Rhaegar Targaryen found himself within the sunlit courtyard of the Red Keep, his practice sword clutched firmly in his grasp. He sparred with Ser Steffon Darklyn, the master-at-arms of the Red Keep, their blades clashing and ringing in the morning air. Sweat dripped from his brow, mingling with the dirt that had accumulated on his skin.
As the practice session came to an end, Rhaegar's thoughts were consumed by the news he had received the previous evening. A raven had brought word that his uncle, Daemon Targaryen, had unexpectedly departed King's Landing, returning to the Vale where his lady wife, Rhea Royce, resided. The suddenness of the decision had left Rhaegar perplexed and anxious.
After concluding his training, Rhaegar retreated to his chambers to clean up and change into more comfortable attire. The disquiet within him persisted, compelling him to seek counsel from his grandfather, King Jaehaerys.
Within the royal chambers, he found King Jaehaerys seated at a grand wooden table. The table's surface was strewn with scrolls and maps, evidence of the king's unending duties. Jaehaerys looked up as Rhaegar entered, offering a weary smile that bore the weight of his responsibilities.
"Grandfather," Rhaegar greeted respectfully, bowing before him. "I hope I am not interrupting your work."
Jaehaerys waved away his concerns with a gentle gesture. "Never, Rhaegar. Family always takes precedence. What brings you here today?"
Rhaegar hesitated for a moment, carefully selecting his words. "I received word about Daemon's departure for the Vale, Grandfather. It was... unexpected."
The king's expression turned solemn. "Indeed, it was," he acknowledged, his voice heavy with their recent conversation.
Rhaegar settled into a chair across from Jaehaerys, wrestling with the unease that lingered within him. "May I inquire about the reason for his departure and the suddenness of it all?"
Jaehaerys reclined in his chair, his gaze locked onto Rhaegar. "Sit, Rhaegar, and I shall explain," he said, gesturing to a nearby chair. Once Rhaegar had taken his seat, Jaehaerys continued. "Last night, I summoned your uncle Daemon and your father Viserys to discuss a grave matter." He paused, his eyes searching Rhaegar's for understanding.
Rhaegar nodded, a furrow forming on his brow as he awaited his grandfather's explanation.
Jaehaerys leaned forward, his tone grave. "I revealed to them the existence of the Song of Ice and Fire, and my intention to replace Otto Hightower with Daemon as Hand in the future."
Rhaegar's eyes widened in surprise. This revelation was more significant than he had anticipated. "You told them about the Song of Ice and Fire?"
Jaehaerys nodded solemnly. "Yes, Rhaegar. It was time they knew. I also informed Daemon that if he can set aside his impulsiveness and fulfill his duty by siring an heir for Runestone, I will grant him an annulment of his marriage to Rhea Royce."
Rhaegar's confusion deepened. "But, Grandfather, if an annulment is what you desire, why not simply arrange it immediately? It's widely known that Daemon and Rhea's marriage has remained unconsummated for years."
Jaehaerys sighed, his gaze heavy with responsibility. "An annulment, in this case, would be seen as an insult to House Royce. We cannot claim that the reason behind it is Rhea's inability to bear children, as everyone knows that Daemon has not visited Rhea's bed. Not to mention Daemon's child will help us further solidify our power in the Vale "
Rhaegar frowned, struggling to grasp his grandfather's reasoning. "Then, what is your intention, Grandfather?"
A shadow of a plan began to take shape in Rhaegar's mind. "Daemon agreed to this so easily... Why would he agree to sire an heir with Rhea, especially considering how much he despises her?"
Jaehaerys leaned forward, his voice dropping to a whisper. "Daemon understands that the situation is temporary."
Rhaegar's eyes widened as realization struck. "Temporary? What do you mean, Grandfather?"
Jaehaerys gazed at Rhaegar with a measured expression. "After the birth of their child, Daemon will be free to marry. He is fulfilling his duty as the Lord Consort of Runestone in the Vale, which means we can easily appoint him as the regent of Runestone until the child reaches maturity."
Understanding dawned upon Rhaegar, and his features contorted with a mix of shock and concern. He realized that his grandfather's intentions regarding Rhea Royce were far graver than he had initially thought.
Confusion furrowed Rhaegar's brow. "You mean, you proposed that he rid himself of his wife?"
Jaehaerys nodded, confirming Rhaegar's suspicions. "This is the path we must tread, for the sake of our house and the future of House Targaryen, Rhaegar."
Rhaegar's heart sank at the realization of what his grandfather had implied. The notion of willingly sacrificing an innocent woman to preserve the Targaryen legacy troubled him deeply. He struggled to comprehend how easily Jaehaerys had suggested such a course of action.
'Stop acting like a hypocrite even you are willing to sacrifice anyone and everyone to save Mother's life. Why is it a problem when Grandfather intends to do the same for the sake of this family?' he thought, but still, he couldn't allow this to happen without protesting.
"Grandfather," he began cautiously, "I believe we should explore other options. Perhaps we could persuade Daemon to spare Lady Rhea, or, if necessary, offer her a more merciful end."
Jaehaerys regarded him thoughtfully, acknowledging his concern. "You possess a compassionate heart, Rhaegar," he said. "Yet, in these tumultuous times, difficult decisions may be required."
Rhaegar lowered his head, bearing the weight of the situation upon his shoulders. He silently prayed that if Daemon did have a child, it would be a girl, for the birth of a male heir would only complicate matters further.
With heavy hearts, they continued their conversation. The weight of the decisions they made would shape the course of their family's destiny, whether they liked it or not.
As the weighty discussion about Daemon and Rhea Royce came to a close, Rhaegar felt the need to shift the focus of the conversation to matters of a different nature. He cleared his throat and spoke up, his voice unwavering.
"Grandfather," Rhaegar began, "I believe it is time for me to start establishing connections. Childhood friendships can be invaluable in the realm of politics. I believe it is time I choose my childhood companions"
King Jaehaerys regarded his grandson with a thoughtful expression. "Indeed, Rhaegar, you are right. Building alliances from an early age can yield great advantages. Tell me, whom do you have in mind?"
Rhaegar leaned forward, his eyes shining with determination. "I have already considered a few candidates, Grandfather. Five individuals who would make excellent companions for someone of my age."
Jaehaerys nodded, encouraging Rhaegar to continue.
"My first choice," Rhaegar began, "is Laenor Velaryon. Having Laenor as a companion not only aids in mending our relationship with the Velaryons but also ensures that Rhaenys remains close. There is no way she would leave Laenor all alone in the Red Keep."
The king offered a nod of approval. "An excellent choice, Rhaegar. The Velaryons may be initially upset, but they will understand the importance of their heir becoming your childhood companion, especially since Laenor is the heir to Driftmark and the future Lord of the Tides. Who is your next choice?"
Rhaegar's gaze remained steady. "Cregan Stark, Grandfather. It is crucial that we integrate the North more into the matters of the kingdom, considering they serve as our first line of defense against the Others. Moreover, the Song of Ice and Fire itself is a child born from a Targaryen and a Stark, so maintaining a strong relationship with them is essential. The Starks are known for their loyalty and honor, always keeping their vows and promises."
Jaehaerys absorbed Rhaegar's reasoning and nodded in agreement. "Very well thought out, Rhaegar. Continue."
Rhaegar's next choice was delivered with conviction. "Arnold Celtigar, the Heir of Claw Isle, Grandfather. House Celtigar has Valyrian blood and has been one of the most steadfast supporters of House Targaryen. Having Arnold as my companion ensures that I am surrounded by allies."
Jaehaerys appreciated the strategic thinking behind Rhaegar's choice. "Your choices show great promise, Rhaegar. Please, go on."
Rhaegar continued, "My next choice is Martyn Redwyne. I understand that the Redwynes had declared for the Greens in my visions, but by offering one of their family members such a prestigious position, we can bring their house closer to ours. Additionally, it may facilitate building a closer relationship with the Tyrells, given that the current Lady Tyrell is a Redwyne. We should aim to secure allies in the Reach, where much of the Green support originates."
Jaehaerys raised an eyebrow, initially surprised by the inclusion of a Green supporter's family member. However, Rhaegar's reasoning made sense, and the king found himself nodding in approval. "Very astute, Rhaegar. Now, who is your final choice?"
A knowing smile tugged at the corners of Rhaegar's lips. "Lancel Westerling, Grandfather. He is the younger brother of Jason Lannister's wife, Johanna, and the next Lord of his house. I intend to spin the narrative in a way that suggests the royal family initially wanted to honor the Lannisters, but due to the absence of someone close in age to me, we have appointed the closest eligible person. This will placate Jason Lannister's ego and make him more willing to lend us his coin."
Jaehaerys couldn't help but be impressed by his grandson's strategic thinking. "Rhaegar, you have displayed a keen understanding of politics and the well-being of our house in your choices. I wholeheartedly approve."
Rhaegar's chest swelled with pride at his grandfather's approval. "Thank you, Grandfather."
Their conversation was interrupted by the realization that it was time for Rhaegar to attend his meal with his family. "I must take my leave, Grandfather," he said, rising from his seat. "It is time to attend my meal, Rhaenyra always gets fussy when I am late."
As Rhaegar departed, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. The bonds he would forge with his chosen companions would be instrumental in securing House Targaryen's future, and he was determined to uphold his grandfather's vision for their dynasty.
Aemma P.O.V
Aemma Arryn, now Aemma Targaryen, cherished her children with an intensity that transcended the mere confines of language. Rhaegar and Rhaenyra were the twin stars that illuminated the night sky of her existence, the very core of her heart's deepest desires. She would move mountains, quell dragons, and defy the gods themselves to ensure their well-being and safeguard their futures.
From the very moment Rhaegar had come into this world, she had been consumed by a love that knew no bounds. It was a love so profound that it had altered the very fabric of her being. Yet, interwoven with this love was an ever-present shadow of foreboding, a persistent sense of unease that had settled deep within her heart. It was as if she had known, from the very beginning, that her son was destined for something far beyond the ordinary.
The signs had been there from the beginning. Rhaegar's eyes, the color of deep, velvety violets, seemed to hold a wisdom far beyond his years. Even his infant cries had resonated with a peculiar depth, as though he were mourning some profound loss. It was almost as if Rhaegar had been born with the weight of the world on his shoulders, a burden that no child should ever have to bear.
She couldn't forget the words of her late father-in-law, Baelon, who had often referred to Rhaegar as a gift from the Fourteen Flames. He had believed, with unwavering conviction, that her son was destined for greatness. It was a notion that had both thrilled and terrified her, for greatness in Westeros often came hand in hand with great danger. All Aemma yearned for was a life of peace and happiness for her children, a life removed from the relentless intrigues of the Iron Throne.
When the fateful day arrived, and Viserys was chosen as king, Aemma's heart had been filled with mixed emotions. She had been genuinely happy for her husband, who had shouldered the burdens of rule with a sense of duty that she admired. Yet, in the deepest recesses of her heart, she had secretly prayed for Rhaenys to be crowned queen instead.
Her reasoning was twofold. Firstly, it would mean that her own children would not have to face the perils that came with the Iron Throne. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, it would have meant that she could continue to watch her children grow, to protect them from harm, and to keep them close to her heart.
But she knew, deep within her heart, that such a dream was destined to remain unfulfilled. It was not merely the stability of the realm that worried Jaehaerys, but the potential threat to his own rule and legacy. Appointing a female ruler would only serve to highlight Rhaena Targaryen's stronger claim, and that was a truth he could not accept. For then the realm would be forced to acknowledge that the Wise King himself was a usurper who stole his sister's throne.
Now, as she donned the mantle of the future queen-to-be, her days were consumed by endless training and courtly activities. Her schedule left her with little time to spend with her cherished children. Rhaenyra, being of a tender age, had fewer lessons and more free time for play, affording Aemma the precious moments she so deeply cherished. But Rhaegar was growing up too quickly, slipping through her fingers like grains of sand through an open palm.
She often reminisced about the day she had first held him in her arms, feeling a rush of true, unconditional love that had overwhelmed her. But that love had come hand in hand with a fear that was just as potent. She knew that the world could be merciless to those bearing the Targaryen name, and her greatest fear was that her children would be swept up in its unforgiving currents.
One memory, in particular, haunted her—the night she found Rhaegar bloodied and bruised, lying next to a newly hatched dragon. The sight had struck terror into her heart, and for a moment, she had feared the worst. It had been a pivotal moment that had crystallized her understanding of the perilous path that lay before her son.
Now, as Rhaegar's status as Viserys's son took center stage, Aemma couldn't help but feel the weight of his future pressing down upon her. The court's eyes were ever watchful, schemes hidden behind polite smiles and courteous gestures. Ambitious lords and ladies sought to befriend her son, hoping for future alliances and to bask in the reflected glory of House Targaryen.
One figure, in particular, sent shivers down her spine—Otto Hightower, the Hand of the King. His calculating gaze rested upon Rhaegar with unsettling frequency, and his daughter, Alicent, had insinuated herself into the lives of both Rhaegar and Rhaenyra. Aemma had tried, with all her might, to keep Rhaenyra away from the Hightower girl, but it seemed a losing battle. Rhaenyra missed her brother as a playmate, and Alicent provided the companionship she craved.
Suspicion also clouded Rhaegar's sudden closeness with his grandfather Jaehaerys. Aemma knew that her son had always been close to Alysanne and Jaehaerys, but something had changed. Rhaegar used to share his discussions with his grandparents openly, regaling her with tales of their conversations and the wisdom he had gleaned. But now, he dismissed her inquiries with a secretive smile and vague responses. It was as if they were conspiring together, a notion that sent shivers down her spine.
Her thoughts often spiraled into a whirlpool of questions. Why would Jaehaerys involve himself in such secretive matters with her son, who was not even his direct heir at this moment? It defied logic. And the departures of Daemon and the newfound solemnity in Viserys only added to her growing unease.
Aemma Targaryen, carried the weight of her fears and worries deep within her heart. She knew the path her family walked was fraught with danger, and her love for her children fueled a fervent desire to shield them from harm. Yet, in the intricate dance of power and politics that was the Iron Throne, her maternal instincts could only protect them so much.
The grand dining chamber was a tapestry of luxury and elegance, with its polished oak furniture and glistening silverware. Aemma Targaryen, her grace and regal demeanor undiminished, occupied the head of the table. To her right, Rhaenyra, her daughter and a whirlwind of youthful impatience, fidgeted restlessly in her chair.
"Mother," Rhaenyra whined, her voice carrying a trace of frustration, "Rhaegar's late again!"
Aemma, the embodiment of maternal warmth, tried to soothe her daughter's impatience. "He'll be here soon, my love. You know how busy he is with his duties."
Rhaenyra, unable to contain her excitement, eagerly launched into the retelling of her morning escapades. "Today, Alicent and I played in the garden with all my dolls! It was such fun. I even convinced Alicent to stroke Syrax. But Syrax suddenly sneezed fire almost Setting poor Alicent's dress aflame, Now she utterly refuses to go near Syrax"
Aemma's countenance shifted, concern furrowing her brow. "Rhaenyra, darling, you mustn't bring Syrax so close to others. You know that dragons usually do not take kindly to being touched by anyone other than their riders, especially someone who isn't a Targaryen. It could have been quite dangerous for both of you."
With a trace of remorse in her voice, Rhaenyra replied, "I'm sorry, Mother. But it was just an accident. Lady Syrax would never hurt anyone intentionally."
The door creaked open, drawing Aemma's attention, as Rhaegar entered the room. A radiant smile graced his lips as he approached his family, enveloping his younger sister in a warm embrace before taking his seat beside his mother.
"Forgive my tardiness, Mother," Rhaegar offered, his eyes shimmering with sincerity.
Aemma, her earlier concern momentarily forgotten, couldn't help but smile at her son. "Of course, my dear. We were just waiting for you. Please, take your seat."
The youthful enthusiasm of her children brought a rare smile to Aemma's face, a genuine moment of warmth in a world often filled with politics and intrigue.
With her mother's gaze fixed on her brother, Rhaenyra seized the opportunity to recount her earlier adventure. But was interrupted by her Mother.
"Rhaegar, where have you been? You should have been training in the yard, but the servants couldn't find you. I would be very disappointed to hear complaints that you have been skipping your lessons again"
The dining chamber filled with anticipation as they waited for Rhaegar's response to his mother's inquiries.
Rhaegar, his tone earnest and composed, denied the accusation. "No, Mother, I haven't been skipping my lessons. Ser Steffon Darklyn allowed me to conclude my training earlier than usual today. I needed to visit Grandfather Jaehaerys. There were matters I needed to discuss with him. I wanted to know why Uncle Daemon left so suddenly"
Aemma's curiosity was piqued, and she leaned forward, her amethyst eyes locked onto her son's. "What did Grandfather Jaehaerys have to say?"
With a deep sigh, Rhaegar began to recount the conversation. "He informed me that Uncle Daemon has departed King's Landing to fulfill his responsibilities as the Lord Consort of Runestone and join his new family in the Vale."
A melancholic hush descended over the room as Rhaenyra, her disappointment evident, chimed in with a pout, "But, Mother, Uncle Daemon's family is here in the Red Keep, not in the Vale. Why did he have to leave and go so far away?"
Aemma, patient and gentle, sought to impart a lesson about duty. "Darling, Rhea Royce is also considered Uncle Daemon's family now. When you marry someone, they become a part of your family. Sometimes, duty requires you to leave your home to join your new family, just as I left the Eyrie and the Arryns to join your father's Targaryen family here at the Red Keep."
Rhaenyra's emotions oscillated between understanding and confusion, but after a moment's contemplation, she seemed to come to terms with the idea. "I'm glad I won't have to leave my home and go somewhere else when I marry Rhaegar."
Both Aemma and Rhaegar were taken aback by Rhaenyra's newfound determination. Aemma struggled to find the right words. "How did you come to this conclusion, Rhaenyra?"
Rhaegar, who had been observing silently, almost choked on his food as Aemma directed her inquiry at their young daughter.
Rhaenyra responded with an air of determination, "While playing in the gardens, I overheard one of the lords talking about how it would be a waste to send his son after me, as it would be a lost cause. They said I'd most likely marry Rhaegar, like most Targaryens do."
Aemma's anger flared at the thought of lords discussing her children's future so openly. She turned her gaze to Rhaenyra, seeking reassurance. "Did you recognize the lord, Rhaenyra?"
Rhaenyra shook her head, her innocence shining through. "No, Mother. But if they say it, it must be true, right? I don't want to marry anyone but Rhaegar."
Aemma, still unsettled by the conversation, tried to temper her daughter's resolve. "Oh, Rhaenyra, you're still so young. What if, in the future, you fall in love with someone else? You can't predict these things."
But Rhaenyra's conviction remained steadfast. "There's no one in the world I love more than Rhaegar, I'll never marry anyone else! Not now and not in the future!"
The tension in the room dissolved as Rhaegar interjected, changing the subject. "Speaking of the future, Rhaenyra, did you know that the Red Keep will soon have more children our age?"
Intrigued, Rhaenyra momentarily forgot the previous conversation. "More children? Who's coming, Rhaegar?"
Aemma, grateful for the change of topic, encouraged her son to continue. "Today, Grandfather and I discussed the need for me to have childhood companions."
Aemma's eyes sparkled with delight. "That's wonderful news, Rhaegar! We should discuss this with your father and decide together after considering all the possible candidates."
However, Rhaegar's next words stirred Aemma's frustration once more. "Actually, Mother, I've already chosen my companions, and the King has approved them."
"Did the king choose your companions for you Rhaegar? Were you not given a choice to choose your own?' she asked
"No Mother" Rhaegar shook his head, "I have been thinking about it for a long time and made the decision on my own after a lot of careful deliberation"
Her patience waned as her irritation grew. "Rhaegar, choosing childhood companions is a significant decision. You should have discussed it with your father and me before making such an important choice."
Her sternness softened into disappointment. "You're a bright child, Rhaegar, but you're still a child. Important decisions should be made with your parents' guidance. Even though King Jaehaerys is your grandfather and the king, your father and I are your parents. You should come to us first for advice and when making important decisions."
Tears welled up in Rhaegar's eyes as he choked out an apology. "I'm sorry, Mother. I should have discussed it with you before."
Aemma's heart ached at the sight of her son's tears. She got up from her chair and approached him, gently wiping away his tears. Her voice softened with maternal affection. "It's alright, Rhaegar. I wish you would come to your father and me more often. We want to be your pillars of strength, the ones you turn to for guidance and love."
Rhaegar hugged his mother tightly, his emotions still raw. "I promise, Mother, I'll talk to you and Father before making such decisions next time."
Aemma smiled softly and returned to her seat as she noticed Rhaenyra silently pass Rhaegar her favorite lemon cake, trying to lift up her brother's mood. Rhaegar was usually such a good child, she could count with just one palm of her hand the number of times he had ever gotten scolded in his short lifetime.
It broke her heart but it was also good to know that her words held such weight and significance in his heart as a mere scolding brought him to tears. It meant that he would value her words and not dismiss them, which is inevitable once children grow up.
With her son's tears dried and their bond reaffirmed, they continued their meal as Rhaenyra pestered Rhaegar to share more about his day, basking in the warmth of familial love.