playing with her rings. “The Tyrell’s… have answered the letter - they swore fealty. Almost all the Great Houses are on our side.”

“Good.” Rhaenys answered. “Jacaerys just needs to get back with the Starks decisions.” Rhaenys, had neglected the boys for good few years of their lives but Rhaenyra was happy that she was finally accepting them. Rhaenyra figured that the Starks would not be against them but it would not be good if they chose to be for whatever reason. 

Daemon knew that most of Rhaenyra’s mind was stuck on Jace. He didn’t know what she would do if he did not return to them, be it on the Stark’s command (for some reason that only the gods would know) or one of Otto Hightower’s twisted people. They had gotten word from Winterfell that he arrived and was welcomed easily, however, the Starks were still deciding a few things. Rhaenyra didn’t want to rush them or Jace but she really wanted her son back home. 

Rhaenyra had been a lot less tense now that she knew Aemond was going to be okay and that Lucerys was back. She had no doubt that the Vale would keep Luke safe… but Otto’s men could be unpredictable. 

“Lord Tyland will have to go, he will never side with me. Not after I rejected his twin so coldly,” Rhaenyra said softly to herself, Daemon did not acknowledge it, all three knew she did not want to speak about it.

“Yes… Rhaenyra, the Starks would not kill him in cold murder.” Daemon promised lightly. If they knew one thing, the Starks did not just kill because they could. They held true to their oaths. “We need to take Kings’Landing, make sure Princess Helaena and her children are safe, and crown Rhaenyra.” 

“She should be on her way on a boat with her children, her dragon, Dreamfyre, and trusted guard, and perhaps a guest.” Rhaenyra said out of nowhere and Daemon looked over at her. Daemon had no idea what Rhaenyra had put in the letter they sent to her when they sent the letters to Alicent and Otto.

“How - “

Rhaenyra turned to him and gave a small smile before she walked out of the room and Daemon was very close to following her before Rhaenys started speaking. “Once she is crowned and we have done the King’s funeral, I am taking Baela back to Driftmark, have you two thought about letting Lucerys visit and become Corlys ward?”

“Rhaenyra has decided that it would be a good time to do it and she will talk to Lucerys about it.” Daemon asked, looking over at her. Lucerys was going to need training, Corlys would be a good help. Everyone knew that despite everything he would never give up or retire to just the throne. 

Rhaenys only nodded, seeming to be glad with that decision and she walked out of the room. Daemon stood alone for a very long time before Lucerys walked into the room, back from patrolling on Arrax from what he guessed.

“Prin - “ Lucerys openly stopped at the use of formality, they had not done much of this before their castle was busy with more people then usual. 

“You do not need to be formal when it is only the two of us.”

Lucerys gave a sigh of relief and nodded. “Well… a dragon has been spotted with a boat, heading towards Dragonstone.” 

Helaena. Dreamfyre. Her children. Trusted Guard.

“Thank you Luke.” He said softly and walked out of the room. 

– 

When Daemon walked out to the beach where Helaena’s boat would be docking soon, he wasn’t exactly surprised to find Rhaenyra already near the docks, sitting on the sand with Syrax curled up around her as she watched the boat that was coming into dock. 

Daemon watched Dreamfyre, and the twins’ dragons, Morghul and Shrykos, find themselves comfortable on the rocks on the ledges of the island. Dreamfyre kept them close and it seemed that none of their dragons had problems with them - which was good. He watched as Sunfyre flew near her and landed next to her. Those two spent a lot of time together from what Daemon knew.

“Did you inform your siblings?” He asked, standing a little ways away. Syrax, while she liked him, she was not his dragon and he would not approach without clear permission. 

“No, I wanted to surprise them. I believe that Aegon is probably bothering Aemond about his struggling to walk without limping.”

Daemon stared at her. “You’ve visited him quite a bit.” He said softly.

“Well, yes.” Rhaenyra answered, she wasn’t looking at him, rather the ocean like she always did. Daemon knew she found lots of comfort in it, watching as the waves crashed down on the water and then went out only to do it again. She also enjoyed watching the storms.

Syrax didn’t move from Rhaenyra’s side when Daemon finally approached her, sitting down beside her, he took it as a sign he would not die. Caraxes was a little ways away but it seems that the spoiled golden dragon didn’t want to leave his queen’s side. “You should really get to know him.” She said with a smirk, leaning her head on his shoulder and looking up at him. 

His lips curled into a smirk, looking down at her before shifting slightly and kissing her deep on the lips, he pulled away slightly, their eyes meeting. “Perhaps, I should. When his wounds close for good, I am sure he would love some training.”

Rhaenyra chuckled softly. “That works perfectly.” 

Daemon only nodded before he moved her into his lap, only holding his smirk, running his hands over her stomach. 

Rhaenyra pulled a light smirk and pulled him into a deep passionate kiss. 

–

Helaena stepped off the boat with a low sigh, she was met with her sister’s guard and her children hid behind her. Alicent was an unexpected guest - the guards took her - keeping her from wandering freely.

Only an exhausting walk later was she in the throne room of Dragonstone. Rhaenyra approached her. “Sweet sister.”

Helaena cracked an exhausted smile and fell to her knees. “My queen… now and always. I swear to the gods - and on my own and my children’s lives.” 

Rhaenyra smiled above her. “Rise.” She spoke and Helaena did so. “You and your children are safe here.. I promise.” 

Rhaenyra then looked slowly over at Alicent. “Alicent…” She whispered softly, standing in front of her.

Alicent finally dropped to her knees, exhausted and clearly ready for some peace in her awful life. “Rhaenyra…” 

“Alicent…” She said slowly again, Daemon was glaring at Alicent’s form. Helaena knew he would love to see her dead but she turned her head to her sister looking at her desperately.

“Your children will not come to harm while in my protection, I swear to you.” Rhaenyra said, taking her eyes off of Helaena and looking at her mother.

Alicent looked up at her with teary eyes. “My queen…” She finally mumbled.

It seemed whatever heavy tension that had been sitting in the room was lifted - if one ignored Prince Daemon’s obvious annoyance at Alicent being let off somehow.

“I want to see my siblings.” Helaena said softly, stepping towards her sisters.

Rhaenyra nodded. “I haven’t informed them of your arrival.” She said carefully, their eyes met, strange understanding in them both. “I figured you might want to surprise them. I, quite, think our brothers will be glad to see you and the children.” She turned to look at Alicent again. “Perhaps you should come too.”

Helaena nodded. Then she remembered something. “You can easily take Kings’Landing now, my grandsire has less people in the castle then he thinks he does - Lord Lannister and Lord Strong are being snakes, likely waiting for my grandsire’s return - which likely will not happen.”

“Otto is in Dorne?” Rhaenyra said carefully.

“Yes… left yesterday morning. He didn’t say when he would back but he believed that we would still be able to hold Kings’Landing till whenever he gets back.” Helaena scoffed slightly at the very idea. They never stood a chance, why did Otto still believe they stood a chance?

Helaena knew that they had a good number of Rhaenyra’s sworn Lord’s here with the exception of a few. “I know my brother was hurt… trying to help you.” She said softly and looked down. Alicent stared at them, still a bit mad about her son being injured despite the one offering to go.

“He is okay… and recovering well.” Rhaenyra said softly and then she kissed Helaena’s cheek softly. “Aegon is likely with him honestly.” She added, looking at Alicent for a moment. “Come, I’ll take them to you.” She said, leaving the throne room and Helaena and Alicent followed with her children easily.

It felt good to be somewhere she actually felt safe, she had never felt safe in Kings’Landing, not truly. Her grandsire was always whispering things to them and her mother about the bloodshed that would happen if Aegon did not sit on the throne but she knew. Aegon on the throne would cause more bloodshed than any decision ever. She never spoke about it till now. 

She knew no one would believe her but now, Aemond and Aegon were both here safe. Her grandsire was probably doing something stupid in Dorne right now. For all she knew, Rhaenyra was probably going to send a raven out there to capture him the second they saw him. Or Dorne would be burned to the ground.

Her grandsire was not going to make this out alive. She was glad her mother was safe now. Alicent was a pawn in her father’s game, and had always been a pawn. Helaena knew that some of the decisions that her mother had made over the years were purely out of spite and anger that had nothing to do with Rhaenyra. She knew that Alicent would need watching - she had just threatened to murder the Queen not long ago.

Helaena briefly wondered where the fuck Criston was - but she did not want to waste the last of her energy on that.

–

Upon entering the room that Aemond had returned to, Rhaenyra stepped aside letting Helaena all but run into Aegon’s arms. 

Aegon squeaked in surprise but returned the hug nonetheless. Alicent stood besides Rhaenyra silently - not sure if her children would want her here. She knew she had fucked up horribly with them.

Rhaenyra had seen that Aegon didn’t drink nearly as much as he did in Kings’Landing, it seemed the stress of being raised to be King had a heavy weight on him.  

Rhaenyra had noticed that Aegon spent a lot of his afternoons with Aemond or her own youngest two, it made her happy. She had spent way too much time in her anger resenting her siblings. Aegon had an unexpected soft spot for children when he wasn’t being a complete drunk.

She wanted to fix everything more than anything and she believed that this was an amazing start. 

“Helaena!” Aegon said cheerfully. Helaena looked at Aegon with such happiness that she thought Aegon was going to pass out from how happy he looked. Aegon was crouched on the ground, meeting the hugs of his 6 year olds and 3 year old.

Helaena let her husband and their children have their reunion, she stared down at Aemond. “You really need to hurry up and heal or else we will leave for Kings’Landing before you get better.” She said, smiling. 

Aemond huffed and looked back over to where Rhaenyra was smirking at him. “She’s not wrong. We should only have to deal with Lord Tyland and Lord Larys, Daemon’s spies are bound to get whomever they need to, it's the perfect time to take it. We will do my coronation soon after we get there and then the Lords on my father’s council that have done something against myself or out family will be sent to the wall - at the very least.”

Aemond looked surprised by this. “Grandsire actually left?”

“Yes, he’s going to Dorne to try and get support from them but they’ll never go for it. Dorne never goes for the losing side.” Helaena said and Rhaenyra couldn’t help agreeing.

Dorne and Targaryens had an unstable relationship at times, but they never went for the losing side.

Rhaenyra decided that she should probably send a letter, demanding that Otto be captured and held till she was in Kings’Landing, otherwise she would have to have Prince Qoren tried and punished. 

She left her siblings and their mother to do their own thing, the three children of Helaena and Aegon joining Aemond in the bed for hugs. She made sure a guard was left to watch them - and one to escort Helaena and her children and Alicent to their rooms were needed. 

She wanted to keep an eye on Alicent as well. 

–

Rhaenyra entered Aemond’s chamber late that night, the others having long gone to bed, except Aegon of course, she saw him leave the castle several hours ago though.

“Aemond.” She said softly. 

She figured at this point he was used to the fact she came to visit him this late because he was indeed up. The first couple nights she had caught him sleeping and simply watched over him despite everything in her body telling her that she shouldn’t be. 

She had caught him up late the second night of his return from Storm’s End. He had been surprised, she was almost certain he would ask her to go away and leave him to rest, but he didn’t. 

She loved Aemond’s love for dragons. So she spent a lot of time listening to him as he spoke about Vhagar. He loved talking about Vhagar. She had ignored him for far too long.

To say the least, she enjoyed the talks about Vhagar. The dragon had been Laena’s. Laena and Vhagar had absolutely loved each other the few times she had seen them together.

She had been worried that with everything that Otto and her father’s small council were doing that it was going to lead to a lot of dragon deaths. They did not deserve to take the faults of their riders. 

“Rhaenyra.” Aemond said, looking up from his book. He absolutely loved the books they had on dragons here and she could just tell that he regretted having never been able to come here before. She was almost certain that the Hightower siblings were much happier here then they ever were in Kings’Landing. 

Which wasn’t a surprise with the parents they had.

Rhaenyra wasn’t naive. She knew that her father was horrible towards them, he had been horrible to her a lot of time - despite everything. She knew he loved her but he had constantly ignored her when he believed he would get his son. When he didn’t and her mother died - he had all but ignored her other than trying to force her into a marriage. He hadn’t really talked to her about anything outside of making her heir(which she really knew had been because he wanted to get rid of her uncle so badly) and then he went and married Alicent. 

She still hated Alicent’s choice of not telling her before it happened. She did not deserve to hear such a thing in a small council meeting for the first time - in front of all the shitty Lords and Maester. Rhaenyra had nearly burst into tears. 

She wasn’t sure if her being told in private would’ve been much better but it still annoyed her.

After Alicent became Queen she had done everything in her power to try and strip Rhaenyra of her happiness. Rhaenyra swore that would never happen again. She would kill Alicent if she tried to betray her again but she did not want to send her away, despite everything she knew her siblings wanted her around. Helaena had spoken to her a bit and said she believe that Alicent would be much better now... or that she was going to try. Rhaenyra trusted Helaena's word.

Most of the people in the Red Keep disliked her due to the rumors from Alicent, that she had just pushed and pushed. They forced her down until she couldn’t take it anymore and they went to Dragonstone. 

It hadn’t been till Daemon came back into her life that she actually felt herself again, she was still grateful for his return… despite the fact that it meant Laena was gone and followed her was Laenor. 

Rhaenyra bites her lips - perhaps she should speak to Rhaenys.

“What are you reading about now?” She asked, sitting down on the chair beside his bed. 

She listened to him speak about the Conquerors book for the next few hours in complete contentment, perfectly fine with forgetting about the world outside for right now. 

–

A few days later, Rhaenyra leaned over Aegon’s painted table thinking to herself as Daemon stood beside her. Lucerys was close to her as well, she could sense his presence, when Corlys limped down the stairs and swore his complete loyalty and their fleet to her. He really did not have to as Rhaenys had already assured her they would never go against their family - but she appreciated it nonetheless.

Rhaenyra’s eyes found Rhaenys’ and the older Princess was smiling at her.

“Thank you, Lord Corlys,” She said gratefully. 

Daemon had a content look on his face at this declarement.

–

Rhaenyra approached Rhaenys the same night, quietly. They were alone in Aegon’s gardens.

“Princess Rhaenys?” She said softly when approached the women. She knew that Rhaenys didn’t exactly like her; not after what happened to Laenor, she still thought Rhaenyra plotted his death. 

Quite the opposite had happened. 

Laenor had said that if Rhaenyra decided to tell his parents that she was free to do it but that she should not put anything at risk if she did not have to.

She did not have to do this but Laenor’s family deserved to know. Rhaenyra should have done this years ago.

“Queen Rhaenyra?” Rhaenys answered, likely compelled to use her title considering she used hers.

She should have done it when she had the Princess alone in Kings’Landing. She scolded herself slightly for it and decided that she was Dragon and she shouldn’t hate herself for keeping this from them. It was to protect Laenor and her. They had both gotten some happiness from it. 

“Seasmoke will not be able to be claimed by another.” Rhaenyra said softly, to start the conversation. 

Rhaenys didn’t respond, staring out towards the ocean. 

She swore that their family just loved the ocean more than someone should. The Ocean and Dragons - despite how much that shouldn’t mix. 

“I’m surprised you have the audacity to say that, Seasmoke is still broken by the death of Laenor.” She said, “That dragon is never recovering from it.” Seasmoke had been extremely close to Leanor as he had hatched in the cradle, Rhaenyra was familiar with that. 

Rhaenyra was silent for a few moments before she sighed softly. “He’s doing that for another reason and you know why, you just don’t want to believe it.” She said softly.

“You had my son killed.” Rhaenys said, proving Rhaenyra’s statement right. 

“Your son isn’t dead.” She said, “I did help plot his escape, with him though.”

“Was he happy to do it?”

Rhaenyra bit her lip. “He didn’t want to leave his family or Seasmoke… but we all knew that sometimes happiness would be more important in the end. He got to be with his squire and I got to marry Daemon...”

“Where is he?” Rhaenys asked, absentmindedly.

“Probably in Pentos..” She answered carefully. “Enjoying himself as much as he can.”

She then looked over at Rhaenys. “Please stay till I am crowned and then you, Meleys, and Seasmoke can go off and find him.”

“Does he send you letters?” Rhaenys asked absently.

Rhaenyra sighed, Laenor had at the start sent letters mainly wondering about how his parents and children were fairing every few moons to see how they were coping but he had eventually stopped a few years ago.. 

“He hasn’t in a while…” She said softly. “I’ve ached to send one for a while but never wanted to disturb his happiness if he’s finally pushed his past away.” 

Rhaenys only nodded and then walked away without another word. Rhaenyra smiled slightly, that could’ve gone a whole lot worse.

–

Rhaenyra watched as Daemon entered the room and handed over a letter from Dorne, sealed with the Martell’s symbol.

Aemond was in the room as well, having finally been able to walk on his leg without nearly falling or constant sores. She knew he still hurt but he was way too determined to be near her, which she smirked slightly thinking about it. 

Lucerys was near her with Rhaena, today was the kids free day so they didn’t have lessons, they were both standing by Driftmark’s mark on the table, whispering. Baela was out spending time with Moondancer as Daemon had insisted she spent most of free time with. 

Rhaenyra hadn’t thought long about this decision, she had every intent on giving Rhaena a dragon egg from Syrax’ next clutch. Her daughter deserved it. 

She opened the letter silently, Daemon was still standing beside her as if worried she’d break from whatever was in this letter. She inwardly scoffed.

She read over the contents and then smirked. “They captured Otto, he was indeed there to pull them over to their side but it didn’t work. Prince Qoren didn’t even give them time to speak before he threw them in the cells. Didn’t spare a word for them.” She said, it seemed they sent the raven and it arrived before they even got there. “They swear loyalty to us -  at least for now, we will have to discuss future marriage contracts with them.” Dorne was definitely one of the more complicated kingdoms but she would make them a truce they would be happy with.

Daemon only nodded, “Yes, sounds good.” He agreed and she smirked up at him. 

–

Rhaenyra sighed softly, she knew that Jacaerys was safe. The two ravens that the Starks had sent since his arrival there was proof enough. As much as she wanted to wait for her son’s return, they needed to go to Kings’Landing for her crowning.

She had already chosen Daemon to crown her - she just could not think of anyone else. 

“We need to go to Kings’Landing, it will take little to nothing to take it over Otto’s people.” Rhaenyra said to Daemon that same night. 

Daemon only nodded and pulled her close, holding onto her. 

It was long moments of silence. “Will you go and spend time with Aemond already? I see the way you look at him.”

“I don’t - “ He said quietly, eyes dark with unspoken desire.

She laughed. “Yes, you do. If you aren’t watching me be full of your child you’re watching him.”

Daemon groaned and pulled her into a kiss, her hands finding her stomach rubbing slightly before he was on his knees in front of her. “My Queen.” He said looking up at her. “And our new Prince or... Princess…” He added kissing her stomach and then mumbling in High Valyrian to it.

He did this often - he had done it with both Aegon and Viserys. 

He was not a good man. They both knew it. But he was loving and perfect for her. He was the perfect level of gentle and rough when it was needed. 

“I told Rhaenys.” She said softly when he stood up to lead her to bed.

Daemon stopped and then smiled slightly. “Good,” He whispered softly. “She deserved to know,”

Rhaenyra sighed, she hadn’t exactly expected him to take that so easily. They had carefully planned everything and made sure no one ever found out about it.

Rhaenyra always had that one part of her that was guilty for keeping it from Rhaenys and Corlys and another part ached for Laenor’s presence in her and her children’s lives again. They may not be his blood but Leanor was Jace, Luke, and Joff’s father, no matter what. Daemon had never tried to replace Laenor or Harwin's place - as she never tried to replace Laena but they and their children were happy and that was what matter.

Daemon knew that part of her was always there and never spoke about it. They never brought up Laenor or Harwin or Laena outside of their children. 

Which Rhaenyra was grateful for. 

He led her to the bed and night led to a whole lot of pleasure.

Chapter Text

Rhaenyra was the first one ready the night that they were leaving for Kings’Landing. Syrax was a bit uneasy, as was she. She was going to officially be queen, honestly, it felt still felt so surreal. She still could not believe that her father was no longer in this world.

Daemon, Aemond, Lucerys, Rhaenys, were all leaving by dragon and the others were out to sail. She knew that the little dragons were following. Her brother and sister both decided they were going to go on the boat and stay with the children. Baela and Rhaena joining them. Rhaenyra was almost certain is because the girls did not yet trust Alicent or Aegon - or any of ex-greens near Aegon or Viserys. They had barely spent any time with them so their suspension was still quite obviously. Rhaenyra knew she could count on Baela and Rhaena, they would not do anything too stupid. She did not believe Alicent would either

Dreamfyre, Sunfyre followed them by air while the little twins' dragons, including Moondancer, remained near the boat, having the ability to land if needed. They were still quite young despite being quite bigger for their ages. 

Rhaenyra was grateful for the fact she was not quite too pregnant that she could not fly Syrax. Daemon had made sure to have her completely checked over before she was given the okay. 

Syrax chirped softly, nuzzling Rhaenyra’s stomach softly. “ I really hope you plan on giving us another clutch. ” She whispered softly.

Syrax chirped again in agreement. 

She kissed her golden lady’s snout. 

She had actually caught Daemon testing Aemond with his sword earlier that day and she had watched them happily, dark purple eyes sparkling in satisfaction, Luke had been beside her, cheering them on. 

Lucerys, her sweet boy, was too perfect for this world despite the fact that he did not realize that. 

Aemond approached her out of nowhere and only knew because Syrax shifted in a way she always did when someone was near them. 

“You always seem to find me.” Rhaenyra spoke when she realized who it was and turned to him.

“I find that statement to be untrue. Usually, you are the one to find me.” He answered. 

“I did not have to find you. You were in the same place for the last week.” She said reasonably with a smile.

Aemond chuckled softly and then looked over at her golden lady. “I heard that she is the most spoiled dragon out of all them.”

Rhaenyra smirked. “That would indeed be my fault, brother.” she said. “But she deserves it.” 

Syrax rumbled a happy chirp when Rhaenyra reached out to her again.

“How is it to ride the biggest dragon in the world?” She asked.

Aemond stared at her for long moments. “Amazing, I mean, the first time I rode in the skies was absolutely perfect, despite the fact Vhagar likely wanted to kill me.”

“But she did not.” She said softly.

“No, she did not.”

–

Rhaenyra was not sure what the fuck Aemond and Daemon were whispering to each other, nor did she care. At least one of them was not dead.

She climbed on Syrax before anyone really realized, the boat having sailed a little while ago. Everyone knew that the dragons would likely still get their faster. She had sent a raven to Winterfell informing Jacaerys of their departure to Kings’Landing. 

Syrax took off into the sky, she sighed in relief finally feeling like she was able to breathe again. Dragon riding would always be her favorite thing, she smirked at that thought slightly.

–

“You should really stop staring at my wife like you are going to devour her.” Daemon said lightly behind Aemond, out of no where. "I might just have to kill you.

If Aemond was anyone else, he probably would have jumped but he didn’t and turned to the older man. “Very sorry, Uncle.” He said automatically, not that he was really sorry about it, Rhaenyra was beautiful. "Are you jealous?"

“No, it is indeed very hard not to stare at her.” Daemon added, in an understandable but also teasing voice. 

Aemond wanted to punch him but knew that would be a very bad idea. “She’s the most beautiful in the seven kingdoms.” Aemond responded, watching as his sister and her golden lady leaped into the sky. 

When Aemond looked over at his uncle, there was a ghost of a smile while he watched the two in the sky. “You should really be waking up your own lady.” His Uncle said before he started walking over to Caraxes.

Aemond sighed and nodded, if he wasn’t in the sky with Vhagar, his lady was asleep and it took a good few minutes to actually get her up for flying. He decided he should probably go find her. 

–

Rhaenyra along with Daemon landed outside the Red Keep, trying to avoid more bloodshed than possible, of course that didn’t include the man that were clearly on Otto’s side. They were already dead. Daemon's very loyal gold clocks made sure of that.

Otto was going to be one of the Lords that would need to die. She knew that most of Alicent’s actions had been to protect her children while Otto only wanted his blood on the throne, he did not care what it took. He was very much ready to destroy Rhaenyra and her family without second thoughts. She knew Alicent would have allowed it, had she still believed Rhaenyra would harm her children. 

Criston Cole, however, was going to die alongside Otto when the Martell’s were given word and sent him back here. Rhaenyra needed to write a letter.

The throne room doors were opened by a few of Daemon’s gold cloaks and as she walked in, it was empty. 

They remained silent for a few moments, listening as the throne room doors closed once again. She could hear the screeching of Meleys, Dreamfyre, Sunfyre, Arrax as they landed near the dragonpit. 

Rhaenyra turned to Daemon. “No dragon is to be put back in chains. The Dragonkeepers and ourselves will still have to watch the young dragons until they are adults and do not need to be kept in the cells if the adults do not want to be there.” She said suddenly.

Daemon’s eyes sparkled and he nodded. “Of course, my queen.” He said with a smirk. She knew he loved her idea. She knew another reason he disliked Kings’Landing so much was the fact that they chained their dragons. Caraxes was not a dragon that liked being chained, she doubted that Syrax would like it after being free in the skies for the last six years. 

Syrax had despised it for the single day they had been here the last time.

She knew right now that her golden lady and Daemon's blood wyrm were probably dancing in the skies happily. 

“The Dragonkeeps can stay to take care of their livestock and watch over the dragons, we’ll need that.” Daemon agreed easily and left Rhaenyra alone in the throne room, she knew that the guards were posted outside. 

–

Rhaenyra did not know how long she had stared at the Iron Throne from the dais. She ascended and stopped right in front of it, she lightly touched the throne and she smiled slightly. 

Rhaenys walked in and she was glad she was alone. “Princess Rhaenys.”

Rhaenys gave her a hard look and then her lips turned into a little smirk. “Queen Rhaenyra.” She said, sounding rather proud. “What do you want for your father’s funeral?”

They had not had it yet, Rhaenyra realized, considering literally the entire family had just been everywhere. She knew that had Alicent got her way that her father would not have been burned the traditional way for the Targaryens.

“I have no choice but to say we’ll have to go back to Dragonstone for his funeral and then his ashes will be put besides Queen Aemma and Prince Baelon’s in the sept.” She said. She didn’t exactly want to go back to Dragonstone so quickly but she wouldn’t disrespect their house no matter how weak and non-dragon her father was almost the entire time he had been king. His poor choices and Otto’s whispering. The only people that needed to be attending could ride dragons or join someone that rode a dragon. Alicent could be convince to join one of her children on their dragons if she truly desired to go.

Rhaenys smiled at that. “Of course, your grace.” She said slowly and then left, leaving Rhaenyra once again staring down at the Iron Throne, that would officially be hers later tonight.

They had flown all night and she was tired but she couldn’t bring herself to move or leave. 

She knew Daemon would come and find her later after making sure that all the dragons were being taken care of and fed. 

She knew that Prince Aemond would have to land somewhere outside the city which meant it would take him far longer to actually get back here. She twisted her rings slightly.

– 

“I think the seat is perfect for you.” Said a voice upon the closing of the throne room doors

Rhaenyra smiled, Prince Aemond. “You have finally made your way back, I see.” She said turning to him, she did not even know how long she had been staring down at the Iron Throne, she was grateful for the fact that no one disturbed her. 

“Yes, quite a walk.” He mumbled.

She smirked. “I am sorry,” She said, mockingly. “You just have a very big dragon and she so much as lands in the city she would crush everything. From what I know Vhagar is picky about where she sleeps as we;ll.”

Aemond smirked. “You’re right on that.”

Rhaenyra smirked, “Perhaps it’s better she stays outside of Kings’Landing.” 

She finally descended back down to the bottom and Aemond approached her. He smirked and then kneeled. She was about to speak before he did. “My Queen, I swear my life and dragon to you.” He said softly.

Rhaenyra’s eyes sparkled. “Rise.” She whispered softly,

He did so and gently took her hand, kissing her knuckles. They stood there staring at each other for long seconds. 

Before long, Daemon returned back to the room and her and Aemond were sitting on the steps while he talked about the places he had gone on about Vhagar.

“The boat has arrived. Ser Erryk approached me and had your father’s crown, Otto had attempted to get rid of it, everything will be ready for later.” He said carefully when he approached the two of them.

Aemond watched as they took a glance at each other and then Rhaenyra smirked at Daemon.

Neither one said anything to him and he was not going to push it however. They sat in the silence of the room. 

–

Rhaenyra stood up. A servant told her that Princess Helaena had found herself in her room caring for her children. Princess Rhaenys was with her husband down at the docks, checking over the fleets she assumed. Aegon was shuffling on his feet looking like a foul. The servant said that her Aegon and Viserys were in the nursery.

Joffrey was standing besides Baela while Lucerys and Rhaena were mumbling to themselves like they thought they were being sneaky. Rhaenyra was happy to see them close. 

Daemon seemed to realize where she was looking and he pulled her into his arms. “The Throne is yours.” He whispered.

“Still feels very surreal.” She answered. 

He kissed her forehead before letting her go, placing his hand lightly on his wife’s stomach, she smiled at him when he felt the kick under his palm. “She’s eager.” She whispered.

“You are truly certain it’s a girl?” He asked softly.

Rhaenyra smiled at him and then nodded. 

–

Aemond watched from the sidelines with his brother, who was surprisingly not extremely drunk, Helaena, and her children. Rhaenyra’s dress for the coronation was absolutely beautiful.

She was the perfect image of a Targaryen Queen .

Aemond, if he was being honest, never thought that he would see this day come. They had always been brought up to believe that Aegon would get it because he was the ‘rightful’ heir. They were wrong, Aegon truly was no match for the throne. He would kill himself in wine before actually doing anything.

However, Rhaenyra with the help of Daemon and Rhaenys had the knowledge to do it. 

Aemond had noticed that a decent number of the Lords were looking at his brother, of course, they still wanted him on the throne but nothing could happen as long as Aegon and himself refused. There family had too many dragons to count - so no one would dare to go against them. 

He smiled slightly towards Rhaenyra and Aegon nudged him with a smirk, he rolled his eyes.

His mother was standing besides them watching Rhaenyra, with unshed tears in her eyes.

–

Rhaenyra inwardly smirked watching as some of the lords kneeled to her - she was sure a few of them would end up at the wall or losing their heads in a matter of time if they decided they could try something to get her killed. 

Which reminded her - she had not spoken of it to anyone but she had every intention of taking Borros’ head and whoever Otto had sent to hurt Aemond in the StormLands. 

They would not be getting away with it - Her blood boiled thinking about the fact that they had the audacity to hurt a Prince.

They should be lucky that Aemond had spared their castle.

Rhaenyra watched as Daemon put the crown on her head - officially crowning her. He knelt on the ground with a: “My Queen.”

When she sat on the throne for the first time she couldn’t help the spark of relief - it was finally hers and she would not have to hurt any of her family(at least not the ones with the Dragon’s blood).

Daemon was smiling up at her. 

“Long live The Queen!” Was all she heard in her ears

They had done it. They had succeeded and without more bloodshed than necessary. Now, she needed Borros and Otto’s heads on spikes.

–

A little later, she stood in the small council room and then smirked. “Ser Erryk.”

“Yes, your grace?” She made sure to get his attention but did not answer him right away - he seemed to catch on he wasn’t getting his order right then.

She looked over to Viserys’ small council as they drank their wine - not paying attention to her with the exception of Lord Beesbury, who was watching her and the Lords - especially the Lords. She knew. They were plotting against her, probably wishing that Otto was here at the moment. At least, she knew Larys and the Maester was.

He always was the one in charge and she was happy to inform them that Otto was captive in Dorne.

“I’m very sad - “ She said in an obviously mocked voice. “To say that Dorne has captured Lord Hand Otto Hightower - “ not for long. “He won’t be coming back to help your scheming - at least not as a free man.”

This made everyone’s tension rise and she only smirked. “Take Lord Larys and Maester Orwyle to the Black cells.” She said 

They all tried to talk and defend themselves but Rhaenyra was not listening to it. They had been in power for way too long.

“Make sure Lord Corlys knows that he is welcomed to come back to court as Lord of Ships, also inform Princess Rhaenys I would like to speak to her, privately.” Lord Beesbury nodded, looking completely and utterly relieved with the fact that the green lords were gone.

It had never taken her long to realize what Otto Hightower had been trying to do and finally being able to get rid of him felt great.

She had every intention of having Syrax burn him alive - she might have to burn down Hightower as a warning - treason would not be tolerated.

Lord Beesbury jumped out of his seat and disappeared. 

She turned to look at Tyland and they stared at each other. He sat stiffly, “My Queen - “

“Are you planning on going to against me?” She asked tilting her head. “You were never… fond with the idea that I rejected your brother... but I do not think you are quite as foolish as to go against me when you first found out my brother, Aegon, had disappeared.”

Lord Tyland stood up, nodding in agreement.. “Of course not - “ He said quickly and defensively. “I swore to you I would never go against what your father, the King, wanted. I did not raise my banners against or for you.” He admitted. “I was just making sure that the Ironborn did not try anything while Otto was away and you, your grace, were not here to claim the throne.”

Rhaenyra smirked at him slowly. “Good,” She said softly. “I really did not want to burn more people then I had to.”

Tyland looked at her as if she was insane and she waved her hand to dismiss him. “You will keep your place here at court - assuming you do not try to betray me. Then I would have to send you away.”

“Of course, your grace.” He said with a bow before he all but ran out of the room, he cared about his position far more then who sat the throne. 

She knew that Corlys was likely done with his ships right now, she knew that the family wanted to get back to Driftmark. 

She wasn’t sure what her cousin wanted to do though - she figured she probably wanted to find her son and she had no intention of stopping her. 

If anything, she wanted Rhaenys to be happy again - she loved her grandchildren - Rhaenyra knew but she never got over her children’s death. A parent should never have to bury their own child - let alone two within the span of a week or so. 

Rhaenyra hoped that she could do her some justice by informing her.

If anything, it would be better that Laenor just come back altogether. 

Because she knew it would be better for their family. None of the Lords could say anything.

Their marriage was easily annulled -  it was one of the first things she did once she stepped into this room as Queen.

The fact that she and Daemon had married in the tradition of their house completely overran her marriage to Laenor - no matter what the Lords and Ladies would try and say. To the Targaryens, their faith in their own Gods was so much more important than the Sept’s.

She heard someone enter the room and turned - slightly surprised by the presence of Aemond, she had been expecting Daemon but he was likely at the Dragonpit. Despite the grown dragons being completely freed, dancing in the skies and rooming the skies of King'Landings and the oceans, they still had a number of young ones that needed to be carefully watched. Healena’s twins’ dragons and her Aegon’s dragon were still really young and needed to be take care of wisely. 

Daemon and the Dragonkeepers could do it perfectly.

“Prince Aemond.” She said, a smile playing on her lips.

“Queen Rhaenyra.” He smirked. “You’re stunning.” He said softly, looking her up and down.

“You are only too kind,” She said softly, moving towards the balcony and looking out at Kings’Landing. She was finally queen. It felt horrible knowing that her father was dead, but great to know that she was sitting on the throne and her siblings didn’t need to be killed for treason. They had come and bent the knee.

She was still surprised by the fact that Aemond had, it was the most surprising one of them all. Aegon did not want to be king, Helaena had never cared, Aemond - however, had always seemed to believe and cling to his mother's every word. 

Rhaenyra didn’t say anything for a long while but she knew that he had not left. 

“Prince Aemond.” She spoke finally, turning to look him in the eye.

Her brother didn’t say anything for a long second, he was suspicious of what she could be asking of him and she could not blame him.

She had thought long and hard on this - Daemon and Aemond got along well enough - and had decided that it was worth asking. Daemon had said that it would be good for them - Daemon really seemed to forget about the Hightower blood in her siblings which she was grateful for. It would only tie their family closer - showing the Realm that they would not be torn apart. Not to mention, she had grown for Aemond... even in the short time he had been with them.

Rhaenyra was pretty sure he was still a little angry at her for sparing Alicent after everything she had done to her.

“Your grace?” He finally answered, his eye searching her face. 

She stepped back into the room from the balcony and approached him slowly, though she still kept a distance. 

“Marriage.” She said softly. “Your thoughts?”

Aemond seemed to be very ready to protest - she recognized the look -  the fear of being sent away. The same look that had been on her face all those years ago. It did not show much emotion but she could still see it.

“Your grace - really…” He said softly. “I have no need for it.”

“I have no plan on sending you away.” She said quickly, reassuring him. “That would probably just end up with my death.”

Aemond shook his head. “No, I do not want to be marked as a Kinslayer.” he answered and she smirked. “You are in charge of the family.” He bowed his head.

“Good.” she smirked. “However, I will not force you to marry.” She never said she wouldn’t ask something about it.

When he nodded a sigh of relief, she smirked. “How would I feel about being my second husband -  “ Aemond stared at her and started to talk before she continued. “The Realm would be unable to he weaknesses.” The three headed dragon. Unspoken words

Aemond was at a loss of words and looked a little closed off. She really hoped he would not close himself off entirely. 

She grabbed the papers from her small council seat and then handed them over to him. “Remember, you can say no.” She said slowly and then kissed his cheek sweetly. “Now, I must go find out where Syrax decided she was going to nest.”

Chapter Text

The next day, Daemon walked up to her as she approached the dragonpit with a proud smile on his lips. “What happened?”

“Syrax laid a clutch.” He said proudly.

To the gods, how she loves this man. “Call Rhaena.” She said softly before walking away.

Daemon was only too happy to comply with her request.

She had promised Rhaena some time ago that she could have an egg from Syrax’ next clutch and she had no intention of going back on her word.

She approached Syrax, who apparently found home in the dragonpit for now, likely because she knew that the eggs would be safest here.

She walked up to her she-dragon and kissed her snout. “ You did amazing, my lovely… ”

She was protectively curled around the clutch, three eggs. Syrax gave a happy chirp and she crouched down beside her dragon, minding carefully not to disturb her own young.

Syrax then gently pushed an egg towards her. “ For the baby? ” She dared ask despite knowing the clear answer to that. Syrax chirped again in an agreement, nudging her stomach lightly. She smiled, “We’ll make sure that Daemon keeps this extra warm."

“I will do what?” Daemon’s voice came down from the entrance of Syrax’ room - cave. 

“Syrax has decided that this is the egg for our Viserya.” She said softly, looking down at her stomach

Daemon then nodded, the she-dragon letting him approach. “Okay, then I promise to keep this warm, sweet dragon. ” He said, Syrax was glaring at him as if daring him to not do that.

Rhaena was right behind Daemon and approached, though keeping a distance. 

Rhaenyra looked at Syrax and the dragon remained calm, watching Rhaena. “Come here, Rhaena.” She said softly, holding out her hand. 

Rhaena complied, taking Rhaenyra's hand, and Syrax never snapped. Her daughter stopped for a moment before she crouched down besides the eggs, she did not touch them. Syrax, however, moved and nudged one over to her, Rhaena smiled happily. The egg was a pale-pink with silver.

If Rhaenyra was being honest, she was not sure she had ever seen the girl this happy. “Thank you so much ‘Nyra.” She whispered softly, holding the egg close. 

She smiled and kissed the girl’s forehead. “I am sure you father will help you put it up properly with Viserya’s egg.”

Rhaena’s eyes lit up looking over at her golden lady, “She already chose for the baby?”

Rhaenyra nodded. “Syrax is quite smart.”

Rhaena stood up, holding the egg closely and Rhaenyra pulled herself off of the ground, Daemon grabbed what would be Viserya’s egg and she grabbed Syrax’s last egg. 

Daemon left before she did. Rhaenyra ran her hand over her dragon's scales. “ They will be very happy. ” She said softly to her dragon, Syrax purred in response pushing her head against Rhaenyra’s body softly.

She laughed and left her dragon to rest. 

–

It was not even 3 days after they returned to Kings’Landing that Jacaerys was returned. 

Rhaenyra knew that it would take much longer for him to get back then the other two but it had still worried her greatly. 

It was not even light out yet when he returned but nonetheless Vermax decided he wanted to be more or less loud, they would be lucky if their was anyone actually being asleep after Vermax circled the city with happy roars. Rhaenyra met him when he finally got to the Red Keep from the dragonpit. 

“Mother,” he said softly.

She smiled at him, she was honestly happy that he hadn’t used her official title. “Jace.” She whispered and hugged him, she couldn’t help it.

Jace was only too happy to return it. She seemed to notice that he was just as glad to be home - crazy, that the Red Keep was their home again, it had not truly been her home since before her mother died - as she was. “Did you enjoy yourself?”

“Yes.” He smiled. “It was quite cold down there though, Vermax did not like it very much but he did not leave me so that’s a good sign. Lord Rickon promised complete support, they really aren't too pleased about the idea of going against their oaths.”

She chuckled and let him go. She loved him, she felt proud of herself for raising him, “You did great,” She kissed his forehead, it was too early for many people to be up and moving, excluding the QueenGuards so no one paid any mind. “You smell of dragon.” She said with a smirk.

“At least it is not of sheep.” He said before he gave her one last hug and became down the halls, going to the room that had always been his she figured. 

Daemon found her later that day sitting in the garden, gently stroking her stomach.

“It’s almost time for their trials.” he said softly, standing over her. She could hear the excitement in his voice. She knew that he had only waited years for this very moment, having been trying to get rid of the accused for as long as her father had reigned. 

However much she loved her father, he had been weak. He had nearly destroyed their family and the only reason it didn’t happen was that her brother had the brains to come and submit to her before anything absolutely horrific happened, she did not even want to think about what that could have been. 

Like him being forced to be crowned. 

She shuddered at that thought, she really didn’t want to think about how terrible things could have gone. 

Daemon helped her up and they headed for the dragonpit. She had every intention of feeding Otto to Syrax… but perhaps she would let the Hightower family have his head. Dorne had very kindly given him to them yesterday, their unstable peace remained.

Borros Baratheon and the guards that had survived Prince Aemond’s attack were here as well - she was going to speak to her brother about what he wanted done to them. They had hurt him and that was not acceptable. 

–

“You can execute Lord Baratheon here for the treason - however, can I take his head?” Aemond said carefully, as he was thinking. 

Rhaenyra had decided to ask this right before she was about to call out Lord Otto, Larys and Maester Orwyle. 

She found it funny that Borros had went against her because she was a women but he had no male heirs, meaning his oldest daughter would be taking over the house with her mother by her side.

“I want to feed the useless guards - “ They had figured out that a good number of the guards that had been sent had either been lowborn or without family all together. She didn’t care for that though, they had tried to hurt Aemond. They could be sent to the wall or killed, Aemond did not like the idea of letting them live though. She realized that Otto had known exactly what he was doing - if any of them died they couldn’t do anything to hurt him in retaliation - who would still be hand of the king if Aegon had been crowned. They did not need to know Rhaenyra had been the one to kill them though. “- to Vhagar, burn them alive for thinking that it was okay to hurt a royal.” 

Treason was treason.

And no one betrayed the House of the Dragon and got away with it.

Aemond seemed pretty determined, she was pretty sure that he would just kill them on their way to the wall though if she let them live.

Rhaenyra smirked at him. “Good.” She said, “You can have them.” She said before walking over to Ser Erryk and telling him to leave the guards in the Black Cells but to bring the others out for trials. 

She had gladly replaced the traitorous maester with the one from Dragonstone - whom Daemon and she trusted completely. She didn’t trust the citadel at all… she needed to look into more of that. 

She stepped up to where Syrax was - she was restless. Caraxes was near Daemon - looking as ready as Daemon was to crush these andals that had had too much power for far to long. Syrax - she knew - could feel her riders anger and Rhaenyra knew she was all too happy to burn them alive. 

She watched over the crowd, smirking slightly. Everything was good - she was Queen and she didn’t have to kill any of her family members.

The title Kinslayer was not something to be proud of. Otto did not and would not count.

She called out for the 4 people. 

“Lord Otto,” She said, starting at him. “You are here being accused of treason - “

“I never did such a thing.” Otto spat out. 

She raised an eyebrow. “Do you deny it?” She motioned one of the handmaidens up and the girl handed her several letters that had been passed around - especially between a few specific Citadel members and the Lord Hand on her father’s small council. She had his chambers searched and they had found them last night.

“I mean - from what Ser Erryk and Ser Harrold found… these have been going on for years. Before my father was even King.” She said slowly. She had read every single one of them and her dragon in her was very much awake. “You poisoned my mother, the late kind Queen Aemma, and then started poisoning King Viserys’ right before her death. With the help of your Grand Maester Mellos, of course.” She said. 

“Do you deny it?” She asked with an inward smirk. 

Otto didn’t respond, this dude really held on. Refusing to reduce himself to complete defeat. He finally spoke. “Princess - I never did such a thing. I would never betray the crown!” He said helplessly. He turned his eyes towards his daughter and grandchildren (excluding Helaena) pleadingly. Alicent was looking at him with hatred and pity. Rhaenyra was happy to see that. “Daughter - “

Alicent shook her head and turned away, Aemond moved towards her and hugged his mother. Aegon stood awkwardly, like he always did.

“Otto Hightower, you were never going to win. You messed up letting your ‘pawns’ - “ she did not like referring to them as that but she was sure that was the word Otto would understand. “ - spin out of your control. I am quite proud they managed it though. You never truly cared about them.” Otto did not deny it and it looked like Alicent was going to cry even as she stared daggers at her father. 

“Maester Orwyle, do you deny knowing about what Grand Maester Mellos did to my mother or the King? Do you deny continuing the process Maester Mellos left?” 

Orwyle seemed to realize he was not going to win because he just started speaking. “It was for the best.” The 3 people were glaring at him, Borros did not seem to actually care. “A women should not sit on the throne it is a complete disgrace to tradition.”

“Well, Maester Orwyle, Lord Otto, Lord Larys - “ She said slowly with a little smirk. “Sometimes tradition needs to be broken.”

“Lord Borros,” Rhaenys had told her that he clearly did not hold the same respect for them as his father did - she was right because he looked at her like he did not do anything wrong. “Do you deny listening to Otto Hightower and attacking Prince Aemond when he came to you as a messenger?” He couldn't deny it, considering the amount of witnesses.

“He came into my castle with that dragon! Threatening my home and bringing up what your disturbing family has done for us!”

Rhaenyra wanted to laugh but she did not - she heard Daemon chuckle behind her, which startled her a bit because she had completely forgotten about his presence. He had been very quiet.

Rhaenyra finally turned to Larys - they were glaring at each other. She hated this man as much as she hated Otto Hightower. “Lord Larys…” She said slowly. “You have been accused of treason and kinslaying.” Larys’ eyes twitched at that - him killing Lyonal and Harwin had given him everything. She was about to take that away. “Do you deny it? Lady Alicent admitted to knowing you plotted Lord Lyonal and Lord Harwin's death.”

“My queen…” He managed to hide the disrespect in his voice but his eyes said everything. “I would never do anything to directly hurt my family.”

“But you would not call this directly hurting them because you did not lay a hand on them. You set the fire and then used the ‘curse’ that is rumored around Harrahall to get your way.” She said carefully, Larys’ eyes widening slightly. “So do you deny it?” Larys seemed to realize no matter what he would say he would not win. Alicent had betrayed him, the only one that knew the truth. 

“I, Rhaenyra Targaryen, first of my name, Queen of the Andals and Rhoynar and the first men, Lady of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm, hereby sentence Maester Orywle to the Wall to live out his days at the Wall as their Maester - “ She turned her eyes to the other three. “Lord Borros, Lord Larys, and Lord Otto you all have been sentenced to death by beheading.”

A couple of her Queensguards came for Maester Orywle while Prince Aemond stepped up towards them but did not approach Rhaenyra or Daemon. 

Daemon, it seemed, took great pleasure in finally being about to remove Otto Hightower’s head from his body - Rhaenyra had seen the look of relief in his eyes… they would never be safe if he had been sentenced to the Wall. 

Rhaenyra would have gladly beheaded Larys herself had she not suddenly felt extremely tired and wore out so she just watched with inward happiness. Daemon seemed to notice so he took Larys head, smiling a twisted Daemon "The Rouge Prince" Targaryen smile at her and kneeling in the ground with both heads rolling. “My Queen.”

Rhaenyra smirked at him with a glint in her eyes despite her tiredness and looked over at Aemond, she gestured for him to step up. 

Borros looked at Aemond in disgust. “Her little puppy indeed.” Aemond’s eye twitched in anger and he did not hesitate to swing his sword and the head went rolling, he stared at it with satisfaction. 

–

Daemon laid her on the bed gently, after removing her clothes and gently running his hands over her sensitive skin, mumbling to their child. He brought her into a passionate kiss.

Rhaenyra had refused to move to into her father’s old room, refusing it completely, she could not do it, at least not yet so they remained in another room. It was slightly bigger then her original room. Daemon pulled off of her.

“I love you,” She whispered softly, looking up meeting his slightly lighter shade of lilac eyes.

Daemon pushed a strand of her silver hair out of her face with a smile. “I love you, little dragon. ”

—

Rhaenyra was up, her baby was restless so she found her way to the nursery where Viserys and Maelor slept peacefully in separate cradles but next to each other. They had taken a liking to each other.

The best start was the smallest of children getting along.

She smiled down at the children and sighed softly.

Everything felt right, for once in a very long time, everything felt completely right. Her family would be safe - including her siblings and their. 

Alicent should no longer be a problem and she could stay with her children as she pleased - Rhaenyra was not going to send her to Oldtown. She feared that Alicent may not be safe there, if she was being honest.

She had put together that Hobert Hightower was likely in on the plots as were the Citadel and Alicent had failed them the second Aegon had run away and joined her. Now, Otto Hightower was dead. 

Rhaenyra sighed softly, she was planning on burning Hightower to the ground - hopefully it would stop anyone from trying to rebel against them. The Citadel could never be trusted - she had not trusted them since her mother’s death. Now she believed that they had been poisoning Targaryen’s since Aegon conquered the seven kingdoms. They were angered by it.

Which was not any easy thought. She gently ran her had over Viserys’ head and kissed his forehead.

–

It was sometime later that Rhaenyra managed to return to her chambers and get some rest, Daemon holding her close.

It was barely light out when knocking was on the door. Daemon sighed softly, leaving a soft kiss on her hair and standing up. He put his clothes on quickly and opened the door. 

“Father! Nyra!” Rhaena’s voice sounded as she pushed herself into their chamber, she turned to look over at Rhaenyra with a big smile. “My egg!” She said excitedly.

Rhaenyra cracked a big smile and got out of bed. Daemon helping her briefly. 

Rhaena had insisted on moving their egg closer to her after Syrax had given it to her. She and the egg had nearly been inseparable. Rhaenyra loved it and she could not wait till she had a dragon of her own.

She fully believed that this egg would not grow cold.

Daemon led Rhaenyra to Rhaena’s chambers.

–

They entered and Rhaena was crouched over the cracking egg and Rhaenyra sat down besides her. “Rhaena.” She said softly, “Pick it up.”

Rhaena did as she was told, gently picking it out of its heating chamber, and held it close to her, stroking the egg softly and the egg cracked fully and there was a baby dragon in Rhaena’s lap. The smile she had was so big and happy it nearly made Rhaenyra cry. 

The dragon was a tiny pale pink dragon with touches of black and silver on her horns and wings. “What are you going to name her?” Rhaenyra asked softly as the tiny dragon looked up at Rhaena and gave a tiny noise before curling up in the young girl's lap. 

Rhaena looked briefly at Rhaenyra and her father before looking at the dragon, asleep in her lap. “Morning!” She said happily and Rhaenyra leaned forward slightly, kissing the top of her head. 

“I think it’s a beautiful name, it suits her quite well,” Rhaenyra said, she looked over at her uncle who was smiling at them both and then placed himself down besides Rhaenyra and Rhaena moved to curl up with them.

Daemon leaned over to kiss Rhaena on the forehead before kissing Rhaenya’s. 

“She will grow up to be a very strong dragon, as you are.” Daemon said softly, staring down at the sleeping dragon with a proud look.

“I will have to introduce her to Baela and Luke!” She said excitedly.

“Yes, you will.” Daemon said. “They will be up soon.”

He stood up and stepped out of their daughters room briefly, requesting for the children’s presence when they woke up. Rhaena curled up and leaned against Rhaenyra. 

Morning woke up briefly to the movement and crawled a little closer to Rhaenyra in Rhaena’s lap before nuzzling Rhaenyra’s stomach. “Even baby dragons are smart little things,” She said softly and Rhaena laughed softly. 

“We will have another baby dragon running around soon.” Daemon said softly, returning to them on the floor with Rhaena in the middle of them. 

Baela and Jace were the first ones to arrive and Baela hurried over to her sister. “Your dragon!”

“Yes,” Rhaena said excitedly and gently got up out of Rhaenyra and Daemon’s embrace. She held the small dragon in her hands and stood up. 

“It’s only a matter of years before I can ride her.” Rhaena was extremely excited, she could not wait for that day and they all knew it. “Luke! Look!” She said running over to her future husband with Morning in her hands.

Luke grinned. “She’s beautiful.” He said softly and Rhaena let the dragon hop up on her shoulder before pulling him into a hug. 

“I agree.” She said and pulled away slightly. “I will have to introduce her the other young dragons.” She whispered.

Rhaenyra laughed softly and got up. “Not quite yet, you should keep her around for a bit. You and her will have an amazing bond I am certain. Syrax will want to met her.” She said softly, gently stroking Morning and the dragon purred, flapping her wings a bit. 

Then Rhaena moved towards the door, “I have to show grandfather and grandmother!” She said. 

Rhaenyra motioned for the others to get out. “Perhaps, get ready for the day and we can go visit Lord Corlys and Princess Rhaenys, I am sure he is resting.”

Rhaena nodded and then they left her to get read as a few maids slipped into to help. Daemon approached her while their other kids headed for the dinner room to break their fast. “Thank you, Rhaenyra.”

“For what?” She said softly, their eyes meeting.

Daemon chuckled. “I have never seen her so happy Rhaenyra and you did that by giving her what she always wanted.”

“I did not do anything. That was completely Syrax and her own’s doing.” 

Daemon chuckled and then took her arm and they headed towards the dining room. 

–

Aemond watched the skies as he flew over Kings’Landing and the Blackwater Bay on Vhagar thinking to himself. Rhaenyra’s offer sat in his mind and he had done nothing but think about it. Rhaenyra had not brought it up again - which he was grateful for. 

He enjoyed knowing that he really had a choice in this but of course, he should not be surprised. Rhaenyra was the complete opposite of everything that his mother had claimed her to be.

He shook his head at the reminder of what Otto, his grandsire, had done to his family and the pain he had caused Rhaenyra’s side of the family.

His father had been weak, too weak to rule. It was honestly stupid that he thought that Otto was just a friend and not scheming to take everything the second he drew his last breath.

Criston, or Crispin, which is what Daemon enjoyed saying had completely disappeared. No one knew where he went and Aemond supposed that he ran away because he knew he would likely be killed or sent to the Wall should Rhaenyra get her hands on him. He laughed at that thought, he would deserve it. Aemond hated Crispin, he was annoying and clingy to his mother and just spat whatever bullshit he wanted. His mother should not have allowed him such freedom. No Kingsguards should be given such freedom.

He also did not like the fact that his mother had completely dismissed the fact that Criston had killed someone in cold blood at a wedding, his father was weak. 

Aemond shook his head and his mind went back to Rhaenyra.

He had heard that earlier this morning Rhaena had a baby dragon now. One of Syrax’ new clutch. Their family was so perfect and happy while his was just now getting something good out of it - they had always been torn and separated. He and Helaena had only ever really had each other - Aegon too busy drinking and whoring. 

Aemond had closed off a bit, he had not seen much of Rhaenyra or Daemon since she was crowned and they killed Otto, Larys, and sent the Maester away. The Maester from Dragonstone arrived to take over his place as Daemon did not and would not trust anyone else with his family’s wellbeing.

Not to mention the fact that the last Maesters had all but butchered Rhaenyra’s mother for a boy heir that did not live more then a couple hours from what he had heard, such acts horrified him if he was being honest. 

He did not exactly know how he felt entirely about Rhaenyra’s offer. It would, however, bring their families even closer together. He supposed. He had also noticed the way Daemon watched him when he was not watching Rhaenyra. It made him feel hot inside and the time he spent with Rhaenyra was everything to him. He had never had the chance to bond with her - he was glad that he had surrender. 

Everyone was safe and alive. 

He landed and claimed off of Vhagar and started walking back to the castle, in thought. 

–

Aemond was caught off guard when Daemon was standing at the entrance to the Red Keep, waiting for him, they were alone in the courtyard. 

“Have you thought about what my wife asked you?”

Aemond gaped at him, “You are really fine with this?”

“Of course I am,” He said with a shrug. “She is Queen, she can do as she chooses and you would be better off as ours then with some Lady in one of the seven kingdoms,”

“Ours?” He said and then blinked.

Daemon chuckled. “Surely, you did not think only Rhaenyra wanted you?”

Aemond stared at him and then blinked before feeling himself go red slightly. “I - “

“This is not some trick. My wife is quite fond of you…” Daemon said softly. “Do not use it against her.” Aemond did not miss the slight regret that he heard in Daemon’s voice but he did not ask about it. 

Aemond nodded. “I am still thinking.” He said a bit stiffly and Daemon smirked before pulling him into some training. Training with Daemon was a whole lot more enjoyable than ever training with Crispin. 

–

Aegon walked into the room where his sister-wife and his children were curled asleep and felt a smile go onto his face. He felt happy and content. Not something he was very used to.

Not since he was a small child old enough to understand that Rhaenyra was going to kill them if he did not do what his mother and grandsire said.

He realized that was a lie.

He was glad it was a lie.

He would have done everything in his power to protect his family but he could not stand the idea of having to take the crown, so he decided that he was just going to run off the second that he heard a few maids mumbling about his father’s death. How they found out, he did not care.

He had shook his head, had Alicent really expected the two maids to keep quiet, they never did.

When he realized it was true, upon sneaking into his father's chambers and managed to get out of the castle, and took off with Sunfyre, telling the Dragonkeeper that caught him not to speak until directly asked. 

He had very calmly told Rhaenyra about their father’s death and then dropped to his knees begging for his life and family. She promised they would be protected as long as they surrendered themselves so he sat and prayed to the gods for hours on end before Aemond showed up.

He knew, as the others, that Otto was not coming out of this alive. Though, he had not known about how badly he had been in it all. 

He was honestly satisfied with the idea that Otto was gone and could no longer hurt or threaten him or any of their family again. He could tell that his mother was trying to be there for them and he did not exactly know how to feel. He just hoped she stayed that way and did not try anything. 

He loved his mother, despite everything and did not want to see her sent away or killed. Helaena had told him about her asking to kill Rhaenyra and they decided that they might just have to tell Rhaenyra, just to make sure. 

Helaena woke and spotted Aegon standing over them, moved her hands out and grabbed onto his and he smiled a bit bigger. “Get down here.” She whispered softly, making sure not to wake the children and he just chuckled softly. “Of course,” He said and crawled down onto the other side of the bed, their hands intertwined and resting over their sleeping children. 

He was content here.

He was happy here.

His entire family was alive. Everything was perfect.

–

The return from the King’s Funeral was an easy affair for the most part. Rhaenyra was glad they had managed to get him off to Dragonstone and burn in the tradition of their house before the Septon took him. 

She made sure that his ashes were placed right where she wanted them, with her mother and baby brother, Queen Aemma and Prince Baelon. 

“My queen - “ Alicent whispered softly, stepping up beside her. 

“Alicent.” She said softly. She did not want to use ‘Dowager Queen’, she did not want to provoke anything because truly she wanted Alicent here, her siblings wanted Alicent here. If she tried anything, she would not succeed. Also, calling her ‘Dowager Queen’ did not feel right on Rhaenyra’s tongue, it sounded like nothing but an insult right now, so she was avoiding it. 

“I am sorry.” She said softly.

Rhaenyra briefly remembers the one time she had stepped in the Sept with Alicent, she had never found any comfort in the gods, she had found complete comfort in Alicent’s presence, everything about her calmed Rhaenyra, or well it did. Before her life just went to shit.

She was honestly glad that they now had the opportunity to find peace. If their families worked together, it would be much better for the House of the Dragon.  

“I wish we could have stayed friends.” Alicent continues.

“As do I,” Rhaenyra said, but she knows that it was mainly her fault. For hating Alicent and then lying - kinda - that was not reallt lying because Daemon never fucked her in that pleasure house. “It would be better that we have a somewhat tolerable friendship.” She said softly, turning to the women.

She knew that Alicent was just as affected by the King’s death as her. Alicent may not have been in love with him, she had grown to love him in her own way. She had seen the way Alicent was crying and staring at the flames, watching as Syrax set fire to their pyre. 

Rhaenyra stood there and could not help the fact that her mind went back to the day she had done this with her mother. Thinking about everything that had changed since then. She was sure her ancestors were not at all happy with her father’s choices - had they not managed to avoid bloodshed it could have been the complete destruction of their house.

Alicent nodded, eyes shining with unshed tears. Rhaenyra walked away not saying anything else. 

–

“Princess Rhaenys!” Rhaenyra said, catching up to her before she left on Meleys.

“Your grace?” She asked, respectably.

Rhaenyra smiled. “Would you except my offer if I ask you to became my hand when you return from Pentos?” She asked.

Rhaenys smirked slightly. “Are you sure the King consort will not hate me for the rest of entirety if I do such a thing?”

Rhaenyra laughed. “No, he likely will not join me in any council meetings if he does not have too. You were grown up to be Queen… you have more knowledge then most of us.”

“You flatter me, Rhaenyra.” Rhaenys said softly and then moved over to her, still smirking. “I would love too, when I return. What do you plan on doing with Laenor?”

“Well,” They were completely alone, only the Dragonkeepers were around tending to the baby dragons. “You guys have your heir for Driftmark - our marriage was annulled, not to mention my and Daemon’s wedding overruns mine with Laenor -" Because she did not care about the Septon's opinion on this. She cared for nothing but her families happiness. " - he is free to return to Driftmark, he will still be your heir unless Lord Corlys decides against it. I will gladly go against anyone that tries to get in the way.” She paused. “Does he know?” He wanted to make sure she did not say anything she was not supposed to.

“No,” Rhaenys admitted. “I am not sure how he will react. He was never quite supportive of Laenor’s choices…” She drew that out. “I will not leave him angry. That could only bring weakness to our families. I have told him that I will be back eventually.”

Rhaenyra nodded. “Princess Rhaenys.” She said right as the women claimed onto Meleys’ back.

“My Queen?” 

“Stay safe.”

“Of course, your grace.” She said with a smirk and then took off. 

Chapter Text

Aemond watched as Rhaenyra stood looking out Kings’Landing from the balcony in the small council room. He knew she had heard him enter but had not said anything. They remained in an peaceful silence for quite a while. 

“How has Alicent been treating you?” She asked, not looking back at him.

“Mother is trying.” Aemond would give her that but none of them were exactly opening up to her. None of them trusted her. Helaena still flinched when she got close, Aegon would just avoid her completely, Aemond stood there and stiffly let her hug him or get close. “She realizes how wrong it was for her to just assume that you would kill us all.”

Rhaenyra did not say anything and still remained watching the skies - several of their dragons were flying around. From what he could see from where he was standing Caraxes, Syrax, Arrax, and Vermax were in the skies circling each other and Kings'Landing.

He had noticed that Princess Rhaenys had left the day before, he did not ask questions though.

“Good,” She finally said. “Have you thought about my proposal?” She asked, this was the first time she, herself, had brought it up after letting him look at the official, yet unsigned, papers.

It was only a few days since that of Daemon himself had brought it up. Were they getting impatient? Dragons never did like waiting.

“Do you actually want me?” He said slowly, going stiff. “Or is this just another show to the seven Kingdoms that we’re a perfectly bonded family?” He could not help the memories of his mother insisting the the queer natures of Targaryen’s was the definition of wrong. Despite being the hypocrite she was. 

Rhaenyra finally turned to him, tilting her head. “Is that what you really think?” She asked. “I do not care what the Realm thinks. Our family is as strong as ever, Aemond.” She whispered softly. “Daemon and myself will not force you into it, if you truly do not wish for it but I do wish for you to be at my side now and for the rest of our lives. Our family will never be completely perfect but we have each other.” She said softly, taking his hand and gently squeezing it. “I know Daemon spoke to you the other day and what he said to you is very much true.” 

He nodded slowly before dropping his head slightly with a low sigh, Rhaenyra pulled him into a hug. One he realized he needed very much. 

–

Rhaenyra stood inside her father’s rooms, finally having the courage to pick up Aegon’s blade, she watched it in the fire. She should have grabbed it the day they got here but she just could not. Her eyes looking over the words - rereading them multiple times over. 

She was alone, which she was grateful for. She took a deep breath.

Then, there was a knock on the door. She did not respond at first and then said: “Come.”

The door opened, Alicent walked in, closing the door behind her. “Your Grace.” 

“Yes, Lady Alicent?” She said softly, letting the blade sit in the fire and turned to her old friend.

“When Viserys… was speaking to me, the night he died.” She stepped closer, slowly, hesitant on how Rhaenyra would take it - she assumed. 

Rhaenyra did not stop her as she watched her old friend. She wanted - dearly - to be on good terms with the women. For Alicent’s children’s sake. “What did he say that led you to believe that Aegon should be king?” She wondered if Viserys had said something to Alicent on accident not knowing it was Alicent or if she had completely made it up to get what she wanted - or well, what Otto had wanted. 

Alicent did not get much closer, "The Prince that was Promised…" she whispered softly and Rhaenyra tensed up, meeting her eyes.

"That's what he said to you?" Rhaenyra said slowly. Her breath catching in her throat, had Aegon not chose to come to her... she did not want to think about it.

"Aegon… was the Prince that was Promised." Alicent answered, looking at her with confused eyes. 

Rhaenyra shook her head, it was honestly hilarious thinking about her brother as the possible Prince that was Promised. It did not sit right with her. She shook her head. "He was referring to a Prophecy... of a Dream… that Aegon had… that led him to conquering the seven kingdoms." She said softly and then looked over at Alicent. "Swear to me that you will tell no one else." She said.

"I swear to the seven, my queen," she bowed her head, looking more respectful then she had ever seen her.

Rhaenyra smiled softly. "Thank you, Lady Alicent."

They would never be close like they once were but they could make things much better.

Alicent looked down at her stomach, eyes lighting up a bit. "I can not wait to properly meet her," 

They could put the past behind them. Even if some actions could never be forgiven.

Rhaenyra laughed softly. "Yes," she whispered looking down at her stomach, stroking softly. "I can't either, Daemon is quite excited. Syrax already picked an egg."

Alicent cracked a slight smile at Rhaenyra and Rhaenyra's breath caught in her throat again. That was the first true smile at her in almost 15 years. "I should be going," Alicent had softly. 

She nodded. "Good night, Lady Alicent." She bowed her head.

Alicent bowed her own. "Good night, my queen."   

—

Aemond knocked on the door softly to Lady Rhaena's rooms. The Golden Cloak, assigned by Daemon, he was sure, stared at him. Clearly not sure if he trusted him, Aemond rolled his eyes. 

Rhaena opened the door, pale pink dragon on her shoulder. "Prince Aemond," she said softly. 

Aemond sighed. "Perhaps, we can speak, Lady Rhaena?" He asked, and basically unasked question of: "Can I come in?"

Rhaena turned to look at the guard. "Of course, Prince Aemond." She said, letting him in. She nodded at the guard briefly and closing the door. 

"Lady Rhaena - " Aemond started.

"Get to the point, please." She said, moving towards the lit fire where the baby dragon, Aemond, had heard that she named it Morning, crawled down and curled close to the fire. 

"I wanted to apologize… for the night at Driftmark. I can tell that is one of the things making you and your sister, Lady Baela, ignore me." Aemond said, if he was going to marry Rhaenyra, he wanted to make up with her children, by blood or no. Baela and Rhaena were also Daemon's. 

He just knew he needed to make up with them.

"It is no more your fault then ours, we should have never attacked you," Rhaena answered, not looking over at him.

"Yet, you still fear that I will attack you or one of the others that were involved." 

Rhaena did not deny it, she did not say anything, in fact. "Luke and Jace tolerate you, they trust 'Nyra." She agreed. "I called you a thief that night, I accused you of stealing Vhagar, you can not steal a dragon, certainly not one that big." 

Aemond moved closer to Rhaena and the girl tensed up. "Your mind was clouded with grief, I should not have taken Vhagar like that, not the night of your mother, Lady Laena's, funeral, nor should I have threatened to feed each other you to Vhagar. They were cruel words and for that I am sorry. I do not regret claiming Vhagar." He added though.

"Good," Rhaena said softly. "She would not have choose you if she did not believe you worthy of her."

Aemond smiled a little. "No, she would not have," he agreed. "Lady - "

"Do not bother with the titles in private." She said, with a slightly annoyed tone in her voice and Aemond chuckled, titles were annoying things.

"Rhaena," she finally looked at him. "I promise to you that I will not hurt you, Jace, Luke, or Baela, I do not wish harm on any of you." 

Rhaena smiled slightly and nodded. "Thank you, Aemond." She seemed to genuinely believe him and he was glad. "I have found my dragon," she said softly. "As you found your dragon in Vhagar." 

"Morning?" Aemond asked.

"Yes," Rhaena nodded, the dragon crawled back into her hands and she stood up, walking towards him. "She had me up quite early." She chuckled. 

"Ahh, dragons are very unpredictable,"

"We love them anyway."

—

"Lady Baela," Aemond had finally found her, she was outside witch Moondancer, clearly ready to take off. 

"Prince Aemond," she said a bit stiff. 

"I do not wish to hurt you," Aemond said.

"I do not wish you harm either," Baela agreed back softly, running her hands over Moondancer's scales. The pale-green dragon purring under her touch, relaxed.

Aemond took it as a sign that Baela's dragon trusted him.

Baela seemed to catch on too, because she turned to him. Aemond was fairly certain this was the first time she had truly looked at him since he had appeared on Dragonstone. "You already went to my sister and now me. What are you trying to do that would require you to be on good terms with us?"

So Rhaena told her. At least they were close. Aemond smiled slightly. "I do not think that is my thing to tell."

Baela's eyes darkened slightly at the challenge of finding out.

—

"My queen," Aemond greeted with when entered the throne room.

Rhaenyra was talking to a few if her Lords that were in court that she was about to send off. She dismissed them and then they were alone. 

"Prince Aemond," 

"Where is Prince Daemon?" He asked softly.

"Flying with Jace and Baela." She answered.

Aemond figured that she was probably getting tired, he eyed her stomach, it was a little less than a moon at this point that her new babe would enter the world. “Are you alright?” He asked softly, standing in front of her.

“Yes,” She answered easily. “Just  a bit exhausted.”

“I can only imagine.” he answered honestly, he held out his hand for her to grab. “Perhaps you should be getting some rest, it is much needed.”

She laughed softly and nodded, taking his hand. “I would have to agree.”

— 

“Do you know how many Lords wish to betroth my youngest sons to their daughters already?” Rhaenyra mumbled frustrated as she pushed the scrolls away.

Aemond had stayed with her upon her return to her solar. “Aegon would lose it if he had to deal with this.” He said this with great certainty.

“I am going to lose it.” Rhaenyra said. “There are some wishing to betroth with Aegon’s children also,” She scoffed. “I am not willingly sending anyone away.”

He chuckled. “Good, cause Aegon and Helaena might just lose it if you send one of theirs away.”

“I would lose it if I sent one of mine away.” Rhaenyra agreed. There was a knock at the door: “Come,”

Daemon entered the room and stared at them with a raised eyebrow and then looked at his frustrated wife. “What?”

“Just the usual,” Rhaenyra answered. “People determined to have some royal blood on their own.”

Daemon sighed. “They will just have to wait and see if they get that lucky.” They were not about to force their children into any unhappy marriages. He approached and all but picked up the pile and throw them into the fire. “No need to worry about them, we can pretend we never got them.”

“And get more? Please, no.” Rhaenyra mumbled. He laughed and then turned to Aemond.

“And what is the Prince doing here?” Daemon asked with a tilt of his head, mouth turning into a smirk. 

They stared at each other for a few seconds. “I have made my decision.” Aemond admitted.

Daemon’s smirk did not leave his face and Rhaenyra just rolled her eyes at him. “What is your decision?” She looked at him with soft eyes.

It still amazed him how much care she had for them despite clearly resenting all of them for years. 

“How could I ever say no to you?” Aemond drawled. Daemon laughed. Rhaenyra smiled at him.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, I am Rhaenyra,” Aemond promised softly, taking her hands in his own with a smile of his own. 

“I dearly hope you will not be against marrying in the tradition of our house,” Rhaenyra said softly.

“I could never,” He answered.

They both looked very pleased with that answer. 

—

“Congrats,” Was the first thing out of Helaena’s mouth the second Aemond entered her room. As usual, her children were on the floor with a surprisingly happy looking Aegon.

Aegon looked up obviously catching onto the fact he was clearly missing something. "What happened?"

Aemond chuckled.

"Brother is to wed Rhaenyra within the week," Helaena shrugged, staring down at her stitching.

Aegon gasped. "You did not tell me about such thing!"

"Did not feel the need to tell anyone." Aemond shrugged before moving over to the three children. The twins jumped up and hugged him.

"Hello," he said.

Jaehaerys grabbed his hand and pulled him closer to their pile of toys. "Come! Play!" He said happily. 

Aemond knew they had a fair share of knight and dragon pieces, some that were made at his father orders. Viserys loved his daughters and grandchildren. That much was true. Even if he had been a shitty father to all of them in one way or another.

"Of course," Aemond promised as little Jaehaera jumped to his side and started handing him a few of the dragon pieces. "Are these your favorites?" He asked.

The little girl nodded. "Yes uncle," she said politely and Aegon stood up, finding his way over to the wine, getting Aemond a cup. 

"Congrats brother, you are to marry one of the most beautiful women in Westeros!" Aegon said, downing his wine before putting the cup down and moving to Helaena.

"Thank you, brother!" Aemond answered, as he let his niece hand him her dragon model of baby Morghul. 

His sister did not move as Aegon leaned down and kissed her cheek. "I am going to see Sunfyre now!" He said cheerfully and was out the door before any of them could really stop him.

Helaena smiled softly and looked over at Aemond. "Everything is perfect," she said softly and Aemond could not help but agree.

Their family was in one piece. Everyone was happy.

That is all they ever wanted.

"Only one more enemy lurking..." 

Aemond failed to hear those words as he played with his niece and nephews.

—

Upon the day of Aemond and Rhaenyra's Valyrian Wedding on Dragonstone, Rhaenyra felt a bit anxious. She knew she shouldn't be but she could not help it.

"You need to relax," her husband whispered softly.

"I know," she admitted, stroking her stomach lightly. Only a few more weeks, she thought. 

She was certain this one would be a girl. 

Daemon chuckled slightly. "Do not push yourself." He added quietly, gently pulling her hair back so that he could braid it. 

"Of course, kepus ," she said quietly in response. 

Daemon smirked at her and after sometime he finished the braids. "You look lovely," he whispered quietly in her ear. 

She rolled her eyes. "Of course you would say that."

"What? I am being very truthful here. I promise I will go get Aemond to prove it." Daemon answered with a raised eyebrow.

"I can not believe I keep you around," she said with a roll of her eyes.

Daemon's smirk grew. "Because we both know you need me,"

Rhaenyra scoffed. "Acting as if you do not need me too,"

Daemon huffed out but did not deny it. He kissed her forehead and offered his arm to her which she gladly took.

—

Aemond decided that getting married in the tradition of his house made him happy. He would never have felt such in front of the seven.

Staring at Rhaenyra as she cut his lip and smeared the blood, he completely forget about everything that wasn't the beautiful women in front of him.

He knew who all was here: Helaena, Daemon, Aegon, Jace, Luke, Baela, and Rhaena. 

Anyone else had remained at the Red Keep.

Not having his mother here, hurt him a bit. She had been quite distraught to finding out about their union, Aemond was sure from the looks in his eyes that she would have said some not very kind things in the shock about Rhaenyra had he not be standing there. She knew better though, good. 

Aemond felt his hands moving to copy what Rhaenyra had done seconds ago, he briefly heard words from from the priest that was speaking and then there vows.

Tying their souls together. Forever. As Daemon and Rhaenyra's were. 

He lips met the cup, tasting his blood mixing in and watched as Rhaenyra did the same. 

He smiled at her and she smiled back before she leaned up and he met her, kissing her deeply. 

This was his first kiss so he was sure it wasn't the most pleasant but neither seemed to mind.

He was happy.

Truly happy.

Something he thought he would never truly experience.

Chapter Text

The next few weeks awaiting her newest babe was not the most pleasant but she pushed through them. 

She was happy that Aemond and Daemon were there. Neither left her side for very long periods of time, and when they did Daemon usually sent one of their children. Usually Rhaena and Luke.

She was grateful, she did not want to be alone. She could not bear it if she was being honest. Being alone only scared her. 

Alicent had refused to speak to her or even be in the same room with her after she wedded Aemond. She was not surprised though. Alicent always seemed to go back and forth. Rhaenyra, however, would never regret her decisions.

Rhaenyra very much enjoyed when Aemond sat with her and read to her from the number of dragon books that he had insisted on bring from Dragonstone, she smiled watching him.

—

She stumbled a bit getting to bed and it was not even a few seconds later the realization hit the second that she felt the liquid down her legs.

Aemond looked at her in concern. "Nyra - " He started

"Get the midwives… and our Maester." She gritted out.

Aemond jumped out of bed and she stumbled to support herself, not wanting to be on the bed just yet. She was not one to just lay back.

Aemond watched for several moments before she glared at him telling him to go.

He left the room in a hurry, the door closing behind him.

She knew that Daemon was likely in the training yard with Jace, Luke, and Joff. 

Luke would soon be leaving to go to Driftmark with Rhaena and they would be wed as soon as both were 16. Corlys was quite excited to have them, still unaware about where his wife had insisted on disappearing too.

She knew that Jace and Baela would be married soon. She could not help but feel proud of her brave boy and her daughter. She knew Laena would be proud of them.

She groaned when a wave of pain hit her and nearly collapsed against the wall.

—

Aemond paced outside when the midwives and Maester, the one Daemon and Rhaenyra trusted from Dragonstone, was tending to her. 

He felt like he was pacing for hours before Daemon finally showed up.

Her screams could be heard all over the Red Keep. 

"Helaena and Jace are taking care of the kids, Aegon's too busy drinking,"

Aemond huffed, of course he was.

“I think he might just be worried.” Daemon added.

“He spent the entirety of the twins and Maelor’s birth drinking in Flea Bottom too,” Aemond said. “It is no surprise he is out drinking as soon as he heard Rhaenyra’s screams.”

The Maester stepped out and Aemond looked over at him.

"The queen wishes for both of your presences," he said.

Aemond knew this was not normal - especially for royal births. It was frowned upon and improper as far as he was aware, but as Daemon clearly walked in with no hesitation, he had probably been with Nyra during his son's births.

By the time he stepped in Daemon was already at her side mumbling softly to her in High Valyrian, kissing her sweating forehead, that Aemond could not make out in distance. He went to the other side of the bed and took Rhaenyra's hand. 

"Push, my queen!" The maester said and Aemond turned to look at Daemon who did not seem to care about anything other then Rhaenyra, completely focused on her.

—

Rhaenyra looked up exhausted as Maester Gerardys and the Midwives cleaned up her baby, Daemon was gently sliding in behind her and started pulling her hair into a loose braid, something she had come to enjoy as much as she could despite the pain. She squeezed Aemond's hand and he looked up with her, clear relief in his eyes.

She really hoped she had not scared him. This birth, however, was by far her worst - 

"It's a girl, your grace," the midwife said softly.

And completely worth it.

She smiled brightly but just as tiredly and Aemond gently took the babe from the midwife and lowered the babe into Rhaenyra arms.

"What shall you name her?" Aemond asked, sitting down on the bed beside them. 

"Viserya," she answered happily, Aemond was fairly certain he had never seen his sister this happy, ever. Daemon smiled down at her proudly. “Viserya.” He agreed softly.

"I'm sure the children have her egg ready for her,"

Aemomd chuckled. "They were very excited." He promised. He had put in the effort to get along with Rhaenyra and Daemon's shared children and so far no problems had occurred. Luke was quite to forgive and forget with him and Jace... Aemond was pretty sure he only did it because of his mother. He still failed to see how Aegon and Viserys loved him so much but he enjoyed it. 

—

Aemond watched as Lucerys gently took Viserya’s egg into his hands, not caring for the heat that it surely was, it should not surprise him Nyra’s children were as much as Targaryen’s as he was, and that was all that mattered. 

Lucerys placed the egg in the cradle. Rhaenyra looked at her sweet boy with a smile that was reserved solely for her children. “Thank you Luke,”

“Of course mother,”

Jace approached Rhaenyra and her smile did not change. He sat on the edge of the bed. “Can I?” He asked.

Rhaenyra nodded and easily Viserya slid into Jace’s arms, he smiled. “She is beautiful.”

“Yes, you have another sibling to look after.” She chuckled softly. 

Jace smiled proudly. “Of course mother, I will not disappoint.” He promised, smiling down at his newest sibling with Luke and Joff by his side. At some point, her Aegon and Viserys had found their way into Rhaenyra’s rooms and were curled up on the bed with Nyra and Daemon. 

Rhaena and Baela were the next two to enter.

“It is good to have another girl.” Rhaena said softly, looking over Baela’s shoulder to look at the girl. So obviously Targaryen. 

“I agree.” Rhaenyra laughed softly, she held out her hand looking at Aemond basically asking for him to take her hand without actually speaking and who was he to deny her of it? He took her hand and squeezed gently. “You did amazing,” he said softly.

—

A little over a week after the birth of Viserya, Rhaenyra entered Helaena’s rooms where the woman was gently holding her niece closely and rocking her. “Helaena.”

“Your grace.” She said softly, looking over at her from the window.

“It has come to my attention that Maelor never got an egg.” She said softly.

“No, he did not.” Helaena agreed with a slight frown. “Otto… suggested that they had enough dragons and did not need to corrupt another with the ‘useless’ bond.” She whispered softly, very much offended. Rhaenyra was glad he was dead, she’d like to burn him again. “Of course, mother listened and Maelor was never given an egg.”

“I believe I have the perfect egg for him.”

She had whispered her thoughts to Syrax earlier that day and the she-dragon had agreed, Syrax’ third egg would be given to Maelor if Helaena approved.

Helaena looked like she would have jumped up and down in joy had she not been holding a sleeping week old baby.

“Sister - “ 

“You do not have to thank me, no one with Blood of the Dragon should be denied one.” She said, “Even if it does not hatch, we can always take him to Dragonstone to bond with one of the adult dragons.” She added softly. Rhaenyra had a feeling it wouldn’t come to that though.

Helaena smiled, she had been given an egg that had never hatched but she later understood that Dreamfyre had been meant for her and it was the entire reason that hers never hatched. 

—

Viserya and Maelor’s eggs both hatched within the next week and neither could be separated from their dragons. 

Rhaenyra was extremely happy about this and she watched as the two got along despite Maelor being almost four years old and should very much not be interested in a 2 week old baby. She found it adorable though. She often found Helaena, Aemond, and Maelor with Viserya in her sister’s chambers.

Alicent, however, was not very happy. 

She just sighed softly. “Lady Alicent.” she said.

“Your grace?” She asked, looking up from the book that was sitting in front of her.

“Do you ever stop finding a way to hate?” She asked.

Alicent cringed slightly, slamming the book shut. “You've literally stole my son from me.” She hissed. 

Alicent's hatred for her was never ending...

“I never did anything! They came to me.” She reminded Alicent. “I gave him a choice, I was clear! I did not force him. I would never do that to one of my House.” She answered.  Rhaenyra gritted her teeth. 

“Congrats on the successful birth, she's beautiful.” Alicent whispered out softly.

Rhaenyra sighed softly and Alicent left the room.

Perhaps things with her would always be unstable but as long as she never did something she would truly regret, they would be okay. Alicent was trying for her children, but almost 17 years of non-stop hatred for Rhaenyra and even long with Daemon were really testing her. 

—

Rhaenyra found herself wandering and out of bed in the middle of the night, she slid out of bed from between Aemond and Daemon and slid her nightgown on before sneaking out into Maegor’s Tunnels. 

She found herself in the nursery and over Viserya’s crib, watching her daughter. 

She turned sharply, upon hearing the door open and a dark cloaked figure barged in and it stopped, clearly not expecting her. She was glad at this moment that she did not leave her room with Aegon’s dagger. The cloaked figure jumped at her with a knife and she managed to push it away from any life threatening injuries, it tore her upper arm open though she felt the blood spreading across the cold stone of the room. 

The attacker was either blind or just stupid and she pushed the dagger out of the attackers hand and it fell to the other side of the room, she managed to get enough strength to flip them, dagger to his throat in his moment of weakness. 

She heard Daemon’s voice and she tilted her head and ripped the hood off. She nearly laughed before sneering.

She was right.

The attacker was blind. Blind with the obsession to kill her for rejecting him.

Guess this answered her question about where Criston was. 

“Ser Criston, how nice of you to join us again .” She drawled out with a sneer.

He attempted to spit in her face but she only moved her head. “You will not live much longer.” She promised, pushing the dagger closer to his throat. It would leave a mark, so he would know it was real. Only one thing kept her from killing him.

They fell silent for a moment, only each others panting was heard between them. Neither caring for whatever else that was around them. “Were you here to kill me or were you hear to hurt my newborn?” 

Criston didn't answer. 

“You had no way of knowing I was here.” Rhaenyra growled, pushing the dagger deeper against his flush. She saw the light stream of blood. “Are you so embarrassing that you were going to kill my child? Or… no, were you going to kidnap her?” She had not even thought about the second one till she said it

Criston did not deny it.

She hissed in disgust. 

He was truly obsessed with her. “You disgust me.”

Daemon’s hand was on her shoulder and pulled her off while the Gold Cloaks took Criston away to the Black Cells. Rhaenyra’s hand tightened around the dagger before she sighed softly.

“What happened to the guards outside?” She asked before he could even ask her anything.

“There were two,” Daemon answered frustrated. “Both dead, he got them and clearly before they could make any real sound.”

Rhaenyra only nodded, looking over to her daughter’s crib where she was wide awake. She picked her up and cradled her close, moving to hide in Daemon’s chest, the dagger having landed on the floor after she walked to get her baby. Her Viserya's dragon, Starfyre, had crawled into her arms as well. She felt Aemond’s arms join their circle and she smiled, tears rolling down her eyes. “We need better guards to guard the children. This cannot happen again.” She mumbled, even more worrying that so many of the children were still young and in the nursery.

“I will get to work with it.” Daemon promised gently

She wasn’t sure when Helaena had found her way in but she did and smiled at Rhaenyra. “ The threat is not truly gone. ” She whispered in High Valyrian, staring directly at her before she turned to her own children. 

Rhaenyra knew what she meant.

Criston needed to die, the longer he was left the alone… the longer he was a risk. 

—

Rhaenyra had not let go of Viserya all morning and Aemond stepped up behind her, watching out the window. Viserya’s baby dragon, Starfyre, curled in the sun. The dark purple-silver dragon purring in content.

Aemond gently ran his hands through his wife’s hair before starting to part it and braid it into braids she liked. He hummed quietly and she relaxed a bit. 

“She is safe now.” Aemond said softly. “No one will ever get her, I promise.”

“Did Daemon tell you to come tell me?”

“Perhaps, but he is busy… threatening and making sure that the queensguard are completely loyal. Unlike Ser Crispy, most knights do not wish to destroy their names.” Aemond huffed out. He had always hated the man, any second with him since he had lost his eye had felt like torture. 

Rhaenyra smiled. “Good.”

“Do you think he was really there to kidnap Viserya or kill her?”

“I do not know…” She said softly. “Either deed is disgusting but I would not be surprised if his disgusting ass stole my baby and made her into what he wanted me to be.” She replied was filled with disgust. “He was a blind idiot.” She finally whispered, cuddling Viserya close again as Aemond finished her braids and leaned down, kissing her hair. “I’m just really glad I was there.” She said.

“You cannot risk taking her to his execution.” he whispered softly. “As the Queen, you will have to be there.” He added before she could say anything.

“I do not - “

“They cannot see how hurt you were from this attack.” He whispered softly. “It will only make you look weak.”

Rhaenyra glared at him. “I will go, only because I will take pleasure in finally killing him.” 

She had someone to write to as well.

Chapter Text

Rhaenyra leaned over the letter, reading it and rereading it make sure every word was perfect. Daemon was watching her. “What are you doing?” He asked.

“It’s a letter for Laenor.” She said. “Criston needs to die soon… a raven cannot get to him and Rhaenys quickly enough. You, however, can.” She said with a smirk.

Daemon stared at her. “Why not just do it?”

“Crispy killed Laenor’s lover at our wedding… it left him in terrible shape the entirety of our marriage. I will not rob him of this.” Rhaenyra said softly.

Dameon closed his mouth. 

Rhaenyra had been extremely sad to watch her companion for 10 years leave but knew it was for the better at the time, Daemon knew how much she truly missed him. How much Jace and Luke missed him. 

Jace knew he was alive. He had figured it out, how, Daemon did not know, nor did he ask. Though, he would not be surprised if Rhaenyra had slipped something like she had with Rhaenys. He pressured his lips before bowing his head. “Of course, my queen.”

Rhaenyra had said that Rhaenys had stopped by Driftmark and taken Seasmoke to Essos with her. 

He wondered how they were doing.

“As well as the fact that you’re the only person that knows of his continued existence…” Rhaenyra added. Rhaenys had mentioned in her last letter she had still been debating on when to inform Corlys. The man would probably hate them all the second he found out that they had faked his death. Or perhaps, he wouldn’t if he saw how happy Rhaenyra and Laenor were when out of the marriage.

Corlys “blood” still remained heir to the throne and his actual blood was betrothed to the heir. Corlys loved them like his own and they were Targaryens. 

“So what? You expect them to show up and give Coryls a heart attack.”

“I do not care, currently, about how Corlys reacts.” Rhaenyra hissed, staring at him. “I only wish to give Laenor some closure that he should’ve been given years ago.”

—

“Where exactly is he going?” Aemond asked confusingly. 

Rhaenyra looked over at him and smiled sheepishly. “Running off somewhere for me.”

“What aren’t you tell me, dear wife?” Those words still felt unbelievable on his tongue. 

Rhaenyra pressured her lips, looking over at where her three children, Jace, Luke, Joff and then Rhaena were whispering amongst themselves. She grabbed her arm nodding briefly at Ser Erryk to watch the children before leading her through the castle, till they were at her solar. 

Completely alone.

“What is this about?”

“Daemon has went to go find Laenor and Rhaenys for me.” She said bluntly. “I do not wish to keep these secrets from you. Laenor was never killed. I could not bring myself to do it and all he wanted was to be free. We both got what we wanted that night. He is my best friend through and through.” She said. “I wish to give him closure by being here when Crispy is executed.”

Aemond did not open his mouth, he stared at her. “You guys lied?”

“Do not be surprised.” Rhaenyra scoffed. “Dragons get what they want. I got what I wanted most. Laenor got what he wanted most.” She said, “Now that I am Queen I only wish he is not forced to be apart from his family.” 

Aemond stared at her blankly before finally nodding. “Alright, well that makes sense now at least.”

Rhaenyra blinked at him. “What does?” 

“Why Rhaenys left randomly and not even Corlys knows why.”

“You cannot tell anyone… Luke is not aware that he still lives and Joffrey was a baby when he left.” She said softly. “Please, Aemond.” She said. 

“Of course, my dear.” He said softly and kissed her. She smiled.

—

Watching Corlys freak out upon seeing Seasmoke in the air in three days times of when Daemon left was kinda funny, Rhaenyra would never admit it out.

“Lord Corlys.” She said.

“You lied.”

“I-”

“You faked his death so that you could give Daemon - “

“No.” She hissed before he could dare finish. “We let each other go so that we could both have what we wanted.” She said plainly. “Your wife understood this, it is exactly why she did not inform you. Laenor will always have a place here whether Westeros likes it or not. I do not care. The Faith is not what I believe in either.” She paused. “You will either continue him on his course as your heir or he can remain here with his children.” She shrugged, absently eyeing the sky as Caraxes, Meleys, and Seasmoke circled, all silver-head riders clearly having the time of their lives.

“Lord Corlys.” She looked back over at him.

He still didn’t look very happy.

“Your blood will still end up on the throne when I die.” She said, she held out her hand to Corlys. “Enjoy taking our families one step to complete and utter happiness.” She said softly, she would not start begging this man though.

She was sure that Corlys was absolutely done with her but - she also knew that his love for her and Laenor’s shared kids and Rhaenys would overthrow his anger.

“You are right, indeed, your grace.”

“Come.” She said. “They will be waiting for us.” She spoke gently, heading out the door when she knew that the other was following her.

—

Rhaenyra didn’t know why but hugging Laenor for the first time in nearly seven years was probably one big moment of relief. He was well - clearly happy, and very excited to see his family again.

They had been miserable for ten years but they had found comfort in each other and their children to an extent.

Rhaenyra knew as Queen she should most definitely not be hugging her ex-husband that was recently dead to all of Westeros but she couldn’t help it.

“Hmm…” Laenor said looking Aemond up and down. “I can see it, cousin.” He said with a smirk as he looked over at Rhaenyra.

Aemond flushed and very much looked annoyed now.

Daemon patted his shoulder. “He is just like that. You’ll get used to it.” He said.

Laenor laughed and Rhaenyra smirked. “I have not informed Luke or Joff… of your living existence.” She said softly. 

“You have been trying to keep them purely innocent.”

“You know me too well.”

“You and I am sure Daemon - “ He looked over her. “Have done a good job on your children and my sisters.”

“They are well loved.” Daemon promised. 

“You’ve come home just in time.” Rhaenyra added. “Jace and Baela will be getting married soon.” 

Laenor smiled. “Good,” He looked at Rhaenyra pointedly. 

She chuckled softly. “Don’t worry. They actually express their happiness for it.” 

Laenor nodded contently. They did not need another them happening.

—

Rhaenyra was content to watch from afar when Laenor reunited with his children.

They were his children weather their blood was his or not. 

She watched them with a smile. 

“You seem quite happy.” 

“I am.” She said softly, “He’s got to meet our children!”

Daemon laughed. “I am sure we can fit that in somewhere, little Aegon and Viserys cannot seem to leave his brothers alone.”

She reached out and grabbed Aemond’s hand, squeezing it and kissing him before kissing Daemon. “I need to go make sure they are ready for Ser Crispy’s execution.” She said.

“ How can one women be so perfect ?” Aemond said dumbfounded in High Valyrain. He had been using that language much more often around his new family as they did it often.

Daemon laughed with a smirk. He knew that Aemond still could not believe that everything around him was truly real. Otto and Alicent had really pushed them into believing that the only answer was bloodshed. In Daemon’s opinion (and Rhaenyra’s) becoming a kinslayer was not in his interests. Though, he knew very well he would do it for Rhaenyra and his family. “I have been asking myself that question for years, so get used to it.” 

—

Rhaenyra was standing where they would soon be executing Ser Crispy. “Now, do I wanna burn him to crisps or Laenor?” She hummed. “I guess both Syrax and Seasmoke could burn him. They’d enjoy it. Definitely wouldn’t want to eat him.”

“Crispy would probably make them sick.” Laenor added. 

“Oh.” She turned to him. “You’re here, why?”

“Too see how exactly you were going to have an killed.”

“Burned… alive. Maybe we should burn a few things off. He deserves to suffer. He’s a real bitch.” She mumbled. “And also disgusting. He wanted to kidnap my daughter! My daughter! He’s just completely obsessed with me.” She shivered in disgust.

“Rhae - “ She looked over at him. He had been the only one to call her that. “I would have personally came back without your permission just to burn everything until I found her.”

She smiled. “I feel like… you would have been quite slow. I would have already done it.”

“Perhaps, you’re right but I would’ve went all over Essos till I found him.” 

She smiled. “I know you would have.” She said. “Did you speak to Lord Corlys?”

“He is over his shock… and doesn’t seem very angry. I think he is just glad to have one of his children back and mother’s happiness helps a lot. And we no longer have a depressed dragon crying out for me on Driftmark.” 

“How happy was Seasmoke to see you again?”

“Well, he spent a good hour just glaring at me and screeching when I got too closer before he finally approached me and fell for my touch, purring loudly and thrilling away his song before jumping back into the sky to fly with Meleys.” 

Rhaenyra smirked. “Dramatic dragon.”

“Yes, I got stuck with Dramatic Dragon.”

“Trust me, you’re not the only one with a Dramatic Dragon. I am fairly certain that both Syrax and Caraxes fall under that category.” She chuckled. 

“I think Daemon falls under it too.”

“I agree.” Daemon put in.

“Yes, we are very aware of your dramatic tendencies.” Laenor added, rolling his eyes. 

“Thank you, Laenor, so very kind.” 

“I heard you killed my dramatic uncle?” Laenor said. “How did you enjoy that?”

“I cannot believe he had the audacity to say that he cared about his house and then slandering Rhaenyra at his niece’s funeral and then slandering the Heirs of the throne and Driftmark!” Daemon complained.

“He always wanted Driftmark.” Laenor said with a chuckle.

“He only had the confidence that day because he did not believe the King would join us, when he did… he just went all in and well his mouth needed shut... or well taken.” Daemon smiled, pleased with himself.

Laenor only laughed. “He always annoyed me.”

“He hated you for being Heir.” Rhaenyra said shortly.

Laenor nodded. “Yeah.” He said sheepishly. “He did not do anything but be Master of Complaints.” Daemon started laughing and Rhaenyra came to the conclusion that it wasn’t the first time that Laenor had said that.

—

“Ser Criston Cole.” Rhaenyra said, as the man looked up at her and her husbands (and ex-husband) in disgust. “You are being executed for… attempting to kill Your Queen - “ She loved saying that and the man's visibility froze. 

“They will have no choice but to accept you.” His words ran in her head from all those years ago.

“And attempting to kidnap my daughter, Princess Visenya. You are also being held accountable for the Death of Ser Joffrey. As the Dowager Queen has revoked whatever protections she had on you.”

Criston tilted his head down but there was not a single hint of regret. She wasn’t surprised. The man was too bitter. She took a step back and watched as Laenor stepped up.

Seasmoke looked very ready, moving from his spot besides Syrax.

Rhaenyra was happy to finally be able to give Laenor the closure he needed and she hoped he stay her. 

Aemond stepped up to her and took her hand, she squeezed his hand.

Ser Criston dying would give her pleasure. 

“ Dracarys.” Laenor’s voice was thick with sadness and tears. Seasmoke was quite to burn him to Crispy.

“He’s truly Ser Crispy now!” She said, this seemed to get her family (the ones that were here) laughing and she grinned. 

She did not miss Helaena’s look of approval. This had been the right decision indeed. 

—

Rhaenyra hummed quietly as she watched Laenor sitting with Visenya, Maelor, and the two tiny dragons with them. Laenor had taken a liking to the two as Luke and Joff sat close to him. Rhaena and Morning were also sitting besides them. 

Rhaenys and Corlys had decided that it was time that they returned, agreeing that Rhaena and Luke would be going to Driftmark once Baela and Jace’s wedding was over.

Luke had not liked being kept in the dark but he wasn’t very good at holding things against people. 

Aemond approached her from behind, she could only tell when his hands landed on her shoulders, gently rubbing them and the tension away. Daemon was probably off with the dragons. 

Baela and Jace’s wedding would be coming up soon and they spent even more time with each other since he had gotten back from Winterfell with Moondancer and Vermax.

She smiled. “Everything’s perfect.”

“Everything’s perfect.” Aemond whispered softly in her ear before kissing it, she leaned back into him.