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Chapter Text

Rhaelys POV

The pantheon glowed with an aura she had never felt before. The fourteen thrones stood tall around her.

Her white hair flowed down her back with ease as she undid her braids. Her ocean blue eyes scanned every throne.

"I have lived long enough to know when I am being watched. My eternal life is to serve the Fourteen Flames. You needn't play such games." She said.

Suddenly the thrones were no longer empty.

The Fourteen Flames of Valyria sat with the grace only Gods could possess.

Giants compared to any mortal being. Lilac eyes that could charm sirens to their deaths. White hair in intricate braids shaping their faces.

Rhaelys bowed deeply.

"I, Rhaelys, daughter and servant to the Fourteen Flames, greet you."

"No need for formalities today, Rhaelys. We called you here for a serious matter." Arrax, King of all Gods, said with command.

"You are well aware of House Targaryen, correct?" Vhagar, Goddess of war, wrath and destruction, asked as she stared down at Rhaelys.

"I am. The last dragonlords in the living realm. They are rulers of Westeros. Viserys Targaryen sits the throne as of now. His first born is set to inherit the throne after him." Rhaelys answered.

The pure blood of Old Valyria had dwindled in the past mere decades. Rhaelys made certain that she kept watch of the remaining houses that still held on.

Targaryen, Velaryon, and Celtigar.

"So you must also be aware of the fact that Viserys has remarried with one not of our blood and had new spawn." Caraxes, God of conquest, victory and achievement, said as if the words tasted bitter in his mouth.

Rhaelys sighed.

"Yes. A low point for the small King."

"I have seen the future of House Targaryen if the path they follow continues." Tessarion, Goddess of foresight, dreams and prophecy said.

Rhaelys could feel the shift in the room. A pressure radiating off every God.

"The house of the dragon is going down a path of destruction. Tessarion has seen the death of the dragons and those of our blood. These Andals have coveted what is not theirs and put the entire world in jeopardy." Arrax said.

"The song of ice and fire." Rhaelys concluded.

The last prophecy Tessarion saw. Creatures of ice and death. If they were allowed to roam the earth, they would destroy everything in their path. The last true vision that was granted to the Targaryens.

The Gods tried to limit their interference with the human realm. The doom of Valyria had forced them to act as to save as many of Valyrian blood, but only few heeded the warning.

"Correct. Viserys and his weaknesses have put the world in danger and he dared to mix with a house that will bring the to end Westeros and the world if not stopped." Tessarion said.

"The heir that was promised will come from Rhaenyra's line. She must be protected from this calamity and we have chosen you for this mission." Meleys, Goddess of Wisdom, Knowledge & Strategy, said.

Rhaelys looked at the Gods perplexed.

"What is it that I must do?" She asked.

"Rhaenyra has always been chosen to be Queen. She can begin a new era in Westeros if guided well. You will be that guide. You will show her what the future holds if our words are not heeded and make sure those Andals never step out of their place." Meleys said.

"I am honored to help the pantheon in any way I am able. I also believe there is a way to solidify her as Queen sooner." Rhaelys said.

The Fourteen Flames all turned to look at her.

"Speak, child." Arrax said.

"From what I have witnessed, the Iron Throne is a trap of power. It will always be fought for and is fragile for any who sit it. She must show those insignificant lords that she is the only real option for a prosperous realm. She must prove without a shadow of a doubt that Westeros needs her as Queen." Rhaelys said.

"Do you mean to say that she should usurp her weak King of a father?" Vhagar asked, a smirk forming.

Rhaelys smiled.

"She should build her own empire on Dragonstone. Let the Hightowers believe that they have won the war and watch as they lose power and Rhaenyra builds hers. She would be Queen of her region and the rest of Westeros will follow her when they see how the Hightowers drive the realm into the ground."

"These Andals do not want to follow a woman. Those repressed idiots." Aegarax, Goddess of blood and Queen of the Gods, said.

"They will follow a Targaryen Queen that can make them richer and give them security." Meleys said.

"Apposed to the king they would get with the Hightowers. That boy will never be a good king. He was not made for a throne." Arrax said.

"A vision of the future will easily make Viserys name Aegon his new heir, thinking he will be protecting Rhaenyra." Tessarion said.

The Gods discussed the proposition.

Rhaelys had watched over Westeros and the Valyrian families since the doom. She could not communicate or interfere as the Gods could, but she wanted the Valyrian blood to regain its place in the living world.

"Very well. We shall send Viserys the vision tonight as well as send you to Westeros. We understand we have put a lot of responsibility on you, Rhaelys. We believe your devotion to the Fourteen Flames will reignite the faith in House Targaryen and beyond that will save them from this horrid future." Arrax said.

Rhaelys bowed.

"I will take my knowledge and the powers you have bestowed on me to make sure the blood of Old Valyria will prosper."

A ring of fire appeared around Rhaelys.

"We will be in contact once in a while, but we will be watching. Do not fail us." Arrax said as the pantheon faded from view.

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Rhaenyra POV

Rhaenyra could barely control her excitement as she made her way through Maegor's tunnels.

She was to spend the night in Kings Landing and with her uncle Daemon.

She needed to get away from the Red Keep and beathe different air. She could feel the vipers closing in on her everyday.

She finally made it to the opening and saw Daemon.

He had always been everything to her. When her father was too focused on a male heir or her mother was abed from every pregnancy, she had Daemon to cheer her up.

"You've made it." He said.

"I would not miss this. I must escape for a while." Rhaenyra said.

"Queens do not have the luxury of escaping their fate I'm afraid." A voice said.

Daemon quickly pulled Rhaenyra behind him and drew Dark Sister.

In front of them stood an otherworldly beauty.

If not for her eyes, Rhaenyra would think she was of her blood.

Tall and slender with white long hair. Not a single hair out of place. Her blue eyes mimicked the ocean with their clarity and color.

"Who are you? How did you find this place?" Daemon demanded.

The woman did not flinch at the sight of the Valyrian steel sword.

She just stared at them as if amused.

"You are in the presence of a Prince and Princess of the blood. You dare not show reverence?" Daemon said, anger building.

"I only bow to the Fourteen Flames. I am not held to your realms laws." She said.

Rhaenyra had never heard anyone outside of her family speak of the Fourteen Flames.

Some still followed the pantheon but they were in the Free Cities. The Westerosi did not believe in the Gods of Old Valyria.

"Who are you?" Rhaenyra asked, facing her directly.

She was the heir to the Iron Throne. She would not be a craven.

"I am Rhaelys." She said, her words smooth to listen to.

"A Valyrian name. No last name? No house? A bastard no doubt." Daemon said, Dark Sister still drawn.

Rhaenyra could feel a pressure fall on them. The air felt changed as Rhaelys turned to face Daemon.

"I am the daughter and servant of the Fourteen Flames. I need no insignificant titles to know I am worthy. Just as you are worthy for the Gods to bring you a message." Rhaelys said.

"What message?" Rhaenyra asks.

"You do not believe this, do you? She probably came here with ill intentions and did not expect us here. This is all a mummers farce." Daemon said.

"I come with a warning and aid. The Fourteen Flames have not forgotten House Targaryen." Rhaelys said in perfect High Valyrian.

Rhaenyra and Daemon stared at Rhaelys.

No one outside of those with the blood of Old Valyria could speak their language so fluently. Even the Free Cities have only spoken broken High Valyrian.

Rhaenyra put her hand on the hilt of Dark Sister.

"Sheath your sword, Uncle. We must see what message this woman brings."

Daemon looked as he wanted to protest, but Rhaenyra stared him down as she had so many times through the years.

"Not here. We must go to Balerion's skull. Come." Rhaelys said as she walked past them into the tunnels.

Rhaenyra didn't know what to make of this. She thought the night would be exploring Kings Landing and spending time with her uncle. Now she was following a woman who seemed to know the Red Keep more than she or Daemon did.

"Why did you agree to this?" Daemon whispered.

"Because something about her makes me believe she is telling the truth. She does not fear you or our power. She is something else." Rhaenyra replied.

They had finally made it to the chamber that held Balerion's skull. The candles flickered as if being pulled towards Rhaelys.

"How and why did you bring us here?" Daemon asked, suspicion growing.

Rhaelys stared at them for a moment. Her eyes seemed to hold more wisdom than the years she appeared.

"The Fourteen Flames of Valyria have sent me to you. To warn you and to aid you. Destruction is coming for House Targaryen and we must do everything we can to stop it." Rhaelys said.

Rhaenyra tensed.

She was accustomed to everyone saying pretty words and reassurances that House Targaryen was strong. No one had dared say something like that.

Rhaelys waved a hand the flames began to flicker into a roaring circle.

"What I am going to show you is not to be taken lightly. This is the future of House Targaryen if choices are not made tonight. You must be strong. Both of you."

Figures began to show in the flames.

Rhaenyra could see herself and Daemon wandering through Fleabottom, going into a pleasure house, Daemon leaving her after kissing her.

The flames changed to her chambers. Her and her sworn shield, Criston Cole. Rhaenyra could not believe her eyes. She would never give her maidenhead to a mere kingsguard.

The flames once again changed to show her father and Otto Hightower. The false accusations and Rhaenyra being forced to wed Laenor Velaryon.

Years passed in seconds. Alicent using her role as Queen to undermine and humiliate her.

Rhaenyra saw herself being pushed to the point of birthing bastards because her lord husband could not give her heirs.

The flames showed Rhaenyra a horrible future. Her father dying, the Hightowers usurping her throne, war against her siblings.

Rhaenyra turned to see Daemon barely containing his rage.

"I must warn you that what comes next will be a challenge to see." Rhaelys said softly.

The flames depicted all the deaths of their loved ones.

Every person they cared for would be killed because of the struggle for the throne.

Rhaenyra let out a sob as she saw Daemon falling into the God's Eye. Dragon against dragon. Kin against kin.

The flames changed one last time.

Rhaenyra stood in front of her step brother and his dragon. She watched as Sunfyre engulfed her with flames in front of her son.

"No!" Daemon screamed as he wrapped his hands around Rhaelys' neck.

"This is a farce. A trick."

Rhaelys did not move. Daemon's hands squeezed but her face remained the same.

"This is no trick. It is a warning. The Gods have seen what is to come. The Hightowers will take all you hold dear and burn it to the ground all in the name of greed." Rhaelys said, removing Daemon's hands with ease.

Rhaenyra could only feel rage. Alicent had already betrayed her by marrying her father and destroying their friendship, but she was capable of much worse.

She had protected a viper who only saw to tear her down.

"I will kill every last Hightower. They will never challenge your reign, Rhaenyra. I promise you." Daemon said as he held her.

"No. They must suffer. They must all suffer as they wished us to suffer." Rhaenyra said.

"You must build your power first. Away from this viper's nest. " Rhaelys said.

Rhaenyra truly looked at her. She glowed as if a flame followed her. The Fourteen Flames had sent Rhaelys to her.

"The Fourteen Flames have blessed my house with this warning. I will honor them for the rest of my life." Rhaenyra said.

Rhaelys smiled.

"Tell me what I have to do."

Chapter Text

Viserys POV

The blood. The screams. War ensuing inside his own house. Rhaenyra being engulfed in flames.

Viserys woke in a cold sweat.

He had seen the end of his family and house. The deaths of everyone he held dear.

He had already lost Aemma. How much more was he destined to lose?

Targaryens have received prophetic dreams since the doom. This was one as well. Viserys knew it to be true.

His children would fight for the Iron Throne.

Rhaenyra would die.

He had to do something. He could not let his precious daughter meet such fate.

He stared at his model of Old Valyria. The Gods had deemed him worthy of warning. He had to do something.

Aegon was still a child and was not capable of such atrocities yet.

All he had to do was keep Rhaenyra away from her siblings.

Viserys paced his chambers.

He could not send Aegon away. He was a prince of the blood and Alicent's firstborn. The Hightowers would not stand for such a sudden change. Many questions would be asked by the other lords.

Alicent was innocent in all this after all and he could not take her son from her. She had been a good wife to him.

Viserys had to keep the peace in the realm. The war at the Stepstones was over and the realm was strong.

He was king.

He could not let all of that lead to war after his death.

Maybe he could send Rhaenyra to Dragonstone. She would be safe there.

It was their ancestral home. It would make her feel as if she were home.

He could not stop the images playing in his mind. The throne had torn his family apart. It had killed Rhaenyra.

Viserys had to protect her. She was the last of Aemma. The only tie that remained between him and his love. Balerion could not take her from him.

She was too pure. Too kind for such a life. He had damned her by naming her heir. The realm was not ready for a queen.

He knew what he had to do even if it meant Rhaenyra would hate him.

She would understand when she was older. She would thank him for saving her.

Viserys let our a heavy breath.

"Ser Harrold." He called.

Ser Harrold Westerling entered the king's chambers.

"Go fetch Rhaenyra. Tell her I would like to break my fast with her." Viserys said wearily.

"As you wish, Your Grace. The Hand, Ser Otto Hightower, wishes for an audience with you. He is waiting outside." Westerling replied.

Viserys did not have time for whatever Otto needed. He was a good friend but he could overstep at times of importance.

"Tell him whatever he needs to say can wait until the small council meeting."

"As you command."

Ser Westerling walked out and Viserys could hear agitated murmurs from outside.

Otto could wait.

He had to ensure the future he saw did not come to pass.

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Rhaenyra POV

Rhaenyra stared at herself in the mirror for what felt like hours. Her life had been played before her eyes and she still felt the anger in her soul.

She was betrayed. She elevated people who would only use her. Her family gone. Her crown sold and life forfeited.

"The future has already changed, my Queen." Rhaelys said as she stood beside her.

Daemon sat on her bed, watching them both. He smirked at the mention of Rhaenyra being Queen.

"I am not Queen. My father is king." Rhaenyra replied. She could not fathom the title yet.

"You will be. As I told you last night. The weak king will change the succession. He will see it as the only way to protect you from the Greens." Rhaelys said.

Rhaenyra wanted to yell. Send her to the black cells. Anywhere else, but she knew Rhaelys spoke only the truth. Apart from her uncle, Rhaelys was the only other person to speak to her with honesty.

"And he will be willing to give her anything she asks for in exchange for her crown?" Daemon said, venom spilling in every word.

Rhaenyra and Daemon had spent all night talking to Rhaelys of what came next.

"What if he doesn't? What if he chooses to uphold my claim?" Rhaenyra asked, knowing the answer already.

"The Gods and I have been watching over House Targaryen for a long time. He will. It is his nature. He will think of what the lords will want and masquerade it as caring for you." Rhaelys said as she sat in the chair by the window.

"My brother loves Rhaenyra." Daemon said as he stared Rhaelys down.

"He does. That is not up for debate, but he loves being known as a peaceful king too as you well know. He was shown what would happen after his death and instead of realizing that the Hightowers were the driving force of House Targaryen's demise, he will believe that removing Rhaenyra as heir would solve everything." She said, holding Daemon's gaze.

Rhaenyra could see the pain Daemon was fighting. It was like her own.

To know that her father was so weak that he would not bring fire and blood to their enemies even when warned by the Gods. He would rather send her away.

There was a knock at the door.

"I said i did not want to be disturbed, Ser Criston." Rhaenyra said.

She could barely control her ire when saying his name. The spineless coward. To covet a princess of the blood so shamelessly to the point of becoming her enemy when rejected. Rhaenyra would not make the same mistake as the vision showed.

"Forgive me, princess. Ser Harrold is here. The King wishes to break his fast with you." Criston said from outside the door.

Rhaenyra, Daemon, and Rhaelys looked at each other.

She took a deep breath.

"I will make my way there soon, Ser Harrold. You needn't wait for me."

"As you wish, princess." Ser Harrold said.

The sound of moving armor grew farther as he walked away.

"He would actually dare to take your crown and give it to that Hightower welp!?" Daemon hissed.

He began to pace the chambers. His fire burning hotter than before.

"You knew this to be true for a long time, my prince. Viserys Targaryen has forgotten how to bring fire and blood to his enemies. He is but embers now." Rhaelys said.

Rhaelys turned towards Rhaenyra. She felt as if she was stripped bare under her gaze.

"The moment you step out of these chambers, you are Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen. You must remember that. Everything after this moment is for your realm. The Fourteen Flames have blessed you with the blood of Old Valyria. Use the fire that burns within you."

Rhaenyra looked at Daemon one last time for reassurance before stepping out.

"Demand your crown, little dragon."

~~~

The walls of the Red Keep felt as if they were closing in around her. Every step closer to her father's chambers ignited anger and sadness.

Rhaenyra had hoped Rhaelys was wrong. That her father would not be swayed, but the closer she got, the further the hope became.

As she stood in front of the doors, she took a breath.

She was Queen. In every aspect. She was owed this debt. Her father would give her what was owed.

She nodded and Ser Harrold opened the doors.

As the doors closed, Rhaenyra took in her surroundings.

It was quiet and the morning light illuminated the chambers. Her father was sat by his model of Old Valyria. He looked as if he had aged overnight.

The cost of the truth he did not want to face.

"You called for me, father?" Rhaenyra asked.

She made no moves to sit down or approch him.

"Rhaenyra! My beautiful child. Come and sit." Viserys said, failing to sound cheerful.

Rhaenyra walked to the balcony and looked out at the city.

"I would like to skip the pleasantries, father. I know you have called me for another reason. I would appreciate directness."

Rhaenyra could see her father deflate.

"This is something of upmost importance. I want you to know that this choice was not made lightly. I cannot explain the reasons to you at the moment, but you must trust that I am doing it for your good."

The last bit of hope Rhaenyra felt shattered into a million pieces.

Her relationship with her father had held on a delicate string since her mother's death.

She knew what he had done to her. All in the name of a male heir.

When he named her heir, she thought their relationship would grow again. Now, she knew he would never change.

Any love she held for him had vanished just as her mother's ashes from the pyre.

"So you will make Aegon heir to the throne and cast me aside." Rhaenyra said.

It wasn't a question anymore. She knew the truth. Her father would never protect her the way she deserved.

Her father paled.

"I... How did you know what I planned to speak to you about?"

Rhaenyra would've laughed if it weren't for what came next.

"It was only a matter of time. Even with all your sweet words and reassurances, I knew you would end up here."

Rhaenyra wished to cry, but she had no tears left. She had mourned the children that would never be, the loved ones she saw die. She even mourned herself.

"Rhaenyra, please understand. I will make it up to you in any way I can. I will make sure you do not feel the change." Her father pleaded.

Rhaelys was right. She was a queen now. She would make sure no one would take that from her again.

She pulled out the document she had worked with Rhaelys and Daemon on.

She placed it in front of her father.

"I will glady give up the Iron Throne, but I will get something in return. This document lists all my demands. It only needs your signature and seal."

Rhaenyra stood straighter and finally looked her father in the eyes.

"I want complete control over Dragonstone in perpetuity. It is to become my family's keep and no longer for the heir to the Iron Throne. All houses that are loyal to Dragonstone will no longer be be under the control of your crown. They will be under mine. If more seek to follow me, I will not turn them away."

Viserys looked at her in disbelief.

"Are you asking me to make you Queen of Dragonstone?"

Rhaenyra smirked.

"I am not asking. I am giving you my demands. You wish to take my crown. I am simply demanding a new one. All ancestral artifacts, living or otherwise, on Dragonstone will belong to my family. They cannot be taken without my direct decree. You may keep what is in your dragonmount for your future children as a sign of goodwill excluding Syrax and Caraxes of course."

"Rhaenyra..."

"The crown of Westeros will have no say in any decisions made on Dragonstone or any territory under my crown. I will have complete control of any choices for my people or myself. The Stepstones will be under my rule as well. The Sea Snake and Daemon aquired them without help from the crown. They mean nothing to you. My mother's jewels will be packed for me to take to Dragonstone. She always wanted me to have them so I will take them. This agreement will be unbreakable by any future ruler."

Rhaenyra could see her father faltering. All the questions his council would have. The lords of the realm wanting to know what had happened.

Rhaenyra knew exactly what to say to end any debate he had left.

"You tore my mother apart and took her from me for a male heir and then gave me the crown. Now Alicent has given you your male heir and you give him my rightful place. I will not take anymore slights, father. I will have what is mine. With fire and blood or with your signature."

Her father shrunk deeper into his chair as the words landed on his heart.

"Very well, but you must stay in contact. Visit when possible." He pleaded.

"As time will allow." She replied.

With a shaky hand, her father signed.

Rhaenyra's reign had begun.

Chapter Text

Alicent POV

Alicent made her way to the small council chamber.

The King had summoned everyone for an important announcement.

The beds of her nails ached from the constant picking. Helaena had not stop crying until recently. It had seemed like something had changed within her. The fear was no longer there.

She meet her father at the doors.

"Why are you here?" He asked.

"The King sent for me. He said he had something to announce."

Alicent could see the wheels turning in her father's head. He did not know what was happening either.

"I heard from my spies that princess Rhaenyra has disgraced herself with prince Daemon. They were seen fornicating in a pleasure house in Fleabottom. The King must be made aware." He whispered.

Alicent stared at her father in shock. It could not be. Rhaenyra would never do such a thing. She had an unhealthy obsession with her uncle, but she would never stoop so low.

"This is our chance. The King will revoke the succession and make Aegon heir to the throne as the Seven have always taught. To hide the scandal, he will marry her off once and for all and we will make sure it is far from here." He said.

Suddenly the chamber door opened and they were ushered in.

The rest of the small council was already sat down.

Rhaenyra stood by the King and Prince Daemon lounged in a chair closest to the King.

Something was amiss. Prince Daemon was never at these meetings.

What caught Alicent's eye was the woman standing behind Rhaenyra.

She looked not that much older than her. She was a pure Valyrian beauty. Hair whiter than Rhaenyra's, blue eyes one could drown in. She wore a dress she had never seen before. It hugged her body as if it was made especially for her.

She looked like someone from the stories Rhaenyra would tell her about Old Valyria.

"Ah. Good. Everyone is present." The King said.

Alicent quickly bowed and took a seat next to her father.

"What is this announcement I hear about, Your Grace? It must be important if the royal family must be present as well." Lord Tyland Lannister said.

Alicent could see Daemon sneer.

"Yes, well, I have come to an important decision. Princess Rhaenyra will step down as heir and Aegon will take her place." The King proclaimed.

Everyone sat shocked in place.

Her father told her this day would come, but Alicent never thought Viserys would actually do it.

He did not follow the teaching of the Seven as he should have. She never imagined he would finally make way for Aegon.

"A most wonderful announcement, Your Grace! I am sure the princess will not miss such a responsibility." Her father said, a wide smile on his face.

Rhaenyra did not react to her father's comment. She even looked happy.

"The Princess and I have come to an agreement. I have already signed and sealed the document. The ravens have already been sent to the Citadel and major houses. The news should be spreading as we speak." The King said with a smile.

Alicent felt her father tense beside her. He did not know the contents of the document.

The woman moved from her spot and began handing out copies to each person present.

Alicent could see the eyes travel on her. She drew attention of men to herself. She should not be close to Rhaenyra. She would bring scandal to her.

Alicent took the paper and read through it. She could not believe what she saw.

"Queen of Dragonstone!?" Her father yelled.

"Yes, Ser Otto. I am now Queen of Dragonstone and its dominion. In perpetuity." Rhaenyra said calmly.

Daemon and the woman both smiled.

"Your Grace, this is quite sudden. The small council was not informed about this monumental change." Grand Maester Mellos said.

"The King does not owe you explanations when he decides anything. He has made a gift to his daughter who has stepped down as heir to the Iron Throne. She has been compensated." Prince Daemon said.

"Your Grace, we must think this over. The Lords..." Her father interjected.

"Enough. This is not up for debate. My daughter has made a great sacrifice giving up her birthright. I have approved everything. It is done. I was only infroming you that the Princess will be leaving for Dragonstone in the next few days." The King said.

This was all happening too fast. Alicent had hoped to rebuild her relationship with Rhaenyra and now she was to leave the Red Keep. She would be left alone.

"You must all have other things to speak of so I will be off to oversee that all my things are packed." Rhaenyra said.

She smiled at the King and left with Prince Daemon and that woman followed.

Alicent quickly excused herself and followed Rhaenyra.

She found herself practically running to catch up with her.

"Rhaenyra! Rhaenyra, we must speak about this." She said as they reached the Godswood.

All three stopped and turned towards Alicent.

"I don’t believe we have anything to speak about, Your Grace." Rhaenyra said.

"Rhaenyra. Please. If we could speak alone..." She pleaded.

"How insolent. She is the Queen. A Valyrian Queen at that. You dare call her by her name?" The woman interjected.

Alicent could feel anger rise. SHE was a Queen. She married the King and did her duty and an outsider had the nerve to speak down to her.

"How dare you..."

"She has always been like this, Rhaelys. It seems to be genetic. I am partly to blame. One must expect to be followed when giving scraps to dogs." Rhaenyra replied, a smile on her face.

Alicent could not take it anymore. She had tried to be kind to Rhaenyra. Help her closer to the Seven and she would disregard it all.

"How can you do this? First you do as you please and sneak off with Daemon to Fleabottom and fuck him in a pleasure house and now you take Dragonstone to rule as a petty Queen."

Alicent felt the mood change instantly.

Rhaenyra held Daemon's arm in place and Rhaelys only looked at Rhaenyra.

Rhaenyra took a few steps closer to her.

"I would suggest that the Queen Consort of the Seven Kingdoms watch what she says. As of late, Westeros has found itself with no dragons to protect it."

Rhaenyra reached a hand out and before Alicent could react, a hard slap met her face.

"I am Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen, ruler of Dragonstone and protector of the Stepstones. My maidenhead is none of your concern, but if you must know, I was in the Red Keep all last night. Your father lies, as always. He wished to install Aegon on the Iron Throne. He has got his wish. Let us see what kind of king is made from a second son and a whore who was not even raised to be a lady paramount."

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Elinda POV

The whole keep was buzzing.

Elinda made her way to the kitchen to make tea for the princess.

When she walked in, the cooks were all talking over each other.

"What in the Gods name is going on in here?" She asked.

All of them turned towards her.

"Do you not know? King Viserys has named Prince Aegon the heir to the throne." One said.

Elinda almost dropped the tea cups.

The Princess was being set aside. For a child. How could this have happened?

"Don't fret now, Elinda. You have not heard the best part. Princess Rhaenyra has negotiated with the King so she would not be left slighted. She is to be a Queen of her own right on Dragonstone!"

The cooks began to talk over themselves again, but Elinda could not hear them.

Princess Rhaenyra was a Queen. Not because of her father or any man, but because she demanded it for herself.

Elinda hurried and finished the tea and rushed back through the keep. She had to reach her Queen's chambers.

Before she turned the corner to the garden, Elinda heard a familiar voice.

She set the tea tray down gently and hid behind the foliage.

"She is to be a Queen, father. How did this happen?" Queen Alicent asked.

Elinda could see the Hand of the King and  Queen Alicent hidden in the farthest part of the garden, away from the court and servants.

"It had to have happened last night or this morning when the King would not receive me." The Hand said.

Queen Rhaenyra asked to be left alone this morning so she must've already had her plan in motion.

"And that insolent maid. The one that accompanied her in the small council meeting. She dared insult me, father. And Rhaenyra came to her defense." Queen Alicent said.

Elinda held back laughter.

She must meet this new person who defends their Queen.

"We must find out more about her. She seems to have appeared out of thin air. My spies have never seen her around the princess before." The Hand said as he ran a hand through his hair.

"What if more people start to follow her? That agreement gives her full power to expand her kingdom if the lords so decide it." Queen Alicent said as she picked at her nails.

"The lords of Westeros would never follow a woman. Men are in power for a reason. Woman are to bare children while men lead them on the right path. Aegon finally has his rightful place and when the King dies, we will bring the realm into the light of the Seven. Let her play Queen. Once she fails without the crown's money and power she will beg on her knees to come back."

Elinda slowly backed away where she had set the tea tray and scurried away.

Things have changed. She now followed a Queen and she would do all she could to help her Queen.

Elinda walked past the kingsguard and walked into Queen Rhaenyra's chambers.

Queen Rhaenyra was sitting in the solar with a woman Elinda assumed to be who Queen Alicent mentioned.

She was a glorious beauty.

Elinda set the tea down and began to pour two cups.

"Thank you, Elinda. This is Rhaelys. She is a new member of my household. I hope you two get along." Queen Rhaenyra said.

"Of course, my Queen." Elinda said with a smile.

Rhaelys let out a soft laugh while Queen Rhaenyra smiled.

"I see news of my new title has made its way around the keep. Yes, I am now Queen of Dragonstone and its dominion. I hope House Massey will be open to following me as their Queen."

Elinda kneeled in front of her Queen.

"House Massey is not a big house, but they have always been loyal to you, Your Majesty. It is an honor to be a part of your kingdom."

Queen Rhaenyra helped Elinda to her feet.

"My heart is at ease knowing that. Thank you, Elinda. I must ask a favor from you. Inform the servants in the Red Keep about our move to Dragonstone. Any who wish to join us are welcome. We want anyone loyal to us away from this viper's nest."

"The Queen and her father are enraged by your ascension. They believe you will come back and beg them to return under the crown's protection. They also do not seem fond of Rhaelys." Elinda said.

Rhaelys raised an eyebrow and smirked.

"Petty people will try to spread their venom wherever they can. The only opinion I value is that of the Fourteen Flames."

Elinda had never met anyone who followed the Fourteen Flames of Old Valyria. She knew the royal family still followed them but no one else had ever come to Westeros with the same beliefs.

"We will make sure to keep a close eye on them. My reign has just begun. They see me as a spoiled princess who knows nothing of the world, but I have seen what I needed. The Hightowers will be the ones on their knees at my throne." Queen Rhaenyra said.

Elinda smiled. She would stand by her Queen through any storm. Elinda knew that the blood of the dragon roared inside of Queen Rhaenyra.

A new era was coming.

Chapter Text

Daemon POV

Daemon watched from a cliff as the ships were being loaded with Rhaenyra's belongings.

He took it upon himself to oversee that Rhaenyra left with everything she was entitled to. After Alicent's little tantrum, Daemon could not leave the work to the servants lest she have another and try her luck again.

He had to be present to make sure the cunt of a queen relinquished all of Aemma's jewels to the servants as well.

All the servants from the Vale and any of a Dragonstone dominion had their own boats being loaded too. They would travel to Dragonstone first to make sure their arrival was fit for their Queen.

Even Lord Beesbury had given Rhaenyra a book with his notes on handling coin in a kingdom. Beesbury had always seen Rhaenyra as a daughter and he made sure she would start her reign on the right foot.

The Velaryons had sent word that they would be at Dragonstone with the Celtigars when they arrived on dragonback in two days time.

Daemon knew Corlys would offer his son, Laenor, as Rhaenyra's King Consort. He had been trying to for ages and now that she had her own crown it would be no different.

The realm was reeling.

Fleabottom was filled with talk of Rhaenyra. The opinions were mixed. Some people believed she would fail while others believed that she would create a great empire.

The lords were the same. Daemon was sure when they settled in Dragonstone that some houses would join Rhaenyra.

Daemon was not a patient man. He would like to force all the houses to bend the knee but he knew Rhaenyra wanted to be followed willingly.

The only loose thread Daemon still had was Mysaria. That whore dared to sell him out to Otto Hightower. She would soon learn no coin is worth making an enemy of Daemon Targaryen.

Blood and Cheese would send word when she was taken care of.

Daemon felt a presence behind him as he looked down at the dock.

"It will not be that easy to catch me off guard." He said, back still turned.

"That we share in common. You can send your little spy away. I am loyal to Queen Rhaenyra as the Fourteen Flames have deemed her worthy." Rhaelys said as she stood beside him.

Daemon felt something he could not comprehend when it came to Rhaelys. She was everything Old Valyria embodied. She was someone who has served the Fourteen Flames. He wanted to hate her for it, but he could only be begrudgingly impressed.

"I do not know you. My spies will see what I cannot." He said.

Rhaelys laughed.

It threw Daemon off guard. He didn't know she was capable of laughter.

"My prince, if you wish to know something about me all you have to do is ask."

"How did you come into service of the Fourteen Flames?" He asked.

She sat, her legs hanging off the side of the cliff.

"I was of Old Valyria. I belonged to a notable house. When the doom hit, all I could think was that the pantheon built near my home would be destroyed. My dragon had died getting me there. The poison in the air made him weak. When I reached the pantheon, I used all my strength to cast a spell. I had learned black magic from the sorcerers of Valyria. I cast a spell that would protect the pantheon. Not myself but them. I fainted and when I awoke again, I was in front of the Fourteen Flames but they were as close as we are now. They saw my devotion and rewarded me by letting me serve them for eternity."

Daemon was stunned.

He was in presence of someone who lived through the greatness and fall of Valyria. He was not prepared for such a revelation.

"So you are a noble lady after all." He said, a smirk on his face as he sat next to her.

"It has been a long time since something like that mattered to me." She said smiling back at him.

Daemon's expression became serious.

"How did it feel to lose your dragon? The vision showed a version of myself that I cannot comprehend. How could I give up my life along with Caraxes when the war was not won yet?"

Rhaelys sighed.

"It felt as if my soul was being ripped out of my body. The world was dying around me and I was dying on the inside too."

Daemon would never make that choice in this life. He would live and protect Rhaenyra and their house. These Andals will not break the house of the dragon.

"You had gone through a lot of pain and loss. Life had become too long for you. Now you must live for your happiness. Do not let this second chance slip away." She said as she watched Syrax fly through the sky.

Rhaenyra.

They had married in the vision. Had children. Lived happily until Viserys passed.

Daemon did not let himself feel hope.

"I am still married to another. My bronze bitch will not be rid of so easily."

Rhaelys smirked.

"You will have your good news soon. Consider it devine intervention."

Daemon could not help the small sadness he felt. Years of asking his brother for an annulment and being rejected by his own blood and Rhaelys, a person he barely knew, had already taken it into her own hands to give him the freedom he desired.

Daemon suddenly grabbed Rhaelys and sat her on his lap.

She looked at him amused.

"It must be a long time since you've felt true passion. I can be of great service." He said as he ran his hand through her hair.

"The mighty Rouge Prince offering a proposition. I am truly honored." Rhaelys said as she ran her hand down his chest.

Daemon leaned in but Rhaelys placed a hand on his lips.

"You can lie to the realm, but not to me. Your heart belongs to the queen, but if my future King and Queen desire me together, I am always in their service."

Rhaelys stood and walked away as Daemon watched her go.

She would be more than Daemon and Rhaenyra ever imagined.

--------------------------

Rhaenyra POV (2 days later)

The dragon keepers were lined up as the carriage arrived to the dragonmount.

Her father had insisted on seeing her and Daemon off.

Rhaenyra adjusted her riding leathers one last time and turned towards her father.

Alicent stood next to him with an agitated look on her face. Rhaelys' spies had reported that Alicent had been complaining since the announcement to the point of begging the King to force Rhaenyra to stay in Kings Landing.

Even if her father had bent to his whore of a wife, Rhaenyra would not be shackled to this keep any longer. Her freedom had already been granted.

"My sweet daughter. I wish you would stay a little longer." Her father said as he hugged her.

"As a king you understand I cannot keep my kingdom waiting. I have responsibilities to attend to." Rhaenyra said.

"Do not worry, husband. The princess will soon return." Alicent said with a fake sweetness.

"Maybe by the time we return to visit you will teach your wife how to address a Queen of a visiting kingdom, brother. I do not expect much from a daughter of a second son but she should not disrespect your position as King." Daemon said with a smirk.

Rhaenyra could see Alicent tense under the scrutiny.

Her father approached Daemon and put a hand on his shoulder.

"You know you can stay here. Your lady wife has just passed. You must mourn properly. There is always room for you on my council, Daemon."

Rhaenyra knew very well what Daemon truly felt. The vision had changed everything. The love that was once held for the King was gone. He had let the Hightowers wrap around their family and destroy them. He could not be trusted.

"You know Dragonstone is where I belong, brother. Rhaenyra will be protected from those who wish to see her fail with me by her side." Daemon said.

Rhaenyra turned towards the dragon keepers.

"You may bring out Syrax and Caraxes. We are ready to depart."

One of the dragon keepers went into the mount and a roar vibrated through the air.

Syrax came out first with Caraxes following.

The Kingsguard behind the King shifted uncomfortably.

Rhaenyra hid a laugh. Westeros will be shifting uncomfortably for a while with no real protection from the dragons.

Rhaenyra approached Syrax. Her yellow scales gleamed even brighter in the daylight. She petted her mount and leaned her head on the dragon.

"It is time to go home, my sweet girl. We have new plans for this realm."

Caraxes let out a roar as Daemon strapped himself into his saddle.

Rhaenyra followed suit.

She gave one last glance towards her father and the place she grew up in.

"Fly, Syrax."

~~~

Rhaenyra took in the ocean breeze as she soared. Flying felt as if her soul became complete. Targaryens belonged in the air, unencumbered by duty and sacrifice. In the air she was free.

Dragonstone finally came into view. The waves crashing on the shore filled Rhaenyra with joy she hadn't felt since her mother's passing.

She was finally home.

The ships on shore bore familiar sigils. Red crabs on a white field and a silver seahorse on sea green.

Two houses Rhaenyra knew would play a great part in her reign.

Caraxes zoomed past her towards the dragonmount.

Rhaenyra and Syrax raced behind them and landed first.

The dragon keepers rushed to assist them.

"Welcome home, my Queen. You and the Prince are being waited for in the chamber of the painted table." One said as he ushered some acolytes to bring some sheep for Syrax and Caraxes.

"Thank you. We will head there now." Rhaenyra said.

Daemon stood beside her.

"Are you ready to face your first challenge?"

"Oh, Uncle. This will be no challenge for me. We have seen their loyalty. Now we must make sure it never falters again because of war and bad choices." Rhaenyra replied, already walking away.

They made their way through the corridors.

Rhaenyra could already see the changes made in the keep. The Valyrian tapestries that were put away because the lords felt they were not appropriate for the home of the heir to the throne were now hung proudly.

The Valyrian artifacts that Rhaenyra had not seen since living on Dragonstone gleamed with every ray of sunshine that hit them.

Dragonstone had become a palace for a Valyrian Queen.

As they approached the chamber doors, Rhaelys was waiting outside.

"My Queen. My Prince. Welcome home." She said with a playful smile.

These achievements would not have been possible if Rhaelys had not showed them what was to come.

Rhaenyra would reward her for the loyalty she had shown these past couple of days.

"Thank you, Rhaelys. I can see you have helped the servants organize everything. I don't think I've seen half of the tapestries that hang now."

"Our heritage should be celebrated, not locked away to collect dust. You are the blood of Old Valyria. You will make the stronghold proud, my Queen." She said.

"Have you been inside yet?" Rhaenyra asks as she gestures to the chamber doors.

"Not yet. There will be many questions and my presence without you would not help the situation."

"Let us ease their concerns then." Rhaenyra said as she opened the door.

"Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen, Ruler of Dragonstone, and Protector of the Stepstones" Rhaelys announced.

The entire room had come to a deafening silence.

Every eye was on her.

It took all she had not to let her adolescent fear creep up from wherever she had banished it to.

Laenor and Laena stood by the hearth with the Sea Snake, Corlys Velaryon.

Lord Bartimos Celtigar stood by the painted table.

Rhaenyra scanned the chamber until her eyes landed on who she was searching for.

The Queen who Never Was.

Princess Rhaenys.

She stood off close to the side as to be the last seen. She was watching them. Especially Rhaelys. She knew we were not the ones who thought up this whole situation and she wanted answers.

Everyone bowed simultaneously.

"Welcome, my Queen. We have come to pay our respects to the new Queen of Dragonstone." Lord Corlys said.

"Drop the theatrics, Corlys. We know you are little better than that. Ask your questions and be done with it." Daemon said as he sat on the couch by the terrace.

Lord Corlys smirked.

"Very well. How did all this come about? With all due respect, my Queen, a moon ago you would have never thought of something like this. This was a tactical move of someone with more experience. I do not diminish your talents, but what happened to lead you here?"

Rhaenyra walked towards the painted table and looked down at Westeros.

"The path I was on would've lead the realm to their deaths. The lords would not bend to a Queen being forced on them. Princess Rhaenys was right. The Hightowers would've fought the succession and plundged the realm into war to usurp my crown. So, I took a crown for myself. I know what I am capable of now. With the support of those who follow me, I can bring Westeros to heel. They will beg to fall under my rule."

The lords seemed to contemplate her words.

Laenor and Laena looked at her with pride. Her cousins had always supported her even though they were not as close as she had wanted. She would change that.

"Who is she?" Rhaenys finally asked, looking behind Rhaenyra.

"Her name is Rhaelys. She is a part of my household. She is an advisor and lady in waiting." Rhaenyra said.

"And how did you come to serve the Queen?" Rhaenys asked, suspicion growing.

"The Fourteen Flames put me in her path." Rhaelys answered, not breaking eye contact with Rhaenys.

The room seemed to finally notice Rhaelys properly. Valyrian features like hers were not common outside of the royal family.

You could see that she was not a dragonseed. She was pure Valyrian and that was not something people were used to anymore.

"She is a permanent part of my household now. She has shown loyalty without a shadow of a doubt." Rhaenyra said, cutting any more questions about Rhaelys for a while.

"Forgive me, my Queen, but how can you be certain that more houses will join you? Many of the houses have generations of tradition and some will not want to leave the comfort the Iron Throne provides." Lord Bartimos asked.

Rhaenyra smiled.

"House Massey has already joined my kingdom even though I have not offered them anything. They do not owe allegiance to Dragonstone yet they chose to follow me as their Queen. I offer a new rule. Dragonstone holds treasures that no one before me has used. Dragon glass contracts can be devised with different houses in Westeros. It will cut the import time that they had to wait to get glass from the Free Cities. The volcanic ash can be used to fertilize crops. The Stepstones have an untapped seafood trade that can work alongside yours, Lord Corlys. If we are fortunate pearls and aquamarine jewels will be found on the islands. My reign has been thought out, my Lords. I did not ask for Houses Velaryon, Celtigar, Bar Emmon, and Sunglass to fall under my rule just because they are loyal to Dragonstone. I wanted the might and intelligence of your houses. Your cunning and foresight. You all are the backbone of my rule and I will see you elevated to where you belong."

Rhaenyra could see Corlys puff up. If anything worked with men like him, it was the promise of elevation.

"You have thought this through." Rhaenys said, a smile creeping on her face.

"We are fortunate to have a drangon rider as a Queen. The Hightowers will see themselves spiraling sooner or later and if the children do not claim dragons, the realm will feel the power shift." Laena said.

"The Hightowers know nothing about what it is to be the blood of Old Valyria. They will not raise that boy to be a dragon." Laenor added.

"That is why I am confident that even if the children did gain dragons, they would not know what it meant to truly rule as a dragon." Rhaenyra said.

She would not let the Hightowers take the kingdom Aegon the Conqueror created. They would see what it truly meant to be a ruler of the house of the dragon.

"House Massey has not asked for much. All they wish is for Elinda to remain as a lady in waiting in my service and to find her a kind husband. I am willing to discuss my first born and heir being betrothed to either Laenor or Laena's first born child to House Velaryon. They would rule together and our houses would be joined as family again." Rhaenyra said.

Rhaelys and Daemon had suggested keeping that part of the vision the same. House Velaryon would be a valuable ally and a king or queen of their blood would make their loyalty iron clad.

"My Queen, you honor my house with such an offer. We would humbly accept." Lord Corlys said.

She could see the wheels turning in his head. He was already seeing his blood on the throne.

"Lord Celtigar, you are one of the few Valyrian houses to still exist. I would gladly do anything that would show my gratitude for your allegiance."

"I am honored to just be part of this discussion. I do not dare ask for much. If you would take my daughter, Valena, as one of your ladies and find a suitable match for her, I would feel utterly grateful."

Rhaenyra smiled. Rhaelys was right. House Celtigar would always be loyal to Dragonstone.

"It is done. You may have her come to Dragonstone when she has settled things at home. I would also have you benefit from the trade agreements to be made as House Velaryon will. The blood of Old Valyria must remain united, especially when we prosper."

Lord Celtigar smiled widely and bowed.

"My Queen, as your reign has just begun, it may be beneficial to finally choose a King Consort. Someone who would help your claim." Lord Corlys said.

Rhaenys turned to look at her husband. She knew what Corlys was up to and so did everyone else in the chamber.

Daemon narrowed his eyes at the Sea Snake.

"I have already thought of that, Lord Corlys. I am of age and will not start my reign on a shaky foundation. I will marry." Rhaenyra said.

Daemon looked at her in shock. She had not let him know of her decision. Rhaelys looked as if she had waited for this announcement.

"I, Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen, will marry Prince Daemon Targaryen in 6 moons times under the eyes of the Fourteen Flames."

Chapter Text

Rhaenyra POV

Daemon followed Rhaenyra into the library after the meeting with House Velaryon and Celtigar ended.

"We must talk about this, Rhaenyra. You cannot just announce that we are to marry and not tell me."

Rhaenyra leaned against the stone desk and looked at Daemon.

"Are you rejecting this marriage? I can easily go back out there and ruin all our progress and take Laenor as my King Consort or maybe Lord Celtigar might have a son ready to marry."

Daemon became visibly agitated at the notion of Rhaenyra taking another husband.

"I am not saying that. This is all so sudden and you cannot expect me to not have questions." He said.

Rhaenyra wanted to scream from the highest tower.

The last couple of days have changed her life entirely. All she cared about before was riding Syrax and doing as she pleased.

Now she had to live with the burden of knowing what that ignorance led her to.

She couldn't and wouldn't make the same mistakes.

"You saw the same thing I did. We were married. In love. We can have that now from the beginning. What questions can you have? We both do not mind bringing others into our marriage bed. We have never had such restrictions as the Andals. I love you and you love me. We were meant to burn together."

"It is not that simple, Rhaenyra. Viserys will ask many questions. He might even forbid us from being together." He said, running a hand through his hair.

"My father has no say in my marriage anymore. I am a queen of my own right. I can marry whom I choose and I chose you. You are free to marry. We have no obstacles. The Fourteen Flames have blessed us with a real chance to be happy. Will you not take it?" Rhaenyra said, her eyes pleading.

Targaryens had a certain pull towards each other as if the flames within them yearned to be whole once more.

Rhaenyra could not ignore that feeling any longer. She would have the consort she chose.

In an istant she wrapped her arms around Daemon's neck and pressed her lips to his.

The fire within her soul ignited. Every missing piece in her heart was finally filled.

The taste of his lips felt intoxicating. A hint of wine still lingered on his tongue as he flicked it into her mouth.

His arms picked her up in one swift motion. Her legs wrapped themselves around him as if it was second nature.

Rhaenyra had dreamt of her first kiss. Maybe a gallant knight at a tourney or a lord's son at a ball. Maybe Elinda would have gained the courage to ask.

She held Daemon deep in her heart but never dared to dream that more would ever come.

She let Alicent convince her that a lord would be enough, but Rhaenyra knew no one would be Daemon and this moment proved it.

He sat her on the desk and broke the kiss.

Rhaenyra could only imagine what picture she gave off.

Face flushed, her dress in disarray, lips red.

"We are not bound by the opinions of sheep any longer. We will build a new kingdom together and with us side by side, we will bring Westeros and the Hightowers to their knees. We are the true house of the dragon." Rhaenyra declared.

Daemon looked at her as if he would bring the whole world to her if she asked.

He got down on one knee and pulled dark sister to sit in front of him.

"I, Daemon Targaryen, future King Consort, before the eyes of the Fourteen Flames, pledge my life to Queen Rhaenyra of House Targaryen, rightful ruler to the Dragonstone dominion, protector of the Stepstones, and  the Realm's Delight. I swear by fire and blood to guard her name, defend her crown, and obey her word, now and always. So long as I draw breath, her enemies shall be mine, her honor my charge, her command my duty. This I vow, until my flesh is ash and my bones are dust."

-------------------------

Rhaelys POV

Aegon's garden had not changed in hundreds of years.

The trees still held strong through every storm Dragonstone encountered and the flowers were the same as they always were.

Rhaelys had watched Aegon the Conqueror take his first steps in this garden and then in a blink of an eye he was ruler of the Seven Kingdoms.

She sat under the shade of a tree overlooking Blackwater Bay.

Rhaelys closed her eyes and focused.

She could feel everyone's presence on Dragonstone. The servants hurried through the palace preparing rooms for the guests and preparing a lunch tray for every one.

The rumbling of the dragons in the dragonmount filled her with peace. The world should always be filled with dragons.

The sailors were checking the ships one last time before they headed into the fishing village close to Dragonstone. No doubt looking for ale and a pleasure house to ease their minds and body.

The person she was waiting for had finally arrived.

"Who are you truly? Where did you come from and why are you helping Rhaenyra?" Princess Rhaenys said as she stood over Rhaelys.

Rhaelys opened her eyes and looked deep into Rhaenys'.

The Queen who Never Was, but she would have made the perfect Queen.

"I came from the Fourteen Flames. House Targaryen needed intervention. I am here to serve those the Fourteen Flames deemed worthy. As you are worthy, Princess." Rhaelys said.

"I must offer my deepest apologies. You were slighted in the worst way. The crown should've been given to you as Valyrian law stated. Your grandsire was made weak by Maegor's actions. His act for peace threw your life into chaos."

Rhaenys tensed at her words.

Rhaelys knew the turmoil Rhaenys suffered. She was raised to be a ruling queen and then was only able to be Lady of Driftmark.

She loved her husband but Rhaenys was made for more.

"The past is not relevant now. What are you after?" Rhaenys asked.

"I aim to see Queen Rhaenyra as the ruler of this entire realm. It belongs to her by right. The Fourteen Flames have given me this mission and I plan to see it through." Rhaelys said.

"Let us say I believe you. Why would the Fourteen Flames choose her?" Rhaenys asked.

Rhaelys raised an eyebrow.

"Because of the song of ice and fire."

The shift in demeanor was instant.

Rhaenys had no more doubts of who Rhaelys was.

Her father had told her about the song of ice and fire when he named her his heir.

She knew it was not something that was spread outside of the kings and heirs.

"Is she..." Rhaenys asked, falling short of actually asking the question she craved.

"No, but they will come from her line. She had to change paths so that the dragons would live and House Targaryen would continue to rule. I will do all I can so that the house of the dragon does not tear itself apart." Rhaelys said as she stood.

"I will show you that I am loyal to the blood of Old Valyria."

~~~

The waves hitting the shore brought with them a smell Rhaelys had missed.

The ocean she would smell when she rode her dragon, Arrax.

They would soar around the stronghold. Burning any enemy ship that dared to attack her home.

Seeing the dragons on Dragonstone fly through the sky made her remember memories she had long put away.

Memories of her people and her family. When the stronghold was in its prime and they lived in peace.

Rhaelys removed her shoes and put her toes in the sand.

"Does it feel nice?" Leanor asked.

Rhaelys smiled.

Leanor Velaryon. A sad story in the scheme of life. He was not strong enough to stand by a queen, no matter how much he wished he was.

"It feel as if the world disappears and I am back home." She said.

Leanor proceeded to take his boots off and join her in the sand.

"It seems we both share a love for the sea. My father says it is Old Valyria calling us through our blood. We are of the air and the sea as our ancestors were." He said with a huge smile.

The queen was smart to not choose him again. He did not deserve to live under the weight of a crown he did not want.

"Are you here to ask me who I am and what I want?" Rhaelys asked.

Laenor's smile did not fade.

"No. You have the trust of our queen and of Prince Daemon. That is enough for me. You just looked like you were having fun and I wanted to join you."

Rhaelys laughed.

A pure soul even though he had seen war.

"Anything that connects me to the world is fun. The Fourteen Flames have given me more than I could have ever asked for. I enjoy what I can. So should you."

They stood in silence watching the sun set into the sea.

Laenor would live his life better this time. The lines of fate have changed for many already.

~~~

Night time had come and the fishing village was more lively than it had been in more than a decade.

Rhaelys walked in the shadows as to not draw attention to herself.

A lot of the residents were dragonseeds. They had no idea how important the blood that ran through their veins was, as little as it was.

The remnants of the stronghold losing their way in a land without the Fourteen Flames.

Though the Fourteen Flames were not like the Seven. They would not force themselves onto people who did not believe.

Rhaelys hoped that some would learn from their new Queen what the Fourteen Flames had to offer.

The children ran around as their mothers finished cooking and the fathers worked on odd jobs that needed to be done.

The further Rhaelys walked, the darker it got.

She could smell the ale from the taverns and see a pleasure house opening for the night.

Such places were not treated like this in Valyria. Sex was not something to view as shameful or needed to put at the edge of towns.

Valyrians loved whomever they chose because it was part of being human.

"She may be Queen of Dragonstone now but who knows if she'll be able to handle the power. She is barely of age." A voice from inside the pleasure house said.

Rhaelys walked closer.

"She is also a woman. Men follow men. If she's smart she'll put me as commander of her knights. I am the most senior after all. I'm not going to follow some girl who doesn't know about ruling. Prince Daemon would be better off taking Dragonstone for himself." Another said.

Rhaelys knew that voice. A voice that owed a blood debt.

The man stumbled out of the pleasure house and laid eyes on Rhaelys.

Rhaelys knew that look.

The look a predator gives its prey.

"You are the finest whore I have ever seen. You almost look like a Targaryen royal."

"Ser Alfred Broome." She purred as she walked into the darkness.

He grinned wickedly, following her.

"So you know who I am? How about you learn more about me. I have enough coin for a whore like you and when I'm running things under this child queen I might even give you some of her jewels."

"I know what you are." Rhaelys said as she waved a hand behind her back.

"You are a man with no honor. A turn cloak. A man willing to kill his brothers in arms for a promised lordship. A man willing to sell his queen to the enemy."

Ser Alfred began to claw at his body.

"Do you feel it? The fire eating you from inside? A slow, agonizing death." She whispered.

He began to scream as fire burned him from within. He withered on the floor.

Rhaelys knelt down next to him, smiling down at him.

"Let Balerion judge you for the viper you are."

Chapter Text

Otto POV (A few days later)

Otto stood outside the King's chambers. Vases were being thrown across the room, screams and murmurs interchanging every few minutes.

"What has made the King react in such a way?" Otto asked the Kingsguard.

"He has received an invitation to Queen Rhaenyra's wedding. She is to marry Prince Daemon in six moons time." Ser Harrold answered.

Otto withheld his anger and walked away.

He had to find his daughter and get the whole of the story.

As he walked the Red Keep he could see the court buzzing. Invitations must have been sent out so everyone received them at the same time.

Ladies of House Beesbury and Mullendore rushed by giggling unbecomingly.

The lords seemed cut in the middle. Some stood proud while others seemed agitated.

Otto had not received anything from the rookery as of late and it grated at him.

"Send word to Honeyholt. I shall gift the new couple the finest honey wine we make and have the servants pack up my old books on finances. I hope it will aid the new Queen in her endeavors." Lyman Beesbury said to his page as they walked through the corridor.

"Lord Lyman. You have heard the news. I take it you have received an invitation?" Otto asked, knowing the answer already.

"Ser Otto. My entire house has actually. The Queen and future King Consort were most gracious to give my family this honor. I am readying the gifts before we depart to Dragonstone in six moons." Lyman said.

Ser.

Otto despised that title. It lives to remind him that he is not a lord or even viewed as one. He had done so much to get to where he is. He even inclined his head to that idiot King and his brat of a daughter.

He had finally brought the Hightowers into the royal family again and he still was treated as if he was not owed a higher station.

A weak man like Beesbury would not know how to handle what he has had to endure.

"Is it not too inconvenient to even attend? Six moons time is such a short betrothal." Otto nudged.

Beesbury grew irritated.

"We have yet to know any details about their betrothal and even if they have chosen to have a short betrothal, it is not our concern. She is a Queen. Her rule is not of the likes of Westeros. She may do as she sees fit. Now, if you'll excuse me, my granddaughter has commissioned a dress for the wedding and I must make sure she does not indulge too much."

Beesbury walked passed Otto without a second look.

Otto hurried towards the Queen's chambers.

Ser Criston Cole stood guard outside the door.

Rhaenyra had dismissed him from her service before leaving for Dragonstone without explanation. Otto thought it wise to bring him over to their side.

He had been slighted by her without explanation and that pain in men like him would not disappear.

"I am here to see the Queen." He said.

"She is quite agitated at the moment, Lord Hand. She has heard news about Princess Rhaenyra." Criston said with a hint of anger.

Otto walked past him and went into the chambers.

The chamber was a mess.

Papers were scattered across the floor and a vase laid shattered on the terrace.

"What in the name of the Seven is this?" Otto asked.

Alicent turned with fury in her eyes.

"She is to marry! To that rouge! They are to hold a week long celebration! A tourney, a sailing race, a festival and a ball. How can they even afford it? I did not even get all of that when I married the King." She said as she paced the chamber.

Otto could feel his irritation increase. Surely Alicent was seen by the servants and pages being hysterical. Gossip will surely spread of how the Queen cannot cope with her stepdaughter's luck. It will be left to him once again to quiet the waging tongues.

"Control yourself, Alicent. You act like a spoiled child in front of the servants. You are supposed to be winning the love of these commoners, not showing them how inept you are." Otto hissed.

He picked up the invitation from the floor.

The seal was the three headed dragon but instead of red, it was yellow.

The letter repeated all that he was already told.

Nothing gave off any other motive he could find.

That brat was actually going to marry her uncle.

"Can't the King stop it? He is her father. She should follow what he says as the Seven teach." Alicent said.

Otto crushed the invitation in his hand.

"He signed away his right to choose her husband when she stepped down as heir. He has no say in anything she does. If he fights it, it would look as if he's declaring war against her."
Aegon was finally heir yet his plans were not going as he wanted.

He could not get any spies into Dragonstone, that brat was strengthening her power by marrying a powerful and dangerous man, and even with her gone, the King has not helped Aegon with his new role.

Otto did not get to where he was by underestimating people.

He knew Daemon Targaryen was a dangerous foe to have. He survived war and lived off the hunt. As King Consort he would have great power.

Either to elevate Rhaenyra or take Dragonstone for himself.

Until recently he thought he knew how far Rhaenyra was willing to go. After that servant showed up everything changed.

That brat had direction and purpose. She made choices that she would've never known to make. He needed to figure out what he was dealing with.

"She even had the gall to exclude certain noble houses. Lady Redwyne said her household has not received an invitation and Tyland Lannister is declaring his indignation at being passed up for lesser houses." Alicent said.

"She is excluding the houses that support Aegon fully." Otto deducted.

"No. She has invited Borros Baratheon and his entire house. The invitation went to Borros first before his father. She is clearly up to something!" Alicent complained.

"Lower your voice. You are not a common wench. You are the Queen of the Seven Kingdoms. Start acting like it before all this gets back to the king."

Otto can see the strategy forming but he doesn't know what they're planning.

"House Hightower will not be invited, but you will go with the King. You need to show that we are strong. Parade Aegon and show that he is filling his role as heir perfectly. You will take Criston and other Kingsguard from Oldtown. We must be careful." He said.

Otto would not underestimate them again.

-----------------------------

Elinda POV

The palace was in a frenzy. The swords could be heard from the training yard as Prince Daemon did morning drills with the Dragonguards.

Prince Daemon had been able to recruit many Gold cloaks to their kingdom. The Gold cloaks have held respect for Prince Daemon since before he commanded them. They would serve Queen Rhaenyra and the future King Consort well.

He has been training them nonstop so they would be ready for the wedding. Every scenario was practiced and nothing was left to chance.

Prince Daemon had accumulated a vast wealth in the Free Cities throughout his youth that he had held in the Iron Bank of Braavos. He had given access to the Queen to use the coin as she pleased for the kingdom and wedding as long as it was also used to armor and pay the Gold cloaks.

As Elinda walked towards the ballroom two servants from the Vale rushed past her.

"What happened? Why are you rushing?" She asked.

"King Viserys has sent a letter to the Queen. He has questioned the Queen's guest selection and underhandedly voiced his objection to the marriage. We are off to inform Prince Daemon." One said as they rushed towards the training yard.

Elinda sighed. The Queen would not be happy.

The ballroom was scattered with different workers at every corner.

The bakers were finalizing the sketches for the wedding cake along with different variety of desserts.

Carpenters were going over their blueprints for the tourney grounds that already broke ground near the village. The Queen insisted on having her people use the tourney grounds when it was not being used to learn how to defend themselves from any attack. Women and children were encouraged to join the classes.

Lady Vanela was sorting different silks the Queen had chosen for her new night ware for her honeymoon.

Lord Corlys and his heir, Lord Laenor, were in charge of organizing the sailing competition and had offered to provide the prizes for the champions.

Princess Rhaenys was overseeing the ball and reception while Rhaelys was organizing the marriage ceremony.

Queen Rhaenyra had commissioned her wedding dress the day she became engaged and no one has seen any sketch of it yet.

"Elinda. You're just in time. I have commissioned the seamstress to make complimenting dresses for all my ladies. She must take your measurements." Queen Rhaenyra said with a warm smile.

Elinda was a bit taken aback. She was sure the queen would be in a rage because of the letter King Viserys sent yet she seemed as nothing had happened.

Lady Laena, Valena, and Rhaelys sat around Elinda as she was measured.

"The servants informed me of the letter you received. Are you well, My Queen?" Elinda asked.

Queen Rhaenyra just smiled.

"My father's reaction is no concern of mine. He was merely invited. I chose who would be invited for a purpose and my choice of husband is not up for debate. He can choose to come to the wedding or decline but the wedding will go as scheduled."

Elinda could see Lady Laena snicker behind her hand.

"Otto Hightower must be seething to know that House Hightower was not invited and as he is not part of the royal family, he will not have the chance to set foot on Dragonstone."  She said.

The ladies laughed.

"He no doubt will try to get as much information from Queen Alicent when she returns to King's Landing." Lady Vanela said as she reached for a lemon cake.

Elinda felt pride fill her. Her Queen had truly grown into her role. She was not afraid of anything.

After the late Queen's death, Elinda had comforted Queen Rhaenyra in any way she could.

She would leave her favorite snacks by her bed so she'd have something to eat when sleep evaded her.

Elinda made sure her mother's portraits were put in Queen Rhaenyra's storage rooms so no one could ruin them. She even held her on a few occasions when the tears would not cease.

Queen Rhaenyra had to endure loss and betrayal by those closest to her.

Elinda promised herself that she would never let another betrayal towards her Queen go unpunished.

"All finished. I shall have the dresses done in three moons, Your Majesty." The seamstress said.

"Elinda, could I have a word in private?" Queen Rhaenyra asked as she motioned to the side room.

Elinda followed behind.

As the doors closed, Queen Rhaenyra sat down and Elinda followed suit.

"I know the wedding is a lot of responsibility and I am immensely thankful for everything you've done thus far. I wanted to speak to you about your future match. Many lords and knights will be attending and I would like you to keep count of any of note. I want you to choose who you would like to marry as it is an important choice." Queen Rhaenyra said as she held Elinda's hands.

Elinda never thought of marrying. She knew she would have to but men were not something she was interested in.

"I am in no hurry, My Queen. I do not want to leave your service." Elinda said, feeling the warmth of the Queen's hands on hers.

"Then perhaps someone of our kingdom. We can see if there are any eligible men that catch your eye. I do not see any of them having an objection with you remaining as my lady in waiting."

Queen Rhaenyra shifted a bit.

"I know your preferences are not aligned with a husband, Elinda. I will not force you to endure anything you do not want, but I do hope you can find someone who can offer you a title and protection."

Queen Rhaenyra suddenly kissed Elinda's hands.

"You are precious to me, Elinda. I will make sure your happiness is first."

Chapter Text

Viserys POV (6 moons later)

The ship swayed as Dragonstone came into view.

Viserys had lived a lot of his life on Dragonstone but he had never seen it as it is now.

The keep stood tall and magnificent as always but the aura was different.

The grass plains looked greener and even had a designated area for crops near the villages. Even the beaches looked more inviting.

Ships lined up at the dock with a banner of a yellow three headed dragon on a black field and yellow trim.

Rhaenyra had created her own banner.

Viserys felt a pang of sadness. He never wanted his daughter to leave but he had to protect the realm from the calamity of his dream. War could not start if Rhaenyra and Aegon were not fighting over the Iron Throne, but now she had fallen into Daemon's hands.

A horn sounded as their arrival was announced.

Many knights were stationed at the docks and grand gate. They wore shinning black armor with a yellow three headed dragon etched into the breast plate and yellow cloaks hanging off their shoulders.

Many ship hands milled about. They had come for the sailing competition to occur in the middle of the week. Corlys had offered lucrative prizes that many coveted. Sailors who came to sail for their houses and fish merchants who were ready to make a name for themselves.

Viserys stepped off the ship while Alicent followed behind with Aegon and Helaena.

Otto had insisted Ser Criston Cole come to guard the children along with his trusted guards.

Viserys saw no reason to oppose. He knew Otto cared for their safety.

Rhaenyra stood at the edge of the busy dock. She looked radiant. She wore a Valyrian steel crown atop her head. Viserys had never seen such a magnificent crown.

Her dress was an off the shoulder dress that gleamed as light reflected on the gold trim. She looked every bit the Queen he imagined her to be.

"Welcome, father. I am happy your health has allowed you to come to my wedding." She said, her hands gracefully held in front of her.

"My beautiful daughter." He said as he hugged her.

He could not say more. He wanted to put her on the ship and take her away from this conspiracy.

Daemon had surely manipulated his darling daughter and Viserys would make him stop.

"Where is Daemon?" He asked dryly.

"He is with the Dragonguards. The tourney grounds are having one last run through so nothing is amiss." Rhaenyra said, smiling.

"Is it not disrespectful that the King Consort is not present to greet us?" Alicent said as she handed Helaena to the servants.

"Good thing he is not King Consort yet then." Rhaenyra replied.

"Let us head inside and have you rest, father. The ship ride must have been tiring. We can speak more after everyone is settled in."

~~~

Viserys watched as the servants arranged the chambers but rest evaded him. He had to do something to save Rhaenyra from the kind of marriage Rhae Royce had to endure.

"Viserys, you must speak to your daughter. You have supported this farce for too long. She cannot marry without your leave no matter what a document says. Duty and sacrifice cannot be thrown to the wayside just for an infatuation." Alicent said as she sat on the bed.

"I will get the truth of everything. I cannot make rash decisions at the moment."

Viserys had been trying for the last six moons to understand how Rhaenyra was manipulated into such a marriage, but he could not find what his brother would gain.

Dragonstone is not the Seven Kingdoms. It has no real power or wealth. He could've tried to regain his position as heir if he only proved himself to Viserys. It troubled him not to know.

He walked out of the chambers just as Alicent had begun to complain about the size of the chambers.

There were flowers and gold and white garlands hung all around. The servants milled about doing chores as if they were not working but enjoying what they did.

Tapestries depicting stories of Old Valyria hung in every corridor.

The dragons could be heard deep from the dragonmount.

Viserys could hardly recognize anything. Everything had a new feeling. The gloom that used to fill Dragonstone was no more.

This was the Dragonstone his father, Baelon, always dreamed of.

He made his way to the inner bailey to catch a breath.

As he turned to look at the dragonmount he could not believe his eyes.

At the foot of the volcano was a structure he only saw in books of Old Valyria.

A pantheon.

Its marble pillars stood tall and bright in contrast to the dragonmount.

Viserys approached the structure, hoping it would not disappear.

As he entered his mind raced. Of all the effort and research he had done his whole life, he would have never been able to recreate a pantheon for the Fourteen Flames of Old Valyria yet someone could and did.

The Fourteen Flames stood proud around the room as sun came in from the ceiling. The face of each one was etched perfectly.

Viserys had only heard stories but they did no justice to what was in front of him. They were flawless.

The flames in the braziers in front of each God gave a soft glow.

"Rhaelys was the architect behind it. She possesses great knowledge of Old Valyria." A voice said.

Viserys could only feel fury at that moment.

He lunged at Daemon with all his might but Daemon was too quick and side stepped.

"Do not do this, brother. You know it will not end the way you want." Daemon said.

"You are no brother of mine. How could you lure Rhaenyra into this sham of a marriage!? She is barely of age!" Viserys yelled.

Daemon clenched his jaw.

"Then why were you so eager to marry her off to Laenor Velaryon? Your lickspittles have impaired your critical thinking, Viserys. Laenor or any other lord you put in her way was never going to be enough. She is a dragon. She yearns for one who burns as much as she does."

Viserys lunged once more towards Daemon but Daemon evaded with no effort.

"Since we are in the presence of the Gods let us be honest, Viserys. The only reason you've ever won a fight against me is because I let you. You wanted to vent out your anger and as your brother, I obliged, but you do not rule me any longer." Daemon said.

The anger Viserys felt mixed with something different. A feeling he pushed down for years. Fear of Daemon.

Viserys tried one last time to lunge at Daemon but Daemon pinned him to the marble wall next to the God Caraxes.

"I am your King." He said weakly.

"No. She is my Queen. You may believe what you want, but she chose me. The sooner you realize your opinion does not hold weight here, the better. You must accept the consequences of your actions, Viserys. You stripped her of her birthright and gave it to your Hightower spawn. Now she rules her own kingdom and you need to start viewing her as the queen she is, not just your daughter." Daemon stated.

The flames in the braziers began to take on a fiery blaze.

They raged as if the Gods were agreeing with Daemon.

-----------------

Daemon POV

Daemon left his brother in the pantheon to reflect on his words.

The palace was lively with chatter and gossip.

As Daemon climbed the steps of Sea Dragon Tower he could see his men at their posts and the guests making their rounds.

The young ladies hid behind their fans as they fawned over the Dragonguards, young lords stood with their chests puffed out trying to seem more rugged and experienced.

Alicent was on her way to the Sept that was in the outer bailey. Cole was at her side.

It seemed he would follow the same skirts in this life too.

As he reached the top of the tower he saw who he was searching for.

Rhaenyra stood overlooking the ships docking.

"What is the report?" He asked as he stood next to her.

"All the houses who were invited have arrived. House Stark was the last to dock but it is to be expected. They did travel far." She replied, not looking away from the shore.

"We have not been able to get time alone recently. How are you faring?" He asked.

He knew what Rhaenyra was up to these past six moons but only what she let others see.

"The dragon glass contracts fared very well with the Vale and the North. They have paid and the glass was shipped. They have agreed to long partnerships and we will promote our work during the festival. The ships we bought off Corlys will do us well." She said.

Daemon smirked.

"I don't believe offering Corlys to give our first born and heir a Velaryon name can be considered paying for them."

"He gave us a small fleet which is all that matters." Rhaenyra said with a small smile.

"We are expecting three ships to arrive during the festival full of people ready to travel to the Stepstones. The whispers the gold cloaks spread had the desired effect. The homes for the commoners are finished and Harwin will accompany the other Dragonguards to oversee the people settle well. The keep is halfway finished. A castellan must be chosen soon." Daemon said.

"Laena will not be happy that you are sending her paramore away. As much as they believe they are hiding it. Tell Harwin to explore the caves when given the chance. Something tells me that they hold more than we know. The Crabfeeder wanted the islands for a reason and we will find out why." Rhaenyra said with a far off look.

"I am sure they are in the armory saying their goodbyes already. Harwin Strong is a thorough man. He has probably already planned to search them but I will convey the Queen's command." He said with a knowing look.

Harwin had decided to follow suit with the gold cloaks and come to Dragonstone. He was loyal in the vision and in this life. Daemon would not let him die a meaningless death this time around.

Daemon turned to face Rhaenyra and leaned on the railing.

"How are you really? It has been six moons and you have yet to talk about what we saw."

Rhaenyra visibly tensed and began to play with the rings on her fingers.

"How can I feel? The burden of the vision only pushes me forward. I am a mother who lost her children to war and watched my husband fall to his death before I even lose my maidenhead and marry. It would drive me mad if I did not hold the weight of a crown on my head. I must protect our people and our house. I cannot be naive enough to believe being royal will make people bend th knee again. I must let go of the children that will never be though they burn within my heart. I must persevere so that we may have a chance against our enemies."

She trembled and Daemon could see the tears threatening to fall.

He stood and hugged Rhaenyra tightly to his chest.

"Cry if you must. I will shield you from prying eyes. We have both loved and lost more than we ever thought we would. I am here, Rhaenyra. I swear to you, I will never leave you again. We have both lost children and we will mourn them together. Baela and Rhaena will not be mine in flesh and blood again but I pray to the Fourteen that I may never forget them. Just as all our children. We will bring this realm under the true dragons. The Hightowers will rue the day they decided to make us their enemies."

Rhaenyra sobbed in Daemon's arms. Soon she would have to confront the guests but first she would mourn the life she lost.

Chapter Text

Criston POV

Dawn would break soon.

The castle was quiet as maids milled about getting ready for the tourney in a few hours.

Smells from the kitchen filled the corridors as the cooks prepared meals for the lords and ladies to break their fast when the sun rose.

Criston didn't need to be on duty until the tourney and he had to find the Princess.

His princess.

Ever since she had elevated him to be her sworn shield Criston knew that she was a delicate jewel.

She had to be coerced by Daemon and her maids to leave King's Landing and come here.

She would not have dismissed him in such a way if she were not being used by those vultures.

He made his way around the keep trying to find where she could be.

He found himself in the gardens overlooking Blackwater Bay.

As he was about to turn to leave he spotted her.

She sat at a table wrapped in a warm robe while breaking her fast already.

She looked angelic looking into the dark distance.

Criston had to act quick now that she was alone as Lord Otto Hightower had said.

Lord Hightower had told him about the Princess' feelings. She felt the same as he did. They would be happy together if he could take her away from this place as Lord Hightower suggested.

Criston rushed towards her.

"Princess! I must speak with you." He said with a smile.

He didn't register the movement around him and in a second he was on the floor with a sword to his neck.

"How dare you speak to our Queen in such a way? You will show her the respect she is owed. You are nothing but a lowely knight." Ser Erryk Cargyll said.

The Princess turned slowly to look down at him.

"My Dragonguards have been trained to watch from the shadows, Ser Criston. As a Kingsguard you should know the proper way of addressing royalty." She said as she stood.

"I have come to speak with you. To save you from this prison. I know you have been led by your uncle and maid with false promises. They only seek to use you. Come with me. We can live happily away from all this. We can be free. You can choose a match for love." Criston said.

They could flee to the Free Cities and live as man and wife. No titles to hold them down. He would take her as she is and honor her.

Laughter interrupted his thoughts.

She was laughing. At him.

"Do you take me for a fool, Ser Criston? You think me stupid enough to be manipulated so easily? Daemon did not force me to take Dragonstone. I took it because I deserve to be Queen. Love? What love do you speak of? I have never suggested to have feelings for you nor have I given you reason to believe I held any feelings for you. I thought that your dismissal as my sworn shield was proof enough that I do not wish for you to be by my side."

"The Hand..."

"Otto Hightower? I would rather cut my own tongue out than give Otto Hightower leave to speak on my behalf. He has lied to you." She said.

No.

It couldn't be. Criston was certain she felt the same. She chose him over noble knights. She kept him close to her. The moments they shared during the hunt. She had to feel the same.

"I have risked everything. My honor, my white cloak. My position is at risk and you would say it was for nothing?" He said as he pushed on the sword, hate enveloping his heart.

She sat down again watching the sun rise.

"I did not force your hand in any way to come search for me. Maybe in another life I would've been foolish enough to believe in your love and loyalty, but it is not this one. Today is the beginning of my wedding celebrations. I will not start it by taking a life. Return to your post, Ser Criston, but this will be your only chance. You step out of line again, then you will only be leaving Dragonstone in a coffin."

-------------------------------

Rhaenyra POV

She stormed into her chambers with Ser Erryk close behind.

Nothing had happened this time around and he still had the gall to think that she would leave her crown to be wife of a sell sword and sell oranges waiting on him.

What a delusional man.

Rhaenyra's ladies all rushed in.

"What has happened? Why are you upset?" Laena asked, still in her night dress and an apple in hand.

"Ser Criston Cole forgets himself. He dared to ask me to run away with him as if I gave him reason to believe that I held any feelings for him." Rhaenyra said, seething.

Rhaenyra could see shock fall on their faces.

"Why would he ever think you would leave Daemon and your crown for a Kingsguard with nothing to his name?" Laena asked as they all sat around Rhaenyra.

"Otto Hightower had him believe I held affection for him. The fool." Rhaenyra responded, pacing her chambers.

"He needs to be dealt with. He will become a theat now that you have rejected him." Rhaelys said, dressed in a sky blue night dress Rhaenyra had gifted her.

"You do not think he would hurt our Queen because she did not accept his advances?" Elinda asked, worry on her face.

"He would. He will think his honor was ruined by her because he dared to make such a proposition and she did not accept." Rhaelys answered.

Rhaenyra motioned for Ser Erryk to step out and began to undress when he was gone.

The maids worked around her, helping her into a beautiful red and gold dress for the tourney.

"I didn't want the hassle of explaining to my father why I killed one of his Kingsguard with his already vocal distaste for my wedding so I let him crawl back to Alicent. We need a reason to be able to take his life. I want his head by the end of the week." Rhaenyra proclaimed.

"He is a Kingsguard. No matter what story he spins, if he disrespects a lady he will suffer gravely. The more noble the lady, the worse the punishment. If he were to offend a lady of high rank and close to both royal families he would not be able to escape." Vanela said with a wicked smile.

Rhaenyra could see the plan she was weaving.

"If he were to appear to break his oath and offend any of you then his life would be forfeit, but I cannot risk any of you being ruined by this." She said.

Her ladies were worth more than Criston Cole.

"We would not be ruined. Harwin would never believe me ruined for anything Cole would do, Rhaelys cares of no one's opinion, and Valena and Elinda are content as they are. Though we wouldn't want them with men who would view them in that way anyway. We are your ladies, Rhaenyra. Let us help you." Laena said.

Rhaenyra felt a pang of guilt. She did not know how loyal her ladies were. She could have been surrounded by them sooner had she not been blinded by her friendship with Alicent.

"Very well. Rhaelys will have our spies spread rumors about Ser Criston. You all can make comments during the week. Vague so he fears that his misstep has been revealed but doesn't know for certain. Sightings at the pleasure houses by the Dragonguards, longing looks towards Alicent, heard making degrading comments about noble ladies. If I am correct, he will lose his patience when the wedding reception happens so we will strike then." Rhaenyra said.

Her ladies nodded their heads in agreement.

Rhaenyra smiled at them. Her ladies were not timid little things. They were strong and always ready to fight. They were everything Rhaenyra needed.

"The sun has risen. Let us get ready for our first battle."

-------------------------------

Rhaenys POV

The sun beamed down on the tourney grounds, ready for the brutality and cunning of the whole ordeal.
The tourney grounds could rival the one in Kings Landing. The architects made sure to do the kingdom proud.

Rhaenyra had made it a rule for the people of Dragonstone to have their own viewing section. She wanted the nobles to see how much her people loved her.

Rhaenys looked over at the royal box and everyone was almost sat.

The master of coin, Lord Bartimos Celtigar, was sat next to her lord husband, Corlys. They had much to speak of since Corlys had taken it upon himself to gift Rhaenyra a fleet of ships.

Rhaenys knew her husband had been lured in by Rhaenyra, but she could not be upset.

Rhaenyra had finally learned how to play the game and Rhaenys wanted to see how far she could reach.

Viserys and his wife sat next to the Queen and King Consort's seats. Alicent looked as if she'd been slighted to be sat under Rhaenyra.

"Cousin! How joyous to see you!" Viserys said as he stood to hug her.

"You look well, cousin." Rhaenys said as she hugged Viserys and nodded to Alicent.

Alicent seemed more out of sorts than usual. She has noticed that no one under Rhaenyra's rule bows to her.

Rhaenyra had made it clear to her people that they had no obligation to bow to anyone from the Westeros royal family, not even her father. They were to be respectful but reverence and loyalty were for the Dragonstone royal family.

Viserys as usual didn't seem to notice this detail.

Rhaenys took her seat next to her husband as the participants prepared for the horse racing competition.

The lords were already drinking ale and readying the knights that would race for their house's honor.

The tents were neatly arranged. House Stark and Mormont were placed next to each other while House Velaryon and Celtigar were as well.

Every little detail had a purpose. The lords would view it as Rhaenyra and Daemon being considerate but Rhaenys knew better.

They wanted to see how different lords interacted with each other. How they viewed each other.

The stalls outside the tourney grounds were filled with vendors selling dragon glass jewelry, food made from crops grown with volcanic ash mixed into the ground, blacksmiths who used the lava heat from the volcano to make beautiful black weapons that were very close to Valyrian steel.

Rhaenys could see the greed filling their eyes. They saw what was to come if Rhaenyra had already found a way to make coin. They would want a way in soon.

As she looked around she saw many familiar faces.

Many strong rugged men sat in the front of the stands.

Rhaenys recognized them as the builders of the pantheon in the palace.

The builders had spent a lot of time with Rhaelys devising the beautiful structure.

She recounted how she would pass by and hear Rhaelys tell them stories about the Fourteen Flames. The men pretended to be uninterested but they hung on her every word. By the time they were done they had found a home in the Fourteen Flames.

Rhaenys could see Laenor with Joffrey Lonmouth as they held a conversation away from the spectators.

She knew what her son was and she accepted it. He had found love and that mattered greatly but he still had to marry. He was heir to Driftmark and she could not let her son waste away in pleasures when he held the responsibility of many people.

He would have to lead many even if he did not wish it. The fishermen and commoners needed him to be strong to keep Driftmark strong.

Now that Rhaenyra was not an option, Corlys would surely try to aim for a lady in waiting of the Queen.

Corlys had been apprehensive when Rhaenyra became Queen. He thought her too young and unexperienced but when her plan for Dragonstone was revealed, he knew she would be a true dragon ruler.

Stares began to wander behind her.

When Rhaenys turned she saw why.

Rhaenyra and her ladies in waiting had arrived.

They were dressed in beautiful gold dresses with red trim while Rhaenyra wore a red dress with gold trim. Each dress complimented each body type to perfection.

Everyone rose and bowed except for Viserys and Alicent.

"Oh, Rhaenyra! You look magnificent. A true queen." Viserys said as they all took their seats.

Laenor sneaked in behind Laena and Rhaenys gave him a reproached look.

"Thank you, father. My seamstress has proven to be a hidden talent. I am grateful she resided here on Dragonstone."

Daemon made his way from the other side of the royal box.

He planted a soft kiss on Rhaenyra's head.

Viserys instantly tensed at the show of affection.

Cheers erupted from the commoners section. Women and children waved Rhaenyra's banner as men cheered Rhaenyra and Daemon's names.

Rhaenyra had made it her mission to bring new life to the people of Dragonstone and its dominions.

Food banks and orphanages were built for the children and families in need.

She made jobs for people on the island by hiring them to mine the dragon glass and transport the ash from the volcano.

New schools were being sketched out to teach children and adults alike.

Once enough qualified teachers were ready, some would travel to the Stepstones and open schools there.

Rhaenyra had a vision for her new rule and Rhaenys intended to see it through.

Rhaenyra faced the crowds.

"Thank you all for coming to celebrate my marriage to Prince Daemon Targaryen. This endeavor would not be possible without the hard working people who have come to bring these tourney grounds to life. The Fourteen Flames have brought us all together this day. Under their protection and guidance we have started to build the foundation of our legacies. It is with great pleasure that I announce that a pantheon for the Fourteen Flames will break ground in the village after the week of celebration is done."

Rhaenys glanced towards Alicent. The shock on her face was priceless enough.

The lords were murmuring but not speaking openly. Not that they could. Rhaenyra's kingdom held the most dragonriders. Vhagar herself not far from where they were gave out a ferocious roar.

The Fourteen Flames had made their home in Dragonstone.

The cheers from the villagers increased.

"May the Fourteen Flames watch over you, Queen Rhaenyra! King Daemon!" One of the workers shouted.

"May Meleys always guide your hand and Vhagar protect you against your enemies!" Another shouted.

Rhaenyra smiled brightly at her people. The Fourteen Flames had reached the workers and through them more would learn.

"Let us introduce the champions and let the tourney commence!" Rhaenyra announced.

Rhaenys could see Alicent digging her nails into her chair and her sworn shield did not seem any happier.

Rhaenyra had begun her game.

"Today's competition consists of five riders! First we have the Knight of Kisses, Ser Joffrey Lonmouth!" The herald proclaimed.

Joffrey came out fully dressed in Velaryon sea green on a beautiful white horse. He waved at the cheering spectators and blew kisses at the ladies.

He approached the royal box near Rhaenyra.

"It is already a given that our Queen will be crowned once again as the Queen of Love and Beauty, but I still dare ask for your favor, my Queen! I shall make the Dragonstone kingdom proud in your honor." Joffrey said confidently.

Rhaenys knew he spoke that way for a reason. She had yet to meet anyone as agile on a horse than Joffrey. It was as if he was one with his horse.

Rhaenyra smiled warmly at him but there seemed to be a bit of sadness behind her eyes.

"Ser Joffrey Lonmouth, it would be my honor. May my favor keep you safe and steer you true." Rhaenyra said as she handed her favor to Joffrey.

Rhaenys noticed how agitated Alicent's sworn shield became as Rhaenyra smiled at Joffrey.

The crowd grew louder as he lined up at the starting position.

"Our next competitor is Ser Gwayne Hightower of the Kingsguard!"

There were cheers but not as they were for Joffrey.

Gwayne made his way towards Alicent.

"My Queen, I asked to be blessed by your favor so I may bring this victory for you and the Seven Kingdoms."

Alicent smiled at her brother and approached him.

"My the Seven protect you, brother. From all ill intentions and blasphemous words." Alicent said as she handed over her favor and she looked around.

No one seemed to care for her words as they just waited for her to be done.


Gwayne moved into his position and riders from House Mormont, Bar Emmon and Arryn were announced.

The starting flag was positioned and the riders readied themselves.

The horn blew and they were off.

Joffrey kept low to his horse and took a clean lead. Ser Gwayne was right behind him.

House Mormont's knight was slowing down as the curve to turn was coming and the knight from the Vale used the opening to pass them.

The crowds cheered for their favorite riders.

As Joffrey reached the turn, Rhaenys could see Ser Gwayne looking for a slight opening.

There was a minimal opening but it would be a great risk to take.

Joffrey was not to be underestimated. His precision was impecable and if Ser Gwayne took the opening it would most likely not go well.

Rhaenys observed as Ser Gwayne tried to take the lead and Joffrey closing the chance.

Ser Gwayne pulled hard on the reins and it caused the horse to stumble and throw him forward towards the stone wall.

Gasps echoed around and Alicent let out a scream.

The riders evaded the collision and raced passed him.

The horn blew again as Joffrey crossed as victor of the race. House Arryn and Mormont came second and third.

The cheers were deafening.

Knights rushed to pick up Ser Gwayne before the horse could stomp him.

He was carried off to the healers tent.

Alicent rushed off with no acknowledgement of anyone around her.

Everyone clapped and cheered as Joffrey was presented with a bouquet of flowers and 200 gold dragons.

The second place victor received 150 gold dragons and third place won 100 gold dragons.

The crowds made their way towards the festival while some lords mingled around.

The festival would be week long with different stalls and entertainment everyday.

Rhaenys made her way towards Rhaenyra and Daemon.

"Has Viserys headed to the healers tent?" She asked.

"He would have to care for Alicent more to do that. He has gone to rest. He left Alicent to Cole." Daemon said with a smirk.

"She is having another tantrum because her brother was injured. He will live but he has some broken ribs and a facial injury that will scare. No one is listening to her and it is only agitating her more." Rhaenyra said as she watched her ladies talking to the guests.

"She forgets that this is not her kingdom. Viserys can deal with her anger." Daemon said.

"She will use the melee tomorrow to vent that anger against you. No doubt she will try to kill your champion." Rhaenys said.

Rhaenyra smirked with a wicked gleam dancing in her eyes.

"Then let her learn why Harwin is known as Breakbones."

Chapter Text

Harwin POV

The tourney grounds were being prepared for the melee.

Harwin studied his opponents. There were many unknown knights and lords of noble houses.

Borros Baratheon, some Blackwood second son, Lady Fell's nephew, Bernard Stark, second son of House Stark and Ser Rickard Thorne.

Borros Baratheon would go through all the smaller knights first and then go after Lady Fell's nephew and the Blackwood lad. He was known to use brute strength and this melee would be no different.

Harwin knew he would come for Bernard Stark and Ser Rickard Thorne and himself last.

They were the most experienced fighters and would put up a bigger fight.

Though from what Daemon had told him, Ser Rickard Thorne would be out for blood for his Queen.

Harwin would be sure to put on a show to remember.

The lords and ladies mingled by the tents having conversations and sharing gossips.

As Harwin neared his tent, he saw Laena speaking to Highgarden's Reagent, Lady Tyrell.

"I do not believe Queen Alicent is aware but Ser Criston must hold affections for his Queen as he does not hide his longing stares. I have even heard my father's men talk about Ser Criston trying to find women of the night that resemble Queen Alicent." Laena whispered as Harwin approached.

"What a scandal for a Kingsguard. Queen Alicent must feel that she cannot speak out about his suspicious behavior since he was appointed by her father." Lady Tyrell said with a look of pity on her face.

"Hello, ladies. How are you faring this morning?" Harwin said as he looked down at Laena with a knowing smile.

She was up to something.

"Quite well, Ser Harwin, though I should get back to Lord Tyrell. He is yet to adapt to being away from his mother for long." Lady Tyrell said as she made her way to House Tyrell's tent.

"What are you up to?" Harwin asked as he leaned into Laena.

She pulled him into the tent away from prying eyes.

"The ladies and I are just taking care of a pest that has bothered our Queen. You will learn more of it later." She said as she pressed her body on his.

Every curve molded to him.

"I am to be called to the melee soon. We cannot." Harwin said.

"Oh but we can." She purred as she kissed his neck.

Harwin could feel his manhood pulse against her.

Laena had a hold on him he could not explain. He loved her boldness and fearlessness. She was not a shy lady that sat around waiting for her dream knight.

Laena took what she wanted.

His hands roamed her body, feeling every curve underneath his calloused hands.

The silk of her dress felt like armor keeping him away from her skin.

"You will be the death of me." Harwin said as he kissed her fiercely.

Laena moaned into his mouth just as hungry for him as he was for her.

She pulled away as she bit his lower lip.

"Our Queen has a request. Ser Rickard Thorne should see himself retired from the Kingsguard after today. Queen Alicent has made it clear to use him to hurt you and Rhaenyra will not allow that slight."

Harwin had a hard time understanding what Queen Alicent had yet to fight against here.

Her son was heir to the Iron Throne and Queen Rhaenyra has her own kingdom. The fight should have ended but it only seems to keep going.

"Very well. As my Queen and Lady command." He said as he smiled down at Laena.

"Bring us this victory, my love. I intend to marry you in one piece before you leave for the Stepstones." She said as she kissed him one last time.

~~~

The crowds cheered as the fighters walked into the arena.

Harwin opted for a long sword. He knew how to wield it well and it would do the job.

Borros Baratheon swung a mace wildly as the crowds cheered.

"Welcome everyone to the melee portion of our tourney! Since so many important lords are participating today our Queen has deemed it necessary to remind the fighters that taking a life during this melee will not be tolerated. If this decree is not followed, punishment and justice will be handed out swiftly and harshly by the Dragonguards present." The herald said loudly.

The Dragonguards stood at every corner of the arena. Harwin could see some hiding in the shadows.

Rhaelys had implemented this skill into every Dragonguard. She spent months training every one of them to be stealthy and use the shadows to their advantage.

Even the biggest Dragonguard became invisible.

Daemon evem had them going through scenarios that Harwin believed to be odd.

What to do if the commoners tried to enter the dragonmount, how to handle princes fighting each other, maintaining order if food became scarce, how to handle a fight breaking out at the wedding reception.

Things that have never happened but the Dragonguards were prepared for.

Harwin focused on the men around him as the horn blew.

Steel on steel commenced immediately. The young knights fought with pure force and no skill.

Harwin charged in with the brutal efficiency that earned him the name Breakbones.

Borros swung his mace and made contact with a knight's ribs. The armor he wore was not strong enough to stop the force.

Blood began to pool as the knight was motioned to leave the arena since he sustained a critical wound.

Another knight from Claw Isle charged at Harwin with an axe high in the air.

Before the axe could come down, Harwin  tackled the knight into the stone wall. Harwin felt the knight's body go limp and he left him at the feet of a Dragonguard.

Chaos was ensuing around him.

Bernard Stark rushed at a knight and the Blackwood lad with a sword drawn high. He managed to drop the two of them with a slash to the legs but not before the Blackwood boy pulled out a short sword and stabbed Bernard in the arm.

The sword sliced through the armor smoothly.

Harwin realized that the short sword was made of dragon steel, the steel developed on Dragonstone.

He would have to watch it. It is as deadly as Valyrian steel and it was the only weapon in the arena capable of cutting through his dragon steel armor.

Bernard Stark stumbled but was able to take out the rest of the young knights before he collapsed from blood loss.

The Dragonguards dragged the fallen fighters to the healers tent.

Harwin swung his sword backwards as Lady Fell's nephew tried to catch him by surprise.

The young knight fell when the sword met his leg. The blade dented the armor but did not break through.

The knight was not his objective.

Ser Rickard Thorne had been biding his time. He made short work of the inexperienced knights willing to go against the Kingsguard.

After a short while, the only men left were Borros Baratheon, Harwin and Ser Rickard Thorne.

The cheering thundered around the arena.

Harwin danced around Borros Baratheon. He was a burly man who used brute force in everything he did. He would go down easily.

The mace swung widely as Borros ran at Harwin. It met his armor but it barely created a dent.

The dragon steel held its form. The crowd sat as if in a trance.

Borros tried again but Harwin was too fast. He ducked out of the way and watched the mace circle back towards Borros.

The mace caught him on the arm before he could maneuver it away.

The force of the swing cut through Borros' armor and forearm.

Harwin used the injury as an opportunity. He grabbed the arm and twisted until he heard the pop of the joint.

Borros held his arm as the pain shot through his body.

Two Dragonguards motioned for him to leave the arena.

Harwin looked up at the royal box. Daemon and Queen Rhaenyra sat calm and analytical.

They were watching every move made in the arena. It was a piece to use to their advantage and Harwin would gladly play his part.

Harwin, broad-shouldered and barrel-chested, lunged at Ser Rickard Thorne like a madman.

Ser Rickard barely blocked the attack.

They leaned into each other as each tried to overpower the other.

"I applaud your commitment to your Queen, Ser Rickard, but you do not understand what it means to be a Dragonguard." He said.

Clashing of steel echoed throughout the stands as Harwin continued the assault.

"Our Queen took what was hers by right. She did not wait to be given the title like yours did. We as her shields will protect her honor from any slight, no matter how trivial."

Ser Rickard tried to slash through his armor but to no avail.

"You will pay for your Queen's foolishness. To believe that she could measure up to Queen Rhaenyra."

Harwin saw the anger building in Ser Rickard. He reached for the dragon steel sword.

An opening appeared and Harwin rushed towards Ser Rickard.

In an instant Ser Rickard was in the air being thrown onto the hard ground.

Harwin stepped on his hand to hold him in place as he crouched down.

"Remember this when you want to defend your queen again. A tower will always burn under dragon fire."

In one smooth motion, Harwin stood and stomped Ser Rickard's leg, putting all his body weight into it. The bones could be heard cracking underneath the weight.

A scream escaped Ser Rickard and the crowd erupted in cheers.

"Our champion! Ser Harwin 'Breakbones' Strong, Commander of the Dragonguards!" The herald shouted.

---------------------------

Rhaenyra POV

The cheers continued as Harwin received his prize money. All the Dragonguards congratulated their commander one by one.

Rhaenyra could see Ser Rickard being carried off. The leg would heal but never again would he be a knight.

Another supporter of the Greens dealt with.

Rhaenyra walked down the steps towards the throne room. Ser Erryk followed at a distance.

Her ladies mingled around, each speaking to different lords and ladies.

Rhaenyra had already heard the rumors circulating and by how agitated Cole looked, he had heard them too.

Rhaenyra motioned for Ser Erryk to wait outside.

The throne room was empty. The dragon glass throne stood tall and imposing.

Rhaelys had used some of her black magic to form a dragon glass dragon wrapping itself around the throne.

Its obsidian scales shimmered in the light. The eyes were rubies that seemed to follow whomever stared at it.

"Ser Rickard will never be a Kingsguard again! Harwin Strong will answer for this!" Alicent said as she stormed into the throne room with Criston Cole in tow.

Rhaenyra turned, already bored with her latest tantrum.

"The consequences of a melee are known to every participant. Ser Rickard knew that he could be injured. Harwin has nothing to pay for." Rhaenyra explained.

"It seems only you evade consequences." Criston whispered under his breath.

Rhaenyra narrowed her eyes.

"It seems you give your sworn shield much leeway, Queen Consort. He should remember that he is in my kingdom now and I do not allow such familiarity from him. If you wish to speak then he must leave." Rhaenyra said.
Alicent hesitated but nodded her head for him to leave.

Cole reluctantly walked outside.

"How much longer will you do this, Rhaenyra? You have thrown your tantrum, but a marriage is too far. You do not know what you do." Alicent said as she straightened herself.

Rhaenyra laughed.

"Do you believe this is a farce? You think I took Dragonstone to elicit a reaction from my father or even you? I took my crown because I could. I have tripled my coffer's coin in less than six moons because I am more than capable of doing so. I have loyal subjects who followed me when all I had was a crown. I am marrying Daemon because we love each other and because he protects my throne. I know very well what I am doing, Alicent. It is you who does not know anything."

Rhaenyra could see Alicent faulter. She didn't have the spine of a true queen. She only knew how to be a puppet for men.

"Duty and sacrifice are above everything..." Alicent tried to say.

"Is that why you visited my father's chambers the night my mother burned on the pyre? For duty and sacrifice?" Rhaenyra asked.

Alicent went pale. She had probably expected that shame to stay hidden. Rhaenyra would not let that happen.

"I... Rhaenyra, you must know that nothing happened. I just read to him. I swear it." She stammered.

"Do not invoke the wrath of your false Gods, Alicent. It matters not what you say. The moment you walked into those chambers in your mother's dress you became nothing more than a status climbing whore." Rhaenyra said, staring Alicent down.

Rhaenyra walked towards the throne and caressed the head of the dragon glass dragon.

"Once I believed in you. You were my friend. My only friend and yet you married my father. I admit, I relied on my title of princess too much. I thought it was enough before I saw that your greed would never stop. You have the Iron Throne in your grasp yet you feel the need to come here and impose your will. Dragons do not bend to anything. My kingdom will grow while those little ambitions you hold will tie you down. I will marry for love while you married for greed." Rhaenyra said.

"Daemon will take it all from you." Alicent said.

"You do not know him. You do not know what being the blood of the dragon feels like. He burns brighter than anyone else. Your children will have some of that fire and you will smother it so you can still hold power over them. Did it bother you that you didn't marry a young knight and must endure an old king? Is that why you drag Cole around with you?" Rhaenyra said as she looked down at Alicent.

"You have always thrown duty to the side while I've had to endure everything! You have not sacrificed anything while I've had to give up everything! How can you trample on everything that is expected of us!?" Alicent screamed.

Finally.

Alicent had finally decided to be honest.

"The answer is simple. I have always been above you. I had always been granted these privileges. You are not at my level and you never will be. I am not held down by these ideals while you drown in them because you decided to follow them. I could've helped you, but instead you chose to view me as you view yourself. Weak and powerless. What a shame my siblings ended up with a mother like you." Rhaenyra said as the ruby eyes of the obsidian dragon stared into Alicent's soul.

"My children are not your concern. They will be raised under the light of the Seven. They will be pious servants to the Gods and Aegon will bring the realm under them."

Rhaenyra smirked. She had seen what Alicent's children became. She did not know how to nurse their flames to be great. She drove them to their ends.

"I believe your children will be nothing like you or your Seven. How comical it will be to see them turn their backs on you. Mayhaps they might even accept me as their Queen." Rhaenyra said, a smile creeping on her face.

To take the Greens most valuable weapons and use them against them.

They are still children after all. They have yet to become monsters. Rhaenyra could mold them into the perfect subjects and if not, well, they would not live long enough to be a threat.

Chapter Text

Elinda POV

The sun flooded the chamber as Elinda pushed the curtains aside.

Queen Rhaenyra was still sleeping soundly as she readied for the day.

The dock was loud with voices as the vendors set up their booths for that day's festival. The smell of freshly caught fish over a fire filled the air.

"My Queen, you must wake up. Lord Corlys is to give the opening speech for the sailing race today. He will want everyone present." Elinda said as she leaned close to the Queen.

"I've not had true rest in days, Elinda. I just want a little more time." Queen Rhaenyra said as she rolled to her side.

Elinda smiled.

"I understand, my Queen, but you must. Your wedding celebrations are most important."

Suddenly Elinda felt herself being pulled under the covers.

Laughter erupted.

She looked at Queen Rhaenyra with a small soft smile escaping.

"You cannot hide in here forever."

"No but I will take the time I do have." Queen Rhaenyra said.

They stared at each other for what felt like forever. Time had slowed as she stared into those lilac eyes.

Before Elinda could blink she felt Queen Rhaenyra's lips were on hers.

A soft, tentative kiss. Asking. Waiting for an answer.

Elinda kissed back. She could not stop herself. It was as if her body was alight. Her lips burned for more.

She felt hands on her waist and she leaned into the embrace.

Dresses pressed together felt as if walls divided them.

Elinda let out a moan when she felt a hand on her breast.

Caressing hands that made every nerve in her body feel alive.

Elinda had touched herself but never like this. This was different.

Her Queen broke away as she kissed down her neck, hands caressing the small of her back down to her butt.

Elinda's breath became ragged as she felt her night dress fall away from her breast and lips wrap around her nipple.

Her body jerked from the pleasure.

Every small lick made her body move in a way she didn't know was possible.

"Mmmm...." Elinda moaned.

She could feel the wetness between her legs. She never knew it possible to feel such a way.

"You have no idea how long I've waited for this. I just want to give you pleasure." Her Queen whispered as she caressed up Elinda's thigh.

"My Queen...." Elinda said though her mind seemed to drift away.

"Say my name, Elinda. I want to hear it come from your lips." Queen Rhaenyra whispered as she inserted two fingers into Elinda's vagina.

"Oohh, Rhaenyra....." Elinda moaned loudly as she bucked against her hand.

Elinda had never felt the touch of another. She had never wanted anything of the sort until now.

She could feel her wetness increase as Rhaenyra's fingers explored.

Elinda felt her nipples harden as Rhaenyra continued her attentions on them.

"You are as soft as I dreamed, Elinda..." Rhaenyra said as she rubbed her clit slowly.

Strings of pleasure coursed through her at the new sensation. Elinda let out a loud moan.

The chambers echoed her voice for only the two to hear.

Elinda could not hold back any longer. Her body yearned for release. A building feeling deep in her core.

Rhaenyra could feel it too. Her fingers moved fiercely as she kissed Elinda once again, both women moaning as their shared passion collided.

Elinda's body felt enveloped in passion. Heat spread through her entire body and a sudden tension took hold.

"Aahh!" Elinda screamed as her body seemed to explode from desire. She could feel her wetness coat her thighs, every touch made her body convulse as Rhaenyra pulled her hand away.

Elinda closed her eyes and laid without moving. She felt as if she was a new person. As if she could not remember who she was before this.

A knock came from the doors.

"The maids have said that you have yet to be dressed, cousin. My father has sent me to see if you've fallen ill." Lord Laenor said from outside the door.

Rhaenyra gave a playful smile towards Elinda.

"I am feeling quite well, cousin. I just needed a lie in this morning. Would you be so kind as to escort Lady Elinda to the docks while I finish getting ready? She will be out in a moment."

Elinda blushed and stood, fixing her dress.

They shared one last kiss before Elinda stepped out of the chambers.

Lord Laenor stood outside in a beautiful sea green doublet with pearls shaped for buttons. His hair was tied back, silver locks almost shimmering.

"Thank you for the escort, Lord Laenor. Our Queen will be down shortly I'm sure." Elinda said as she tried to keep her composure.

Lord Laenor walked beside her with a gentle smile on his face as they reached the beach.

"If you mean to hide this affair it would do you well to learn how to hide your glow." He said knowingly.

Elinda could only blush. She had never had to do anything like this before.

"I am sure she would not hide anything, but we must. For her reign. She is first of her kind and I would not have that threatened by people who do not understand. Our Queen loves Prince Daemon. I am not naive and I also know she cares for me as I care for her, but the people of Westeros are not us." She said.

"If anyone understands you, it is I. My father believes I will grow out of it but you and I know that these are not feelings we chose. It is who we are and they are who we love." He said as he stared at Ser Joffrey Lonmouth who was buying two sugared desserts from a stall.

Elinda sighed. They were all caught in constant power struggle. House Massey was never a big house but once they joined the Dragonstone kingdom, they had seen themselves elevated higher than they ever thought possible.

She had to marry to build more connections for herself and for Rhaenyra. A marriage that would protect them all.

Suddenly Elinda turned to face Lord Laenor.

"What if we married?" She asked.

"What?" He replied, choking on air.

"We both know how the other lives. We do not judge or intend to control one another. House Velaryon and House Massey are prominent families in the Dragonstone kingdom. I am sure your father would approve of you marrying one of Queen Rhaenyra's ladies in waiting and he would not ask questions as to why and my father and our Queen gave me leave to choose my husband. It would strengthen our houses and we would not be forced to live a lie within our own walls." Elinda explained.

They could live their truths and upholding the duty they were responsible of.

Elinda could continue close to Rhaenyra and Lord Laenor would be with his knight.

Lord Laenor smiled widely as he thought it through.

He took her hand and bowed deeply.

"Elinda Massey, would you do me the honor of being my wife?"

----------------------

Rhaelys POV

The ships lined at the starting position waiting for the competition to begin. One ship off to the side was covered completely, hiding its sails and deck.

The festival was in full swing as the sun offered a warm hue against the crisp air of the ocean.

Rhaelys could see the sailors preparing themselves for the trek ahead. Two in particular caught her eye.

Strong young men checking their sails and making sure the ship was secure on the dock.

Two bothers of past and present.

The Fourteen Flames saw it fit they returned to their Queen.

"Your ship seems quite strong and its sailors even stronger. You will surely win." Rhaelys said as she approached them.

"I thank you, my lady, but the sea has yet to speak. We are up against a many good sailors. Some from noble houses." Alyn of Hull said.

Rhaelys smiled.

"If the Gods called us for greater things, who are we to refuse them?"

"My exact thoughts. You must look for victory, brother. The Queen has let all participate because she knows we are capable." Addam of Hull said.

"Quite so. May the Fourteen Flames guide your ship and bring you victory." She said as she left the men to finish their work.

King Viserys and his Queen walked the dock with their Kingsguard in tow.

Criston Cole looked worse for wear. He had a busted lip and scratches on his hands. Seems he had an altercation because of the rumors.

"Lady Rhaelys! How good to see you. I have been meaning to speak with you. Your knowledge of Old Valyria is extraordinary." King Viserys said as they met in the middle of the dock.

"Thank you, Your Grace. I am a devout follower of the Fourteen Flames. It is my pride to keep the culture of Old Valyria alive." She replied.

The Hightower Queen grew more agitated.

"We are followers of The Seven Who are One. We do not follow false Gods." She said with her head held high.

"There will come a time where we learn what Gods are real or not. Let us wait for that day." Rhaelys said, he voice smooth and even.

Cheers sounded behind them as Queen Rhaenyra and Prince Daemon made their way through the festival.

Queen Rhaenyra wore a beautiful sky blue dress with a pearl and sapphire necklace neatly sitting on her neck. Her crown glowed under the sun.

"Queen Rhaenyra of House Targaryen, Ruler of Dragonstone and Protector of the Stepstones." Ser Erryk Cargyll announced as his brother followed behind him.

Ser Erryk had convinced his twin to join him on Dragonstone not that long ago when the brothers reunited. Ser Arryk was to take the Dragonguard oath today.

"Today is a most joyous occasion. We celebrate not only a race and marriage, but also a new knight joins our Dragonguards. Ser Arryk Cargyll step forward and pledge your oath." Prince Daemon said.

The lords, ladies and commoners watched as Ser Arryk took a knee in front of Queen Rhaenyra.

"I swear by flame unending and blood undying---- My heart is cleaved, half to the Dragon Throne, The other to ruin for those who defy it.

No gold shall sway me, no fear shall unmake me.

Let my eyes be the last mercy the traitor sees. Let my blade scream her fury through their bone.

My shield to protect her honor, my sword to defend her reign. From this day to my ending day."

Rhaelys watched.

King Viserys smiled happily while his Queen viciously picked at her nails. Criston Cole looked as if he had seen treason before his eyes.

The lords and ladies watched Queen Rhaenyra as if they had never seen her before.

The common folk stared in reverence. They had watched the Dragonguards learn and grow on the island. They knew loyalty towards their Queen transcended mere duty. She had earned their loyalty.

Ser Arryk rose and applause erupted. Shipwrights whistled in support and Dragonguards nodded in respect.

Rhaelys made her way to Queen Rhaenyra's side.

"Clever. Your enemies seem to understand your point while your father stays oblivious. Quite a move, My Queen." She whispered.

"My Dragonguards are to be feared. They are a warning to all who choose to fight the Dragonstone kingdom. We have all seen to that." Queen Rhaenyra said.

Lord Corlys Velaryon and his family made their way to the docks.

Rhaelys could see Lord Massey and Elinda talking with Lord Corlys and Princess Rhaenys. Both lords seemed extremely happy.

Elinda nodded towards Queen Rhaenyra as a mutual understanding was exchanged.

Rhaelys could feel a shift in the air. A new move was about to played.

Lord Corlys made his way to the dock and stood on some crates to get everyone's attention.

"Lords and Ladies! Welcome to today's race. My son, Laenor and I have tirelessly put this endeavor together for all of you today. The race will begin and end here at Dragonstone. The competitors will race to Driftmark and back again. There are people on the Driftmark beach assigned to each boat competing and they will set a flare off when their assigned boat has reached close enough to Driftmark. My wife, Princess Rhaenys, will be monitoring atop Meleys to avoid cheating and underhanded attacks on each other. The first prize of this competition will be 300 gold dragons along with a special prize from Queen Rhaenyra herself."

The crowds cheered as the competitors stood in front of their ships.

"Today we celebrate Queen Rhaenyra and Prince Daemon but there is also more cause for celebration." Lord Corlys said as he puffed out his chest.

"My son, Laenor Velaryon and Lady Elinda Massey are engaged to be married! They will marry on Driftmark in less than 6 moons time!"

Laenor and Elinda walked towards the front hand in hand and smiled brightly at the crowd as they were cheered on.

Rhaelys leaned in close to Queen Rhaenyra.

"She has just brought House Velaryon deeper into the fold. She will have name and title and you have their loyalty." She whispered.

Queen Rhaenyra only smiled.

The pieces were moving and all were bringing strength to Dragonstone.

"Before we begin the race, House Velaryon has a special wedding gift for Queen Rhaenyra." Lord Corlys said as he motioned towards the covered ship.

He blew a whistle and the tarps fell.

Gasps could be heard all around.

There in the water stood a magnificent ship. The sails depicted a yellow dragon in flight with a Arryn blue falcon.

The gasps were not from the ship but of the figure that stood carved in the bow of the ship.

Queen Aemma Arryn.

The wood depicted Queen Aemma with her crown atop her head and a motherly smile on her lips as she looked down.

Rhaelys could feel Queen Rhaenyra trembling beside her as she stepped closer to the ship.

"Your mother may be gone from this world but her memory lives on. I present to you, my Queen, your royal ship, the Queen Aemma." Lord Corlys said.

Rhaelys could see many people holding back tears.

Lady Jane Arryn stood close by as she looked at the ship. Tears escaped for a second before she wiped them away.

King Viserys stood as if he'd seen a ghost. The memory of his late wife still haunting him.

Rhaelys placed a hand on the the ship.

"In the fire of the Fourteen Flames may she be blessed. May her embers burn away death and decay, may the storms kneel to her bow, and may her enemies reap what they sow.

By blood, by fire, by names unspoken. So speaks the hand of flame, so listens the sea."

The ship will never die. It will live on by the blessings of the Fourteen Flames.

Queen Rhaenyra gave Rhaelys' hand a quick squeeze before turning back.

"Your kindness could never be repaid, Lord Corlys. You have honored my mother and me. Thank you." Queen Rhaenyra said as she held back tears.

King Viserys watched her as she looked on lovingly.

"It seems Lord Corlys and I were of similar minds. I too have a gift for our Queen." Prince Daemon said.

A chest was placed in front of Queen Rhaenyra.

Prince Daemon kneeled and opened the chest.

Rhaelys watched in wonder.

The chest was filled to the brim with Valyrian steel jewelry. It seemed to be a chest that could be found in a safe of Old Valyria.

The jewels were marvels lost to time and yet, here they were.

"My travels had taken me far and wide and in that time I have collected every jewel from Old Valyria that I could find so that one day I could give them to the love of my life." Prince Daemon said with a giant smile on his face.

Rhaelys watched as some ladies swooned under the declaration while others stared in envy.

Queen Alicent could not hide her ire. These were the treasures she probably imagined would be given to her when she became Queen, though, she was only met with a crown she could not fit.

"Oh, my love. You have made me a truly happy bride." Queen Rhaenyra said as the tears finally spilled over.

They held each other other in a loving embrace.

Rhaelys turned towards King Viserys. He stood frozen. He had been outdone. Not once but twice.

King Viserys made his way towards Queen Rhaenyra.

"I, too, have a gift for my daughter." The weak King stammered.

Everyone turned towards him.

Only the waves could be heard in the silence that transpired.

"The gift... is the Gift! I am giving my daughter the Gift. The lands have long been surrendered by the Night's Watch to the crown and now they will form a part of my daughter's realm. I hope you like it, my sweet child." King Viserys said as he hugged Queen Rhaenyra.

The common folk cheered as the lords and ladies clapped.

Rhaelys stood next to Prince Daemon.

"He has given her the Gift." Prince Daemon said with a wicked smile creeping.

Rhaelys didn't take her eyes off Queen Rhaenyra.

"He has given her a stronghold in the North." She said.

The first step towards stopping the white walkers had begun.

Chapter Text

Rhaenyra POV

The competitors boarded their ships with their crews. Ships lined ready for an adventure that could change a winner's life.

The canon blew and Meleys took flight. The excited banter could be heard all around as the ships left the dock.

Music began playing and stall vendors started to call out to interested buyers.

"Let us go to the tent. We have much to discuss." Rhaenyra said to Daemon and Rhaelys.

They made pleasantries as they walked towards the magnificent tent perched in the middle of all the others. The red silks that hung around could be seen blowing in the sea air. A throne sat in the far back surrounded by red and gold threaded chairs and pillows.

Rhaenyra sat her throne and the other two sat close by.

"We seem to have obtained new territories we did not expect so soon." She said.

"Viserys had to do something. Corlys and I put whatever gift he had to shame. He saw how you looked. He felt his daughter's love directed at others. A weakness for all to see." Daemon said as he reached for a goblet of honey wine from Lord Beesbury.

"Lord Stark will not be pleased. His house gave those lands to the Night's Watch. They might have been returned to the crown but they are still part of the North." Rhaelys said.

She was right. The North was not keen on new people and now land close to their home was owned by another.

"What can we do? I will not surrender them. They can open up opportunities with the North and prepare for what is to come." Rhaenyra said.

"There is a way that we can avoid conflict." Rhaelys said.

Rhaenyra and Daemon turned towards her.

"Bennard Stark. Offer him a lordship in the Gift. He would have to join your kingdom but he will not refuse. Bennard tried to take Winterfell from young Cregan Stark in the visions. Letting him rule as a lord would earn his loyalty and protect young Cregan's seat after his father."

"Rhaelys has a point. The North will be more open to a Northerner ruling the Gift and there would be men who would follow him. Generations after him will remain loyal to your throne." Daemon said.

"Very well. Let us make the offer." Rhaenyra said.

~~~

The lords and ladies enjoyed the entertainment of the day as fire breathers and jugglers preformed around them.

Lord Stark was with his family as they watched some Kingsguards and Dragonguards running drills together.

Rhaenyra approached with her ladies and Daemon in tow.

"Lord and Lady Stark." Rhaenyra said.

Everyone turned and bowed.

"Queen Rhaenyra. Thank you for your hospitality and invitation to my entire family. We are honored." Lord Stark said.

"It is I who is honored, Lord Stark. How are you faring, Ser Bennard?" Rhaenyra asked.

Bennard seemed startled by the question.

"I am well, Your Majesty. Your healers treated me with care."

"We recruited them from the Free Cities. Maester Gerardys has been working closely with them. They have helped heal many in the Dragonstone kingdom." Daemon said smugly.

Maester Gerardys was the only maester kept in Rhaenyra's kingdom. The grey rats were not trusted around her family or herself.

"There is something I wish to discuss with you, Ser Bennard. You must know that my father has bestowed to me the Gift in the North." Rhaenyra said.

Lord and Lady Stark seemed to tense at the mention of it.

"Yes, Your Majesty. You are most blessed to receive such beautiful lands." Bennard said.

Rhaenyra smiled.

"Indeed, but I have no knowledge of life in the North and neither do any of my subjects. The Gift is an endeavor for those who embrace winter. If you are willing, Ser Bennard, I would like to make you lord of the Gift so that I may show the respect House Stark deserves in those lands. You would be granted coin to build a keep and homes for those who wish to live there. Your line would inherit after you and so on. You would have to adopt a different last name and join the Dragonstone kingdom though as to not overlap with your brother's line."

The shock of everyone around was obvious. It was something no one would have expected. Monarchs are known for putting close allies in positions of power, not choosing someone whoms loyalty is not certain.

Rhaenyra just watched Bennard. All the possibilities ran through his mind. A legacy of his own, something to pass down to his children, the status it would provide his family. Men like him gave loyalty when they received reward.

Rhaenyra could see the resolve in him.

Suddenly Bennard got on one knee.

"I am deeply honored that you have chosen me of all the other worthy men. My brother has built his legacy in Winterfell and I have followed him loyally, but I see now that it is my time to further House Stark's legacy. I accept this offer, My Queen."

"What a most joyous occasion! Welcome, Lord Bennard, to the Dragonstone kingdom." Vanela said as more lords and ladies gathered.

Lady Margaret Karstark, Bennard's wife, tried to contain her excitement. She was now Lady of a new house and her children would have a legacy to follow.

Rhaenyra could see Alicent and Criston approaching the commotion. She nodded at her ladies to mingle.

"And what name do you plan to take, Lord Bennard, now that you are part of the great Dragonstone kingdom?" Daemon asked, loud enough for Alicent to hear.

Alicent stared in disbelief.

"My family line from this point forward will be known as House Highstark, my King. I will honor my Stark name while creating something new." Bennard said.

Lord Stark looked at his younger brother in awe. He must have known Bennard held ambitions and now he could see his brother thrive instead of fighting for power in Winterfell.

"I would hate to see you leave, brother, but you have found your path. We will visit as much as possible, Lord Highstark." Lord Stark said as he hugged his brother.

Lord Bennard Highstark puffed his chest out as all the other Northerners congratulated him with slaps on the back.

"Oh! Ser Criston, you seem to have dropped a handkerchief." Laena said loudly as she picked something off the ground.

Everyone turned to see what had happened.

The handkerchief was a plain white cloth with the Hightower sigil embroidered on it.

The whispers began while Alicent stood by oblivious.

"You are mistaken, Lady Laena. That is not mine." Criston said with a bit of irritation.

"I don't believe so, Ser. I saw it fall from your armor. It must be important if you carry it with you." Laena said sweetly.

"Are you questioning my honor as a Kingsguard?" Criston asked as he approached Laena menacingly and grabbed her wrist.

The Dragonguards unsheathed their swords.

Before he could move any closer, Harwin grabbed Criston by the front of his armor.

"You are not in Westeros anymore. You are in the Dragonstone kingdom. Aggressions towards the Queen's ladies in waiting is not tolerated here. Law dictates punishment."

The whispers grew louder as Alicent tried to intervene.

"Unhand my sworn shield, Ser Harwin! He has done nothing wrong." She screamed.

"Ser Criston has approached one of my ladies in waiting in a threatening fashion in plain view. That is not tolerated here. Ser Criston is to receive 20 lashes by Ser Harwin Strong, my Lord Commander. Take him away to receive his punishment." Rhaenyra said.

She watched as Criston Cole was dragged by two Dragonguards away from the festivities, the handkerchief on the floor for all to see.

Rhaenyra knew embroidery very well. This was not made by Alicent. She looked up and Valena was giving her a satisfied smile. They planned it. Valena had made the handkerchief and given it to Laena.

"You cannot do this. He is not yours to punish." Alicent said as she approached her.

"My father agreed that I have final say in what happens in my kingdom when he signed our agreement. I have every right to uphold the law. He will be returned to you shortly." Rhaenyra said as she left Alicent standing alone.

-------------------

Daemon POV

Daemon watched as Cole got whipped. Satisfaction coursed through him. The feeling had him reeling.

He could take Rhaenyra on that beach for all to see with all the adrenaline he had.

Cole had tried to reach too high. He believed himself enough for a Queen of the blood. In the vision he resented Rhaenyra to the point of open treason. This was the least that he deserved.

"Done." Harwin said as Cole slumped to the floor.

"Ser Crispin! You should rejoice at our Queen's mercy. Had it been me, I would've fed you to my dragon." Daemon said.

Cole stared at him with fury in his eyes.

Daemon kneeled down close to Cole.

"This is not even close to enough for what you did. How would your fellow Kingsguard feel when they find out you dared ask Queen Rhaenyra to run away with you? You think too highly of yourself, Cole. A man like you could not feed the fire Rhaenyra has. You will never know what the feel of her lips feel like. The passion she possesses." He whispered.

Cole tried to get up but Daemon pushed him down again.

"Take him back to his cunt of a Queen. She must miss him dearly."

Daemon made his way back to the festival. The ships coming from Kings Landing could be seen on the horizon.

"Alert the servants and Dragonguards. The ships will dock for the day and leave tomorrow at dawn." He said to Harwin.

"They have been on standby all day. They will be down shortly." Harwin says as he watches the servants coming down the winding stairs.

Rhaenyra had already sent workers to begin construction on the homes and Keep at the Stepstones.

This production was a show of force.

Horns blew as Daemon reached the dock. The ships dropped anchor and the people were helped out.

A crowd was beginning to form.

"Welcome! We hope your travel was pleasant. We have food and drinks prepared for you as well as a small token of our gratitude that you have joined our kingdom." Daemon said as he motioned to the Dragonguards.

Satchels full of rations, clothes and medical herbs were piled up next to the Dragonguards.

"If you line up, the Dragonguards will pass out the satchels to each person. You may rest for the night in the ships but we have also set up cots for any who desire them."

The commoners looked scared as if this was all a cruel prank they walked into. Mothers held their children close and men stood close to their families.

One man stepped forward with his wife swollen with child.

Daemon stayed his hand but he could not stop the fury that roared within.

Hugh Hammer.

The dragonseed who dared betray his Queen when he had been elevated so high.

Daemon looked at the woman's stomach. The daughter he lost just as Daemon lost his. Daemon understood that pain now. He could not blame a man blinded by grief when he would have done the same.

"Thank you for this chance, King Daemon. My wife and I will work hard at the Stepstones. We will not squander this opportunity you have given us." Hugh said.

He would never be given the same power again but maybe he would become a useful subject.

"Queen Rhaenyra has given you this opportunity. She has provided all that you may need on your journey and homes will be finished by the time you arrive. Work hard and you will be rewarded as any subject of our kingdom is. Once you gather your things, head to the healers tent. You all must be looked over before tomorrow." Daemon said.

More people followed behind Hugh with less fear.

The lords and ladies spoke in whispers but Daemon knew what they would say.

No one expected Rhaenyra to amount to anything. All they saw was a spoiled princess not a dragon queen.

People have started to follow her by their own accord.

The new arrivals mingled around the festival, talking to the vendors.

The servants began filling the ships with crates of food and water. Some crates held tools and weapons for the building ahead.

Viserys stood off to the side and watched everything unfold.

"Any thoughts, brother?" Daemon asked as he walked up to join him.

"I always knew Rhaenyra would be a good queen but your council has not helped her." Viserys said.

Daemon raised an eyebrow and smirked.

"What council?"

"Do not play the fool, Daemon. Rhaenyra would have never approved whipping Ser Criston if you did not manipulate her into it."

Daemon laughed.

"You do not know Rhaenyra then. She fiercely defends her ladies. It is written into Dragonstone law that no ladies in waiting will be harmed without punishment. After Alicent's betrayal Rhaenyra has finally found true friends and she will have them respected. Though Cole deserves worse. The rumors have reached all over the island."

"What rumors?" Viserys asked with a questioning look.

It's no wonder Otto got so far. Viserys made himself an easy target.

"Do not tell me you have not heard what is being said about your wife's sworn shield. He holds affections for her. Improper ones, Viserys. Dragonguards have seen him searching for whores who resemble her. He carries a handkerchief he no doubt stole from her. He shames his white cloak." Daemon said.

"They are vile rumors. Ser Criston is nothing like that." He says.

Viserys tries to keep his composure but the seeds of doubt had been planted.

"Rumor or not, it does not sit well. It is an insult to the Kingsguard and your crown. Do not let him do as he pleases." Daemon said.

"Should you not worry about your own Dragonguards? Alicent said that Ser Harwin has been seen standing closely with Lady Laena Velaryon."

Daemon watched as Harwin and Laena helped some children build sand castles.

"Harwin and Laena are engaged. Their families have already agreed. Besides, the Dragonguards are allowed to have families if they wish it. Their loyalty to the crown is not judged by abstinence. Do not worry, brother. Dragonstone is thriving."

~~~

The sun glowed in orange hues as the ships came into view. The commoners cheered as they drew closer.

Meleys roared from above as she headed towards the dragonmount.

Shipwrights from House Velaryon seemed to have the lead as they pushed their ship forward.

Corlys and Laenor stood on the edge of the dock, watching the spectacle.

House Stark and other houses from the North stood on the beach cheering the sailors on.

The Northerners always knew how to do away with decorum and enjoy the moment. Daemon appreciated the fanfare.

The ships drew closer and shouts from every ship could be heard. Orders to man the sails, sailors calling out cues.

The first ship to dock anchored quickly.

The cheers roared around him. People began rushing towards the docks as the Dragonguards kept the peace holding them back.

Daemon made his way to stand with Rhaenyra as she awaited the victors.

Two men disembarked the ship with giant smiles on their faces.

Alyn and Addam of Hull.

Rhaenyra stared at Addam with sadness in her eyes. Addam had died loyal to his Queen. He fought valiantly at the second battle of Tumbleton and died a dragonrider's death.

"Addam and Alyn of Hull. Congratulations on your victory this day." Rhaenyra said.

The men got down on one knee and bowed.

"You honor us, Your Grace. This victory is not only for us but for the Dragonstone kingdom." Alyn said.

Corlys stood by watching the men. The spitting images of the Sea Snake.

"Along with the 300 gold, Queen Rhaenyra has another prize to give." He said.

Rhaenyra motioned for the men to stand.

"You have demonstrated great prowess as sailors in this race. As you know the Stepstones are being built up and being brought to life. They will have two keeps for any future children I may have. As a reward for your great feat I humbly offer you the castellan position of the keeps in the Stepstones."

Alyn and Addam stared at Rhaenyra in awe.

They probably expected exclusive trading contracts for their crew but nothing so monumental.

Daemon smirked at all the stunned faces. A castellan was usually a man of noble birth, not nameless shipwrights.

Alyn and Addam were worth more than any lickspittle lord.

The men returned to their knees.

"My Queen, we thank you for this most precious gift. We could not have imagined such a thing." Alyn said.

"But we will accept. We will bring the Stepstones to the level of our Queen. You will not regret this choice." Addam added.

The claps and cheers began.

The game was afoot. Before the visions, Daemon relied on force alone but he knew better now.

Westeros would kneel to true power without even realizing it.

-------------------


Rhaenys POV

The sun was just starting to set over Blackwater Bay. Rhaenys stood with her family as they waited for Rhaenyra and Daemon.

"Are you sure you wish for it this way? We can plan a proper wedding with all the lords and ladies in attendance." Rhaenys said as she looked at her daughter.

What a sight she was dressed in white. Rhaenys had dreamt of this day but never like this.

"I will not wait for him, mother. I want to marry him now and follow him to the Stepstones. We will return when it is settled. I do not care where we marry as long as it happens now." Laena said.

Rhaenys felt her heart fill. She wanted her children to marry for love and Laena had found it.

Harwin Strong was a good man of great character. He would protect Laena and make her happy.

Lord Strong and Harwin stood by the shore.

Rhaenyra had not invited Larys Strong to the wedding so he remained in Kings Landing.

Rhaelys stood off to the side with the other ladies in waiting.

Rhaenys had come to terms with Rhaelys' presence. At first she wanted to deny what was happening but Rhaenys could not hide from the truth.

Everywhere Rhaelys went an aura followed. She carried herself like a lady but more hid underneath.

Sometimes Rhaenys would catch her watching people with true sadness in her eyes as if she had seen their ends.

When Ser Alfred Broome's body was found charred from the inside out was when Rhaenys understood the power that walked Dragonstone.

The Fourteen Flames existed and they brought their power to House Targaryen.

"It is a bit off putting, is it not? The way she watches us. She stares at Joffrey and I as if we might disappear with sadness all over her face." Laenor says as he stands beside her.

"Rhaelys knows more than all of us. She is from the Fourteen Flames. She has seen the future and from what I have gathered, sad ends met many of us. She is here so that does not come to pass." She says.

Laenor was about to ask for more elaboration but Rhaenyra and Daemon made their way towards them.

"A wedding on the beach? Are you certain you do not want to marry inside or in the pantheon?" Rhaenyra asked as she reached Laena.

"Your marriage must be the one to bless the pantheon and I am of salt and sea. This is perfect." Laena replied.

"Very well. It seems everyone has gathered. Shall we begin?" Rhaenyra said as she made her way to the others.

Corlys took Laena's arm and walked towards Harwin. The aisle was bordered by red weirwood leaves that were brought in from Harrenhal to show respect towards House Strong.

"Who gives this woman to be married?" Lord Strong asks.

"I, Corlys Velaryon, do. Who gives this man to be married?" Corlys asks.

"I, Lyonel Strong, do." Lord Strong said.

Laena and Harwin clasped hands as their fathers stepped aside.

The setting sun illuminated them as they said their vows.

"I, Harwin Strong, promise to love and protect you always. To stand with you aloud and in silence. To be your shield and sword at every turn. I will love every part of your soul even when death claims me. By the old Gods and the new and the Fourteen Flames I take you, Laena Velaryon, as my wife."

"I, Laena Velaryon, promise to love and protect you always. To fight alongside you in every challenge that life gives. We see each other's fire and feed the flames. My soul will be binded to yours even as Balerion claims me. By the Old Gods and the new and the Fourteen Flames I take you, Harwin Strong, as my husband."

They sealed their vows with a kiss.

Rhaelys would have to let go of her daughter so she could find her own path.

By the Fourteen Flames, she knew Laena would be truly happy.

Chapter Text

Laenor POV

The tourney grounds were packed to the brim as they awaited the joust. Laenor could see Queen Alicent watching from the royal box as Criston Cole readied himself.

He did not take well to his punishment the day before and had decided to join the joust. Laenor had to acknowledge Cole's persistence though it was for not.

Rhaenyra would not let him become an asset to her enemies.

The tourney grounds were more packed than usual. Rhaenyra and Daemon had invited the children from the orphanages on Dragonstone to watch the joust.

The caretakers were trying to usher them towards their seats from their personal tents but the children would not cooperate as they lingered at every distraction.

Rhaelys approached them.

"Hello, little hatchlings." She said as she sat down.

"Lady Rhaelys! Have you come to tell us another story!?" A little girl with red hair asked as all the children sat around her.

"Only if you agree to take your seats once the story ends. The joust will commence soon and everyone must be present." Rhaelys said.

The children cheered in agreement.

Laenor leaned on the stone wall, ready to hear the story.

"Before the dawn of time stood the pantheon of the Fourteen Flames. Fourteen Gods who sought to bring life to the endless void. Every God has a role that keeps balance in this world. The Goddess Vhagar became the Goddess of War, Wrath and Destruction because of every single one of you." Rhaelys began.

The children stared at her with questioning looks.

"Goddess Vhagar knew that the world would not be a perfect place. She understood that there would be those who would not be protected before they could protect themselves. That is why she chose to embody the wrath of a mother. Goddess Vhagar is the vengeance towards those who harm the innocent. She watches and avenges those who have been wronged. The strength you feel to keep going comes from her. No matter the circumstances of one's birth, the Fourteen Flames watch over the realm and its people."

Laenor looked at every child hanging on Rhaelys' words. They looked at her as if she hung the stars.

Rhaelys waved her hand and little sparkles began to appear in the air.

"May the Fourteen Flames protect you, little hatchlings. May they give you strength to face the cruel world, may they bring you the joy and happiness you deserve and may they avenge the wrongs committed against you."

The children laughed and cheered as they reached for the sparkles. Their caretakers took the opportunity to guide the children away to their seats.

Laenor approached Rhaelys as she stood.

"You have a way with them. They adore you."

"The other ladies in waiting and I go to the orphanages often. We make sure they are being taken care of as our Queen has decided. I have grown close to them." Rhaelys said with a soft smile.

She turned towards him and Laenor could see it. The sadness in her eyes. It unsettled him to not know what it meant.

He had to find out.

Laenor waited until all the spectators had gone and it was only the two of them.

"Why do you look at me this way? Joffrey as well. As if you cannot control your sadness when you are in our presence. My mother says you know of a different future. One that you are helping change. What did you see?" Laenor asked.

Rhaelys searched his eyes trying to find something.

"You might not be ready to know. It is something you cannot unknow. A sadness you need not experience." She said.

Laenor could not live with the stares. They were driving him mad.

"You need not worry about me, Rhaelys. I must know for my own peace. So I may move forward from it."

She stared a little longer and then sighed.

"In a life not like this one the paths of life were different. Queen Rhaenyra remained heir to the Iron Throne. Her and Prince Daemon were in love but her father would not have it. You were chosen instead to marry her. She understood and accepted who you were and did not want to stop you from being with the one you loved. You both came to an agreement to do your duty while still being true to yourselves." She said as a motioned to a brazier close by.

Images began to form in the fire.

"Rhaenyra had an affair with Ser Criston Cole. She planned to continue it after you two married as you would with Joffrey but Cole did not want that. He wanted her to run away with him. She would not leave her crown behind and Cole would not see reason. The day of your wedding was the day you lost your strength to fight."

The images changed to Criston Cole and Joffrey speaking.

"Joffrey thought to speak to Criston Cole and agree to protect both you and Rhaenyra so all of you could be happy. Cole went into a rage and killed Joffrey."

Laenor looked away but the images burned in his mind. Joffrey being viciously beaten to death. The screams and chaos.

He felt arms enveloping him.

"Cole cannot continue to live. He cannot do this again. Joffrey could be in danger again." Laenor said as tears escaped him.

"The tides of life have already changed but his time is coming. A plan is already in motion. He will not leave Dragonstone alive and all who he has hurt will be vindicated." Rhaelys said as she held him.

Laenor's breathing was ragged and his mind spiraled. He could not live without Joffrey. He could not lose him.

Laenor was finally making plans for his life. Duty and love did not have to be sacrificed with Elinda. They could love openly in their marriage but Criston Cole was a bigger danger than he ever thought possible to those plans.

"I want to be the one who takes his life." Laenor finally says after a short while.

"Oh, Laenor..." Rhaelys started.

"We might not live that life but it would have come to pass had you not come to Westeros. He would've killed Joffrey and thrown me into an abyss I could never escape. He owes this debt to me. I will gladly do it. For our Queen and for myself." Laenor said with resolve.

"If that is what you desire. I will inform the Queen. He will break during the wedding feast. That will be your time." Rhaelys said as the horns blew for the participants to line up.

Blood will pay with blood.

------------------

Alicent POV

The sun felt hot as Alicent sat in a red and black gown. Her husband's colors but not her own.

They felt suffocating on her. She wished to never wear them again.

Even after marrying the King she still could not stand proud. She thought once she had become queen everything would have become clear.

This was the path chosen for her yet she could not stop feeling as if it was only a noose around her neck.

She had faithfully followed her father's instructions and done what was expected of her.

She married a man she did not choose but would give her position and riches yet here she sat watching a wedding celebration bigger than her own.

Rhaenyra had barely become a queen and she was praised at every turn for her courage and savvy approach to building her kingdom.

She had not followed the path made for her and she thrived while Alicent felt caged in the Red Keep.

Alicent believed that with both of them stuck in the Red Keep, her and Rhaenyra would grow close again. Finding comfort in their friendship while they were both trapped.

Yet, Rhaenyra did not stay. She left Alicent behind while she flaunted about on Dragonstone.

The anger that filled Alicent was more than she ever felt before.

The Seven taught that women were to serve their fathers and then their husbands. They were not allowed to want more.

Rhaenyra would not see reason as it should be. She followed her desires with no regard for duty just because she was a princess.

Alicent looked on as Ser Criston lined up with the other knights for the joust.

Ser Criston was the only person who understood her as of late. He respected her as Queen and condemned what Rhaenyra was doing.

He was a good knight who followed the Seven.

Alicent wondered what life would have been like had she married Ser Criston instead.

Mayhaps they would have had a small house back in Oldtown. He would be a mighty knight and she would wait for him at home with their beautiful children.

He would surely climb high and give her a comfortable life. He was more than capable.

She would not have had to endure an old man touching her body as he pleased. She would even enjoy her marital duties if it was Ser Criston.

Yet, what she knew now would stop her from such a life. Being Queen had given her freedoms she never had before even with the bad. She had power and she could not go back.

"Let us welcome the the knights joining us for the joust on this glorious day! Knights from Houses Bar Emmon, Tully, Fell, Costayne, Blackwood and Massey. We also have Queen Alicent's sworn shield, Ser Criston Cole and a mystery knight!" The herald called out.

The mystery knight sat atop a beautiful black horse with blue flowers in its mane. Their face was completely hidden underneath their helm. She hoped the mystery knight was from Westeros and had joined to bring a win to her side if Ser Criston faultered because of his injuries.

Cheers erupted throughout the grounds.

Alicent picked at her nails. Ser Criston had already gone through so much and she did not want him to suffer another injury.

She had tried to convince Viserys to bring Rhaenyra to heel but he would not heed her.

Ser Criston was only paying for Rhaenyra's willfullness and no one on the bloody island would listen to Alicent.

Not once since they had arrived had a subject from Dragonstone bowed to her. Not even to Viserys. They disrespected her position and disregarded her words.

The knights from House Tully and Bar Emmon lined up first. Their horses raced, lances ready to strike.

The Tully knight hit straight to the shoulder as the Bar Emmon knight barely grazed the other before falling.

The crowds cheered as the Tully knight took a victory lap.

Next up was the mystery knight and House Costayne's knight.

Alicent could see Elinda cheering on the knights while sitting with Laenor Velaryon. She would have no happiness in that marriage if what her father said is true. Lord Laenor would not be able to give her children with his queer preferences.

Alicent turned back to the excitement as she heard a snap. The mystery knight had broken his lance on his opponent's shield and was gearing up to go again.

The collision was swift as House Costayne was unseated from their horse.

The rest of the joust went on with no real change until it was only Ser Criston and the mystery knight left.

Alicent let herself feel hope. She had been stressed since she arrived for this farce of a marriage and now she was so close to having little vindication.

Ser Criston would bring honor to her once again and show that she had strong backing. Rhaenyra would have to acknowledge it.

Ser Criston would crown her the Queen of Love and Beauty and all would be right.

The crowd became quiet as they lines up. The lances gleamed as they were raised.

The signal was given and they were off. Alicent held her breath as she watched everything unfold.

Both knights hit true but they did not fall. The horses rode as fast as they could be pushed and the lances were taken up again.

The mystery knight made contact with Ser Criston's chest and down he went. The crowd erupted into cheers for the new winner.

Ser Criston landed on his back and let out a yell of pain.

Alicent gasped at the sight.

Ser Criston clawed at the dirt to get back up and he reached for a sword.

The mystery knight jumped off their horse and did not reach for a weapon. Instead they held onto their lance.

Ser Criston lunged at the masked knight but was evaded easily.

The knight kept evading gracefully as if dancing on water. Ser Criston seemed more agitated the more he was evaded.

Suddenly the mystery knight swung the lance and swept Ser Criston's legs out from under him.

The lance was drawn to his throat until Ser Criston accepted defeat.

Rhaenyra stood and applauded.

"What a glorious ending to today's joust! If you may, mystery knight, reveal yourself and accept your prize!"

The people leaned forward in anticipation.

Alicent held on to the little hope that the knight would be an ally.

The knight reached for their helm and in one swift motion brown hair cascaded out.

Lady Jayne Arryn.

The crowd was a mixture of gasps, yells and cheers.

This could not hold. A woman's place was not on tourney grounds. She has made a mockery of the men she bested.

"This cannot stand! She is a woman. She cannot win!" Ser Criston yelled as he threw his own helm to the ground.

An overwhelming roar shook the tourney grounds as Syrax and Caraxes perched themselves on the stone wall above the royal box.

The crowd silenced immediately.

"Nowhere in our joust rules does it say a woman cannot join. Any and all are welcomed to join. The Dragonstone kingdom does not exclude anyone willing to participate. I am sure since Ser Criston is such an outstanding Kingsguard he would not rob this win from someone who earned it. Isn't that right, Ser Criston?" Rhaenyra said sweetly.

Alicent tried to stand but Viserys held her hand in place.

Ser Criston walked off without another word.

"I thank you, Queen Rhaenyra. We of the Vale pride ourselves in our victories." Lady Jayne said.

"You need not be so formal, cousin. We are after all family. Claim your prize and name your queen of love and beauty." Rhaenyra said with a proud smile.

Lady Jayne took her gold dragons and the flower crown.

"The Vale is a proud land. It has long lived by traditions of old. That all changed when I became Lady of my house. We as women have paved a new way. I crown you, cousin, as my Queen of Love and Beauty." Lady Jayne said as she took a knee.

The Dragonstone crowd cheered while others were still trying to make sense of what was happening.

Alicent looked towards the lords of the Vale.

They all watched their Lady with proud expressions. They supported such a stunt.

Lady Jayne stayed on one knee.

"There is also something else I wish to give you." She said.

Alicent could not deal with much more of this. The teachings of the Seven were being forsaken right in front of her eyes.

"You have built a kingdom in only six moons. Even the Vale has benefited from your volcanic ash to help make our crops even stronger. Your people smile and sing songs about your kindness. As Queen you have built something your mother, Queen Aemma, would be proud of." Lady Jayne said as she shot a death stare towards Viserys.

It seemed Alicent could not escape the shadow that was Aemma Arryn.

"It is with great resolve that I, Lady Jayne Arryn of the Vale, hereby offer its lands and territories to Queen Rhaenyra of the Dragonstone kingdom. The falcons and dragons will fly together once more. We do not cower or hide from this choice. We are of the same blood. Let it be known to all: the Maiden of the Vale chooses her Queen and she has chosen Rhaenyra Targaryen, First of her name, Queen of Dragonstone, Protector of the Stepstones, and Shield of the Vale!" Lady Jayne proclaimed.

The cheers of the lords and ladies of the Vale exceeded the rest of them. Alicent could not understand. They had all agreed to leave the crown of the Iron Throne for Rhaenyra.

All she had was little islands that meant nothing. How could they still follow her?

She was stealing away Aegon's right. The Vale belonged to the Seven Kingdoms. This could not be happening. She could not.

Alicent could not let her son's birthright be stolen away.

If Rhaenyra wanted to declare war against them, Alicent would answer in kind.

Chapter Text

Rhaenyra POV

The chambers looked like a battleground. Vanities were scattered around as her ladies got ready.

The day had finally come. Rhaenyra would marry Daemon as the Gods willed.

She would not suffer a wedding not of her choice. She would be with her twin flame.

Maids scurried around as they helped her ladies get dressed.

"Last night my father told me some worthy gossip." Vanela said as she was being cinched up.

"Do not leave us in suspense. What has he heard?" Laena asked.

Vanela smiled her wicked smile.

"Last night, King Viserys requested separate chambers from Queen Alicent. Apparently Alicent had gone into a terrible tantrum after the joust. She went on and on of how the King should send troops to the Vale and bring them to heel. She had even suggested that Lady Jayne should have her seat as Lady Paramount taken away and a loyal man to the crown should be appointed. The King reminded her of the binding agreement he signed and left her to her notions."

Rhaenyra could not hold back her laughter.

Alicent lost her senses more and more. She knew nothing of the political implications of what had happened yesterday.

Her father did not have the steel in his heart to fight Rhaenyra. She commanded multiple dragons and soldiers that have seen a better life under her rule. She was no weak maiden. He knew it now.

"Let us see what games she plays. I am prepared. She hides behind vulnerable power that my father gave her. If she stands against me, she will learn what being a real Queen is." Rhaenyra said as she stepped behind a curtain.

Her dress laid beautifully as she admired it.

A white gown with gold accents and red trim that made it seem like she was walking on fire.

Rhaenyra wanted to honor Old Valyria and the Fourteen Flames so she commissioned the dress to be in the Valyrian style and a Valyrian wedding headpiece to be made.

She took what she remembered from the visions of her marriage to Daemon and with Rhaelys' help she made one especially for her.

The gold headpiece shimmered. Valyrian glyphs offering blessings for the bride were etched into the inside of the headpiece.

A beautiful lace veil hung from the back of the headpiece completing it.

Her maids carefully helped her get dressed.

"We are dying of suspense. Show us!" Elinda said behind the curtain.

Rhaenyra stepped out from behind the curtains and the chambers stilled.

The maids and her ladies looked at her as if she was Visenya come again.

The reverence in their eyes told Rhaenyra all she needed to know.

She looked like a Valyrian Queen.

"Oh, cousin. Today you are a true burning flame. I thank the Gods that I got to see it." Laena said.

"Did you not say you would follow your husband?" Rhaenyra asked with a teasing smile.

"Tomorrow at dawn I will join him. Vhagar makes easy work of the travel. You would not think me to sail when I could fly. Let us forget about my husband. Let us escort you to yours." Laena said with a smile.

~~~

Rhaenyra made her way to the pantheon. The roars of the dragons deep in the dragonmount put her soul at ease.

She was one step closer to all she ever dreamed.

Her father stood outside the doors as they arrived.

She gave her ladies one last reassuring smile and they made their way to their seats.

Her father stared at her as if he wished to stop time. Surely he could see her mother's face somewhere in her own.

"You don't have to do this. We can leave right now and I will fix everything." He said as he held her hands.

Rhaenyra suppressed a scoff. He still believed he could make her change her mind.

"I want to do this. No matter how much you preach your love for Old Valyria, you disregard one of their oldest traditions. Marrying Daemon is not just for love. Our line will grow stronger with us together. The House of the Dragon will grow because of us. You have bended to the Andals and their prude beliefs for too long. I will have none of it in my kingdom." Rhaenyra said with her head held high.

She watched as the vipers circled around the Iron Throne and her father allowed it.

He should have brought fire and blood but he only let them stroke his ego while they poisoned his mind.

Her father slumped his shoulders and seemed to accept her words.

"Then, are you ready?" He asked as they turned towards the doors.

"I have been ready for a long time." Rhaenyra said.

She nodded towards the Dragonguards and the doors opened.

Everyone stood and turned when they entered but Rhaenyra could only see Daemon.

He stood proud in his Valyrian robes with Dark Sister at his side.

He was as handsome as ever and Rhaenyra fought the urge to run into his arms. Her whole life had felt like an insatiable fire unless he was near.

Daemon had been the only person to truly see who she was and now they would bind their love in blood.

They made it to the altar and her father took his place next to Alicent.

She looked as if she wanted to burn the entire pantheon to the ground.

Rhaenyra took Daemon's hands and the guests took their seats.

"We gather today under the gaze of Fourteen Flames." Rhaelys proclaimed, her voice echoing throughout the pantheon. "Today two souls are bound. Twin flames drawn together by fire, by fate and by love."

Two dragon glass daggers laid on the stone mantel before them along with goblets of wine at each side.

Rhaenyra and Daemon each lifted a dagger and sliced their bottom lip with practiced poise.

"May Syrax, Goddess of Passion, Love and Lust bless the love you hold. May it stand true even when Balerion calls you home." Rhaelys said as Rhaenyra and Daemon inscribed 'fire and blood' onto each other's brow in Valyrian glyphs.

The brazier in front of the Goddess Syrax came to life as flames danced like dragons in flight.

Gasps rippled throughout the pantheon as lords and ladies watched in astonishment as the flames gleamed a shade of passionate red hue. Not of war or fear but of desire and unending love.

Without hesitation, Rhaenyra sliced the dagger across her palm and grasped Daemon's waiting hand.

"May Shrykos, Goddess of Beginnings, Transitions and Gateways," Rhaelys said, binding their palms with a gold silk. "open the doors of destiny. Let no mortal or God divide the steps you take as one."

The flames roared in answer around Goddess Shrykos. Ancient and unseen but felt deep within.

Rhaenyra and Daemon drank from the goblets, staring deep into each other's eyes. A silent vow passing between them.

"Blood of two, joined as one. Ghostly flame and song of shadows. Two hearts as embers forged in fourteen fires. A future promised in glass, the stars stand witness. Of darkness and light."

A humming silence fell over the guests as they felt a presence they could not comprehend. The flames of the altars seemed to come alive as Rhaenyra and Daemon sealed their marriage with a kiss.

Rhaenyra felt her body burn with desire. A kiss just enough for everyone present but not enough for her.

Rhaenyra wanted to be devoured. She wanted to kiss him as passionately as the first time.

The fire within called to be satiated.

As they broke the kiss, roars were heard overhead. Rhaenyra and Daemon smiled as they felt the happiness of their dragons through their bond.

They were finally one.

---------------------

Rhaelys POV

Rhaelys sat in the center of the pantheon. After the marriage ceremony was concluded Rhaelys felt a pull to stay.

"I, Rhaelys, daughter and servant to the Fourteen Flames, greet you." Rhaelys said as she bowed.

The braziers came to life as the Fourteen Flames made themselves be seen.

"You have changed much in little time." Tessarion said with a smile.

"Queen Rhaenyra and King Consort Daemon have been very eager to change what the visions had shown." She said.

Rhaelys had offered her guidance but they had put the plans in motion.

Daemon was no longer hiding his wealth to make his brother feel like the better man and Rhaenyra no longer hid her cunning mind because of oppressing men.

"The Green Queen's anger grows. She means to stop Rhaenyra's advancement." Meleys says.

"Tonight she will lose her Kingmaker. It will be a hit she does not see coming nor will she understand the gravity of it. Alicent Hightower only knows how to play Queen. She will see what a real Queen is capable of. She is no match for the fire within Rhaenyra and Daemon." Rhaelys said with her head held high.

The time around Rhaenyra and Daemon had been more than just endearing. It was magnetic. As if standing too close to a flame and refusing to step away.

Rhaenyra possessed an unbreakable resolve. She was a true descendant of Old Valyria. Rhaenyra did not bend to the wills of weaker men. She made sure they learned to fear what she was capable of.

Daemon moved like a ghost of the Doom. A warrior whos command needed no voice. His devotion to his house made him stronger and showed his love deeper than his words could convey.

And Rhaelys? She had tried to remain untouched, but what began as flickers had become wildfire. An aching blaze she no longer fought. Rhaenyra and Daemon were not merely flames of Valyria. They were its heart. And Rhaelys felt herself drawn in, burned alive by admiration and something far more dangerous.

"Let me advise you, sweet child. Do not deny that which pulls you deeper. Love of any kind grows without restraint. Embrace it." Syrax said with a mischievous smile.

"I will heed your words." Rhaelys said.

"You have made us proud. We will continue watching." Arrax said as the pantheon became quiet once more.

---------------

Elinda POV

The wedding feast was nothing like Elinda had seen before. The throne room was transported to another world.

Exotic flowers decorated the walls, candles flickered with a golden glow. The tables were filled with different foods from around the realm.

Smells of grilled fish and meats filled the air with an assortment of fruits and cheeses. The servants were pouring wine every couple minutes.

Music played as Elinda sat close to the high table. Rhaenyra was radiant. She sat in her rightful place as Queen and King Consort Daemon at her side.

King Viserys looked as he wished to escape. Queen Alicent was nowhere to be seen though Criston Cole was present.

He had brought his demise upon himself. To make such assumptions of Rhaenyra. He was barely a knight yet he felt himself worthy of a Queen.

"Lords and Ladies of the realm, be welcomed!" Rhaenyra said as she stood to face the guests.

"Today we celebrate my marriage to King Consort Daemon. House Targaryen has once again joined itself in the ways of Old Valyria. The Dragonstone kingdom grows strong along with our union. I am grateful..."

Rhaenyra's words trailed off as she stared straight ahead.

Elinda turned and felt fury igniting in her veins.

Alicent Hightower.

She stood in between the doors in a gown of unmistakable green.

Rhaenyra raises her hand to the Dragonguards and swords are drawn to hold Alicent where she stands.

Elinda can see the anger behind Rhaenyra's eyes. A coiling dragon ready to unleash fire and blood on its enemies.

"Queen Alicent, a question. When Oldtown calls its banners to war, what color does the beacon atop the Hightower blaze?" Rhaenyra asked.

Alicent drained of color. She did not make a sound.

Rhaenyra narrowed her eyes.

"It is a simple question, stepmother. What color does Oldtown use to call its banners to war?"

"Green." King Consort Daemon says for her, his voice as sharp as Dark Sister.

King Viserys shifted uncomfortably as he tried to whisper something to Rhaenyra.

"And here you stand cloaked in green, before lords and dragons, on the day of my union. Am I to take it as a declaration against the Dragonstone kingdom?" Rhaenyra asks.

The air became thick with tension. The lords and ladies begin whispering to themselves behind goblets and fans.

They knew the truth. Westeros would not survive a war with Dragonstone. Rhaenyra commands four dragonriders and herself. Three of whom are battle tested.

"I.. I meant no insult." Alicent lets out.

“No insult?” Rhaenyra echoed coldly. “We studied beside the same Septa. You were taught the symbols of Oldtown’s wrath. Do not feign ignorance in a room filled with lords and ladies of the realm.”

Elinda smiled. Alicent wished to play a game she knew nothing of.

"I...." Alicent stuttered as she shrank from all the scrutiny.

"Queen Alicent is to be whipped six times in the dress she chose and then reclothed into a more appropriate dress befitting her station. A courtesy despite the insult. This is the only mercy Dragonstone gives to Queen Alicent."

Alicent was dragged out by the Dragonguards as the Kingsguards could only watch.

~~~

Bodies glided with ease as the music played around them. The tension of earlier forgotten for now.

Elinda twirled as she danced with Laenor.

"You are distracted. Are you well?" Elinda asked.

"The sensation of war looms. Alicent has declared it and Rhaenyra will not forget." Laenor says as he searches the room.

"Ser Joffrey is near the high table. Rhaenyra has ordered him close for the rest of the night. Do not fret." Elinda said with a smile.

The song ended and they parted ways.

Laenor made his way towards Joffrey and Elinda clung to the walls.

The time had come to seek retribution for her Queen.

The Dragonguards were all positioned at their posts. King Daemon had designed their layout so no one could exit without a Dragonguard seeing them.

The Kingsguards stood close to King Viserys except for Cole. He stood off to the side away from everyone.

Elinda followed his gaze. He stared as Rhaenyra and King Daemon danced happily in the crowd.

Elinda followed the walls, being sure she did not bring attention to herself as she approached Criston Cole.

"Enjoying the evening, Ser Criston?" Elinda asked.

Criston slightly glanced and looked away.

"You should not be here, Lady Elinda. I am keeping watch as I am on duty." He says flatly.

"I am very good at slipping through the shadows, Ser Criston. You might want to learn the skill yourself. Your Queen is outside receiving punishment for her insolence yet you remain here without being able to take your eyes off of Queen Rhaenyra like a lovesick dog. You should be careful. Rumors about you have already circulated. You would not want to fuel the fire." She whispered.

Elinda could see Cole tense at her words. Jaw tight and hand on the hilt of his sword.

"I do not know what you speak of. You should return to the celebrations of your Queen." He snapped.

Elinda smirked.

"But I am celebrating my Queen. I am helping ease her mind. Too many men of no honor or understanding have thought themselves worthy of her light. I am simply helping them see the shadow that they cast."

Cole's anger was visible. Rippling through him. Elinda could feel the shift in his demeanor.

"It seems you might have some understanding then. Whatever possessed you to believe yourself worthy of Rhaenyra will die tonight." Elinda said.

Elinda stood in front of Cole, his gazed boring into her. His rage swimming within him like a storm ready to be unleashed. She just had to tip the glass.

"Shall I tell you what it feels like? Her hands on your body? Her lips kissing you passionately and hungry? She is pure fire that brings your body to life. All consuming. She is as soft as silk and you will never know that pleasure. You? You are not enough. You never were." Elinda said, her voice soft yet cutting.

Cole grabbed Elinda from the top of her dress.

His rage was blatant. His composure was gone and his mind wild. Just what Elinda hoped for.

In one swift motion, Elinda tore the fabric of her dress and screamed as loud as she could.

The room went still as all eyes turned towards them.

Elinda's dress tattered in Criston Cole's hand. Torn, damning, undeniable.

Elinda mustered up all the tears within her and let them fall.

"He has tried to ruin my honor!" Elinda cried, practiced and with purpose.

"Seize him!" King Daemon bellowed as he pulled Rhaenyra into his arms and drew Dark Sister.

Two Dragonguards took hold of Cole and forced him to his knees with swift brutality.

"She lies! She is nothing but a whore and a liar!" Cole screamed.

Gasps and indignation passed through the room, scandal passing like wildfire.

Elinda stood unfazed. She knew her reputation was untouchable. She never set a foot out of place in court, afraid it would harm Rhaenyra.

"You dare do this to my daughter then accuse her of such a thing!? I demand justice!" Her father yelled as he ran to her and wrapped her in his overcoat.

Agreements rang through the room.

"We all know of his shameful longing towards Queen Alicent! Now he has dared touch a lady of a noble house of the Queen's court! This cannot stand!" Lord Corlys yelled.

Elinda could see Alicent trying to make her way through the crowd, green silk trailing with broken intent.

"Lies! I feel nothing towards Queen Alicent. I am only her sworn shield because the Lord Hand assigned me to her!" He yelled as he tried to escape the Dragonguards' grasp.

Elinda watched as Alicent fell to the ground with Cole's words. The weight of a fantasy broken by the truth.

In a matter of seconds Laenor was atop of Cole.

"You lay hands on the love of my life and dare still breathe the same air as them!? I shall take justice myself!!"

Laenor punched violently in a way Elinda didn't think possible. Every punch landing like a hammer. There was no precision, only wrath. Blood splattered on the stone floors as Laenor rained blows to Cole's face.

Ladies looked away while the lords looked on in astonishment. They knew not if they should stop the onslaught or commend Laenor for upholding justice for his betrothed. Laenor was known as a war hero but he was never cruel. Never had he shown such fury.

A halo of blood surrounded Cole's face as he lay dead.

Rhaenyra approached, her dress flowing around her as if commanding the space.

Laenor kneeled in front of her, not in guilt but in reverence.

"Ser Criston!" Alicent weeped as she threw herself on Cole's dead body. King Viserys watched with visible disdain as his wife insulted her station further.

He grabbed Alicent and held her in place.

"You must seek vengeance, Viserys! He was a Kingsguard! He was my sworn shield!" Alicent begged.

"He broke the very vows you cry for. He dared lay hands on a lady of Dragonstone, not to mention the future daughter in law of House Velaryon. Laenor did what any man with honor would have done for his betrothed." Rhaenyra said for all to hear.

"Viserys!" Alicent pleaded, losing composure.

"Enough! Ser Criston has brought dishonor to himself with his actions. He has spat on his oath and bought shame to the Kingsguard. He tried to strike Lady Elinda's honor and let himself be surrounded by vile rumors. Laenor has committed no crime here. He only defended his future lady wife." King Viserys yelled, defeated.

"Remove him. His Queen may take him since she seems to hold such deep affections for him." King Daemon commanded, curt and cutting.

Alicent shrunk into herself as prying eyes looked at her in a different light.

Elinda watched as the Dragonguards dragged Cole's body out of the room, blood trailing behind him.

One less viper in the garden.

---------------

Daemon POV

The feast raged on as Daemon and Rhaenyra made their way to their chambers.

All Dragonguards were on alert if Alicent tried anything drastic.

No Hightower on Dragonstone would be trusted.

Laenor and Elinda had done a better job than Daemon could have imagined.

No one except Alicent mourned for Cole. He was a disgraced Kingsguard and the Book of Brothers will remember him as such.

Rhaenyra sent the servants away as they set wine and fruit down.

Daemon grabbed hold of her in a second, his cock already hard.

"The Kingmaker is dead and the cunt of a Queen has lost face in front of her court. A marvelous gift to bless our union." Daemon said as he pulled the gown off Rhaenyra's shoulders.

Her pale breasts gleamed in the moonlight and Daemon could not stop himself as his hands explored them.

Rhaenyra let out a moan that ignited Daemon more.

The dress fell into a pile before him as he stepped back.

Rhaenyra stood naked before him. Every curve laid bare. A deep growl escaped him.

Daemon lifted Rhaenyra off the ground and pushed her against the cold wall, legs sitting on his shoulders.

Daemon's tongue licked around her clit with reckless abandonment.

Rhaenyra let out a scream of pleasure as she dug her fingers into his hair.

The chambers echoed her screams of pleasure, surely being heard throughout the castle.

His tongue danced around as it made its way to her opening. Her wetness was more than he dreamed. She tasted sweet on his tongue and Daemon wanted more.

"Let me worship at your altar, my Queen." Daemon whispered as his tongue entered her cunt.

Rhaenyra shook with pleasure as he licked inside her.

Her wetness was intoxicating. She grew more aroused as he explored. His hands roamed her breasts and his tongue entered deeper.

Daemon could feel the familiar sensation building in her.

He began to lick upwards where he knew she would come undone.

Her breathing becomes shallow and her legs tensed around his head.

Daemon licked faster and she let out a scream of passion as she climaxed.

He enjoyed every spasm of pleasure her body gave.

Daemon turned and dropped Rhaenyra on the bed.

She watched his as he removed his clothes. Every motion deliberate.

Daemon's cock stood firm as he dropped his trousers. Rhaenyra stared, mesmerized.

He kissed up her body until he laid on atop her.

"It will hurt for a second but you will feel more passion than you already have." Daemon whispered into her ear as he placed his cock at her wet opening.

Before he could thrust, Rhaenyra pulled herself onto him, screaming in pleasure.

Daemon let out a low primal growl. Her heat and wetness enveloped him. She grinded against him as her fire grew.

"Fuck me, Daemon." She moaned, breaking any resolve of gentleness.

Daemon thrust into her fiercely. His cock taking her maidenhead and she taking his sanity.

She clawed at his back as pleasure overwhelmed her.

Daemon's lips found her breast and took her nipple into his mouth.

He felt Rhaenyra convulse under him as another orgasm overtook her.

Daemon fucked her deeper as his cock tensed in anticipation for him own climax.

Rhaenyra bit down on his neck and he unraveled. Daemon came hard, triggering another orgasm from Rhaenyra.

Their fires danced as if they have waited eternity for each other.

That night all of Dragonstone echoed with their sounds of passion.

Chapter Text

Rhaenyra POV

The breeze felt brisk as Rhaenyra walked around Aegon's garden. Maester Gerardys and the healers had told her to keep active throughout her pregnancy and nine months was not an exception.

She felt swollen in every part of her body. Her feet ached and her back hurt. The healers had told her that she carrying two babies and Rhaenyra had yet to believe it.

Laena had written moons ago that she was also with child and then again saying it was twins. The Fourteen Flames had blessed them with these children.

Rhaenyra stopped and took her shoes off. She stepped on the grass and let the sensation wash over her. The grass felt cool and soft on her feet. It felt grounding.

Armor could be heard walking towards her. She turned and there was Daemon.

Armor dirty and hair disheveled, no doubt sparing since dawn with the Dragonguards.

Ser Luthor Largent followed close behind. Daemon held a scroll and a smile Rhaenyra knew too well.

His ambitions were being realized.

"Harwin has sent word on the caves." He said with a smile from ear to ear. He handed her the scroll.

Rhaenyra took Ser Arryk's arm and sat on the chair closest to her.

Rhaenyra's smile grew as she read.

"I knew the Stepstones would produce something." She said.

"Something? There are jewel and gold mines on every island! The oysters are producing more pearls than we thought possible. Not to mention that all the fish and crabs that can build a sea trade to rival House Velaryon." Daemon said as he sat next to her.

"We must set up blockades as soon as possible, Your Grace. Once this information is out, others will try to take it for themselves." Ser Luthor said.

"No one will dare make a move while Vhagar is there. They would be fools. A fishing and trading port are being built on Bloodstone. New checkpoints will be put on every island. None can be left unsupervised now that we know the treasures they hold. Let everyone on the islands choose one treasure to keep. They will protect them more now that they have become part of a wealthy kingdom." Rhaenyra said as she rubbed her stomach, feeling her twins kick fiercely.

"Harwin has put men on every island. More men from the Vale have arrived at the Stepstones and have been taking in the logistics. Their ancestors built the Blood Gate. I am sure we can build something similar. Especially since the coin we will make with the Stepstones will put Westeros to shame." Daemon said with fire in his eyes.

Rhaenyra hid a smirk. The visions had shown how the Lannisters stole the crown's coin and crippled her hold on the Iron Throne with it.

Her kingdom would not suffer such a loss again. The Stepstones were now their way to lure more people to her side.

"It will be no time at all before Otto hears of this. Mayhaps he will die from the rage." Daemon said.

"If only the Fourteen Flames were that kind. Otto would not go until he sees Westeros in the hands of the Hightowers." Rhaenyra said.

A roar came from overhead as Seasmoke flew towards the dragonmount.

"It seems Laenor and Elinda have come to visit. Let us greet them inside."

~~~

Rhaenyra tried to regain her breath as she made it to the chamber of the painted table.

Walking had become a burden.

Laenor and Elinda quickly stood to help Rhaenyra to her seat.

"You must take rest, my love. You're labors are close." Elinda said as she put a pillow between the chair and Rhaenyra's lower back.

Elinda had been visiting often after her wedding to Laenor. Rhaenyra had missed her these few days she was away.

"How is Lord Corlys and Princess Rhaenys? I assume Driftmark is doing well as usual." Rhaenyra said.

"Do not get us started with those two." Laenor said as he picked some grapes off a platter. "They will not stop asking us when a grandchild will be announced. It has only been three moons since we have married."

An heir for Laenor would solidify his line's place as rulers of Driftmark and give Corlys more reason to keep his loyalties close to the Dragonstone kingdom.

"Call for Rhaelys. She is needed here." Rhaenyra said to one of the servants.

"Why are you calling her?" Laenor asked as he stood behind Elinda.

"Rhaelys holds many secrets of Old Valyria. I am sure she knows something that can help with your heir." Rhaenyra said.

The chamber doors opened and in glided Rhaelys.

Rhaelys had not left her side throughout her pregnancy. She oversaw everything the healers did and even kept watch at night when Daemon could not.

Rhaenyra and Daemon could not pull away from Rhaelys. She was a blue flame, beautiful and much more dangerous than many think.

They had gladly burned in her fire.

"You've summoned me, my Queen?" Rhaelys asked as she greeted everyone.

"Laenor and Elinda are being pressured for an heir by Lord Corlys and Princess Rhaenys. Is there anything from your knowledge that can assist them?" Rhaenyra asked.

Rhaelys smiled.

"Many of Old Valyria were the same. The Fourteen Flames did not stop love or bind them to unwanted unions. When lords like Laenor needed heirs they simply provided their seed to a willing woman."

"I do not understand what that entails." Elinda said puzzled.

"A man would pleasure himself to completion but his seed would be stored in a glass container that would then immediately be taken to the woman and inserted the seed inside her to take hold. It was common practice in Old Valyria. And very effective." Rhaelys explained.

Rhaenyra contemplated the information. This could change a lot. Even for Jayne if she so wanted. A legitimate heir for both Driftmark and then later the Vale.

"This can work. You both could be parents and you can also strengthen your hold as heir to Driftmark. It would keep your parents happy and no one would question anything about your marriage." Rhaenyra said.

Elinda sat quietly for a moment.

"I do enjoy the thought of being a mother without having to force ourselves to do something we do not want. Lord Corlys would be over the moon about a grandchild. What do you think, Laenor?"

Laenor looked at all the women in the room.

"I never thought there would ever be a way for me to be a father. I had given up on notion but this changes everything. We can do our duty and still be true to ourselves once more. This is wonderful!" He said as he hugged Elinda.

Rhaelys continued to explain the process when Rhaenyra suddenly felt a sharp pain shoot through her lower back.

"My labors have started."

-----------------------

Rhaelys POV

Basins of water were being exchanged every couple of minutes from Rhaenyra's chambers.

Her screams echoed throughout the castle as the hours passed. Healers and midwives worked tirelessly to keep Rhaenyra comfortable.

Rhaelys sat by one side while Daemon sat on the other.

"You are doing well, Your Grace. Just push little more. I can see the head." The midwife said.

"I am pushing with all I have, you fucking cunt!" Rhaenyra screamed.

The midwife smirked as if Rhaenyra had met a rite of passage all women do when giving birth.

Elinda watched on with terror in her eyes. Queen Aemma had suffered through every child until it took her and all of Dragonstone prayed to the Fourteen Flames so that their Queen would not meet such a fate.

A cry pierced the tension that clung in the air.

"A boy, Your Grace!" Maester Gerardys said as he wrapped the babe in a blanket.

The baby was placed in Rhaenyra's arms. The small hatchling had wisps of silver gold hair and possessed the Valyrian features of House Targaryen. Rhaelys leaned over as the babe opened their eyes.

Lilac eyes just as his father's but the deeper she looked she could see a prayer had been fulfilled.

Jacaerys.

Something within Rhaelys knew it to be true. This baby was Jacaerys born again.

Rhaelys looked up at Rhaenyra and Daemon and she could see that they felt it too. Rhaenyra's tears fell with happiness and a hint of sorrow.

"My Jacaerys. My brave boy." Rhaenyra whispered as she kissed his head.

"Your Grace, you must keep pushing. The second babe is coming." Maester Gerardys said as he took Jacaerys and placed him in his crib.

The crib had been commissioned to be carved from wood sent from the The Gift. It held strong and would last generations.

Rhaenyra began to push again as the pains returned. Rhaelys held her hand once more and did not let go.

Rhaenyra's body relaxed as the last babe let out a scream that could shake the entire island. Strong and commanding in its delivery.

"A girl, Your Grace! What a joyous surprise!" Maester Gerardys said.

Rhaelys could feel Rhaenyra tense. All three shared the same thought but could not bring it to words lest it not be true.

Rhaenyra took the little girl into her arms and couldn't hold back her tears.

Visenya.

Her little wisps of hair the same as Daemon's but those eyes. Those eyes were Rhaenyra's. Those lilac eyes as soft as they were enchanting. She would be a great beauty and the jewel of Dragonstone.

"My sweet girl, Visenya. In this life you will thrive, my little princess." Daemon said as he tried to hide the emotions deep within.

"Have the news announced. Queen Rhaenyra has safely given birth to a prince and princess of the realm!" Rhaelys exclaimed.

The Fourteen Flames had blessed Rhaenyra once more. Her children would come back to her. They would live as they should have before.

"Congratulations, my Queen." Rhaelys said as she placed a kiss on Rhaenyra's forehead.

"Have sweets and coins distributed in honor of the babes to everyone on Dragonstone. This joyous occasion must be spread far and wide." Rhaenyra said as she sat up to hold both hatchlings in her arms.

Everyone left the chambers after finishing their work and left the three alone.

"You have faced the fire and won as the dragon you are." Daemon said as he sat next to her.

"Fire cannot kill a dragon and the birthing bed will not take me. The Fourteen Flames have seen it fit to bless me once more and I will not let their intentions fail." Rhaenyra said as the babes slept in her embrace.

"Your enemies will seek to use them as a weakness against you. No doubt Alicent will try to undermine them again though labeling them as bastards will not work as she would like." Rhaelys said as she paced around.

"They will not have the chance to even think about it. The Stepstones have become our chess piece. Viserys could only hope to have the gold we have now. Beesbury did not caution spending for nothing. Viserys has been bleeding his kingdom dry with his lavish balls and tourneys. Dragonstone can now level the playing field and overtake it in a couple of years." Daemon said as he took Visenya in his arms.

Rhaelys knew he was right. The Stepstones were now a hub of riches. Every jewel found could be sold for way more than it took to mine it. The seafood market will explode once the piers and docks are finished and the gold will pay to fortify the Dragonstone kingdom.

"Aemond has been born and now Jacaerys and Visenya have come back to you. This means the other children are bound to come again. We must be sure they are ready this time around. They must be taught about ruling and fighting. They are your strength, Rhaenyra." Rhaelys said.

Rhaenyra looked at her newborns. The fire of a mother burned deep within.

"Aemond will not be an issue. We can sway him to our side if we do it when he is young. The Aemond of our visions required validation and love. He had no control over himself because he did not have guidance. We will show him that we are who can give him that. We hold the dragons he obsesses over. He will be drawn to come and my father will use it as an excuse to see me." Rhaenyra said.

The game was evolving. The children would return and with them, the struggle for control.

Alicent would try to use them as weapons while Rhaenyra would make hers into the perfect royals.

"Let the Hightowers try and stop us. They will lose their supporters faster than they ever thought possible. We will see to it."

Chapter Text

Otto POV

Anger had always been a weak man's defense. Otto had seen many men destroyed by their own rage and he had made sure never to follow that lead but as he walked the halls of Dragonstone he could not stop it from surfacing.

The opulence was apparent. Rhaenyra's kingdom was thriving like never before. Gold decorated even the smallest sconce. The maids wore specialized dresses that some ladies in Westeros wouldn't even be able to afford.

Westeros was supposed to be the greater power but one look laid the truth bare. Dragonstone had surpassed the Red Keep and their kingdom was moving up the board without Otto realizing it. He had known the Stepstones had provided new treasures but every attempt to attain them was for not.

It had been ten years since she made her first move by marrying Daemon and then taking the Vale. An original of the Seven Kingdoms poached by the discarded princess.

The day he heard of the news was the first time Otto had let his temper rage out of his control. The months after had been maddening. Every voice whispered of Queen Rhaenyra's accomplishments. How so young she had secured so much power.

Otto tried to push Alicent to the frontlines of the social circles. He had her parade every child, every pregnancy. Show that she had control in Westeros and on the King but nothing stopped the whispers.

Small houses like House Blackwood had joined her side. Otto tried to stop the defection but it fell on deaf ears. Then Houses Darklyn, Caswell, Merryweather and Straunton joined Rhaenyra and Otto knew he had to take action.

Aegon was past his twelfth name day and still did not posses a dragon. Every egg put in his crib went cold and the only dragon in King's Landing had none of him to the point it fled to Dragonstone.

There was no eggs left. All of them turned to stone and were brought to Dragonstone since they became Valyrian artifacts the second they went cold.

Three Hightower royal children with no dragons while almost all of Rhaenyra's children already had theirs.

Four sons, a daughter and another child on the way. She even gave her first two sons Velaryon names to keep House Velaryon close.

Laena and Laenor Velaryon both had children. Laena gave birth to twin daughters and Elinda had a son soon after Rhaenyra's first pregnancy and she was with child again.

Otto did not pay mind to those children until Rhaenyra's decree reached his ears.

The Velaryon children were granted the right to eggs and a right to claim a dragon if the egg did not hatch.

House Velaryon already surpassed his grandchildren and now more would have the chance.

Otto reached the chamber of the painted table where the others were waiting.

"Ser Otto. How good of you to finally join us to the meeting you yourself planned. It is not as if my children are celebrating their name days today." Daemon said while leaning against the hearth.

"I lost track of the time. Thank you all for joining me." Otto gritted out.

"What is this all about, Otto? The children are running around the palace and I would like to spend as much time with my grandchildren while I am here." Viserys said while Alicent rubbed his shoulders.

"I will try to be brief, Your Grace. House Targaryen has long held the tradition of being dragonriders. Aegon, Helaena, and Aemond are both children of House Targaryen and have yet to know this pleasure. I would like to ask Queen Rhaenyra for her permission to help the children fulfill this milestone." Otto said.

He despised lowering his head to that brat but they needed dragons. They had to build their defenses before Daemon decided to take Westeros by force.

"No. Had I not made myself clear from the start? I left enough eggs for the children as a kindness. Even Dreamfyre was left before she decided to make her home here. The Gods had deemed it that they would not know a dragonrider bond." Rhaenyra said staring him down.

"Not all Targaryens become riders, Otto. It is the dragons who choose their riders. They are still Targaryens." Viserys said.

The fool.

He acted like Westeros didn't need dragons as if his leadership is what kept enemies at bay.

"They deserve to claim dragons! You let the Velaryon children take eggs and claim dragons. Why shouldn't mine?!" Alicent yelled.

Rhaenyra slowly turned towards her.

"I decide who deserves anything in my kingdom. The eggs and dragons of Dragonstone fall under my rule, Alicent. Westeros has no power here and it would be wise you remembered it lest you forget what happened to your sworn shield."

Otto shot a glare towards Alicent. She always had to let her emotions get the better of her.

"Then I would like to offer a proposal." Otto said.

All eyes turned towards him. There was one final thing he had to try. It was the only way.

"I propose that Princess Visenya be betrothed to Prince Aegon. It is in tradition of House Targaryen and it would unite the realms. Visenya would be Queen and the divide between the families could come to an end." He said.

In a blink of an eye Daemon had him pinned to the wall, hand closing over his throat.

"You dare covet my daughter for your poor excuse of an heir? Why haven't you betrothed him to Helaena if you believe our traditions should be followed? Because Helaena has no dragon or coin so she would not help shore his claim any more than another white haired Lady would. Visenya would eat Aegon alive. She is a true dragon unlike your green cunt of a grandson."

Otto could feel his consciousness leaving him.

"Release him." Rhaenyra said.

Otto fell onto the stone hard, gasping for air.

"Visenya will marry who she chooses. Even if we were finding her a betrothed, it would not be Aegon of all people. Let me be clear to everyone in this room. None of my children will marry into your royal family. Jacaerys or any of my sons will never consider Helaena and none of the daughters I bare will join hands with your Hightowers." Rhaenyra said with a sharp tone.

"Rhaenyra... It may be a good thing to join the children. It could bring stability to both realms." Viserys said.

Otto could always rely on Viserys to play into his plans.

"Am I speaking in tongues? There is no discussion here. I do not know what goes on in your council room, father, but my realm needs not for a marriage alliance. We continue to thrive and it seems to me that your Hand has set his sights on our riches. See to it that he is reigned in or I will not be held accountable for what I do in name of my children." Rhaenyra said as she walked out of the chamber with Daemon.

"I know your heart is in the right place, Otto, but Rhaenyra has said her piece. Aegon is still young. We will find him a perfect Queen." Viserys said as he stood to leave.

Otto bowed in understanding but he could not stop his mind from racing.

Aegon only had the Targaryen name in his favor. He has forsaken all the wisdom he is being given and throwing away his potential. Viserys even had forbade speaking about a union with Helaena when Otto brought it up citing that they would only make each other miserable.

Helaena was simple. She seemed to only care for her insects and nothing else so Otto did not press the matter. Even if she did marry Aegon she would be no help against Rhaenyra.

Aemond had the potential to be great but he was still a second son. He would need to protect Aegon's right now more than ever.

"How dare you try to sell Aegon to that whore's child!?" Alicent hissed once Viserys was gone.

"Aegon needs dragons! He needs a strong backer and right now he has none. Rhaenyra keeps giving birth to boys and making you into a fool Queen. Visenya would ensure that we would gain dragons and riches from Dragonstone. He needs a Valyrian Queen to be a true Targaryen ruler in the eyes of Westeros." Otto shot back.

"I will not give Aegon to that monster of a girl. Do you not hear the rumors? She is a cunning little spider. She does as she pleases and uses anyone to her advantage. Rhaenyra has taught her well even at ten name days old. She would surely bring ruin to Aegon." Alicent said.

Otto had heard the rumors. Visenya was growing into a warrior that competed with her namesake. She learned how to wield a sword at Daemon's feet just as her brothers. She carried dual daggers in her dresses as if waiting for an opportunity. If she married Aegon she could be controlled but if she didn't, she would be a worthy enemy later on.

"We must bring a dragon to our side. One way or another."

----------------

Aemond POV

It felt surreal to be on Dragonstone. It seemed as if Aemond was transported into a story of Old Valyria.

Everything seemed so different from King's Landing and it infuriated him.

In a decade Rhaenyra had changed so much in her realm while Westeros remained the same under his father.

The island was buzzing with festivities for their prince and princess. Even the commoners celebrated. Every lord and lady from Westeros was invited to this event. No doubt Rhaenyra was trying to bring more houses into the fold.

All of these riches should belong under the Iron Throne. Under his family.

His mother and grandsire had warned him to stay on guard while on this island. Rhaenyra was threatened by their existence and was capable of trying to be rid of them at any moment.

Aemond felt an eerie feeling wash over him as he snuck into the dragonmount.

The dragonmount in King's Landing was nothing like this. The one at home was empty and only the remnants of dragons remained. Even the dragon keepers had all come to Dragonstone.

Aemond had wished that one of the eggs given to him had hatched. He had prayed to the Seven as his mother suggested but nothing happened. They all went cold while his nephews and neice flaunted their dragons like it was only their birth right.

He would have a dragon even if he had to take it.

The caves radiated heat the closer he got to the dragon nests.

Aemond was born a Targaryen. A dragon was meant for him and his half sister would not keep it from him.

A roar startled him out of his thoughts.

"You should not be here, Uncle." A voice said from behind.

Aemond pulled out a small dagger and turned towards the voice.

There stood a vision. Her long white hair was weaved into braids falling along her face and her lilac eyes seemed to gleam in the torch light. She smirked at him.

"That dagger will do you no good against me. I am my father's daughter." Visenya said as she pulled her daggers out of her dress pockets.

Aemond hid a smile. All the ladies Aemond knew would never think to carry weapons and here stood a Valyrian beauty who held no fear in front of a threat. He put the dagger away.

"Why are you here, dear princess?"

"The dragons are not chained. They will devour you if you approach them. The Queen has made it clear that you and your siblings are not allowed in the dragonmount. It would be wise to leave." She said, still holding her daggers.

Aemond felt irritation pulling on him. She did not even answer his question.

"I am a Targaryen prince. I deserve a right to claim a dragon as well. There as still unclaimed dragons here an I will claim one."

Visenya walked closer.

"My mother rules Dragonstone. Her word is all that matters here. Dreamfyre has rejected you and only Vermithor remains. He will have none of you." She said with a smile.

Vermithor, the Bronze Fury.

He would be a perfect mount. Aemond could solidify his position as a dragonrider and bring a dragon back to King's Landing.

"Are you afraid that I would claim your dragon's bonded pair? Mayhaps when I claim it then you and I would be bonded as well. Would that give me claim to you?" He said.

Aemond saw something flash over Visenya's face but only for a second. He could not pinpoint what it was.

"Visenya. Mother knows you are in here. You must come at once or she will send Ser Harwin to drag you out again." A voice boomed.

Two more figures appeared. There was no need for introductions. Aemond knew who stood in front of him.

Jacaerys and Lucerys Targaryen.

Jacaerys was the spitting image of Daemon while Lucerys held his mother's softer features.

"Prince Aemond. You must leave at once. It is not safe here for you." Jacaerys said.

It grated at Aemond when others gave him orders. He did not have to answer to any of them.

"Why? Your Dragonguards did not even see me enter. I have proved my right to be here." He said.

Lucerys chuckled, irritating Aemond further.

"The Dragonguards have been following you since you entered. Do you not feel them around you?" Lucerys asked.

The eerie feeling he felt had amplified as he tried to find the guards. He heard no armor moving or even any foreign breathing. How could they hide this well?

"You are lying. There is no one else but us here." Aemond said as he stood straighter.

He would not be made a fool of here of all places. He had to endure Aegon's cruel jesting and the whispers of the court that he was not worthy enough to be a prince of the blood.

He studied tirelessly about law and justice. It was he who did his duty to his house and his Gods. If anyone deserved recognition, it was him.

Aemond felt Visenya's gaze on him. Watching him as if she could peer into his soul and read his thoughts. She stood with a presence Aemond had never seen before. As if she knew who was in control and it was always her.

"Kill him." Visenya whispered, the echo bouncing on the rocks.

Out of nowhere Dragonguards marched out of the shadows from every corner, swords drawn. Aemond was surrounded and he had not known.

"Stop." She whispered again.

The Dragonguards stopped in their tracks.

"As you were."

The Dragonguards turned and disappeared into the darkness once more.

Aemond could feel the adrenaline in his body. He had been close to an ambush and he was a sitting duck.

Jacaerys and Lucerys stood next Visenya staring down at him.

"House Targaryen of Dragonstone rules here, Uncle. It is best you knew your place. If we do not leave now, our father will be forced to come for us." Jacaerys said.

Aemond would not leave chastised and without a dragon. He would be paid for this humiliation.

Aemond sprinted into the direction he heard the roar earlier. He would have the Bronze Fury and with him, he would make everyone kneel.

The torches flickered as he ran. He did not hear anyone following him but he was certain they were. He had to find Vermithor first before anyone could stop him.

Golden fire suddenly lit up the cave with a deafening roar.

There in the fire light he stood.

The Bronze Fury.

Eyes boring into Aemond. Passing judgment on how worthy he was.

"Calm, Vermithor. Serve." Aemond said with a shaky voice. He had never encountered such a monstrous dragon.

Vermithor grew more agitated the more Aemond commanded him.

He would not back down. Aemond had to prove that he was worthy. More than Aegon. More than Rhaenyra.

Vermithor let out another stream of fire as his anger grew.

Aemond ran behind a rock and nearly missed it.

Suddenly a figure appeared at his side.

He was close to Aemond's age but somehow he seemed older. Silver hair and dark skin. He wore a navy blue doublet with pearls sewn in. He was of House Velaryon.

"Prince Aemond. I am Aethan Velaryon. King Daemon and the Dragonguards are on their way. We must leave now before Vermithor decides we are his next mid day meal." Aethan said with a wide smile.

No fear marked his features. If anything he looked as if all this was a thrill. How many people would make Aemond feel less than on this island?

"This dragon is for me to claim. I will not be denied!" Aemond yelled as he ran in front of the bronze beast.

"You will obey me! Serve me, Vermithor!"

The beast roared with a vengeance. Aemond tried to hold his ground but Vermithor would not heed commands.

Vermithor's head swung upwards and Aemond became airborne. A sharp pain in his eye ran through him as he landed on the rocks.

Vermithor approached but Aethan stood between them.

"Come on! I'm right here! I am not like those before me. Old Valyria flows through my blood and you will never break me!" Aethan screamed as the Bronze Fury lowered his head.

"Vermithor! Calm! Serve!" Visenya screamed as she rushed towards them.

She had come for him, Aemond thought as he lost consciousness.

-------------

Visenya POV

Everyone sat around the chamber of the painted table as Aemond's eye was being sewn up.

Rhaelys stood close to the walls, in the shadows. She had learned much from Rhaelys through the years and knew her workings.

Visenya scanned the room. Alicent Hightower was losing her mind while Otto Hightower stood by fuming.

No doubt he was furious that Aemond could not claim a dragon for their faction.

At ten name days old people would underestimate Visenya. They thought her a spoiled princess as if her parents were not Rhaenyra and Daemon Targaryen.

She knew very early on what her duty was. She was to protect her family from any threat no matter the circumstances.

She watched the Dragonguards train and learned their stealth. Her father trained her every day since the day she could walk. Her mother taught her how to use her charm against others when they sought to use it against her.

Aemond Targaryen sought to posses her. He wanted to own her as he wanted to own a dragon. She saw it in his eyes when they were in the dragonmount. He did not know that they could never be owned. Just as the dragons, Visenya would burn the world to the ground before being chained down.

"Your children and the Velaryon boy attacked my son! I will have my vengeance. Viserys this has gone too far!" Alicent yelled as everyone watched on.

Ser Laenor and Lady Elinda held onto Aethan.

"Aemond entered a dragonmount he knew nothing about looking for a dragon known for his temperament. Aethan went in with Daemon and the Dragonguards looking for the princess. If not for Aethan, Aemond would have suffered Vermithor's wrath." Laenor said, standing in front of his son.

"Laenor is right. Time and time again it was said that none of the Westeros royal family had permission to enter the dragonmount. Aemond ignored this decree and it ended in disaster. Thankfully, Aethan was able to claim Vermithor and calm him before more harm could have transpired." Her mother said as her brothers stood next to her.

Aemond tensed. He must have passed out before he saw Aethan claim Vermithor.

The thought filled Visenya with joy. Aethan rode Vermithor while she rode Silverwing. They were meant to be in the eyes of the Fourteen Flames just as she had always known.

Visenya's fire only burned for him. No other lord could catch her attention like Aethan. He was like the still sea, deceptively calm and unfathomably deep. He stood strong like a harbor fighting away the tides of a storm. He sailed the seas like a pirate on an adventure and now he would dominate the skies with her at his side.

"They did nothing wrong, mother. Vermithor threw me and I landed on a sharp rock. Visenya had even ran towards Vermithor trying to protect me. She tried to save me." Aemond said, shocking everyone.

Visenya wished to laugh. The only reason she rushed towards Vermithor was because she thought Aethan was in peril. Aemond's delusions were already deeper than she had thought.

"See? It was all a misunderstanding. The children have no quarrel." King Viserys said.

The years seemed to eat away at him. Visenya remembered seeing him once or twice before but every time he looked older than he was.

"Your son has lost an eye! He is your blood, Viserys. How can you let them do as they please!?" Alicent screamed.

"This infighting must cease, Alicent! Even living apart does not stop your ire. What happened was a sad accident. Aemond has already told us what happened. There is no plot here. Let us rest." Viserys said as he walked towards the door.

"Thank you, father." Her mother said.

Something seemed to break in Alicent in that moment for she reached for Viserys' Valyrian steel dagger and charged towards Aethan and her brothers.

The Dragonguards quickly shielded her family but Visenya was quicker.

She pulled one of her daggers out and slashed down Alicent's forearm, making her release the dagger.

"You dare draw steel against the blood of the dragon?! The blood of Old Valyria!?" Rhaelys yelled as the fire in the hearth raged.

The torches flickered around the chamber, the smell of blood lingering in the air as Alicent's forearm bled onto the stone.

Visenya stood tall next to her family.

"In the voice of the flames, I bind you. May your prayers turn to ash in your mouth. May your mind rot in the fog of your self righteousness. May your womb never hold life again as you disregard life now. May your heirs never escape the shadows."

The fires roared as if a dragon from the depths of the Fourteen Hells called out.

The lines had been drawn. The fight for supremacy had begun.

Chapter Text

Rhaenyra POV

The entertainment rang through the palace. Rhaenyra had hired all kinds of performers to be at her children's name day. Fire eaters wowed the lords and ladies while acrobats swung from silk cloths hung from the ceilings.

Rhaenyra stopped by her study before joining the crowds.

Rhaelys sat draped on the daybed as she read an old scroll.

"What has you so entranced, my love?" Rhaenyra asked as she began kissing down her neck.

"Mmm... reading what your ancestors have written about Old Valyria. Most of it is accurate but there are still some things that have me puzzled. I am still trying to understand how Visenya learned black magic so easily." Rhaelys said as she melted under Rhaenyra's touch.

"It is you, Rhaelys. Visenya has a habit of observing from the shadows and she has watched you closely. She is quite fond of you." Rhaenyra said as she sat next to Rhaelys.

Rhaenyra had caught her daughter practicing every spell she saw Rhaelys use. She knew Rhaelys would teach her if she asked but Visenya wanted to prove that she was worthy above everything.

"As I of her. She has the makings of a true Valyrian warrior. She is a force of nature and she is not even of age yet. She will bring you great pride and headaches." Rhaelys said with a laugh.

"Good thing I have you to calm those headaches."

Rhaenyra leaned in and trapped Rhaelys to the daybed. They kissed with tender passion.

Her lips tasted of sweet grapes and spiced wine. Rhaenyra's hands explored with abandonment. Every fiber of her being sparked afire.

Rhaenyra could feel a calloused hand run into her dress and cup her tender breast.

Daemon kneeled as he kneaded her breast and kissed her neck.

He reached over and pinched Rhaelys' nipple over her silk dress.

The sensations sent the women into more pleasure. Overwhelming touch that ignited their souls.

Years of passion had not faultered for them.

Rhaelys pressed her body on Rhaenyra as she let Daemon's hands caress her curves.

Rhaenyra's mind absorbed the moment of intimacy. She had felt her mind weary from all the mishaps of the day but they all melted in the hands of her lover and husband.

Rhaenyra could live in the moment forever but it was not to be as there was a knock on the door.

Daemon gave out a disgruntled moan as he stood and adjusted his manhood. Rhaenyra and Rhaelys would not escape him that night.

"This better be good or expect my ire." Daemon yelled through the door.

Rhaenyra and Rhaelys stifled their laughter.

"Ser Addam wishes to speak with you and the Queen, my King. He says it cannot wait." The servant said.

Rhaelys fixed her dress and sat up.

"Let him enter." Rhaenyra said as she did the same.

Addam walked in with a smile on his face. He looked good dressed up for the ball. The Stepstones had made him a wealthy man as castellan and Rhaenyra rejoiced.

Addam was as loyal as they came and Rhaenyra would protect him in this life. He would live a worthy life even if he did not ride a dragon.

"Ser Addam. What news do you bring?" Rhaenyra asked as she leaned on her desk.

"And let it be good because you have robbed me of something special already." Daemon said.

Addam seemed to want to question further but thought better of it.

"King Daemon, you must remember Dalton Greyjoy of the Iron Islands, correct?" Addam asked.

Daemon let out a wicked laugh.

"The Red Kraken! How could I not. He fought at the Stepstones when he was but a lad. Though the men he killed soon learned that he was more man than them."

Rhaenyra had her eyes on the Iron Islands but she had not told anyone yet. She wanted to time it correctly so Dalton would be older when she approached him. He was now in his twenties and Rhaenyra planned to negotiate with the man.

"Well, I have important information. It seems Dolton Greyjoy has been contacted by Otto Hightower. Otto has tried to hire the Red Kraken to invade the Stepstones in secret." Addam explained.

Rhaenyra could feel the air thicken. The Ironborn were not just any men. They fought for the thrill of it and were willing to do anything for the high of the kill. They could take out a major part of the Stepstones population if they attacked.

"How did you find this information?" Rhaelys asked.

Addam smiled widely.

"Because Dalton Greyjoy told me himself. He sailed to Bloodstone and showed us the letter Otto had sent. Promises of coin and jewels if they secured the Stepstones quickly and quietly. Dalton is a smart man. He does not want your wrath to follow him or his people. He has offered his islands on one condition."

Rhaenyra and Daemon listened intently.

"That his people be allowed to work and live on the Stepstones. They built a kinship to the islands when they fought the War of the Stepstones and no doubt Dalton wants to pull his people out of those islands and to greater things. The Stepstones offer them new adventures and the promise of new discoveries." Addam said.

Rhaenyra's plan was not necessarily needed any longer if he was willing to join them.

"The Iron Islands offer us close proximity to the Riverlands and the Westerlands. The Lannisters will never bend the knee willingly but if the Ironborn push them a little they might just change their minds." Daemon said.

Dalton Greyjoy already held great hatred towards the Lannisters and he would be a great weapon against them.

"I will speak to him tonight. A new addition to our realm is upon us." Rhaenyra said with a triumphant smile.

~~~

The throne room came alive with the sound of music as Rhaenyra watched from the hall. Lords and ladies danced around in sync.

The children watched the acrobats in awe with cake on their faces.

Visenya stood next to her in her birthday dress. A beautiful blood red gown with intricate black stitching and embroidery.

They watched the guests dance on.

"Aemond almost claimed Vermithor." Rhaenyra said.

Visenya's facial features tensed in that way she always did when she wanted to hide her emotions.

"He did." She said flatly.

"What would you have done if he had succeeded?" Rhaenyra asked.

She knew her daughter well. Visenya would not stand for something so significant in her life.

"I would have used his petty infatuation with me against him and he would've been dead before he even left the dragonmount." Visenya said with a smirk.

Rhaenyra saw much of Daemon in Visenya. She was vicious when it came to her family and she did not feel the need to pander to everyone. She knew who she was.

"Now Aethan rides the Bronze Fury. What do you make of that?" Rhaenyra asked.

A slight flush filled Visenya's cheeks.

"It means what I have always known. We were meant to be with the blessings of the Fourteen Flames. Our dragons are a bonded pair just as yours and father's. I know he feels it too."

Rhaenyra followed Visenya's gaze. Aethan stood next to Elinda as he helped her sit down. Aethan treated every woman in his life with the utmost respect. He was a true gentleman and Rhaenyra knew that he lit a fire inside Visenya's heart.

Every pampered lord who seeked to court her could not bring out a smile from Visenya though they tried.

Aethan was different.

His soul flew free like hers. He was an impeccable warrior, especially with a trident. He bent the seas to his will even at such a young age. He truly was of salt and sea.

"We will speak about a betrothal later down the road. Enjoy your youth and truly learn that he is who you burn for. Happy name day, my sweet girl." Rhaenyra said as she kissed her daughter on the head.

Rhaenyra made her way towards the loud laughter and yelling that was coming from outside.

Some tables were set outside to enjoy the fire breathers with ease and the Northerners and Ironborn had made themselves comfortable there.

The sea air cut through the warmth inside. Rhaenyra motioned for Ser Erryk to wait at the door. She made her way towards Dalton.

He was focused in an arm wrestling match with Lord Highstark.

"Queen Rhaenyra!" Dalton shouted as he slammed Bennard's  hand onto the table.

Dolton Greyjoy was a handsome young man with his jet black hair and rugged looks.

He cared only for the sea and the fight. Rhaenyra knew that he could not be bought but he could be convinced. Dolton Greyjoy respected those who could stare adversity in the face and win. He knew the struggles Rhaenyra had to overcome to get to where she was.

"Lord Dalton. I believe we have some business to speak of." Rhaenyra said as she motioned for him to follow her.

His wicked smile grew as he followed her to a far off table away from everyone.

Her new lady in waiting was setting down some wine goblets for them. Rhaenyra could see Dalton eyeing her the moment they sat down.

"I have been told that you wish to join my kingdom." Rhaenyra began.

"I wish to give my men more than a ravager's life. They can have something like that under your rule. They'll still be able to get in a good fight and drink and fuck to their heart's content but they will also be fed and housed. And your people do not judge our ways or our God as well." Dalton said as he stared behind her.

He had not taken his eyes off of her lady in waiting.

"We can provide that. I take care of my people. I know you don't care for riches since you came to me instead of taking up Otto Hightower on his offer so I will offer you something else. When the time comes, the Ironborn will have full reign to attack the Westerlands. The Lannisters will be yours to do as you see fit." Rhaenyra proposed.

Dalton's eyes widened but he nodded with appreciation. His eyes scanned her lady in waiting as if he was trying to remember her.

"Johanna, will you ask the servants to bring some sweets for the table?" Rhaenyra asked, baiting Dalton with her name.

Dalton suddenly reached out and grabbed Johanna's forearm before she could leave.

"Johanna? Johanna Swann? The infamous Black Swan has graced Dragonstone?"

Johanna suddenly pulled out a dragon steel dagger and stabbed the table in front of Dalton.

"I suggest you release me before you find out what other weapons I carry." Johanna hissed, low and lethal.

Dalton's smile grew wider, feral. He stared into Johanna's eyes like a crazed man. A man who had just met someone just a wild as him.

"Daemon made it his mission to find all the Westerosi that were taken by the Triarchy. Once Johanna was safe and home, House Swann swore fealty to the Dragonstone kingdom. She recently joined my household. She is one of the fiercest fighters I have come across. She lives up to her name." Rhaenyra said as she took a sip of wine.

Johanna was sold to a pillow house in Lys but she did not let that break her. She poisoned many men who dared touch her and grew accustomed to carrying knives and daggers.

"Wed her to me." Dalton said, never breaking eye contact with Johanna.

Johanna moved like a whip, her leg making contact with Dalton's chest and laying him flat on his back. She stepped onto him, pressing down with the heel of her boot.

"I am no one's Salt Wife, Ironborn. Look for a whore somewhere else."

Rhaenyra looked on at the encounter amused. Two wild beasts fighting for domination of each other. Each failing at masking their true hunger beneath.

"I will take you as my Rock Wife. I will take no Salt Wives. Only you." Dalton said, caressing Johanna's leg with a teasing smile.

"What do you say, Johanna?" Rhaenyra asked from behind her goblet.

"She does not need to answer yet." Dalton said as he stood. "Let her have the night to think it over. I will wait for your answer, my Swan."

Rhaenyra watched as Dalton made his way back to his men like nothing had happened.

"You set me up." Johanna said.

"I met every requirement you asked for. He is young, handsome, will be a wealthy lord under my realm, and most importantly, he does not care about your past. He sees you for what you are. A fierce warrior who survived what should have broke her. I know what desire and love look like and you both feel something close to it. Do not deny yourself happiness." Rhaenyra said as she watched Johanna.

Rhaenyra would have the Iron Islands and with them, she would raise Dalton and Johanna to rule together.

---------------------

Aethan POV

The waves met the sand with a loud clash as Aethan looked out to the sea from the cliff side. The party raged behind him, but he could not focus on that.

He was a dragonrider now. Not just any dragon either. He had claimed Vermithor.

The Bronze Fury had inclined his head for him. All the men before him had faced Vermithor's wrath and now Aethan was the victor.

This moment had elevated him higher than he thought possible. It opened doors for him that he only dreamed of achieving.

"Are you well, cousin?" Baela asked as she sat next to him with Rhaena following.

The Strong twins.

They were the spitting image of their mother but all the fight of their father. Anyone would tread carefully with these two.

"More than well. I have claimed Vermithor on this day." Aethan said with a smile.

Baela beamed while Rhaena seemed to close in on herself.

Aethan knew how much Rhaena wished for a dragon. She did not fault others for theirs but it ate away at her every time.

"Congratulations! I am sure Visenya is over the moon about it. She will surely ask the Queen and King for a betrothal." Baela said.

Aethan's heart tightened in his chest.

It would be another millennia before another Visenya graced the world. She was one of a kind.

Aethan knew she had captured him. The way she walked, the way her eyes sparkled. She was a flame that burned brighter every time he saw her. He thought himself conqueror of the seas but it was Visenya who had conquered him.

"What would a bastard do with a women like her?" A voice came from behind.

Aethan stood, anger already consuming him.

Aegon Targaryen stood not that far from them, a bottle of wine in hand.

"Insult my mother again and I shall teach you who's son I am." Aethan said.

Ignorant drunk.

Aethan knew what was whispered about his father though in the Dragonstone kingdom no one cared.

Those of the blood of Old Valyria were not held down by the Westerosi ideals. His father and mother had their agreement and they cared for one another in their own way.

They chose to have him in the ways of Old Valyria and Aethan would always be proud of them.

"Do not listen to him, Aethan. He is just jealous of your accomplishments. Here he stands as heir to the Iron Throne, yet he has no dragon to protect it." Baela said.

Aegon tensed immediately.

None of the Hightower children have claimed a dragon. Helaena never tried but Aegon and Aemond had done everything possible to gain a dragon and failed every time.

"Once I marry Visenya, dragons will be no issue. My grandsire will see to it." Aegon slurred out.

"Your grandsire is a fool if he thinks he can bend Queen Rhaenyra to his will. She would never give one of her children to that viper's nest you call a family." Rhaena said, arms folded and eyes defiant.

Aegon would find himself dead before he even tried to touch Visenya. She was not some simpering lady. Visenya was fire and blood.

"You think too highly of yourself, Prince Aegon. Visenya only cares for Aethan. Their dragons are a bonded pair just as they are." Baela said, a smug smile on her face.

"Everyone knows Laenor Velaryon would never fuck a woman. He's a sword swallower, through and through. His mother probably bedded Lord Corlys to produce an heir. Mayhaps even Vaemond Velaryon. Visenya deserves a legitimate husband, not a bastard." Aegon said.

In a flash, Aethan was atop Aegon. His fists making contact with the prince's jaw, nose, and cheekbone. Aethan had been a shipwright since he could walk. He had built muscles throughout the years from all the labor and lessons his father and grandsire had taught him.

Aegon was no match for someone forged in salt and sea. He had no Targaryen fire like the others. He was a spoiled prince who only indulged in life.

Baela and Rhaena pulled Aethan off of Aegon. Aethan kicked him in the ribs one last time for good measure.

"My mother is sacred." Athen growled. "You will never utter a word against her again or I will tie you to the anchor of my ship and let the sharks tear you apart until nothing is left of your pathetic being."

"How dare you!?! I am heir to the Iron Throne!" Aegon screamed as he spit out some blood.

Aethan watched as Visenya came out of the shadows and struck a kick to Aegon's stomach.

"None of that matters here. Run off to whatever hole you crawled out of and if you dare utter a word against Aethan, I will make sure to feed you to Silverwing." Visenya said.

Aegon scurried away like the rat he was.

Visenya walked over and looked Aethan over to see if he was hurt.

"He did not touch me. He's too much of a craven to try." Aethan laughed.

Baela and Rhaena quietly walked off towards the ballroom, leaving Aethan and Visenya alone.

"I am sorry you had to experience that." Visenya said as she sat down next to him.

"People may say what they please, but I will not let my blood be insulted. My father and mother are happy in their marriage. I doubt Prince Aegon can say the same for his parents. Not many marry for love but my parents knew how to achieve it and do their duty. I have the utmost respect for who they are." Aethan said as he looked up at the stars.

"Westeros is farther behind in medicine and conceiving practices. They would not understand even if we tried to explain. The Citadel has wrapped themselves too tight around their realm." Visenya said.

"It matters not. The Queen will surely clear them out when she gains more territory. The Citadel has no power in the Dragonstone kingdom." Aethan said.

Aethan felt Visenya's hand on his. He continued to look at the stars.

"We are bonded, you and I. Until Balerion calls us home. Our dragons know now too." Visenya whispered proudly.

Aethan knew she meant it. She was not one for false sentiments. Visenya does not lie to those she loves.

"Are you sure that is what you desire? I'm sure some other lord would say he could make you happy and shower you with riches." Aethan asked, already knowing what she would say.

"As they could give to any empty headed lady. You give me adventure, purpose, and love. I know you love me, Aethan Velaryon. As I love you. My mother has said we can sign a betrothal in a couple of years. You will be mine and I will be yours." Visenya said, a smile creeping on her face.

Aethan could not stop himself.

His hand caressed her cheek and in a breath, his lips were on hers.

Soft, tender, timid. A first kiss they would never forget.

"Oh, princess. I have always been yours."

Chapter Text

Dalton POV

Prim lords and ladies glided around in sync. Dalton had no idea when they had the time to learn coordinated dances. They always sat on their asses all day fawning over the next ball.

The more he scanned the ballroom the more Dalton could see who came from where.

The lords and ladies from Westeros dressed far more modestly than those of the Dragonstone kingdom. The silks even looked inferior.

Lady Elinda Massey wore an intricate sea green gown with pearls adorning her neck and ears. She truly looked like an heir's wife.

Lady Redwyne on the other hand, wore a hideous red gown and jewels that even Dalton wouldn't steal.

The lords wore their best but even then they could not compare. Rhaenyra had brought her kingdom into another era and Dalton was not the only one noticing.

Dragonguards were being approached with scrolls for the Queen. Minor and major lords were trying to enter into business with Rhaenyra and gain riches.

Dalton's people had no doubts anymore after they docked. There were no beggars on the streets, crops grew plentiful and even the orphans were learning skills for the future.

King Viserys has done nothing to help his people. He lives with whispers of peace when his people are dying in the gutters.

"Have the leftovers be given to any who need it in the villages and whatever is left can be given to the livestock." Prince Jacaerys said to a maid nearby.

"Wise choice, little prince." Dalton said with a smirk.

Even the smallest dragons made choices around here.

"Thank you, Lord Greyjoy. My mother is teaching me how to make choices for our people and their betterment." Jacaerys said with a smile.

"I ain't no real lord, my prince." Dalton said.

"Under my mother, you are. Lord of the Iron Islands. Welcome to our kingdom." Jacaerys said.

It seemed that the Queen did not hide anything from her heir. She was wise to keep him close in the fold.

"All the little ladies present seem to want to catch your eye." Dalton said, eyes knowing.

Many young ladies were standing close, flipping their hair and batting eyelashes at the Dragonstone heir. Jacaerys seemed immune to their advancements.

"I know who will be my princess consort. All is left is to announce it. These ladies cannot compete." Jacaerys said with confidence.

Dalton let out a laugh.

"Let me guess. She is strong willed, beautiful and can knock you on your ass if she wanted to."

The prince stifled a laugh at Dalton's comment.

"Indeed." Was all he said.

Dalton clapped the young prince on the shoulders.

"Atta boy. Pampered ladies do not fulfill men like us. We need women who are at our level of crazy. We need a woman who has an iron spine and passion in her veins."

Dalton watched as Johanna glided through the hall. Her black hair flowed behind her like a breeze followed her everywhere she went. What Dalton wouldn't do to run his hands through it.

"It seems you have found her as well." Jacaerys said as he smiled and walked off.

Smart mouthed kid, though he was right.

Johanna awakened something Dalton did not know he had. She did not fear him. She feared no man after everything that she endured.

She clawed her way to recognition. She was the only one worthy of his devotion and love.

"Greyjoy. What a surprise to see you here." Lord Hobert Hightower said as he approached.

Dalton looked at the man.

Pompous waste of a dick. The Hightowers thought themselves entitled to everything they desired. Never taking it for themselves but having others do it for them.

"The Queen personally invited me. I could not refuse such an honor." Dalton said as he drank his wine.

"The Hand has sent you a letter. I hope it found you well." Hobert said, a gleam in his eye.

Otto Hightower never cared for the Stepstones until he learned of their riches. It was Daemon who spilled his blood for those islands and it was Queen Rhaenyra who demanded them from her weak father.

"It burned in the hearth. Just as your ambitions." Dalton smirked.

Hobert tensed at the comment.

"We have offered you enough coin to make you a very rich man." He whispered, anger building.

Dalton walked closer and looked down on the man, the party continuing around them.

"Aye and that is what makes you foolish. Coin cannot buy the Ironborn. Queen Rhaenyra offered me a better deal and I will be a wealthy man regardless. Now the Iron Islands stand with the Dragon Queen." Dalton said, his voice taunting.

Hobert paled at the news. His neice made her way towards them.

She wore an ill fitting dark green dress. It seemed she went to a lot of effort to make it look almost black. A bandage was hidden underneath her sleeve.

"Lord Greyjoy. I hope you are offering my uncle joyous news." Queen Alicent said, her smile not reaching her eyes.

What a sanctimonious little viper.

She cloaked herself in pointed stars and sermons, pretending vertue. Alicent Hightower was nothing more than a glorified whore.

Dalton would not fault her if she wore her ambition with pride but she chose to hide behind her Gods and the men in her life.

"I am. The Iron Islands now wave the Dragonstone banner. My men are already rejoicing aboard our ships." He said as he drank the rest of his wine.

"You cannot do that! The Iron Islands belong to Westeros!" Alicent screamed, drawing attention to them from anyone close by.

"The Iron Islands belong to Queen Rhaenyra. King Viserys gave us the option to choose who we wanted to follow. I chose." Dalton said flatly.

"The Dragonstone kingdom is a Godless place. It takes in even the worst kind." Alicent whispered as she eyed Johanna laughing with Valena Celtigar. She curled her lips in disgust.

Dalton felt his blood start to boil. Every fiber of his being called for violence.

"And what exactly do you mean to say, Queen Consort?" Dalton hissed.

"Rhaenyra has taken in the worst kind of people. She even let a ruined woman like Johanna Swann into her household. The shame she holds cannot be erased. She may dress in silk but she is still a whore. You do not want to be associated with something like that, Lord Greyjoy." Alicent said with a concerned tone.

Dalton hurled his goblet onto the stone floor, shattering it into millions of pieces. The music ceased and heads turned towards them.

"Johanna Swann is more woman than you can ever hope to be. Lys should have broken her spirit and will to live but she fought with every inch of her being. She took her life back from the hands of her oppressors and smiled while she saw them die screaming. You? You crawled into a grieving man's bed in the dead of night and hid your intentions behind your so called innocence. The only true whore here is you. Do not speak of shame when you wear yours as you wear your pointed stars."

"You dare speak to the Queen of the Seven Kingdoms in such a way!?" Hobert said, drawing his sword.

"I dare speak to a righteous whore as I please." Dalton responded, drawing his own sword.

A sudden blur of black hair crossed between them and Dalton felt an arm curl around his chest and a head on his shoulder, warm breath on his neck.

Johanna tilted her head as she looked at Hobert and Alicent.

"I would lower your blade, Lord Hightower. The poison is about to take affect."

Hobert dropped his sword and screamed in pain as he pulled at his clothing.

"My poison is very unique. It imitates the feeling of burning alive. Skin sears, lungs tighten, every breath a painful scream. It will fade but tonight you will know what it means to burn." Johanna purred.

Dalton wanted to ravage her. He wanted to place the world at her feet. Only for Johanna.

"Queen Alicent, it seems your uncle is in great pain. You should take him to your maesters. He is drawing a audience." Rhaenyra said as she approached.

Alicent looked on as whispers started to carry around the room. Panic was taking over.

The Hightowers enjoyed holding their level headedness over others and this did not bode well. No one saw Johanna and they could not blame a lady in waiting so easily.

Alicent's Kingsguard took hold of Hobert and dragged him out of the ball as others watched.

"You protect such a blatant attack?" Alicent said, her eyes boring into Rhaenyra.

Dalton had heard stories that Rhaenyra and Alicent were once close but nothing from that time shown now.

Alicent stared with pure rage and resentment while Rhaenyra just looked on as if Alicent just existed. As if she was just someone insignificant.

"The only attack I witnessed was that of Lady Johanna's character. I thought your Seven preached to treat every woman as the Mother since they were made in her image. Someone as devote as you would know that, Queen Consort." Rhaenyra said, drawing more whispers.

Many in Westeros followed the Seven and held their heads high to have such a pious Queen. Alicent was destroying her image with her own hands.

"She is not worthy of such a position you have placed her in. Who would have her as she is?" Alicent whispered, trying to avoid being heard.

"Oh, you need not worry about me, Queen Alicent. As of tonight I am betrothed to Lord Greyjoy." Johanna said as she kissed his neck.

Dalton wrapped his arm around Johanna's waist, possessive and proud.

"I would face any blade to be able to say this force of nature is mine. Johanna Swann shall be my wife and I dare anyone say something against it." He said as he looked around.

No lord or lady would look him in the eyes. Not one.

"Lady Johanna is more than worthy to be my lady in waiting. There was a time where I only held one lady in waiting close and she was the one not worthy." Rhaenyra said, head held high and eyes challenging.

Alicent flinched at the answer, no doubt thinking back to a simpler time.

"The Gods weep at your displays, Rhaenyra. This is not right. These are not the teachings we learned." Alicent said, attempting a final effort to seem pious.

"Your Gods, Alicent. Your Gods weep to see such hypocrisy from their followers. My Gods rejoice in my love for all. The Fourteen Flames bless my every step while dragging down my enemies." Rhaenyra said as she waved for the music to resume.

Alicent was left to navigate the dancing guests and the new peering eyes.

Westeros would soon feel a shift in their Septs.

--------------------------

Lucerys POV

The sweet treats imported from Essos filled Lucerys' plate as he watched the puppet show his mother commissioned.

Many children from Westeros and the Dragonstone kingdom were sat around enjoying the entertainment.

A sweet was plucked from Lucerys' plate.

"Mmm. These are amazing." Rhaena said as she sat next to him.

Lucerys smiled at her. Rhaena had been spending more time with him these days and Lucerys didn't know why.

"I thought you'd bore of me already." Lucerys said honestly.

Rhaena whipped her head to look at him.

"Never. You are much more fun than my sister or the other boys. I enjoy your way of being. You are gentle but you have a feirceness hidden within. Like a calm lake. We know not of how deep you go."

Lucerys thanked the Gods for the dim lighting. His cheeks were flushed red from the comment.

He knew House Strong and his mother have spoken about a betrothal between him and Rhaena. Lucerys did not wish to take her to bride if she did not wish it but this time together had showed how well matched they were.

"I enjoy spending time with you too." Was all he could say.

Rhaena and her family had been back and forth between Harrenhal, the Stepstones and Dragonstone. Lucerys would wait to hear Vhagar's roar every time they returned.

"My grandsire has said that you have been learning much from him. Your sea legs are coming in well." Rhaena said with a smile.

Lucerys chuckled.

"With Lord Corlys, Ser Laenor and Aethan it is hard not to fall in love with the sea. Mother says I shall be lord of the Stepstones so I must learn what it means to be of the sea. I am learning from the best."

Lucerys looked up to Lord Corlys. He was the grandsire he wished he had. He was present and reassuring in times of doubt. The time they spent together has bonded them. He could feel that Lord Corlys saw him as a grandson too.

"Prince Lucerys!" A voice called.

Lucerys looked and charging towards them were the Highstark sons.

Benjen, Brandon, and Elric.

"Lord Highstark." Lucerys responded as he stood.

"Hello, Lady Rhaena. Don't start with that, my prince. My father will think we see him as old and ready to pass on." Benjen said as they shook hands.

Lucerys straightened his black and red doublet. Opportunity rarely knocked in court. He intented to pry that door wide open.

"How are things at the Gift? Does Lord Stark visit often?" Lucerys asked casually.

Mother and father had let him sit in on small council meetings, absorbing every word of strategy. All of his siblings did. Jacaerys was the heir but they were all important parts of the kingdom. Lucerys honed his skills for victory.

His mother made sure all her children knew a crucial truth.

Any knowledge is vital knowledge.

"Aye. He visits when the summer comes. He has never traveled outside of the Winterfell for much but now he rides to the Gift often." Brandon replied as he ate some sweets.

I small spark lit inside Lucerys.

"Not even King's Landing?" He asked.

"King's Landing? Gods, no. The insufferable Queen is there and so are her children. Uncle Rickon would not be able to handle it for long. King Viserys has not called the lords for important matters in a long time. At least that is what Cregan claims." Benjen responds.

Lucerys' mind raced as he thought back through all the information he had learned about Westeros.

"Mother invites the lords and ladies throughout the year for events. Before this ball there was the affirmation of loyalty towards Jacaerys as heir. Doesn't Westeros do that?" Lucerys asked.

"I heard father talk about that with Uncle Rickon. The last time Uncle Rickon went south was for Queen Rhaenyra's affirmation of heir. He said he hated the heat and horrid smell." Elric said.

Lucerys eyes widened, just for a second.

"Mother and father have said the same about King's Landing. Nothing like the Dragonstone kingdom. Queen Rhaenyra has truly changed things with the new water and sewer systems." Rhaena said.

"I just remembered that I must talk to Jacaerys and Visenya about their gifts. Will you come along with me, Rhaena?" Lucerys said as he reached for her hand.

Lucerys began running towards the chamber of the painted table.

"We must get to mother and father." Lucerys said.

"What is the rush?" Rhaena asked.

Lucerys pulled her into the shadows under a stone alcove where no one would hear them.

"The houses of Westeros have not affirmed loyalty towards Aegon in any capacity. They are still loyal to my mother. There does not live any Stark that has forgotten an oath. If House Stark is reminded of their oath, they will join the Dragonstone kingdom." Lucerys said, eyes gleaming.

Rhaena eyed him.

"There is more. I can see it. What is it?"

Lucerys smiled, slow and sharp.

"The contract Viserys signed giving my mother dominion over the Dragonstone kingdom states that after his passing, if the houses had not swore fealty to Prince Aegon or joined the Dragonstone kingdom, then she has the right to claim their allegiance."

"That means..." Rhaena said, eyes wide.

"That means the Riverlands, Westerlands, the Reach, if any house hesitates or stays silent, they can be called under her banner. Legally. Publicly. And if she moves swiftly, the Hightowers will not be able to prevent it." Lucerys said.

"You wish to rally them." Rhaena whispered, looking around.

Lucerys' eyes gleamed with a newfound fire.

"I wish to remind them. And if they remember, Westeros will fracture before Aegon ever wears a crown."

Chapter Text

Daemon POV

A flurry of white and silver hair rushed past as small hands dragged him towards the chamber of the painted table.

When the chamber doors opened Daemon was greeted by Houses Velaryon and Strong, waiting. Rhaelys stood by the balcony watching the party continue. His own family was eyeing Lucerys for answers.

"Luke, would you like to explain why we have all been dragged here during your brother and sister's name day ball?" Rhaenyra asked, sitting at the head of the table.

The children were all present. Questions of their absence would be asked soon.

"I have learned vital information from the Highstark children. Viserys has not officially called the houses of Westeros to pledge loyalty towards Aegon as heir. House Stark remains bound to their oath to you, mother." Lucerys said with a wide smile.

Daemon began running the implications through his mind. House Stark lived by their oaths. If Rhaenyra called for them, they would answer.

"Bringing House Stark to our side would shift the tides considerably. They are a fierce power and the Hightowers know it." Rhaenys said.

"Not to mention that the entire North would follow them. House Stark is the only house they will follow. They were kings in those lands before Aegon the Conqueror and the North remembers." Laenor said.

Bringing Bennard to their side was the first move and now the North was closer than ever.

"Otto will not care about oaths and promises. He will force them to bend the knee or die. The visions were enough proof." Rhaenyra finally said.

The visions were shared with all those present moons ago. Their plans required them all to know what could come.

"That is why we have been bringing our allies to our side first. Small houses first and now it is time to go for the giants. In the visions, the North rallied for us even when we were gone. An opportunity for action has risen, Rhaenyra. We must seize it." Daemon said.

Rhaenyra had limited the bloodshed to that point and Daemon had followed his Queen. He would not make foolish decisions like in the past but he could not let this opportunity slip from their grasp.

"He's right, My Queen. If I may speak plainly, Torrhen Stark bent the knee to Aegon the Conqueror and it is whispered that he did it because of a their ancient tales of a deadly winter. Aegon's line was to fight against the Great Winter and your visions have shown you the same. If you tell Rickon Stark what you saw then he will understand why he must join you. His oath would not be his only tie to you." Corlys said.

Daemon smirked. The old man still had the cunning of strategy.

"The time has come, my Queen. The North will not fight their oaths and when it is known that you called their banners to your side, every eye will be on you and the Iron Throne." Rhaelys said.

Daemon moved along the table and lit the fires underneath, bringing the map to life.

Westeros glowed around them.

"The North is the biggest kingdom Westeros has. We have taken the Vale and many small houses all around the realm. Harrenhal has joined us recently and Riverrun has sent ravens asking to meet to talk business. Lord Glover follows the Greens but he knows where the coin is. Once he dies, his grandson will follow Rhaenyra. If the visions continue as they have, we have six years until Viserys dies and Aegon sits the throne. That is more than enough time to pull more to our side." Daemon said as he ran his hand around the table.

Dragonstone has amassed greater coffers than the Red Keep in less than a decade. The people prosper and the dragons grow.

Leaving the dragons unchained had made them grow exponentially. Even the children's dragons grew bigger than ever before.

"What of the places that will not follow willingly? The Westerlands, Stormlands, Dorne. Even the Reach remains neutral." Jacaerys asks.

Daemon watched his son. He was so similar to the boy of the visions. A true prince of the blood. He understood what pieces to look for and who would become a challenge.

"Borros Baratheon will never change but he is not the target. His wife was. She has had to live under such a man and he did not grow kinder with every daughter born. Cassandra is in line to inherit and we have whispered many assurances to Lady Elenda if Borros is to meet an untimely death." Rhaelys said, hiding a smirk.

Rhaelys has wanted to end Borros Baratheon since she met him. His brute nature and misogynistic ways have made many women his enemy.

"The Reach might be neutral but they have their biases. Lady Tyrell is regent and will be regent for a long time. She will not bend to Aegon when the Dragonstone kingdom is an option and the volcanic ash has helped their crops grow better than before. One final push and she will stand under the Dragonstone banner." Laena said, hand resting on her stomach.

The Fourteen Flames have blessed her with a son once more. Daemon has made sure Harwin would stay on Dragonstone for this pregnancy. Leana would not suffer for this child. She would live.

"The Lannisters have a hold on the Westerlands but they are of no consequence. Greyjoy will keep them at bay until it is time to act. As long as we keep friendly relations with Dorne they will not interfere. They have shown great interest in the jewels being mined in the Stepstones and wish to go into business. If our luck continues, we could even open up talks about a future partnership." Daemon said.

Daemon would love nothing else than to bend Dorne to their will but they were a fearsome people. They knew how to fight against dragons and force would not work against them. Only collaborations and marriages could bind them together.

"How is it that Otto Hightower failed to establish new oaths for Aegon as heir? He surely analyzed the contract forwards and backwards." Elinda asked, hands clasped over her giant stomach.

"His weakness overcame. His pride blinded him to see that the tides could be turned. A man like Otto Hightower does not see women as threats and surely believes the high lords would follow Aegon just because he is a man." Visenya answered, holding one of the Valyrian books Rhaelys gifted her for her name day.

Daemon saw a lot of himself in Visenya. She was a fierce child before she could walk. The night she claimed Silverwing was the beginning for her.

At five name days old she had evaded all her guards and snuck out when everyone was sleeping. She had memorized the caves and walked right into Silverwing's nest. The castle was awakened with Silverwing's roar from above, Visenya barely strapped in.

"And now he is more concerned about getting Alicent's welps dragons. He has left a valuable door open." Daemon said.

Rhaenyra stood and glanced out into the party. Laughter rang but she knew the same as Daemon. Her enemies plotted and she could not let them succeed.

"I will speak to Lord Stark. We will visit Winterfell in three moons on the pretext of seeing how the dragon glass is holding up in the cold and I will speak to him. The time has come to close in on Westeros and the Greens."

----------------------

Merris POV

The candlelight flickered around the corridors of Dragonstone as the ball happened around her.

Merris had followed Queen Rhaenyra to Dragonstone from the Red Keep years prior. The then princess had taken great care of her within her household and Merris could not stay behind while the Keep was being taken over by the Hightowers.

The lords and ladies indulged in every wine and sweet placed in front of them. The air was light and everyone seemed to forget of Lord Hightower's outburst earlier.

Merris could see the other servants watching on from the doorways. Queen Rhaenyra's parties always shined brightly compared to the ones she had seen in the Red Keep.

The final surprise was being prepared in front of the throne. Lady Rhaelys had a beautiful stage made for the night. Two braziers stood on each side.

Merris had been one of the maids to help set up. Lady Rhaelys had said it was part of a Valyrian tradition. Twins were viewed as omens of devine favor and power so to honor the Fourteen Flames they would perform the Ritual of Dual Flames.

Each twin would make an offering to the Gods and place it into the braziers and perform a dance.

"It is magnificent, isn't it?" Varron, one of the builders, asked.

"You have outdone yourself this time." Merris said with a smile.

"Aye. Anything for the Fourteen Flames. They have brought light back into this old man's life. Many Septas tried to convince me to follow their Seven but it never felt right. But when Lady Rhaelys spoke about the Fourteen Flames it was as if she sat at their feet. The love and loyalty she held ignited a place inside of me that I thought gone." Varron said.

Dragonstone had followed the Fourteen Flames since the Pantheons were built in the villages. The royal family all followed them but none like Princess Visenya. Her devotion led her to study magic alongside Lady Rhaelys.

The music stopped and Merris and Varron stood to the side with the other builders and servants. Queen Rhaenyra had given permission to watch the ritual.

Lady Rhaelys stood in the middle of the stage with Prince Jacaerys and Princess Visenya on either side. They wore clothing Merris had only seen on Lady Rhaelys. Silks of red and gold adorned them.

"We close the night with a very important tradition dating back to the stronghold of Valyria. Under moon and flame we honor a bond formed before birth. Two flames born of the same fire. The Fourteen Flames have bestowed their blessings on Prince Jacaerys and Princess Visenya. Tonight they thank the Gods for those blessings."

The prince and princess each walked to a brazier.

"I, Prince Jacaerys Targaryen, greet the Fourteen Flames. I offer this dragon scale from my dragon, Vermax, as thanks."

"I, Princess Visenya Targaryen, greet the Fourteen Flames. As thanks I offer Valyrian scripture in mine own hand."

The Princess placed the leather bound book into the brazier and the prince followed suit. The flames raged a blue Merris had never seen. Beautiful blue hues, the flames enchanting as soft music began to play.

The prince and princess glided on the stage as if they were born to it. Their white hair shined under the flame's light.

The guests had watched with skepticism and now they looked on in awe.

Queen Alicent had condemned the talk of the Fourteen Flames in Westeros, calling them false Gods and stories created from black magic.

The twins danced in sync without once touching. The silks glowed in the movement as if they themselves had turned into flames.

Queen Rhaenyra and King Daemon watched their firstborns with the same pride Merris held in her heart.

Soft singing began to fill the throne room.

It was hypnotizing. Many voices mingling in harmony but the singers could not be found. It was being sung in High Valyrian. Merris had heard it enough through the years to know.

As the dance came to an end the blue flames grew higher and images seemed to walk out of it.

"By all that is sacred." Varron whispered, dropping to his knees in reverence.

Fourteen figures stepped out of the fires, seven on each side.

Gasps rippled throughout the throne room as the images formed in front of their eyes.

There in front for all to see stood the Fourteen Flames. Merris had dedicated some of her free time to sitting in the pantheon. She knew the faces that looked upon them now.

Many dropped to their knees, including the royal family. It was the first time Merris had seen Queen Rhaenyra kneel to anyone.

"Rise, our children. You have kneeled enough to show your devotion to us." Shrykos, Goddess of Beginnings, Transitions and Gateways, said.

"Few remembered the Ritual of Dual Flames, even fewer still believed it could summon the Gods. With offerings made truly from the heart, this dance has called us to answer your call." Arrax said.

"I, Rhaelys, daughter and servant to the Fourteen Flames, greet you." Lady Rhaelys said as she stood.

"You have taught the hatchlings well, Rhaelys. Their dance will be remembered for generations. Approach, Jacaerys and Visenya of House Targaryen." Meraxes, Goddess of Art, Music, Dance, and Poetry, said.

The room was riddled with tension as they looked upon the impossible. Gods stood before them and not the ones they held dear.

Their Gods ignored their prayers while the Fourteen Flames made themselves known to bless the prince and princess.

The Gods towered over the royal children as they approached.

"Eternal blessings to the Fourteen Flames." The twins said in unison.

Merris could swear she saw a smile pass by their glowing faces, but only for a second.

"We accept the offerings made on this day and we give two gifts." Arrax said.

"To Prince Jacaerys, heir to the Dragonstone kingdom, we present a Valyrian steel sword forged in the flames of dragons past. This sword holds a great power within. May you grow stronger and lead with the will of the fire that burns in your soul." Vermax, God of Exploration, Travellers, Heralds and Merchants, said.

The sword seemed to materialize from thin air into Prince Jacaerys' hands. The sword gleamed with High Valyrian glyphs etched into the blade.

"I accept this gift and will fight in the name of the Fourteen Flames." Prince Jacaerys said, kneeling once more.

Princess Visenya stood in front of Goddess Vhagar. Since a babe, Princess Visenya had been drawn to the goddess and now she stood before her.

"To Princess Visenya, the jewel of Dragonstone, we bestow the volumes that belonged to the warlocks of Valyria so your talents may grow you into a warrior never before seen in this world." Goddess Vhagar said.

The books appeared beside the princess, glyphs lining the spines.

"I humbly accept this gift. I will not disappoint you." Princess Visenya said as she kneeled.

Merris clutched her dragon glass pendant. She wore it at all times to remain close to the Gods. Now they stood close enough to touch. Merris would remember this day until her last breath.

"This is blasphemy! Black magic! The only true Gods are the Seven!" Queen Alicent yelled as she approached the stage, desperation in every step.

The Fourteen Flames turned their eyes on her, stopping her in her tracks. The room grew quiet under their scrutiny.

"And where are these Seven you speak of? Do they answer your prayers? Or do they feast on your ignorance while you beg beneath gilded altars?" Goddess Vhagar asked.

Queen Alicent did not answer. She could not. The Seven had never helped their followers. The High Septon only took from them.

"We know much of you, Alicent Hightower. Your ambition and sin drape on you like that green dress. You covet a life that is not yours and drown under every failing. You are not worthy of being a Queen." Tessarion said.

"Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen and her line are the true royal family of this realm. No usurper will be able to break the house of the dragon, much less a Hightower. Let it be known. The Fourteen Flames bless House Targaryen of Dragonstone!" Arrax said.

The flames roared once more and they were gone. The only evidence proving their existence laid in the hands of the royal twins.

The Gods had answered and the realm would feel the ripple effect.