Neglected Flame

Chapter 1

Yes, I'm aware that technically it wasn't very clear if Rhea had siblings or not, is believed she did because her nephew is the one to inherit Runestone when she dies. For the purpose of this story I'm giving her s sister. Age wise this will be closer to the age in the books than in the TV show, but some things will happen later than they did in the book and sooner than on TV. I hope you guys enjoy it 🥰

Baelon gripped the reins tightly, urging Vhagar to fly faster. A sense of frustration washed over him, with a heavy mix of regret and self-reproach. The chaos in his life was entirely his doing. He had made countless errors, and now he was left with no one to point fingers at but himself. His mother had forced an unwanted union upon his youngest son, tying him to a woman he despised. To her, it was an advantageous match. The queen had ignored the fact that Rhea Royce was seven years older than Daemon, or that Daemon had been practically dragged to the Sept, his reluctance evident as he muttered the vows. Rhea, it seemed, shared Daemon's aversion. Yet, his mother remained steadfast, convinced of the righteousness of her actions. Baelon had attempted to reason with her, but the queen had shut him down. Their nightmare only deepened when his son fled the Vale shortly after the wedding.

Amidst this turmoil, Baelon had made a grave error that had widened the divide between the crown and Runestone. During the wedding festivities, he had met a captivating woman, beautiful, gentle, and kind. Their conversations had sparked something within him, and he found himself seeking her company more frequently. It had been ages since he felt such a connection, and guilt gnawed at him for sometimes, especially since he was not a man to deny himself earthly pleasures. Though infrequent, he would indulge with a courtesan when the desire became too strong. But this woman from the Vale was different. She was far from a whore and he was uncertain of how to navigate his feelings. Ultimately, he learned that she was married, and even more shockingly, she was Rhea Royce's younger sister.

Allara Royce was a stark contrast to her elder sibling, both in appearance and demeanor. Where Rhea was dark haired and dark eyes, Allara had honey colored hair and green eyes. Just a year younger than Rhea, Allara's youth added to Baelon's remorse, especially since Rhea could have easily been his daughter. Compounding the situation was Allara's marriage to a cousin within their house, with whom she had a five year old son. Baelon could see the affection Allara had for her child, while her husband was a different story. He was a man more often drunk than sober, indifferent to his wife and son. Allara was left lonely and vulnerable. Baelon wished he could claim he had been a good man and kept his distance, but he craved the warmth of her kindness. Initially, their interactions were innocent, friendly chats, strolls through the gardens, and occasional rides. However, the innocence quickly faded, and within weeks, they shared a kiss, their relationship evolving from there. When it was time for him to depart, Baelon found himself reluctant to leave, but he lacked a plausible reason to stay. After spending some moons in Kings Landing with his small granddaughter, the pull to see Allara became unbearable, and it was fortunate that he had a dragon to facilitate swift travel.

As their secret meetings continued, Allara soon revealed that she was with child. Baelon accepted her claim that the child was his without question. He did not have a reason not to believe her as she had always been honest with him, but he knew full well that convincing his family would be another matter entirely. He was dismayed to learn that Allara intended to pass the child off as her husband's. She explained that her husband, often drunk, would not recognize who shared his bed, making it easier to conceal the truth. While Baelon was not thrilled with the arrangement, he understood her reasoning and accepted it, wanting to spare his child the stigma of being labeled a bastard.

However, Allara's plans unraveled the moment she gave birth. Tragically, she passed away just hours later, prompting Rhea to summon Baelon immediately. The lady of the Vale was distraught, unleashing her anger about his son as soon as Vhagar touched down. Confused, Baelon struggled to grasp the accusations aimed at Daemon until the child was presented to him. It was undeniable, the infant bore the unmistakable traits of a Targaryen. Her silver hair was a telltale sign, and he was certain that, like all Targaryens, she would possess those striking purple eyes. Overwhelming joy surged through him; he had a daughter, the little girl he had always longed for. Though he cherished his sons, he had yearned for a daughter for years, convinced that opportunity had slipped away. Now, here she was, fragile and delicate in his arms.