#not to mention otto telling her that daemon will kill them all if rhaenyra were queen

[bcrbleue]

i often bounce between show and book alicent, more obviously show. for the reason why alicent wanted her son on the throne, i'm crossed. in show verse, she truly thinks v.iserys meant a.egon on his deathbed. and when she tells o.tto, i headcanon that her small smile is an 'of course he told that to only me and then died. of course'.

however, i headcanon that book verse alicent just didn't think r.haenyra deserved it + overall bitterness. v.iserys being against his own wife (thinking she was just out for herself) + favoring his first daughter over all of his other children fueled her bitterness towards her stepdaughter. it fueled enough hatred in her that she left him on his deathbed for days after he died.

#not to mention otto telling her that daemon will kill them all if rhaenyra were queen #∘⡊ ❧ ˚⊹ ooc ⊹ — your local trash can. #∘⡊ ❧ ˚⊹ headcanon ⊹ — a soul laid bare. #∘⡊ ❧ ˚⊹ alicent ⊹ — of duty and sacrifice.

[daenerysies]

someone sent me an anon ask about the anti rhaenyra agenda most rhaenicent shippers have and like a dumbass i accidently deleted it so i'm just going to try my best to re-answer it here (yes i wrote a whole spiel about it and now it's gone forever and i'm upset.)

from what i can tell there are only two reasons as to why people can't stand rhaenyra but love rhaenicent; and it's because they either have some heavy internalized misogyny OR that's the only way to continue and keep their uwu sad lesbian alicent headcanons semi-tethered in reality. alicent is a character that has next to no positive interactions with other characters, least of all any women. she has a 'good' (and i say that lightly) relationship with rhaenyra for 2 episodes in hotd, and then they are adversaries for the rest of the show. the only other women we see her interact with are helaena and her lady in waiting talya ( who regularly spied on her for mysaria) and minus talya, those are the same female relationships she has in f&b. she doesn't really have a good track record with anyone.

in the book she terrorized rhaenyra from aegon's birth up until rhaenyra's death. rather than teaching her son to rule and raising him to be an upstanding prince of the realm she instead spent her time calling rhaenyra, a literal child, a slut, she accepted criston into her service as her own personal protector in spite of his predatory behavior towards rhaenyra (which she acknowledges), and continuously tries to have rhaenyra and her sons disinherited and killed due to her own spreading of the bastard rumors. not to mention that she was eighteen when she married viserys to rhaenyra's nine. there's really nothing romantic about it. in the show almost everything is still the same except for her being the one to arrange helaena's marriage to her known degenerate and rapist son (in f&b viserys is the one who had them marry) and most likely told her the same rhetoric of rhaenyra killing them to secure her claim that she told her sons from when they were babies up until the coup. with rhaenyra she still antagonizes her because she (lemme check again, told alicent she didn't sleep with daemon and got otto fired because he was working against the crown to install his grandson as heir over her). don't even get me started on the villainization of rhaenyra in order to uphold alicent's constant victimization storyline. alicent is the one who abused rhaenyra, not the other way around, and the age changes in the show (which are so stupid omg) only serve to make alicent more sympathetic and rhaenyra an apparent privileged brat who doesn't understand what it's like to suffer because of the men in her life and therefore deserves her fate (i can literally see the entire galaxy with how far back my eyes are rolled rn.)

if the show wanted to include or focus on two women who were torn apart by the patriarchy and the men around them, helaena's blank character was right there for the taking (and would've been even juicier with the sister vs sister, queen consort vs queen regnant debacle.) she has no personality in the book or any relevance besides losing her children in violent ways and going mad, they definitely could have made her a more present character on screen in a manner that adds an actual emotional connection to her but alas, rhaenicent is top priority. furthering that, if the show wanted to include queer representation with their leading lady, laena had more hints in the text for that type of relationship than anything the show has given us for the rhaenyra/alicent dynamic, even with how hard they're trying to force it down our throats.

the entire relationship has made the story go completely off kilter because the show won't just let it be, and it's affected almost all of their other relationships. they're not going to convince me that rhaenyra cares about alicent more than her own children or even vice versa (though in an entirely different manner) and that reconciliation is possible in spite of aemond murdering luke. it makes both the characters and the writers look like delusional idiots. there's absolutely no reason for these types of glaring mistakes in a series where characterization and the relationships that revolve from them are the reason it's so popular amongst the masses. this lack of proper relationship building has caused hotd to feel a lot more shallow and lackluster than what you'd expect with how massive it's budget was when they created it, the amount of talented actors they casted, and the literal blueprint laid out of what not to do that got season eight is. someone should have taken accountability for these dumb decisions and realized how quickly they're streamlining straight towards what ruined game of thrones in the first place.

#f&b #hotd #hotd critical #rhaenyra targaryen #pro rhaenyra #helaena targaryen #laena velaryon #anti alicent hightower #anti criston cole #anti aegon ii targaryen #anti viserys i targaryen #anti rhaenicent #faye answers #anonymous #whoever you are i'm sorry

[linberlyy]

Also team Black actors share the same misconception and misunderstanding that many team black fans do that there is no love or loyalty within Team Green, when most of Rhaenyra’s team abandoned her in the end and they don’t even like and trust one another as it is currently. They aren’t supporting Rhaenyra because they believe in her. Theyre all supporting her because the position they’re in, there is no other choice or they personally want something- Daemon to be King, for his blood to eventually sit the Iron throne. Corlys, very much the same reason. He wants his name attached to a King. Rhaenys while throwing this accusation at Alicent, follows her husband’s lead far more than Alicent followed Viserys. Plus their Granddaughters are Daemon’s daughters and are now betrothed to Rhaenyra’s sons. They weren’t even betrothed because Rhaenyra considered them great candidates for her sons, but because she needs to use their legitimacy to bolster her own sons. She tried it with Helaena. Not to mention, Rhaena has lost her claim to Driftmark with the death of Luke, the deal with Rhaenys/Corlys was so weak and fickle that it broke within 3-4 days. Corlys distrusts and resents Rhaenyra more after Rhaenys dies fighting for her. Rhaenyra eventually calls for the heads of her most innocent and loyal supporters and one by one they abandon her too.

While team Green, despite their dysfunction were loyal to each other to the very end. Everything that Alicent has done since she was a teenager has been out of fear for and for the safety of her children. She is their only parent, their only source of attention, affection and discipline. She tells Aegon that he’s no son of hers, then 48 hours later- as futile as it is, she stands in front of a Dragon to protect him, he tries to pull her back with him and she removes his hand to push him further behind her but then there’s an understanding that they’re going to die together. Aegon doesn’t want it but he takes the throne anyway because he understands that his rulership will be the only thing that protects the people he loves. In the trailer you can see that the murder of Jaehaerys not only destroys Helaena but Alicent too. It also forces Aegon to mature, take more of a leadership role and actually fight to show that he’s “as fearsome as any of them”. Aemond talks shit about Aemond and wishes he was the firstborn son but ultimately he fights for Aegon until his dying day. Alicole are meant to contrast Daemyra with many seeing Daemyra as superior but Daemon has put his hands on Rhaenyra. Grows angry and resentful of her, takes a new little girl as lover, abandons Rhaenyra and doesn’t answer her call to be beside her when she needs him the most. While Criston is killed trying to make his way back to Kingslanding to save Alicent and Helaena. Daeron also dies trying to make his way back to KL to liberate his mother and sister. Otto isn’t shit, but even after being removed as hand, he stays loyal to Aegon. Aegon wanted to build giant statues of his brothers in their memory. He has it written into Law that Alicent and Helaena were the only Queens during the dance era, a law that still stands in Westeros and one Rhaenyra’s sons and other direct descendants didn’t bother to change. He marries his daughter to Aegon III to ensure that she’s Queen after he dies and she is known to history as Queen Jaehaera Targaryen even if it was brief.

If this isn’t love and loyalty, then I don’t know what is. There were no defectors on Team Green.

Even the commoners stayed loyal. Part of the reason they revolt against Rhaenyra and storm the Dragonpit is because of what happened to Helaena’s boys and Helaena herself and because of Brothel Queens even if it’s not clear whether it was a rumor or true. The people still loved Helaena and Alicent. While on Dragonstone, where Rhaenyra ruled for years. A broken and Dragonless (at first) Aegon goes and turns these people against Rhaenyra.

The phrase said by actress Raena about the fact that there is no love in the green family sounds quite comical. Because the character she plays received absolutely no love from, for example, Daemon. Yes, there were some scenes in the cut script where Daemon hugged his daughters after Laena died, but we're looking at the final script and that wasn't there. In the same episode, Raena complains to her mom that Daemon doesn't pay attention to her because she doesn't have a dragon, and in the next episode, Daemon marries Rhaenyra shortly after Laena's funeral. And the children were clearly not happy (and tb stans, please don’t make me think that they were simply frozen then. Their faces really showed a lack of understanding of what was happening). And the actress calls it love? Seriously? Is there love in the black family? Show it to me.

Now I'll be interested to see how Corlys reacts to his wife's death and whether he will tell Rhaenyra that it was her fault. Just wondering. Or will he stick his tongue up his ass again and say nothing? Will support the black team for no reason simply BECAUSE?

(no hate towards the actors) but most of them say real nonsense, their arguments are like “tb are good, tg are evil, there’s no need to choose, our family loves each other and hates them.” This is so funny. Okay, let the tbs kiss their ass, this video was edited for them.

#hotd #anti team black #houseofthedragon #pro team green #team green #the greens #corlys velaryon #rhaena targaryen #anti daemon targaryen #anti rhaenyra targaryen #aegon ii targaryen #alicent hightower #otto hightower #aemond targaryen #criston cole

[pessimisticpigeonsworld]

The Tragedy of Rhaenyra Targaryen

Rhaenyra Targaryen's story is one of tragedy, she is put into a series of impossible situations and finally was killed for the crime of being a woman and wanting her birthright. This fact is something that TG stans are obsessed with trying to minimize or completely erase. Since they're usually exclusively show fans, I'm going to go through show Rhaenyra's life until we hit the end of season 1 (this is a long one so bear with me).

Rhaenyra spent her entire childhood being told she was less than for being a girl and her father killed her mother in pursuit of a son because of this belief. When Viserys finally recognizes her worth, she then has to deal with the misogynistic lords and their lack of respect towards her. Her ideas and opinions are dismissed in the SC, including Otto who fucking suggested making her heir, and they outright send her off like a child when she becomes too unruly for them.

Then after all this, Viserys marries her only friend, thus removing what's left of her support system after Daemon is banished. Alicent also went behind Rhaenyra's back to seduce Viserys. Sure, it was what her father told her, that doesn't mean it wasn't a shitty thing to do. Especially since she let Rhaenyra believe Viserys was going to marry Laena, thus causing her to be massively blindsided by the announcement. Of course Rhaenyra felt she couldn't trust Alicent, of course she felt betrayed, and Alicent never explained why she did it. This obviously drove a massive wedge in their friendship.

Things only get worse for Rhaenyra when Aegon is born. Now the lords who had no respect for her, including the fucking Hand, are clamoring for Rhaenyra to be disinherited. Sure, Viserys keeps her as heir, but does little to reinforce to HER that he isn't considering replacing her. He practically ignores her for the majority of episode 3 until he gets angry with her for not wanting to be his political pawn. Alicent isn't helping matters by never acknowledging the change in dynamic in their relationship, she's the queen consort now, a position she worked to get behind Rhaenyra's back. No things aren't the same, they never will be, Alicent acting like Rhaenyra should just treat her like normal is unrealistic and totally dismisses Rhaenyra's feelings.

Rhaenyra has a completely understandable fear of marriage and childbirth, considering what happened to her mother. Yet Viserys is insisting she marry, and sure, she can choose her own husband, but from her perspective that's basically being allowed to choose your own execution method. And there is also an underlying caveat: Viserys has to approve the match.

In the midst of all this, Daemon finally returns, the one person who completely understands Rhaenyra. He offers her the first scrap of true consideration and then expresses actual interest in her at the brothel. However, he leaves her in the brothel, so, drunk and alone, she stumbles into the arms of her only remaining friend. A man who willingly and eagerly slept with his drunk charge and thought that it entitled him to marrying her. After this, we see that caveat I mentioned come into play when Viserys rejects Daemon's proposal without consulting Rhaenyra, if he truly meant for it to be her choice, he would have let her have the final say.

So now her uncle is once again taken away, her former friend now hates her for not telling her a potentially damaging secret, and her former protector hates her for rejecting to run away with him. And to top it all off, she's now being forced to marry her openly gay cousin to fix the mistake Viserys made when he married Alicent. Then at her wedding, Alicent finishes of what's left of their friendship by declaring war on her and Criston kills Laenor's lover and allies with Alicent.

During the time jump, we know Alicent constantly undermined and abused Rhaenyra. She flouted her power at every turn, factionalized the nobles, taught her sons that Rhaenyra and her sons were beneath them, and shot down any of her opinions in the SC even to the detriment of the kingdom. We know from a deleted scene that Rhaenyra pursued a relationship with Aegon, yet she doesn't have any kind of connection to her siblings later on, meaning that someone must have put a stop to any bonding. After all, why would Aegon and his siblings be willing to usurp Rhaenyra if they had a good relationship? We also know from Laenor's "I thought we were past this" in ep six that Alicent constantly pressed the bastard issue even though Laenor, Corlys, and Viserys acknowledging them as legitimate made them so.

The issue of the Velaryon boys clearly shows how Rhaenyra was thrust into an impossible situation: she needed heirs and Laenor couldn't provide. By choosing Harwin, Rhaenyra was able to have three sons and have a loving relationship (as far as we know). But of course, this small happiness didn't last, as Harwin was sent away and murdered alongside his father by Larys. Before this, Alicent's abuse finally drives Rhaenyra to Dragonstone, by the way, Viserys never did anything to help Rhaenyra against Alicent.

Things finally seem to be looking up for Rhaenyra when she marries Daemon after Laena's funeral. She at last has a steadfast ally in the face of the greens and someone who genuinely loves her. She has two sons by him, her other children are growing up safe and happy alongside her stepdaughters who have integrated well into their new family.

Alas, after six years, she is dragged back into the greens' shit show when they decide to bring up the resolved matter of the Driftmark succession. This marks the beginning of the end for her happiness. Viserys dies and the greens usurp her crown, the news of which sends her into an early labor, killing her daughter. Now Rhaenyra is faced again with an impossible choice: go to war for her throne or bend the knee and risk being killed alongside her children (something the greens were already planning). We know which one she picks, and she's right in this: it's her throne, the greens are usurpers and traitors, end of story. But the greens then murder her son, Lucerys, when he was on a peaceful mission as a messenger.

Rhaenyra has now lost two children to the greens, and in the ensuing war, loses Viserys II (though he was alive unbeknownst to her), Jacaerys, and Joffery. Her stepdaughter, Baela, becomes a captive of the greens, Rhaena is being sheltered in the Vale, and her husband dies killing Aemond. The war takes away everything she loves except her son, Aegon III. She then has to flee KL after six months due to the rioting small folk and betrayal among her council (Corlys is a bitch). When she arrives on Dragonstone, she is seized by her brother's men and burned and eaten alive in front of her son by her usurper brother.

This is the story of a woman tormented throughout her life by the fact that she is a woman. She is undermined and abused as heir, usurped, and killed all for the crime of her gender, plain and simple. TG can try to deny it, but the story is clear, despite Condal and Hess' meddling. And if I see anyone saying that Rhaenyra is bad because she isn't a feminist, that doesn't matter (and that's not a true assessment), her reign sets a precedent for female inheritance in the Seven Kingdoms, that's still important in the long run. She is a tragic character, GRRM has made it clear the usurpation would have happened no matter what Rhaenyra did, she was doomed from the start.

#rhaenyra targaryen #team black #anti team green #alicent hightower #viserys targaryen #daemon targaryen #daemyra #anti alicent stans #anti alicent hightower #anti aemond targaryen #anti aegon ii targaryen #house of the dragon #anti otto hightower

[ramblings-of-a-mad-cat]

Challenge: Aegon had to be King for his own survival. Rhaenyra would have killed him. And Alicent. Maybe not Helaena. DEFINITELY Aemond. He was protecting himself. AND he offered her the chance to p much keep living her life in peace.

Rebuttal: We have absolutely no evidence of this short of Otto's claims. And Otto is lying.

He saw firsthand what happened when a member of Rhaenyra's family tried to steal her inheritance. When Daemon occupied Dragonstone and declared himself Viserys' heir, did Rhaenyra resort to bloodshed? Did she use this as an excuse to try and kill Daemon? No. She called his bluff. She invited him to strike first. So when Otto tells Alicent that Rhaenyra will have "no choice" but to put her brothers to the sword, either he is suffering from memory loss, or he's lying through his teeth. He should know better than anyone that Rhaenyra is no kinslayer.

Here's the real truth. Otto realized that he couldn't control Rhaenyra. That she would not accept her position being taken away without a fight. He saw how easily she won over Daemon, how alike the two of them were. Just look at Otto's expression when Rhaenyra is flying away. He's realized that if it came to a fight with Rhaenyra, she'd have Daemon backing her. And that terrified him.

The story that Rhaenyra would preemptively murder her brothers to prevent any challenges to her claim is just that, a story. Otto uses it as justification for his plot to reject the succession. During the Green Council, he tries to have Rhaenyra and Daemon murdered so they won't challenge Aegon - exactly what he claimed Rhaenyra would do. Realistically, why would she ever do this in the first place? If she murdered her own brothers without any provocation, she would look like a tyrant. All the lords actually on her side would abandon her. Rhaenyra doesn't have a reason to harm Aegon unless he gives her one, and it's clear as day that he wouldn't do so on his own. She'd likewise have zero reason to hurt Helaena or Alicent. They have no real power. I suppose Aemond might be a problem, but again, only if he initiates. Rhaenyra isn't going to pick a fight with him.

The terms offered to Rhaenyra in 1X10 are, frankly, a complete joke. They offer her Dragonstone...which she already has. She's been living there, and now that she's queen, the castle belongs to Jace. They offer to re-confirm Luke as heir to Driftmark...even though he was already re-confirmed, just two days ago. Not to mention that Corlys survived, so the Crown really doesn't have jurisdiction over that anymore. Corlys will always choose Luke. Oh, and they offer to take her two youngest children as hostages. Sure, they don't call it that, but Rhaenyra's no fool, and it's plain as day that they would be hostages. Perhaps treated as guests, but taken for no other reason than to keep Rhaenyra in line. She's the rightful Queen, why should she entertain such nonsense? Oh, and they offer to spare any Lords who "conspired" against Aegon's ascent. Even though the story of Viserys "changing his mind" isn't well known, and these Lords would have simply been following the succession as they knew it to be. Get real.

Finally, Aegon acting in self-defense based on what he was told might have been his motive in the book. But in the show, it's very clearly a case of enjoying the attention. He feels validated and seen by the crowd. It's the first time he is actually shown to enjoy being King and maybe even start to want it.

#Rhaenyra Targaryen #House of The Dragon #The Dance of Dragons #Otto Hightower #The Blacks & The Greens #HotD Analysis #Dragonstone #House Targaryen #Daemon Targaryen #Aegon II Targaryen #Listen I know this story is all about shades of gray #Spools of black and green #And the characters are all complicated people #That one one is truly perfect #So it's silly to pin all the blame for this conflict on one person #But really #This is all on Otto #The Dance is his fault #None of this would have happened if not for his manipulations #God bless Rhys Ifan #Masterful performance

[star-girl69]

I Loved You Like the Sun

a/n: help!!!! what should i do abt baby visenya?? option one: she lives option two: she dies option three: i edit my previous chapters and remove her from the plot

it’s just a lot of characters to juggle and i already have plans for this fic and tbh… she would just get in the way IM SORRY. i’m leaning towards just pretending she never existed 😭

warnings: swearing, mentions of alcohol, violence, super long and boring speeches, mentions of death, tell me if i missed anything!!

Chapter Twenty One- Like You Mean It

—-

You have never wished more for Cannibal.

For the feel of his warm scales, his hot breath, he bright greens eyes boring into you. For his power, his majesty, his terrifying roars.

The king has not arrived, but you can feel the eyes of the Greens on you. You are the unknown variable, the wild card. They do not know you and you do not know them.

But the Hand’s eyes are the worst, you think. He digs into you, spiking through your skin, just enough to remind you he is there. Not outright threatening, but calculated, cold, observant.

Is he looking for a weakness, a low spot?

It is no secret that you have Daemon and Rhaenyra’s ear, that you are their treasure, their horde. And regardless of the dragon blood in you and the beast you ride, you weren’t raised to cultivate the fire in your blood. You were raised to tame it, to sweeten, to sweep away. To stick in people’s memory. You were a Honeyholt. That is how you were raised.

It would be wise for Otto to sway you to his plight, to convince you to whisper and Daemon and Rhaenyra’s ears. But your dragons know that truth as well. You are the weak spot.

They do not mean it in a cruel way, of course, it is just simply a fact. But the protection laden upon you- you do admit, it is nice to be the center of their attention again.

Finally, servants start to bring out the food.

Rhaenyra is silent next to you, only a place away from Alicent.

Before Rhaenyra had you, she had Alicent.

But Alicent had done cruel things to her- tension was thick in the air. You could tell Rhaenyra wanted to forgive her. But the scar on her arm stopped her, the memory of Alicent demanding Luke’s eye.

The tension eases, only slightly, when the door opens and Viserys is carried in on an ornate golden chair. You stand with the rest of the table, shoulder bumping with Daemon.

You sit again as he is placed down. The room is silent, all chatter ceased. Rhaenyra places a hand on your thigh, so much like her usual self now that Luke’s place is secure.

King Viserys let’s out a rasping breath.

“How good it is… to see you all tonight… together.” His voice is hoarse. He looks as he had every time you’ve seen him.

Like living is killing him.

“Prayer before we begin?” Alicent asks, and you look up from the empty plate before you.

“Yes,” Viserys rasps.

You do not know religious conventions. But, you do not want to cause ire, so your eyes flick around the room. Aemond, the boy with the eyepatch, keeps his hands out before him and his head bowed.

You copy him, hearing Daemon scoff. You close your eyes, no doubt he is not participating. you

“May the Mother smile down on this gathering with love. May the Smith mend the bonds that have been broken for so long. And to Vaemond Velaryon, may the Gods give him rest.”

You hear Daemon shift next to you, scoffing yet again.

“This is an occasion for celebration, it seems. My grandsons, Jace and Luke. Will marry their cousins, Baela and Rhaena.” The respective couples, each sitting next to each other, exchange small smiles.

Hope for them burns in your chest.

You shall even pray to the Seven, have Alicent herself teach you the ways, if it means they will be happy.

“A toast to the young Princes… and their betrothed.”

“Hear hear!” Daemon shouts, and the table lifts their glasses and drinks.

You see Aegon, the eldest Hightower, mumble something to Jace. But you are too far to hear. You see Baela shoot him a look, Jace set his glass on the table with perhaps more force than is necessary.

“Let us toast as well to Prince Lucerys… the future Lord of the Tides.”

“You’ll be great,” Rhaena assures him with a king smile, and he seems to relax. Everyone drinks, and you let out a pleased sigh of your own.

Mumbling rises throughout the table, Aegon, Baela and Jace keeping their voices just low enough.

But before your worry can grow, Viserys taps his cane onto the floor. He stands, with great effort, and you brace yourself for him to collapse. But, strenuously, he stands. The table is silent.

“It both… gladdens my heart and fills me with sorrow to see these faces around the table. The faces most fear to me in all the world… yet grown so distant from each other… in the years past.”

He sighs, dropping his head. You feel Rhaenyra’s fingers dig into your knee, although not painfully. She stiffens when she realizes what she had done, pulling back. It is the first time she has touched you so casually in days, and you would rather she hurt you then leave you yearning for her.

The table holds in a breath when Viserys takes off his golden mask, the one covering half of his face. You have heard only rumors. You do not know what lies in wait.

He straightens, and turns to you.

It is skeletal. A gaping hole, filled of mutualistes flesh. He looks as if he is already dead. You bite back repulsion in your stomach, imagine his pain.

“My own face… is no longer a handsome one… if indeed it ever was. But tonight… I wish you to see me… as I am. Not just a king, but your father. Your brother. Your husband. Your good-brother… and your grandsire. Who may not, it seems… walk for much longer among you.”

He throws the mask to the table, the heavy gold clanking against the wood.

“Let us no longer hold ill feelings in our hearts. The crown cannot stand strong if the House of the Dragon remains divided. But set aside your grievances.” He bangs his fist on the table, chest heaving, breaths fast. “If not for the sake of the crown… then for the sake of this old man who loves you all so dearly.”

He sits, again with great effort, but Alicent attempts to placate him with a soothing hand, helping him to fix his golden mask. Something so beautiful, to hide unpleasantness beneath.

Suddenly, Rhaenyra stands with her glass raised.

You look up, expectant, hopeful, desperate for a glance of the woman you fell in love with.

“I wish to raise my cup to Her Grace, the Queen. I love my father. But I must admit that no one has stood… more loyally by his side than his good wife. She has tended to him with… unfailing devotion, love, and honor. And for that, she has my gratitude… and my apology.”

Alicent stares off into the distance for a moment, swallowing heavily. You think you see the sheen of tears in her eyes, but she hides it just as quick as they appeared.

“Your graciousness moves me deeply, Princess.” They share a tense glance, and you feel something within you. Something ugly. “We are both mothers… and we love our children. We have more in common than we sometimes allow.”

I am a mother, you want to scream, I love my children. This past, these secrets and intimacy they have hurt you. Rhaenyra does not talk about Alicent, about her mother. So you do not know. But Daemon knows, because he was there. You are alone in this marriage, in only some ways, an outsider to memories you will never hold.

The Queen stands, but you cannot look at her. “I raise my cup to you and to your house.” You hear the room quiet, imagine her breaths heavy in her chest. “You will make a fine queen.” She inhales deeply before you hear her sit.

Everyone grabs their glass, and you do as well. You raise it to your lips. You let the liquid rest against you, but you cannot find it in yourself to swallow it.

You look down to your hands, hear conversation and movement. You take a few moments to breathe, to stifle your foolish jealousy.

Until Jace slams his hands onto the table, standing.

He meets your eyes, and you see the anger, the fire, rife within him.

“J-”

But Aemond stands, and his haloed blonde hair draws you to silence.

Jace grabs his glass, clenches his jaw and softly hits Aegon, as if they were friends. He inhales deeply, raising his glass.

“To Prince Aegon and Prince Aemond. We have not seen each other in years. But I have fond memories of our shared youth. And as men, I hope we may yet be friends and allies. To you and your family’s good health, dear uncles.” He sips, and you do as well, eyeing the brown-headed boy wearily.

“To you as well,” Aegon says, but his voice is forced.

Aemond looks around before sitting, and it is Helaena’s turn to stand.

You sigh, inwardly, sick of speeches.

“I would like to toast to Baela and Rhaena. They’ll be married soon. It isn’t so bad. Mostly he just ignores you… except sometimes when he’s drunk.” Daemon laughs, and your heart twists. You scold him with a look, and he mumbles something before his smile drops.

It reminds you all too well of your time with your first husband.

“Let us have some music,” Viserys proclaims, and you almost rejoice.

You take another sip of your drink, until Jace’s voice brings you out of your reverie- memories of Lord Chamber’s plaguing you.

“Excuse me,” he says to Baela, before standing and walking over to Helaena. He extends his arm, and she looks shocked.

But soon they are jumping across the floor, dancing and twirling. You do not know Helaena, but you think her smile is genuine.

“I…” Viserys starts, turning to your end of the table. “I suppose there is a new member of our family I must meet. Properly.” His eyes fix on you. “Lady Y/N.”

“Oh, Your Grace, I- you are most kind.”

Rhaenyra grabs your hand, softly, tenderly, and turns towards her father.

“We love her,” she says, simply. As if it is a fact, something as simple as gravity.

You feel your cheeks heat, and Daemon’s presence against your back.

“Yes. She’s lovely, the best mother to our children.”

Viserys nods, looking over the three of you with his eyes.

“I wish you much happiness, you three. I hope you can find a bit of what I have found with my wif-wives.”

Rhaenyra laughs at a joke Daemon makes, and you let yourself forget about the past and focus on the present. You let Alicent fade to the back of your mind, and laugh with her.

“You seem much happier,” you tell her, “I’m glad.”

“I know,” she sighs, “I’m sorry for being such a… well, you know. The stress, my father, I…”

“You should have come to us,” Daemon whispers. You nod, lean forward to grab Rhaenyra’s hand.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t want to burden you. I felt like I was sinking beneath the waves with the thought of what we might lose if I was not the queen. I couldn’t risk… I couldn’t live with myself if you or the children were hurt.” When she smiles, it is wobbly.

“I think we would much rather drown with you, yeah?” You say, and Daemon nods and agreement. He reaches forward, kisses his wife’s hand.

“What would I do without my handsome husband and my pretty wife?”

The three of you laugh, and the evening falls into joy.

This moment, this precious evening, feels like something precarious. Like tightroping over a spider web. Stitching pieces of glass together. It is beautiful, you think, and you never want it to end.

But it starts to crack when Viserys is lead off my by guards, groaning in pain.

The music steps and everyone stands as he is lead off, as the servants carry in a tray of pig.

You think the evening might continue on, smiling as Daemon insists you must kiss the wine out of his mouth, that it’s the best in these seven forsaken kingdoms.

Until Aemond slams his fist onto the table. You flinch, and you can feel Daemon’s mood immediately sour. You imagine him thinking, who is this boy to scare my wife? But don’t let the smile show on your face.

Aemond raises his glass.

“Final tribute. To the health of my nephews; Jace… Luke… and Joffrey. Each of them handsome, wise…” The room tenses as he pauses, Aemond working his jaw.

Do not say it, you think, bidding a fight not to start.

You know who the boy’s true father is. Rhaenyra told you in confidence, and you will take that truth to your grave. To question otherwise is… treason.

Your consider praying as Aemond opens his lips.

“Strong.”

“Aemond.” Alicent says, immediately. But he only turns to Jace and Helaena, still out on the open floor.

“Let us drain our cups to these three… Strong boys.”

“I dare you to say that again.” Jace tilts his jaw up, and you fix your skirts, ready to stand.

“Why? ‘Twas only a compliment. Do you not think yourself Strong?” The two stride forward, but instead of an answer, Aemond is met with a fist.

“Jace!” Luke shouts, standing up to help his brother, but Aegon slams him headfirst into the table.

You hear various screaming, but you are too wrapped up in instinct. You did not make these children, you did not make their fingers and toes, their hearts and brains. But you are their mother, and you are shaping them into the person they will be. That is equally important. That is what matters.

You gasp, evading Daemon’s hands, running towards Aegon and Luke. You stand next to them, hands out as if you wish to push the prince away. He looks at you, and eyebrow raised.

“Let him go!” You shout, not wished to be charged with treason today.

You hear the sound of a body hitting the floor, different from when Vaemond fell, and you turn around. Jace is getting to his knees, held back by a guard.

Aegon releases Luke, and you attempt to stop him as he reels to attack Aegon, but a guard runs forward to stop him. You see Rhaena holding Baela back, Alicent scolding Aemond.

“Though it seems my nephews are quite as proud of theirs.” Aemond suddenly raises his voice, and you do not know where your confidence comes from.

“You antagonized them! Do not play dumb, my prince. It does not suit you,” you hiss, imagining a snake drops from your lips and slithers over to bite him.

“But does it suit you, my Lady Chambers?” You gasp, fall back. It hurts more than you thought it would.

“Shut up!” Jace roars, breaking free from his captor and running at Aemond.

“Hey! Hey!” Daemon shouts, holding up a hand to stop Jace.

Rhaenyra grabs your arm, whispering into your ear.

But you do not hear her. You are rooted in place. Your eyes shut, filled with tears. You finally realize what Rhaenyra is saying.

“My love, my love, my love,” over and over, like a prayer, like a hymn. You wonder if Alicent would be proud.

“I- I am not that woman anymore-” You say, to no one and everyone.

“I know, I know. He does not know you. He does not know us. Don’t listen to him, my love, Y/N, don’t let him get into your head.” She presses a kiss to your temple. “Go to your quarters. All of you, know.”

“But-” You hear Luke starts.

“Your mother will be fine,” Rhaenyra says, and you hear footsteps fade.

You see Aemond walk off as well, after your tears and shock calm. You hadn’t been called that name in years. It was like someone had ripped out your heart. Reminded you of times you had blocked out, replaced with new memories.

You had ripped up that garden, replanted new seeds. You were a different flower, a different crop. No remnant of that past in your soil.

“Rhaenyra.” Alicent says, and you flinch at the emotion she pours into it.

“Come here,” Daemon says, and you latch onto his arm, throwing a look over your shoulder at Rhaenyra. Alicent walks close, and grab’s Rhaenyra’s arm. Your tears only fall all the much faster.

—-

Rhaenyra holds you in the quiet unfamiliar rooms. Daemon is elsewhere, finalizing plans for your departure.

“He does not know you,” she whispers, again. An echo.

“I know. It hurts the same.”

“Do not let it.” She noses into your hair, murmuring again. “My sweet girl, I’m so sorry.”

“You did not say it,” your assure her, but she only pulls you tighter to her. Your head on her chest, sure heartbeat beneath you. You want to fade into her, into the rhythm of her heart.

“When we get back to Dragonstone, I’ll buy you something pretty. Whatever you want. And I’ll get out of my duties, and we’ll fly. Syrax and I, you and Cannibal, Daemon on Caraxes. We can race, dance in the clouds.”

“I would love nothing more, Nyra.” You yawn, feel sleep come for you as quickly as Jace’s fists had to Aemond.

“You are our treasure.” She whispers, and you fade into her.

—-

In the darkness, through layers of cobweb and the thick smell of milk of the poppy; if you listen close enough, you can hear a man whisper. He says, “my love” with enough pain in his voice to make the stars cry. He does not speak again.

—-

taglist:

@wondergal2001 @akiraquote @a-lil-bit-nuts @anginoguera @thatkinkylesgirl1 @stitchattacks @honeypillowsblog @kaloafd @blackhoodlea @softtina @wallace02sblog @tetgod @hotd-fanfic @rxscpctals @iramagnus

#daemon x rhaenyra #daemon targaryen #daemon targaryen x reader #rhaenyra targaryen #rhaenyra targaryen x reader

[mechanictonystank]

Daemon in episode 10.

SPOILERS FOR EPISODE 10!!!!

I understand why so many fans are upset trust me it was my initial reaction. But i let it all sink in and rewatched the episode with an open mind and I understand Daemon’s actions better. Don’t get me wrong I still wish they didn’t include the choking part but please here me out.

After Laena’s funeral Daemon was ready to leave with his daughters and the only reason he stayed is because Rhaenyra needed him by her side. They lived happily for 6 years but as soon as Daemon finds out that Viserys died/greens usurped the throne he goes into a battle mode. He is a warrior that’s who he has always been, last peaceful 15-16 years don’t change that. His first instinct is to do everything he can to protect his family. When Rhaenyra calls for him you can clearly tell from his expressions that he is worried/concerned for her, it pains him to hear her screams but he can’t allow himself to be distracted. That’s also how he reacts in stressful situations and how he handles grief: he shuts down.

The next thing he does is he makes sure that the kingsguard is loyal to Rhaenyra and her heir Jace so he threatens them with Caraxes and then finally goes to Rhaenyra and finds her with their dead daughter in her arms. Again he can’t handle it and goes to grieve by himself.

It’s Daemon we are talking about he was never the one to show his emotions. He left after he told his daughters about their mother’s death too this is just the way he is (at least in the show). From what we’ve seen so far he rarely shows emotions/vulnerability around other people so it makes sense that he went to be alone after his child died.

They are both devastated at the funeral they lost not only their daughter but also their father/brother too. After that we have the coronation scene. It’s very important when you consider the fact that Daemon was disinherited because Viserys chose Rhaenyra as his heir but Daemon never questioned it nor he was ever against it. Instead he crowns her with her father’s crown, kneels before her and calls her “my queen”. He is ready to fight for her claim the second he hears that Aegon usurped the throne.

Then we have the bridge scene which mirrors episode 2 but the difference is Rhaenyra is on Daemon’s side this time. His has a proud look on his face when he sees her on a dragon and he is constantly looking at her, waiting for her order to kill Otto, the man who is literally responsible for everything that happened and will happen. And then she doesn’t give an order and you can see how frustrated Daemon was hell even I was as a viewer.

Then…we have the choking scene. This is a scene that I still wish they didn’t include or at least shot differently but here we are. I hated it when I first watched the episode but now that I rewatched the episode even tho I still don’t like it I can at least understand it. So we talked a lot about Daemon’s state of mind this episode basically he is a mess and it’s understandable. He lost his daughter, his brother and he needs to prepare for a war to protect his family. It’s already a lot for such an impulsive man like Daemon but on top of that he sees that Rhaenyra doesn’t want to fight for her stolen birth right. He sees her making the same mistakes that her father did all those years ago. Daemon knew what kind of man Otto was right from the start he tried to protect Viserys from him but he failed because his brother chose to trust Otto than him. Otto made sure that Daemon and Viserys were apart for all these years so he can manipulate Viserys and now Daemon sees the same thing happening to Rhaenyra. He always thought that Viserys was weak and now it’s frustrating him that Rhaenyra is showing weakness too. So when Rhaenyra tells him about the prophecy he snaps. Again i don’t excuse his actions but I understand his state of mind at that moment. On top of all the things that I mentioned above he also understands that Viserys never even trusted him enough to tell him about it. He never wanted him as his heir. So all that was building up on him since the beginning of the episode he lets out on Rhaenyra. You can see all the anger, frustration, sadness that was inside him this whole time. When he snaps out of it and lets her go you can see that even Rhaenyra is surprised that Viserys never told him and she is not mad at him. Rhaenyra always knew what kind of person he was and she always understood him because they are the same. She even says it at the beginning of the episode that “he has gone to madness".

Daemon and Rhaenyra share the blood of the dragon, they are the same, she understands him better than anyone. This is why she is not angry at him. At the end of the episode after Luke’s death they are on the same page again because Rhaenyra now understands that the war is inevitable and Daemon was right the whole time.

Do I wish they handled things a bit different? yes. Do I wish they included more scenes to better understand character motivations? yes. But I don’t think this episode is as bad for Rhaenyra and Daemon as everyone thinks it is. At the end of the day they still love each other and they are united by the same cause at least at this point of this story. I believe their relationship can easily go downhill in season 2 but honestly it all depends on the writers and how their interpretation of the book. For now I still love them and ship them and can’t wait for season 2.

(This is just my opinion and interpretation of the episode so if y’all don’t agree with me that’s completely fine. Also sorry if there’re any mistakes English is not my first language)

#daemon targaryen #house of the dragon #hotd spoilers #rhaenyra targaryen #daemon x rhaenyra #daemyra #house of the dragon spoilers

[idontevenknowhowtolife]

This is partly inspired by this post by @silver-dragonborn and is also prompted by the many good sister Rhaenyra fics i’ve been sucked into. I am just outlining this because i cannot write for shit.

Rhaenyra and Daemon leave for their walk earlier or something, or they come back earlier. Either way, the timeline matches up so that they are coming back to the castle, and stumble upon Otto kicking Aegon. Daemon doesn’t give a shit about Alicents kids, but he does care about Viserys and subsequently isnt just going to allow Otto to hurt one of his kids.  He steps in and “The Hand of the King finds himself without a hand.” (that is an awesome line from the post linked above).

Meanwhile Rhaenyra’s taken charge of Aegon, whose drunk, disorientated and in pain. He’s clinging to her and Aemond and Helaena have arrived (cause why not). The children are all apprehensive of her, bc of the whole fearmongering caused by Alicent and Rhaenyra notices somethings off, but shes charging past that and getting help. Say the maesters in Viserys room bc he always needs the maester and shes getting Aegon up and headed that way. Theres a quick detour to tell Daemon not to kill Otto just yet and to send some guards his way to force Otto under guard in his rooms. 

Daemon drags Otto away and Rhae and the kids head off. For plot purposes, lets say Rhaenyras strong enough to half carry Aegon all the way to their fathers rooms. They get there, the maesters attending Viserys, everyone is confused but they spring into action when they notice the state of Aegon. Aemond and Helaena are pushed off to the side while they sort out Aegon (who is quite worse off here then he seemed in the show cause angst) until Rhaenyra comes over and leads them to a couch with Viserys and asks for an explanation. The two are not very forthcoming, as the warnings from their mother and the care and actions of Rhaenyra are conflicting in their heads. Eventually, they get some things out of them and Daemon is sent for. He shows up, corroborates the story and Viserys is shocked and furious. He asks for the Alicent to be sent for but pauses when Aemond and Helaena tense up when shes mentioned. They explain that Alicents seen the punishments like this before and never stopped them and that shes hit Aegon before. The adults are furious but before tempers explode they send the kids to bed, putting them in a room near Viserys rooms. 

Rhaenyra, Daemon and Viserys discuss things, they send for Laenor and Rhaenys and Corlys and it is agreed that all the children (Baela and Rhaena included) shall be sent to Dragonstone with Daemon and Rhaenyra while Viserys heads back off to Kings Landing to you know, actually be the king. Dragonstone is a short ride anyway on dragonback so they can still be there for Ottos punishment and the subsequent fallout but the kids are protected.

On dragonstone it is quickly realised that Aegon, Aemond and Helaena have no knowledge or understanding of their Valyrian heritage beyond what is needed to command a dragon and due to being self taught, their ridings not as good or something. As such, bonding occurs via dragon riding lessons (and just rides for Aemond who hasnt bonded with Vhagar) and Valyrian lessons and fighting lessons. Eventually Syrax lays some eggs and they are given to Aemond and Rhaena. Theres a serious talk that Rhaenyra has with her siblings about how she is not going to kill them that helps further the healing process. 

If you want further scheming, say the Hightowers attempt to take back the kids or rebel or assasinate Rhaenyra as an attempt to push Aegon as heir that can backfire badly for them, but this story is ending up happily ever after with Queen Rhaenyra surrounded by family. Because we were bloody robbed of it.  

#rhaenyra targaryen #aegon ii #aemond targaryen #helaena targaryen #viserys ii #daemon targaryen #otto hightower #house of the dragon #hotd #alicent hightower #big sister rhaenyra #fix it #i cant write so im hoping someone else will write it for me #i wrote this while also refreshing ao3 hoping the fics have updated

[darklinaforever]

So, I'm tired of seeing people say that :

Alicent is not paranoid. That she's right to be afraid that Rhaenyra will come after her children once she takes power, because she's not the only one in the equation, and there's Daemon by his side. Proof of this is that he could be a threat to the children of Alicent: Daemon saying that he will put all the heads of the Greens on pikes before the next moon in episode 10, and that he ends up killing his grandson in the rest of the story.

Let's be clear. Alicent definitely begins to believe that her children are in danger from episode 5. What finally convinces her is that Rhaenyra did not tell her that she had lost her virginity with Criston Cole, so that She had gone directly against his misogynist beliefs about what a "good" woman should do, making her by extension somehow "evil". That, plus the fact that her father, having been fired in the same episode, kept hammering this idea into her head (namely that Rhaenyra, without including Daemon, would eliminate her children so that nothing gets in the way of his accession to the throne) for a long time ! So, yes, it's called paranoia!

Daemon wasn't in the equation at the time. And certainly not in episode 6, where he had been absent for 10 years, and where Alicent was very clearly convinced that Rhaenyra's ascension alone remained a threat to the lives of her children ! While so far, nothing has ever shown that Rhaenyra would have done this to her brothers and sisters, even if she did not frequent them! Not even that Daemon had the desire to have the Green children killed at that time ! And there was even less reason to think that Rhaenyra would have united with Daemon for this purpose, or that he would have convinced her to do so, or that Daemon was the real threat to her children, since, I repeat, He had been absent for 10 years already !

Then... Uh, did these people forget that Daemon's line in episode 10, is said after the Greens committed fucking treason by usurping Rhaenyra ? That they also hid for several days that his brother was dead so they could carry out the usurpation? That these revelations precisely caused the stillbirth of her baby with Rhaenyra ? Obviously they want to kill the Greens at this time ! Especially considering that he never had any affection for them, although he never showed any hatred for the Green kids, just indifference. Not to mention that he hates Otto and Alicent. So after all these events, it's even more worth thinking that Daemon will take the trouble to be pacifist with them as he was the years before.

Oh and... Really ? Is the murder of Alicent's grandson really being used as an example of justification for Alicent's belief that her children were in danger ?

Since this event has not yet taken place in the series, let's talk about the book. In it, unlike the series, Alicent was not at all worried about the survival of her children. It was a simple excuse to usurp Rhaenyra and prove herself right. I recall that she and Otto started plotting as soon as Aegon II was born, when Rhaenyra was only 10 years old, and Daemon had been exiled for years, and wouldn't return for a few more. This shows that Alicent actually expected Viserys to strip Rhaenyra of the title of heiress the instant she bore him a son. But since he didn't, she began actively trying to undermine Rhaenyra in various ways, including making sure her children hated her. What could have led Alicent to believe that a 10 Rhaenyra with a Daemon not even present at that time in years would have her son killed in the future ? The answer is simple. Absolutely nothing.

As for the murder of his grandson by Daemon, it was committed in response to the voluntary murder (and not an accident as in the series) of his stepson Lucerys Velaryon by Aemond. Daemon therefore did not order this murder out of a simple desire to kill the Greens, or sadistic pleasure, but rather out of revenge, in response to Aemond's act. On top of that, Blood and Cheese might actually be about Aegon II, not one of his sons. (even if I prefer to believe that the child was intentionally targeted because "A son for a son")

Going back to the series, it was already explained that Daemon had nothing to do with Alicent's original belief that Rhaenyra would have her children killed. But either way, Blood and Cheese will happen for the same reasons as in the book (unless the writers are being completely stupid), which is that Daemon will probably avenge Lucerys' death, that he has no way to know to be an accident, and even so, Aemond is fully responsible !

The Greens, whatever the version, series or book, attacked first, without valid reasons. I don't know why this is so hard for so many people to understand.

#house of the dragon #daemon x rhaenyra #daemyra #rhaenyra targaryen #daemon targaryen #rhaenyra x daemon #daemon and rhaenyra #rhaenyra and daemon #house targaryen #house of targaryen #hotd #anti hotd #fire and blood #team blacks #daenyra #anti greens stans #anti greens #anti team greens #anti alicent hightower #anti alicent stans

[an-abyss-of-stars]

She Whispered To Him In The Night - Part 5

(previously known as - It's Visceral And It's Cruel: Possible Moment)

Summary: Aemond spends the whole day trying to secure his betrothal to Rhaena, and while it's dramatic, it's not nearly as complicated as he thought it'd be.

Warnings: Mostly plot, like ALOT of plot. AND THEN a super smutty ending! Filthy finale!

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Ao3 | Sequel!

Tag list: @minim236 , @bohemiandreams99 , @neocil , @readsalot73 , @nettysnest , @avidreader73 (feel free to tell me if you want to be on the taglist or not)

P.S: It's the FINALE!!!!! Get ready for some fun scenes! I hope they're fun! Some dramatic kind of heart tugging scenes, not that dramatic. And then to for desert, you know, just as a treat! The long smutty BJ scene I promised!! Enjoyyyyyy!!

This chapter has like 12k words, but you all asked for a long finale, so I delivered!

-

Aemond had stirred at some point in the night, Rhaena now cuddled against him. She must’ve slipped off of him or rolled off in her sleep. He relished in their close proximity, being able to hold and caress her soft warm skin. When they were finally married, he imagined he’d spend countless hours revelling in just how soft his Lady wife felt against him. Every inch of her would be his to hold to and claim, no one would be able to tell him differently. 

He’d cut down anyone who tried. 

Anyone who dared touch her or hurt her, would answer to him. 

Aemond would’ve wagered it to be the middle of the night, the stars still hung low while the luminous moon had reached its peak in the inky black sky. Now, self preservation should’ve screamed for him to make a stealthy escape now. Should anyone actually catch them, Daemon specifically, Aemond was not in a position to fend off the furious Rogue Prince. He hadn’t even brought his sword with him, so he’d truly be at a disadvantage. He supposes he would also like to make sure that Rhaena would not be caught in such a compromising situation with him. 

But…

There was something quite devilishly attractive about the idea of being caught with her. Barring an enraged Daemon wielding Dark Sister, anyone else of importance who caught them together would surely have the good sense to simply betroth them. Rhaena made mention that she figured his grandfather, Otto Hightower, would make it his goal to smear her name. 

Your grandfather would probably start a smear campaign to label me a 'whore seductress' or 'unworthy' to be your bride.

It was a fact he couldn’t entirely dismiss. A scowl formed on his face just thinking about it, for it certainly sounded like something his grandfather would do, all in the name of trying to elevate his own station. Put his own blood on the Iron Throne. He knew of his grandfather’s intentions for him, the Lady Floris Baratheon was meant to be a match for him. Draw an alliance between his family and the Baratheon’s through a marriage pact. Steal their loyalty before his half-sister could make any agreeable negotiations with them. 

No.

No, it had nothing to do with whether he wanted his naive half-sister or his idiotic brother on the throne. Even when it should seem obvious to anyone with eyes that his elder brother would sooner destroy the realm than save it. But if his grandfather insisted on being a blind fool, aiming to install a puppet King for his own ends. Instead of having the good sense to at least back Aemond for the throne, he might've felt more loyal to the cause. For he knew he'd make a far better King than Aegon ever would.

But alas, he was no more than a second son, there'd be no such loyalty unless Aegon were to die. And as much as he loathed his older brother, he did not entirely wish death upon him. 

In either case, for all his grandfather and mother seemed to be fearful of Rhaenyra, she'd done nothing really. He suspected if his elder sister truly wished to see them all killed, she'd have stayed in King's Landing and stayed her claim. Spread her poison and turn the people against his family, as Otto has done her. 

The Realm’s Delight had made no move against them. 

No, she may have been naive and annoyingly favoured, but murderous he thought not. For she was the only of the King's children to truly have his favour, if she wanted them gone…she certainly could have managed a way by now. 

Hmm…to choose Floris would be to secure his mother, Helaena, and her twins’ safety…but it would also mean siding with his grandfather, a man who never cared for anyone but himself.

No, Otto would have to leave Aemond out of such plans.

Aemond had no intention of suffering through an ill planned marriage for the machinations of his self-interested grandfather.

He would not be cowed into marrying some plain-faced young girl. Floris Baratheon would be nothing but an unwilling bride, thrust upon him for the sole purpose of forming an alliance he ultimately cared little for. He’d spoken with her, been forced to go on strolls with her, danced with her…truly an agonizing experience. The girl was dull as fuck. More importantly she kept looking at him as he was prime to lose his temper, run her through for the slightest inconvenience.  

She truly thought him a monster.

Which…maybe she wasn’t wrong, surely he’d thought of slicing her head clean from her body. If it only meant he wouldn’t have to see the look in her eyes every time he neared her. As if he were some creature sent to destroy her. No, he wouldn’t suffer through such a pairing. He wouldn't suffer through having to settle for mistresses and whores alike because Floris offered him no such satisfaction.

Not when Rhaena Targaryen so clearly existed. 

How was it that the whole of their family could be so blind to the obvious match they would make. Her father hellbent on trying to marry off to idiotic lesser men like Cregan Stark, Corwyn Corbray…or worse yet he was quite certain he’d overheard Rhaenyra mention her pup Lucerys as a viable option. 

As if they’d have any idea how to love a dragon.

What was little Lucerys even going to do with a fully grown woman, as if he’d have the faintest idea of how to please her. 

Aemond pulled Rhaena closer to him, her warm back was pressed safely against his chest, her plush bottom nuzzled against his pelvis. His strong arms wrapped around her waist, keeping her in his secure hold. 

If his grandfather thought he could take his Rhaena away from him, he would surely have his work cut out for him. Aemond wasn’t one to ask for much, he took what he needed and did what he must. He never asked for more, never bothered to truly think about his own happiness, he just did what was necessary. But now…he wanted more. He could envision an actual future where’d be happy, with himself, with his life. And that all started with Rhaena. 

Come tomorrow, he’d speak to his mother first, complicated as their relationship was, he hoped that as she had always wanted nothing but his happiness…in a sense. He hoped she’d be able to see how granting him Rhaena would grant him his happiness. How even she herself did not truly want Aegon to rule, if she could settle for peace…she’d see the value in binding their family together this way. She’d have to go against her own father to do it, but if Otto insisted on being an obstacle, Aemond wasn’t entirely against disposing of the old man. 

Next he’d face his half-sister Rhaenyra. Which in all honesty, had only made him slightly nervous. He thought her naive in a sense of how she managed her position here, but that did not mean he couldn’t see the dragon that lay within her. He knew her to be an otherwise reasonable person, he’d never seen her blinded by feral rage or fury. She wasn’t one to scheme and brood like his grandfather, and she seemed to keep her emotions in tact much like his own mother...for the most part. He’d have to make it his mission to leave Lucerys alone, but if he could promise that. If he could speak to her alone without her children or Daemon present. He was sure he could reach an agreement with her, she was supposedly the one who always wanted peace. Her word meant more than Daemon’s truly as she was the one who held the true power, she was the chosen heir. He knew her to care for and love her step-daughters as much as her own children in either case, if all else failed, he’d have to play for emotion. He made Rhaena happy, and if Rhaenyra wanted her daughter’s happiness, she’d grant this betrothal. He could be diplomatic, Aemond understood the importance of politics…he’d use reason with Rhaenyra. 

Lastly, he’d hope to approach his father. The man may have been on death’s door for as long as he could remember. But he wasn’t dead yet. And King Viserys, as he’s known him, had been the main leader behind the idea that their family needed to set aside their differences and become one unit. Aemond may not have truly cared for that sentiment on the whole, but he’d certainly use it to get what he wanted. The marriage he sought would satisfy that old fool’s wishes. In his mind, even though he never felt his father��s love truly, he was sure he’d be the easiest to win over. Once again, Aemond supposes he’d leverage how this match would bring about Rhaena’s happiness, for maybe his father would feel more sympathetic to his niece’s wants than his own. 

Daemon and his grandfather…there was no real plan for them. He supposed he’d have his sword at the ready for Daemon, he wasn’t sure he could defeat the battle seasoned Rogue Prince, but he wouldn’t need to. He’d just need to fend him off. Reason with him the very real likelihood that Rhaena may be carrying his child, Daemon may kill him if he wished, but he’d be killing his grandchild’s father. He knew his uncle could be heartless when the mood suited, but he could not and would not be heartless if Rhaena was involved. He was a hard man to read, but Aemond had seen it, the way Daemon still very obviously loved all his children, his daughters especially. 

Now, Aemond’s grandfather on the other hand knew better than to raise his hand towards Aemond anymore, so he’d most likely attempt to manipulate him verbally. Pour more poison into her ears about how awful the other half of his family was. Malicious intent held to its most potent peak. But it would matter not…if all went well, by the time Otto got to him, he would have already approached the ears who mattered. 

Aemond Targaryen was a dragon and he deserved his own dragoness. It seemed his family did not see him fit enough to bestow one upon him, so he chose the one for himself. 

He wanted Rhaena.

So he would do all of this. 

If it secured his Rhaena to him, he would do this. 

In a moment, he’d pull himself from Rhaena’s limp sleeping form stealthily so as not to wake her. He slipped out of bed and returned with a warmed damp cloth to care for his Lady. Cleaning from her the mixture of their spent essence and the slight blood that he was sure came her broken maidenhead. The heated water was meant to soothe her, he noticed her move her head only sleepily before laying still once again. He hoped it had. When she was sufficiently cleaned, he cleaned himself and then returned to her. 

Pulling her back into his warm embrace.

Inhaling her soft Lavender scent, letting himself drift slowly back to sleep.

-

Aemond woke the next morning with a slight sense of dread, the startling thought that he may have dreamt the entire night before, haunted his mind. It didn’t help matters, that he could no longer feel Rhaena's comfortable weight resting against him, causing his chest to constrict just slightly. 

He was laying on his side, and she wasn't in front of him anymore, nor was any part of her touching him. 

He quickly felt the bed behind him, desperate to find her. His mind was already running through a list of reasons as to why she'd left him. Maybe she hated it, all of it…she might've changed her mind about him and his offered betrothal. Or worse yet…she just regretted ever laying with him. Ran to her brothers or worse her father to have them deal with him. 

Or his mind was just being overly dramatic, because as he reached further back behind him, he thankfully brushed his hand against something plush and warm.

Aemond turned himself over as quickly as possible, only when his eye landed on his sleeping beauty, did his heart finally calm. 

Rhaena Targaryen, peacefully sleeping next to him. Curled up in her sheets and furs, her silver locs splayed out across her pillow as her lovely face held the most serene expression upon it. 

Truly she was a vision, especially now in the early morning light. Dawn had barely begun to peek through, the candles had died out, but as palest pinks, oranges and blues glowed off in the morning sky. The light danced across her tawny skin in the most illuminescent way.

His breathing finally began to level out as he quickly wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her back to him. She moaned sleepily, nuzzling against his chest as her hands slid under his arms, caressing his back sleepily with soft strokes.

Then and only then had he let out a heavy sigh. The heat he felt only with her once again began to course through him. He let his fingers run through her locs, gently soothing her back to her deep sleep. Kissing her forehead tenderly, tucking her head beneath his chin. 

Having her in his arms had brought him back to that innately comfortable…home-like feeling he'd discovered just the night before with her. Without her, he felt fractured, broken, that dark abyss that usually swallowed him whole throughout most days would suddenly return to him. 

That lonely angry little boy he once was, the one that sometimes still resided within him. Desperate for someone to love him, truly love him without restrictions or needed compensation. Without needing to be valuable or worth something else in one way or another. 

But with her, with Rhaena…he felt wanted. 

More than just needed, but actually wanted…chosen…him…just him. Even in her sleep she happily clung to him, caressed him, and accepted him.

How could he ever just let her go, his beautiful Princess who held all of his attention, occupied nearly every thought in his mind, the one who gave his feral tendencies a true target, a fixed point. His Princess who could stun him with just a look, made every effort to stand toe to toe with him, she could bend him to her whims like no other. He was ready to upset his grandfather’s long laid plans just for her. He didn’t care about sides, Greens or Blacks. Whoever would simply grant him his Rhaena. 

She was the exception for while he was certain she'd obey him if she had to, she would almost certainly make him work for it.

How could he not ache for such a bride. 

She was the only woman he actually wanted bound to him, she made marriage something he wanted…needed. He needed her officially, needed her name, her body, her soul, all made his through fire and blood. He wished for a Valyrian wedding, he'd only read about the ritual in historical texts, but the overarching theme of sharing his blood with hers, binding themselves to only each other and becoming one…he wanted it. 

He'd have no other man dare to lay their eyes on his lovely wife, any slight against her would be a slight against him and no matter the fool, they'd surely die for it. He'd happily kill anyone for her, anyone she wished to perish, he'd relish in destroying them.

Whatever he may feel for her father and his half-sister, theirs was a marriage he envied. A love he wanted, something so wild and entrancing that only two Targaryens could ever have it. Daemon would always be ready to slay anyone and everyone if they dared to come against his dear Rhaenyra or precious family. 

Try as Aemond might, it wasn't exactly his goal to emulate Daemon Targaryen, but as far as men went in his family…he found Daemon to be a suitable role model…in some regards. The man might be temperamental enough to annihilate a region for slighting his family, but he'd only do such an archaic thing for them. His love for his family was his centre point for everything. 

And Aemond wished to be that for Rhaena. Maybe he wished to slaughter a few more people along the way. He knew she'd do her best to stop him when she could, and he'd relish the challenge. 

His beautiful Dragon Princess, his Valyrian wife. 

Children with Rhaena was also a far more enticing thought, of course he'd enjoy the making of their children, he most certainly would. But he was becoming more and more obsessed with the idea of having these little creations that were partly his and partly hers. Another piece that bound them, he wanted several with her, he wanted their home to be this big loving family. Just them and their children. 

There was the future he wanted so clearly resting in his arms, he'd made his plan already. He just needed to execute it. 

He would do this. He'd secure her hand and secure their futures together.

"You're not sleeping," he'd heard Rhaena mumble sleepily against his chest, pulling herself slightly loose from his tight hold so she could look up at him. Her brows had creased on her angelic face, lips in a slight pout as her delicate pale violet eyes peered up at him. Once again causing his heart to pick up speed.

Aemond smirked down at her, "neither are you," eyeing her lips closely. He missed the feel of them, the softness, the pressure, the wanting. 

He found himself leaning towards them as she bit back a smile, "I can blame you for that, it seems my dragon grew restless in the night," 

My dragon.

At that, he pulled her up to his lips, he took her hungrily, needily, swallowing everything she gave him. Tasting her sweet mouth thoroughly, drawing soft moans from her lips. Causing his hardening cock to twitch against her stomach. He nuzzled his face into the crook of her neck, nearly growling, "I want you," 

"You just had me last night," she giggled against him, "did that not satiate your need, my beast."

"Well your beast hungers for more," he kissed her favoured spot where her neck and her jaw joined, pulling her body flush against his, letting her feel just how much he wanted her. 

"Aemond," she'd gasped, pulling back from him, "I can't, my…nether regions still ache."

He'd groaned against her, breathing raggedly. He might've let the pride of her innocent admission swell through him, clearly he had fucked her well the night before. He smiled rakishly down at her, pulling her back to him. He’d lowered his lips to hers just as- 

“OH FUCK! What the fuck is this?,” both Aemond and Rhaena’s head snapped up to look at the intruder…fucking Seven Hells…it was her sister, Baela Targaryen. 

Well…he hadn’t really accounted for her.

Baela quickly shut the door behind her, eyes wide as she stared at both them. Rhaena in her haste seemed to be attempting to push Aemond out of the bed, hilariously, since he wasn’t budging at all. If anything he kept his arms wrapped tightly around her to keep close.

“Are you insane,” Baela half-laughed, crossing the room, “I mean both of you, truly! Do you have any idea what you’ve done? How…if literally anyone else were to happen upon you two…upon this. If father were see this- ”

Rhaena had sat up quickly, trying and failing to unravel herself from Aemond’s hold. She had managed to pull her sheets and furs up over her chest. Her eyes wide and wondering her rooms as if she was still thinking on how to respond to her sister. Aemond for his part, had taken to sitting up as well. Resting his back casually against the headboard of the bed as he kept Rhaena in his arms. Eyeing Baela cautiously, for Baela was no threat to him.What worried him, was if Baela thought to simply just enter her sister’s chambers with no warning. Would Rhaenyra also do so…or worse…Daemon.

The lack of a weapon at his disposal really did not put Aemond at ease when he thought of Daemon. He could certainly brawl with the man, but that didn’t seem ideal.

Finally Rhaena sighed, her head resting back against Aemond’s shoulder before locking eyes with her sister, “Baela…look, I know this looks bad-”

“It looks worse than bad, dear sister,” Baela scoffed, gathering Rhaena’s nightgown from the floor and handing it over to her, “maids on their way to you. To bathe you and dress you, and our step-mother and Helaena are sure to follow because…”

Rhaena’s eyes widened, “fuck…tea with the Queen.” Her hands shot to hair, sinking into her locs and pulling. 

Aemond’s brows creased at that, why were they all having tea together with his mother? Surely, Helaena made sense…but his mother? 

Before he could ask, Baela turned to him. The stern fury of an elder sibling protecting her young sister was clear on her face, “you have to go. Before they get here. I…I don’t know what my sister sees in you, but clearly it seems to be something mutual. So…I won’t tell anyone. Because surely our father would have a fit and he would come after you. But, you had better be serious about her. Treating my sister with the honour and respect she is due. For if you hurt her, I’ll come after you myself.”

Bold threat, he commended it. 

And honestly he’d expect nothing else, he knew the sisters were close. And if Baela was an image of her father, he definitely saw an element of Daemon within her words. 

He nodded in her direction, a motion of understanding and respect.

With that she nodded back, “Good. Now I’ll ensure no one enters while you make your escape, I assume you used the tunnels.”

It seems Daemon had informed both of his daughters of Maegor’s tunnel system.

“Why exactly are you helping,” Aemond drawled, eyeing her closely, “your sister's feelings aside, you hate me as much as your precious Jacaerys, do you not. A psychotic one-eyed cretin, you once called me.”

Rhaena seemed to be shrinking in place as her lover and her sister battled through glares and verbal lashings. 

“Words I won’t renege until you prove yourself otherwise. But, look, Aemond. I don’t have to like you, but if my sister does…I shall have to learn to tolerate you. And it’s not as if I’m blind, I’m quite certain half the court has seen how you two look at one another. In a way, I suppose this was inevitable,” Baela sighed, “I will not move against you. But you must secure her hand, my sister deserves to be happy. And if you do that for her, then so be it.”

Aemond’s eye stayed on Baela, it was odd looking at her now. Twins she and Rhaena may have been, but facially they looked nothing alike. They shared the same skin tone and hair colour, her eyes were seemingly the same shade of pale violet. But nothing about her glistened the way it did with Rhaena. There was an obvious hardness that seemed to come with Baela, she was quite proficient with the sword, he’d seen her train. Hmm, it was odd…but he almost looked forward to adding her amongst his list of allies. His soon to be Good-sister.

She clearly meant to protect her sister at all costs while also holding her best interests at heart. He could admire that. Surely she’d offer the same love and fierce protection for her soon to be nieces and nephews. 

Baela turned towards the door, stepping out sleekly. 

With that, both he and Rhaena made an effort to hurry out of bed to dress themselves. 

Once they had finished, before she could dart away from him, he grabbed a hold of her forearm and pulled her back towards him. Gazing down at her, his chest slightly heaving, “worry not, I will secure our betrothal today.”

She took a deep shaky breath, exhaling heavily, “okay. I should…try and talk to my stepmother…and soften my father’s resolve, maybe?” her brows had creased, her pale eyes peering up at him. Aemond gazed into her eyes, trying to decipher what emotion lay beneath them. She was worried, scared…yet still somewhat hopeful. 

That was good.

He reached for her, cupping cheeks in his hands as he drew her lips to his. He let his lips roam hers softly, her tongue seeking his, before he gently pulled away, “Rhaenyra will probably see sense, your father…try if you wish, but I will deal with him.”

“Aemond,” she’d replied with an admonishing tone,

He only smirked, kissing her cheek, “I won’t kill him…I suppose I shall try not to fight him either.” 

Well…what he really meant was that he wouldn’t initiate it. If Daemon wished to draw his sword, Aemond wouldn’t dream of standing there empty handed. With that settled, he made his way towards the hidden entrance behind her tapestry. He made one longing glance back at his Princess, her bright eyes piercing his heart as he made to close the entrance door.

-

When he returned to his dimly lit chambers, just as neat and minimal as he'd left them, he called for a bath. Watching closely as the maids prepared his tub for him, boiling hot water with his favoured added oils of lemon extract and heated spices. 

Once the servants shuffled out of his chambers, he stripped himself down and stepped into the steaming hot water. Aemond was a dragon, the hot water only felt soothing and comforting as opposed to actually burning him. 

As he sank into his tub, he felt as if he finally had a moment to really let everything sink in. 

It was almost unreal, last night he'd gone to bed in these very chambers. Laying abed by himself agonizing over Rhaena Targaryen for the hundredth time. Needy and wanting for her. And somehow, the foolish idea to steal away to her chambers and seduce her…had actually worked. 

He was quite certain he'd only have Rhaena in his wildest dreams, the fact that she had wanted him just as much as he wanted her…

The way she kissed him, as if she'd always wanted to kiss him like that. Consume him, devour him, possess him. 

Sinking further into his bath water, he thought of how he'd gotten to appreciate her lovely perky breasts, how she'd allowed him to feast on her sweetly drenched cunt. How she all but insisted he take her, bed her, ravish her…fuck her.

I thought you wished to bed me, Aemond,

Did you not wish to fuck me…put a child in me,

Oh, he'd committed every moment of it to memory. His ethereal goddess, her soft curvy body writhing beneath his desperately, begging him to let her come. Moaning his name with complete abandon, pulling his hair so viciously…a decadent feeling. The pure overwhelming release he'd felt that night, unmatched by any other. 

He was desperate for more, desperate to take her again. He had several positions in mind and he knew his soon-to-be sweet little wife would love them. For Rhaena may have been a cautious elegant Lady of the court in public view, but she was primed to be a far more vicious dragon in front of him…one who wanted for him and his cock. He sought to please that dragon, his dragon. 

Though he'd have to secure her hand first, so he scrubbed himself thoroughly, submerging himself entirely to rinse his hair, before pulling himself from the tub. 

As he dried and dressed himself, a sleek black ensemble. He finished buttoning his doublet and he reached for his boots. Finally combing his hair neatly before tying up the upper half, then he reached for his-

Fuck.

His eyepatch.

In his haste to leave Rhaena's rooms, he must've left it behind. In all honesty he couldn't even recall where he'd discarded it, he tore it off so early in their activities…maybe it was near the bed. No…the chaise? 

Aemond sighed at his own reflection in the mirror, slightly annoying as this was, it was not detrimental. He had a spare. He only hoped no one would find it in the meanwhile and derail his plans. He could hope Rhaena had found it and hidden it safely for if the maids grabbed a hold of it…their whispers were sure to reach either her father or his grandfather…if not both.

But he could not focus on that issue at the moment, he still had meetings to procure. He intended to see his father first. As it seemed his initial order of meetings would have to shift, if his mother and Rhaenyra were taking tea with Rhaena, Baela and Helaena…he couldn’t truly treat with either of their mothers then. So he’d see his father first, secure his approval and then inform his mother and half-sister. By then, maybe Rhaena might’ve spoken to them about the possibility of a betrothal to him. With their resolves softened and the King's approval, it should work…it would work.

Aemond strapped his spare black leather patch over his neatly combed pale platinum hair. Securing his sword and his dagger to his waist, he made his way towards his chambers door, but the closer he got the more of a commotion he heard. Something smacking, steal rustling, but no swords clashing. It sounded like a brawl of sorts, as grunting and cursing soon followed, and the calm sardonic drawl of the one person Aemond was hoping to avoid for the moment, rang through clear as day. 

Aemond pulled open his chamber door, and there stood Daemon Targaryen.

The picture of health, his black doublet only barely creased, his pale hair still neatly tied off in usual half up-half down style. His knuckles were slightly bruised but there was not a scratch on him otherwise. However it would seem Ser Criston Cole was now sporting a swollen cheek and a split lip, spitting blood onto the stone floor of the hallway as he held himself up against the stone wall opposite Aemond’s door. Heaving as he held his chest, it seemed Daemon had done a number on the Dornish Knight.

In true Daemon fashion, it looked as if he could care less about the bleeding Knight now that Aemond had opened his door, without a word he locked eyes with his uncle as Daemon slammed something against Aemond's chest and stepped roughly past him, entering his chambers. 

“Fuck, Daemon you cannot!” Cole spat, attempting to barge in. Aemond glanced down and that was when he realized to his slight horror, Daemon had all but handed Aemond’s eyepatch to him…the one he’d forgotten in Rhaena’s rooms about an hour ago. Well, he was fucked. There’d be no avoiding his uncle now. Daemon may have been last on his list to deal with, but it seemed he’d have to push his uncle up to the top of said list. 

Blocking Cole’s entry with his arm, Aemond only glared at the knight, “leave it, Cole. Clearly you weren’t able to stop him out here, there’s no point in you coming inside. Just…guard the door,” he said tersely, closing the door very nearly in Cole's face. The temperamental Knight was truly the least of his worries at the moment, even as he heard Cole yell through the door, “it’s not wise my Prince! Daemon is a-”

He’d missed the end of that sentence, but it had less to do with the door muffling his words and more to do with Aemond keeping a steady gaze on the enraged dragon who stood before him. 

Aemond knew he could take Daemon, if it came down to it…he was sure he could go toe to toe with the legendary Daemon Targaryen. He was also sure that they’d probably cancel each other out, and in daring to raise a sword to Daemon, he’d be ensuring his own demise whether he took Daemon down with him or not. 

He’d have to play this smart, for while he had promised Rhaena he would not fight her father, he didn’t intend to simply stand here and let the angry father slay him. While normally, Aemond would relish in taunting his nephews even if it brought about the older man’s ire. In this case, Aemond knew his actions with Rhaena were beyond a taunt. The Rogue Prince would surely feel justified in cutting him down if he gave him a reason to, and he definitely had…so he needed to convince him to do otherwise. 

“Care to explain why you were in my daughter’s chambers, nephew?” Daemon said mildly, his voice unnaturally even as he made his way over to the roaring fire in the hearth. Peering down into the flames, “what possible reason would you have to be there? Alone with her I’d wager. And to leave in such a haste…without your favoured accessory at that.” Daemon had motioned to the eyepatch in Aemond's hand, and with that, he found himself stiffening just slightly.

It was a trap if he ever heard one. 

Daemon sought to ask innocent questions he already knew the answers to. Aemond would not play this game, he had his sword strapped to him, he felt secure enough in just speaking the plain truth. His jaw clenched before he’d even realized it, his eye burning a hole into his uncle’s back, “I think you know, uncle. Let us speak plainly, shall we.” Stepped casually over to the fireplace, eyeing his uncle’s proximity to himself with caution. He kept his hand on the hilt of his sword, just to remain ready. 

“So you do not deny it. You stole her innocence,” Daemon growled, whipping around to meet his gaze. Leave it to Daemon to assume Aemond must’ve stolen it, though he supposed no father would relish in having this conversation to begin with.

Although, the thought of stealing Rhaena’s innocence had brought the memory of last night’s events flashing through his mind just briefly, long enough to pull bitter grin on, “she gave it to me willingly.” 

Daemon snarled at that, in one large step he stood directly in front of Aemond, “it would not be wise to taunt me, boy.”

Aemond’s teeth grinded sharply, he would not cow to him. Legendary Prince or not, his uncle was just a man…a protective father…he could be reasoned with. He swallowed harshly, “you’re dancing around the obvious, uncle. Give her to me. I want her. Wed us and I’ll take her as she is, in all likelihood she’s probably already be caring my child-”

The fire crackled for one brief moment, and then the heated room felt ice cold.

Dark Sister’s cold blade was pressed directly against Aemond’s neck, his uncle had done it in a blink, a small knick made near his Addam’s Apple. Daemon’s deep violet eyes burned into Aemond’s, the blood of the dragon had never been more potent. The saturated orange glow of the fire light seemed to overtake the daylight bleeding into the room, all lighting the harsh edges and angles of Daemon’s face dramatically. As dangerous as the conversation had become, it was clear to him that his uncle was showing some level of restraint. If Daemon wished him truly dead…he’d have taken his head clear from his body already. 

But even still, Aemond could not reach for his own blade in this position. Daemon would finish him before he’d even get to pull the blade from its sheath. It was a poor position to be, and Aemond nearly snarled at the annoyance of it. 

“She is not meant for you,” Daemon gritted, “my sweet girl deserves someone who’d treat her with love and kindness. Two things I don’t recall you being all that capable of. How am I to know you didn’t force yourself upon her in the first place.”

Aemond found himself bristling at the accusation, “I would never,” he bit off. Watching as his uncle eyed him closely, Dark Sister’s point stayed level at his throat, but he could see something in Daemon’s eyes. Aemond’s quick fiery response had meant something, so he quickly added more to it, “Rhaena is a Princess of House of Targaryen, she deserves more than just a political arrangement, no? I could show her love and kindness. But more importantly she deserves a true dragon who would ride for her, kill for her and die for her. I thought you believed in strengthening the blood of Old Valyria. Wed her to me, wed us in the tradition of our house and we’ll usher in a new age of Targaryens.”

He watched as Daemon’s nose flared, jaw clenching tightly, eyes like the deepest dark Amethyst stone bore into his own. 

He did not know his uncle all that well, everything he knew about him was through tales and stories told about him. Whispers and legends. The few times he’d interacted with him, he’d seen the blood of the dragon roar within him. But one thing he was certain of, was how devoted his uncle was to their Valyrian culture. How adamant he was about the pure blood of Old Valyria. He knew Daemon hated him for the half Andal blood that flowed through his veins. But if Daemon could love his step-sons, consider Lucerys as a viable option for Rhaena…boys who were only half Targaryen themselves as well. 

Surely he could see how Aemond would be the superior option. He who spent his years engrossing himself in their histories and their ways, he who flew the largest dragon in the world. He didn’t need Daemon to love him or accept him fully, he just needed him to accept him enough to betroth his daughter to him.   

But aggravatingly so, it would seem he’d never get to hear that answer. Before his uncle could give his approval or denial, they both heard a commotion outside his chamber doors. One by one, their family forced their way in. Rhaena, Baela, Jacaerys, Rhaenyra and his mother, Alicent. 

“Kepa, no!” both Rhaena and Baela had exclaimed at nearly the same time, Baela made her way over to her father as Rhaena ran over to Aemond with no hint of hesitation. Hooking her arm around his, her eyes pleading with her father to put his weapon down. It certainly emboldened him seeing her stand by him even with her father holding a sword towards his neck. 

Aemond glanced toward his mother, who seemingly walked right past the wounded Cole, paying him little to no mind as she glared Daemon down, “you can sheath your weapon, my Prince. A deal has been made.”

“She’s right, Daemon. Lower your sword,” Rhaenyra had sighed wearily, “leave it to men to go to such extremes. We’ve discussed the matter with Rhaena already, she has already informed us of her feelings and wants. Alicent and I have come to an agreement, a betrothal between the two would work best in everyone’s interests.”

Everyone might've been a bit of a reach, seeing as clearly his uncle wouldn't have agreed and Aemond was sure his grandfather wouldn't either.

But he supposes if the majority was in favour of it, then two dangerous men could be placated.

Daemon's clenched jaw only softened as he gazed down at the way his daughter was looking at him, how she held onto Aemond, “my sweet daughter, is this truly what you want? Is he the one you want?”

It seemed as if everyone had quieted as they waited for her response, but Aemond observed his Princess closely. If she noticed, she did not show it, her focus only stayed locked in her intense battle of emotional eye contact with her father. She smiled warmly and nodded, “yes, kepa. He is who I want. I want to marry Aemond.”

It was the most intricate little thing, a twitch really. The way the Rogue Prince’s face only slightly softened for Rhaena. He would not let it show, not here, not with so many witnesses. But it was as Aemond suspected, Rhaenyra’s hound or not…the man did have a heart. Especially for his daughters.

Aemond gave a fleeting glance towards Jacaerys' stoic straight posture, he noticed his nephew had in fact given him a slight nod. Whether it was approval or forced acceptance, it mattered not. The matter was settled, and Rhaena had been the one to secure two…three of their biggest hurdles…with their mothers’ on board, Daemon as well, somewhat. There was only one person left. King Viserys.

Reluctantly it would seem, Daemon finally lowered his sword and sheathed it. His uncle added a hard stinging clap to his shoulder, a bitter smirk accompanied it, “it seems I am to congratulate you, nephew. Or soon to be, son-in-law.”

Those words were most definitely a coded threat. But even as his shoulder burned slightly, Aemond wouldn’t miss the chance to annoy the older man, “why thank you, uncle…or should I start calling you kepa as well,”

It seemed everyone in the room could see Daemon’s eyes darkening, so Rhaena quickly tried to usher Aemond closer to the door and away from her father’s fury. As Baela signaled Rhaena back over to her to help keep their father from lunging at Aemond. Rhaenyra may have been biting back a smile as she shook her head, placating her husband with a kiss to his cheek. 

As Aemond reached the door, his mother took his arm and sighed, “must you rile him further, you've made this situation complicated enough as it is. Now, your father wishes to speak with you in his chambers.” Her exasperated brown eyes had softened when she saw the look on his face, she patted his hand assuring him the meeting was nothing to worry about. 

Or at least that's what he assumed she'd meant. With that he kissed his mother’s hand, and exited the room swiftly. 

He was certain he still heard Daemon bickering, which seemed to be only met with the women surrounding him giggling and chuckling. 

A part of him wanted to stay, hold Rhaena close to him as he heard what the full stipulations of their agreed upon betrothal would be. But at the same time, if he could secure his father's answer as quickly as possible, he could always seek his mother or half-sister out later and learn the rest then.

All he needed to do was secure his father's approval and Rhaena would be his…officially. 

-

His father’s chambers were not a place he often visited…or felt welcome in. Clouded with vapors meant to aid his breathing, it made the room feel incredibly stuffy and suffocating. Bright rays of the early afternoon light poured in, dancing along the many curves and carvings of his father’s massive intricately built model of Old Valyria. 

The model only grew by the year…or so it seemed when he was a child, but it seemed his father had stopped adding to it in recent years. His poor health must’ve gotten in the way of it. 

Hesitantly he stepped towards the bedchamber, he could see his father’s corpse-like silhouette already laying abed through the canopy. Pulling back the veil, he looked upon his father's deteriorating face. Less with the fondness a child has for their parent but more with a strange sort of pity and an odd numbing pain. 

He may have hated the man, but it was a numbing sort of hatred, he wasn’t happy to see his father so broken down either.

“Father,” Aemond spoke clearly, rousing the older man from whatever light slumber he’d been drawn into. 

“Daemon?” his frail voice had rasped, “no…no…my boy, my son. Aemond, you've come.”

Aemond’s brow arched, this was a bad start to whatever this conversation was meant to be about. But he’d have to entertain it if he wished to claim what he was after. He squared his shoulders, clasping his hands tightly wound behind his back, “father, I was told you wished to speak to me. About my betrothal to Rhaena Targaryen, I'd wager.”

“Mmm…yes,” the King breathed deeply, attempting to prop himself up. Aemond, cold hearted as he was, didn’t really wish to sit and watch the frail man struggle for an unknown amount of time, so he somewhat roughly pulled his father into a seated position, letting Viserys breathe in shakily before speaking, “ah, thank you, son. I wished…to hear your side of this betrothal matter. Your grandfather, Otto, had imposed upon me that you wished to wed a…Lady Floris. Floris Baratheon, I believe. But today, Rhaenyra and your mother have both come to me with the word that you should like to be wed to your cousin, Rhaena.”

Aemond was somewhat surprised Otto had even told Viserys about his match ideas for Floris Baratheon. It was certainly a scheme, but he supposed, scheme or not, Otto was only the Hand, he’d still need the King and Queen’s approval for such a deal to be sealed technically. And it seemed his mother was more on the fence about the Baratheon match than he thought, since she quite easily seemed to find common cause with Rhaenyra over a match with Rhaena. 

Aemond cleared his throat, “I have no interest in Lady Floris.”

“I thought as much,” Visery chuckled, a slight cough following afterwards, “I saw how you dragged your feet during every interaction with that young girl. Besides, your eyes only seem to land on only one other anyhow. Dear Rhaena has had all of your attention these past few moons, has she not. I'm not blind yet, dear boy.” 

Aemond’s eye had widened at that, swallowing a lump in his throat. Clearly his father’s brain wasn’t as clouded as most seemed to think. 

Aemond found himself thinking back to what Baela had said earlier that morning.

I’m quite certain half the court has seen how you two look at one another.

He’d thought she'd been exaggerating, but it seemed she might've been right afterall. 

Aemond kept his posture straight, eyeing his father, "my mother and my sister are correct, I wish to wed Rhaena. Daemon has also given his approval. And I think you’d find a match between the two of us would mend the fracture between our family. Strengthen the Targaryen household and usher in a new age of peace."

Viserys had chuckled once again, an oddly warm sound he was certain was meant to only be reserved for Rhaenyra and her children. But yet, Aemond was now receiving that warmth for the first time in years. His father slowly turned to look upon his second son, violet eyes diluted with age, "yes I realize the political benefits for such a match, but I wish to know if you want this. I've played my part in arranging a few unhappy marriages in this family for political alliances. You may ask Daemon about that matter…his first marriage. See while I admire your resolve to mend this family, I do wish to see you happy, my son."

That would be a first, surely. 

In either case he sighed, his hands clasped behind his back had begun to twitch just slightly, "I…" he found himself puzzled for a moment. What did his father wish to hear? If he'd observed Aemond looking for Rhaena from afar, the King surely already knew how his son felt. Did he just wish to hear him utter the words? 

"I know Daemon and Rhaenyra seemed set upon matching her with Lord Stark or Ser Corbray, possibly even your grandson Lucerys. But I assure you I am the best match for her," Aemond kept his voice levelled, even listing the names of his previously thought competition made his blood boil, "she's happiest with me. She has chosen me. She would want for nothing, I would protect her far better than any other man."

"Of that, I have no doubt. You care for her, you seem more than simply fond of her, you are your happiest around her," Viserys nodded, "a luxury not often afforded to us members of nobility. But if this is my last chance to gift a child of mine this kindness, I am glad to do it."

Aemond swallowed thickly, a gift from his father. The one thing he truly wanted, to be with the one woman he's always wanted.

"If you grant this betrothal, father," he started, voice calm and collected, "I would be in your debt."

"You are my son, dear boy. There is no debt," Viserys coughed.

"Then I would be…happy," the word felt foreign on his tongue. But it seemingly brought a smile to his father's face. 

"Then I approve of the match. It shall be done," Viserys finally uttered, “I believe your mother suggested a moon for wedding preparations. Rhaenyra agreed and so shall I.” 

With that he bid Aemond permission to leave. 

Once he was free from the stuffy room, he finally took a deep residing breath. 

He had done it.

Rhaena Targaryen was now his betrothed. 

Officially his.

He had his Valyrian bride. 

-

That night, Aemond lay alone in his bed in just his breeches. Still processing the events of this one long day. From Baela discovering he and Rhaena together in bed, to Daemon very nearly slicing his head off, and his father surprisingly choosing to give him what he wanted. 

He had  spoken with his mother after his meeting with his father. Alicent had quietly admonished his decision to take Rhaena as he had. It seemed she had no ill animosities towards her, more that she wished her son had just courted Rhaena properly like the young courtly Lady she was. Which Aemond bit back a smile at, for if that truly was his mother's only complaint then his wedding should have little to no drama from her at least. 

His mother had mentioned that Rhaenyra had added something else to the stipulations of his betrothal. Helaena had smiled eagerly about it, claiming he'd be quite happy with it. But seeing as they both stayed tight lipped on the matter, he knew he'd have to speak with Rhaenyra to hear of it. 

And seeing how his half…his sister was soon to be his Good-mother, he'd half to get used to conversing with her in either case. 

When he met with Rhaenyra afterwards, he apprehensively kept his eye on the lookout for his uncle. But Rhaenyra was quick to smile towards him, assuring him she sent Daemon out with her sons. It had let Aemond breathe slightly easier. When she sat him down to go over the details of what she was offering, he found his initial idea of Rhaenyra to be both correct and slightly off. 

When he pictured her seeing sense and being reasonable, he expected her to have a cold calculated countenance about herself. He'd seen her warm loving side before, but once again he was certain that such warmth was only reserved for her children and her husband. 

When he had asked her, "why are you being so…kind?"

"Aemond, before you become my Good-son…you are still my little brother. It is my greatest regret that I did not make the effort to be closer with my siblings when we were younger. When I was a child, siblings were the one thing I wanted. But…the circumstances in which I received them, had tainted the feeling," Rhaenyra’s bright violet eyes held a magnetism to them, a certain sadness he felt like he could understand…but most likely did not. She had sighed, "but this marriage gives us all a chance to mend the cracks within this family. You do love my sweet stepdaughter, and that is truly what I had hoped for in a match for her. A match with love and understanding, many may not be able to see it. But you know who my husband is, I understand there lies a lot more beneath a seemingly violent stoney exterior. Targaryen men are indeed very complex creatures." 

It'd been an odd comment, but he understood what she'd meant. There was a compliment hidden within her words. She approved of them because she understood that he would be good to Rhaena. He'd hate to admit that a positive remark from his eldest sister had brightened a spot on his heart, but it had. 

But her positive comments were not the high point of their quiet conversation. It seemed his mother and sister had both noticed the brewing feelings between Aemond and Rhaena long before. Rhaenyra had mentioned as much. That their glances and looks were far more telling then the pair thought them to be. It seemed both mother’s most often noticed whenever the two of them snuck away from a function or event, and Rhaenyra had long since noticed how they both bonded over history and dragon lore. The tea meeting earlier was apparently set up by both Rhaenyra and his mother on purpose, to speak with Rhaena about her wants and feelings in a safe environment with her sister and her favourite cousin present should she feel uncomfortable. He was quite certain Rhaena had not known that going into it, but he was glad  they’d thought to interrogate her kindly at least. 

During their tea, once they had Rhaena’s answer, Rhaenyra and Alicent had sat together for a bit and laid out a true contract. Alicent had agreed to back Rhaenyra's claim as heir, and in doing so, once Rhaenyra became Queen, she’d secure high positions in court for Aegon, Helaena and their twins Jaehaera and Jaehaerys. His mother Alicent as well. They’d all be safe.

But what had truly shocked him…Rhaenyra would bestow Dragonstone to Aemond and Rhaena. Once they were wed, once Rhaenyra was officially crowned Queen…they would be made the Prince and Princess of Dragonstone. The Lord and Lady set to run and rule that land. 

His heart had stopped at that news. 

Rhaenyra had smiled as she explained what his future duties would entail, and how his future children with Rhaena would take the mantle from them in time. 

Dragonstone.

Their family's most important cultural land…being entrusted to him.

And all she'd said was, "it was decided that between you and your brother Aegon, it was quite obvious you would appreciate and respect the position far more. You'd take to your duties and responsibilities with a level head. And it seemed time to give you something of value, your skills and knowledge should be put to good use. Do you accept these terms?" 

For a moment he had felt his grandfather’s voice yelling in the back of his mind, that this was a trap, it was far too good to be true, Rhaenyra was simply sending him away as he was her biggest threat. Once he was gone, she’d simply slaughter his whole family and…no…no it wouldn’t make sense. If she did that, he’d simply fly back to King’s Landing and burn it all to the ground. And even still, he knew what Dragonstone must mean to her…to Daemon…to their royal family as a whole. If Rhaenyra became Queen, technically Jacaerys as her heir was meant to be the Prince was Dragonstone. 

She was giving Aemond something of immense value and power. 

She was giving him land to Lord over. A seat, a voice. 

He’d have access to all secret Targaryen and Valyrian texts that were only held in the libraries on Dragonstone, all the wild and riderless dragons…this was his future. The future he wanted. Where he could be happy. With Rhaena at his side, this would be theirs.

And so he accepted the terms. Not sounding too eager of course, for he couldn’t let his icy veil drop in front of her just yet. He didn’t trust her entirely yet. 

If all he had to do was go against his grandfather and his plans, it would be done. He once thought killing Aegon would secure himself a place of true power and control. For all those years where Otto Hightower thought it best to place Aegon on the throne solely because he was the eldest son…when Aemond was the far better choice. 

Well, he'd take to being the Lord Dragonstone happily then. 

He wasn't sure what he had expected when he thought of his future with Rhaena. But now he couldn't help but beam at the thought of sitting in the Dragonstone seat with his Lady wife…the Princess of Dragonstone. Their own cluster of little children surrounding them, running wild. 

His train of thought cut short when he heard a creak, his eye snapped open. Glancing around his chambers with his sword leaning against his nightstand, he slowly reached for it. 

But as he watched the hidden entrance from Maegor's tunnels open slowly, his tapestry sliding to the side as a flash of long silver locs flowed in…he knew exactly who it was. He released his grip on his sword, instead sitting up as he watched his sweet bride enter his chambers. 

A playful smirk grew on his lips as he eyed her quite predatorily, "now now, sweet girl, aren't you risking an awful lot visiting me tonight," he swung his legs over the edge of his bed, giving her his full attention. 

His darling bride, her pale brown skin made marvellous all aglow in the fire light, her long silver locs pouring over her shoulders as she stood before him in nothing but another thinly veiled nightgown. This one was a pale creamy purple that seemed to only add to her alluring looks.

"We are officially betrothed now," he watched her pretty lips curve into a bright smile as she stepped closer to him, "the worst they could do is move our wedding up to a closer date."

"A moon certainly feels like an eternity," Aemond murmured, hooking his arms around her waist, pulling her against him, letting her stand between his spread legs. She instinctively draped her arms around his neck, leaning into his embrace. 

He'd spent the entire day missing his Rhaena, but he supposed he hadn't realized just how much. He only let out a deep sigh when he nuzzled his cheek against her plush chest, calmly breathing in her signature lavender scent. He let his worries drift away when he felt her fingers gently stroking his hair. 

Letting his hands glide up along her back, drawing small shivers from her, "maybe if our parents caught you well pleased in my bed, they'd wed us immediately,"

"Aemond," she giggled, pulling herself back from him so she could gaze down at him. She bit her lip slowly as she gently undid the fastening on his eyepatch, he didn't flinch or jump at her touch this time. He trusted her entirely, leaning into her touch as she caressed his cheek afterwards. She untied his half up ponytail, carding her fingers through silky hair. 

His heart beating rapidly in his chest, he found his body aching for her. His cock twitched at the thought of burying himself deep inside her yet again. 

Aemond grabbed a hold of her hips and swiftly pulled her onto his lap, Rhaena gasped against him, but he claimed her lips before she could respond. Exploring her sweet mouth, possessively tasting the molten heat of her mouth as her tongue licked around his. She moaned softly against him, letting him swallow the sound as his hands slipped underneath her nightgown. Feeling her warm smooth skin only spurred his need on. 

He pulled Rhaena down with him as he lay back on his bed, feeling her smile against his lips as she straddled him, "I know what you wish for, but I'm still very sore, Aemond," 

Laying his head back, he groaned, "so you've come to torture me," 

He watched as she pulled herself up just a little, perching her plush bottom on his lower abdomen, her soft hands sliding sweetly down his bare chest, "no, I've come to reward you," 

He swallowed thickly, her innocent eyes and sweet tone clearly clashing with what her words were implying.

Aemond's hands caressed her bare thighs underneath her gown, "and…what sort of reward would I be receiving?" His mind had filtered through several possibilities, part of him hoped she'd simply scoot herself upwards, perch herself over his mouth so he could please her sweetly. He could feel how wet and wanting his Princess was and he was desperate to taste her, please her, care for her. 

But before he could suggest it, she leaned down and kissed him softly, soothing his jagged edges as her hand cupped his cheek. She leaned herself down to the shell of his ear, "my dragon, secured my hand. Don't you think he deserves a reward. I'd like to please him," 

There it was again, that sultry tone whenever she said my dragon. 

She slowly slid herself off of him. He nearly growled at the loss of her comfortable weight and bodily warmth, watching as she climbed off his bed and gazed down at him. 

His Rhaena stepped around him, standing between his legs yet again. And then she began to lower herself down to knees. 

Aemond felt his heart constricting within his chest, his throat ran dry as he began to realize what she was preparing to do. 

She wished to please him…she'd said that. 

He quickly propped himself up on his elbows, watching his little dragon as she began to slowly unlace his breaches. 

His jaw clenched as she undid the last knot, slowly tugging the leather down as his hard needy cock sprung free, his smooth tip already weeping profusely. He felt a deep ache growing within him as he watched as his beautiful Princess ran her hands along his toned thighs, causing streaks of fire in her wake. 

"Rhaena…" his low voice rasped, but whatever Aemond planned on saying died in his throat when his Princess reached for him, the moment her soft hand wrapped around him a small groan escaped him. He felt his cock twitch in her hands, precum dripping down his length as she began to stroke him gently. He had been thinking of her all day long, desperately waiting for the moment he could get back to her. Waiting for the moment he could have her all to himself. 

She kept her eyes on him, her pale violet eyes gauging his reaction.

He could feel his cheeks burning, something he'd hoped wouldn't be noticeable in the dim candle light. His hands were gripping into his sheets, his knuckles slowly turning white as fire coursed through him, anticipation tingling throughout his entire body. 

Aemond watched her lips intensely, shapely and rosy, he was desperate for her to take him. Another fantasy he hoped his pretty little bride would fulfill for him

The sight of her small hand gliding along his girthy length aroused him far too much, he found himself biting back the overcoming urge to cum in her hands. She'd barely touched him and yet he felt like clay in her hands. Hers to mold as she wished. His willpower was nearly nonexistent, but he fought to keep himself together. 

Sinking his fingers into his hair as he bit into lip brutally, her fingers travelling down to his thick base, her eyes locking with his, "Aemond, do you want me to taste you?" Her eyes seemed bright and innocent, the sweet tone in her voice making his whole body burn. 

He'd managed to choke out a, "yes," with a slight nod. 

Gods, his Princess was finally giving in to him.

Rhaena smiled somewhat deviously up at him from her lowered position, "as you wish, my beast." Oh that look nearly made him want to pull her onto his cock instantly, have her ride him until he successfully wiped that knowing look from her face and replaced it with one of those oh so sweet begging, moaning, needy expressions she'd shown him the previous night. 

Though sadly he knew he could not, he'd fucked her quite hard for her first night, her cunt needed rest. 

At least a day's rest, he supposed. 

So instead he watched as she gracefully pulled her locs behind her neck with one hand, licking her lips seductively as she lowered herself down. It all seemed to be happening in slow motion, her plush lips parting, her alluringly pink tongue sliding out hypnotically as she dragged it slowly…tantalizingly along his length. 

The warm sensation had pulled a strangled moan from him as she slowly lapped up his drippings. Humming sweetly as if she enjoyed it. His heart felt like a drum beating erratically within him, primed to blow at any moment. Never had such a lovely woman taken care of him so genuinely.  

As her tongue reached his sensitive tip, she began to lavish it with due attention. Licking across smooth padding decadently, pressing soft sucking kisses upon it before opening her mouth and taking him in. Aemond shuddered at the feeling, full body chills as he choked, whimpering.

He’d imagined what her lips would feel like on him for many moons, nightly he’d dreamed of what it would feel to have her lick and kiss his needy cock. The sensation of  her sweet tongue, her soft lips, her hot mouth.

But Gods, his fantasy did not account for how truly heavenly it would all actually feel. 

Those lips of hers were a wonder, surely a gift from the Gods. 

His mind grew hazy, the warmth from her soft wet mouth surrounded his throbbing cock as she slowly attempted to take as much of him in her mouth as possible. She'd only managed half of his length, nearly gagging as his plump tip twitched against the back of her throat. But it seemed his sweet little wife aimed to please, she did not stop. Even as she drooled down his length, she made the effort to add a sucking pressure as she bobbed her mouth along his member. 

Aemond had found his lips trembling, the fire burning in his lower abdomen only heightened as the sensations she caused increased. A peak was forming, but her delicate pace threatened to torture him to no end. He felt his back arching, as he let his head fall back against his bed. He was desperately trying to will his hips to stay still for the urge to fuck upwards into her mouth was growing greater and greater. 

She had one hand splayed on his abdomen, the other on his thigh, gripping into him as she fought to take more of his thick length inside. Her long hair had fallen in front of her, and before he could stop himself, he reached to grip it up and out her lovely face. 

He needed to see her. 

He needed to see his beautiful Princess take him so well. 

“Fuck,” there was something so desperate and needy in his coarse moan, "dear girl, how have you learned to please so well.”

He knew it had nothing to do with her skill level, for he’d certainly had his cock sucked by whores with years of experience. But once again all of those experiences seemed to pale in comparison. His ambitious sweet bride need only touch him and he’d feel like his world was a blaze.

He’d heard a gorgeous sleek muffled moan escape her, leading his gaze back down to her. As soon as he saw Rhaena's glistening eyes blinking a tear down her flushed cheek, he found his control had vanished. That carnal animalistic want had taken hold, and he knew he could no longer stand this tortuous pace. 

"Let me stand, little dragon," he rasped, his lungs felt so constricted he could barely get the words out. She sucked him and released him momentarily, obeying his words as he slowly pulled himself up to his feet, a slight slant in his posture but he collected himself swiftly. He missed the feel of her already, so he guided her lips back to his throbbing cock, her lush mouth latching onto him once again. Aemond’s body shivered deliciously at the wet warmth of her mouth, her tongue lapping around him as her eyebrows quirked. Rhaena’s pale eyes peered up at him quizzically. He only gave a rakish smirk, caressing her cheek, "you're taking me well, sweet Rhaena…I just want more."

She nodded slightly at his praise, but whimpered when he tightened his grip in her hair. Drawing her mouth closer as he thrusted into her mouth, causing streams of saliva to drip down her chin as her hands clutched onto his hips, nails digging into his skin. 

Aemond gritted through his groans as he drew delicious gagging moans from his sweet wife. His goddess looked so perfect for him, down on her knees pleasing her dragon. 

He was quite certain he'd fallen in love with the sound, the exquisitely filthy sloshing of his cock thrusting into her mouth. Every swipe of her tongue, drag of her teeth, the soaking wet sensation of it all made his blood sing. 

So much so he couldn't even think to compare this to anything anymore, for he already knew no other woman had ever made him feel like this before. 

As his thrusts grew into a needy blinding fury, edging more on a vicious ramming, he felt his peak climb rapidly. Her nails had scraped wounding lines down his hips as she sobbed so beautifully for him. All of which finally allowed his body to reach an excellent exploding feeling, his head rolled back as his eyes squeezed tightly shut. A roaring moan tore through him as his hips finally tensed, his cock spilling a rather large syrupy load into Rhaena's mouth.

He made no effort to force his eyes open, in fact he was certain he'd squeezed his eyes so tightly, he saw stars. His whole body shuddered with the power of this pleasurable climax. He'd opened his eyes in time to watch his good girl swallow everything he gave her. Her cheeks sinking in as she sucked him sweetly, a sensual popping sound as her lips slid off of him. She let her warm tongue glide up along his length, lapping up the lasting residue of his spilt seed, her hand caressing his balls nicely. 

As his pleasurable haze cleared, he gazed down at the mess he'd made. Rhaena's sweet face had tear streaks lining her cheeks, her lips slightly swollen from sucking him vigorously, streams of spit and cum still dripping down her chin. Her shimmering long silver locs falling every which way.

She was a sight to behold, she looked so utterly cockstruck he couldn't help but feel prideful. 

Once again wrecking his pristine Princess so brutally, so perfectly.

Even her hypnotic pale lavender eyes looked to be in daze as she looked up at him. She licked her lips so alluringly, her hands folded far too neatly in her lap as she sat back on her knees. As if she hadn't just finished sucking his cock with a wanting need he didn't think she was capable of. 

Rhaena drunkingly smiled up at him, not bothering to wipe her chin, and gods how he loved it, "well..my Prince? Did you enjoy your reward?" 

A rhetorical question surely, for she'd witnessed first hand how he lost complete control and composure.

He watched her finally wipe her chin, star-like eyes gazing up at him. 

Gods he wanted her, though he could not properly fuck her tonight, he'd occupy their time in some other ways.

He elected not to answer her, pulling his breeches off completely before he pulled her up to him and took her lips roughly. Tasting himself on her tongue as he possessed her delicate mouth needily. 

Edging them back towards his bed as her arms looped around his neck, he lifted her with ease. Let her legs wrap around his waist before he sat down, laying down with her clinging onto him. 

Laying her on her side, he kept his arms around her, kissing her chin and then jawline. Finding her sweet crevices along the tendons of her slender neck as his hands roamed the flimsy fabric of her gown. Caressing the curve of waist and hips before sliding down her silky smooth legs and slipping between them. 

Aemond smiled devilishly against her neck as his hand felt just how soaking wet his Princess was, "mmm, did you excite yourself while you were rewarding me, little dragon?" 

Rhaena only nodded as she whimpered at his touch, her arms tightening around his shoulders as she nuzzled herself closer to him. 

"Shall I take care of you, little wife?" he grinned against her collarbone, pressing a kiss to the shapely curve. He raised his lips to hers for a soft kiss as she nodded eagerly against him. But Aemond only smiled sinfully, letting her lock eyes with deep violet eye and his supposedly hauntingly beautiful sapphire, "I want the words, sweet girl. Tell me what you want." 

Her brows had knitted together, nearly pouting as she looked slightly betrayed by his teasing, "Aemond, please-"

He let his fingers play with her drenched folds, pulling whimpers from her sweet lips as he eyed her intensely, "say the words," his voice darkened, adding a slight edge. 

"Please, take care of me," she whined so prettily, he had to bite his lip otherwise he'd find himself kissing her and giving in. But no, he wanted one more word, he stilled his hand until he got it.

Rhaena Targaryen, his Princess, his goddess, his wife…all his. Finally groaned, looking him dead in the eye, her voice all soft and breathy, "please, take care of me, dear husband." 

At that, his lips curved up, a new devious glint in his eye, "as you wish, my love." 

-

Finale Notes: I hope this was a fun cute little whatever this story was. This was just a random side story when I started posting it, absolutely love how it turned into it's own little cute love story.

The journey here is over though!

BUT, for anyone who wanted moreee…there will be a sequel fic! We'll be following happily married Rhaemond and the comedic smutty life they now live as husband and wife. We'll see they're little family, Rhaemond being adorable parents. Aemond still being the murderous madman he is just with his beautiful sweet wife and his cute babies. (I made him a bit too uwu baby in this series, I might up the rough kinky level in the sequel! We'll see!) I think grandpa Daemon should be super fun! I'm very excited.

When I do upload it, I'll definitely post it here, so if you follow me, or check the tags, you'll see it. If not, it'll be in the (Rhaemond fluffy/smut) collection I have this one in on Ao3.

Thank you all the love!!!

#rhaena x aemond #aemond x rhaena #rhaena targaryen #aemond targaryen #aemond smut #rhaena smut #rhaemond #hotd fic #hotd fanfic #hotd smut

[horizon-verizon]

https://www.tumblr.com/horizon-verizon/712224861642162176/i-dont-understand-why-people-use-the-book-as-an

well i think the reason why Aemond has turned out to be the "dutiful son" because at first the showrunners didn't want Daeron to be in the show, and it was Daeron who has the dutiful son/the most popular son of Alicent and the closest to her, so obviously they give him a lot of Daeron's personality traits. But since Grrm confirmed that Daeron will be in S2 maybe we will see more of Book!Aemond characterization or maybe it's me just being too hopeful that we will not get more of the whitewashing of Aemond, and it has been very annoying that they literally adapted Mushroom's claims about every and each character except Losermond. They're very close to turning him into Gary Stu. Also Helaena is highly underdeveloped she doesn't even feel like she is human, she is more like a mere plot device. and they didn't put any foundation for their made up ship. Is it because he said he will marry her? will that because he is oh so dutiful and cares about his house legacy. they looked at each other? Well Aegon kept staring at Rhaenyra during the dinner scene, does that means he is in love with her or has fathered Aegon iii and Viserys ii? This is silly.

Yes, it is silly, yet anon that is what we have as a reason for why some fans ship those two.

Even if Daeron hadn't been in the show, Aemond's characterization should not change, because he was what he was and it is integral to how the Dance played out as it did toward the end.

And how could one not have Daeron and his bungling of the taking of Tumbleton, how things went down there, and his burning Bitterbridge thinking Lady Caswell was responsible for Maelor's death?! Were they thinking of making Ormund Hightower the leader of that part of the green forces?! Like, how boring, if so!

Hate all this for Helaena, the underdevelopment. The lack of it. She's a nonentity, despite having such power. Gone to waste altogether. Not even scenes with her trying to use it for her family of either side or see her try to connect with Rhaenyra (what stops her? fear of repercussions? direct tellings from Otto and Alicent? disinterest? depression? we'll never know because the writers think that action>character development). She may have only been mentioned at most 10 times throughout the Dance and never played an active role besides killing herself and talking one quote of displeasure and sarcasm in canon, but the show had its opportunity to make her a real person and it instead decided to make her a nearly silent decoration that happens to see images in her head that everyone just...brushes off?!

I'm afraid I can't be optimistic as you about Aemond's whitewashing ending by the first episodes of the next season. In any first season, you set up your character's motivations and values to lead into the rest of the next episodes until its end, where their selves either undergo great changes or continue to serve a lighter purpose -- depending on how central they are and what the writer/director wants to do with them. Everything hinges on what's presented in that first season, in the first portrayal of that character, in the first turning points in their personal development. For Aemond, that was him in episode 6 being bullied due to not having a dragon by his own brother and the V boys, him claiming Vhagar and "proving" his Targness/strength, and him obviously eager to battle at least with Daemon.

The firsts are not only supposed to let the audience know who this character is and why we should care about them OR what get us hyped for the rest of more rising action; they set this character up and lets us know what sort of person/role they are and what the writers want to do with their arc, and it presents their perspective of that character and their arc.

So if we see Aemond consistently get whitewashed and it being done in the first season...there's a 98% certainty that he will continue to be whitewashed. The other two percent is the abused hope I'm currently putting up only for me to pretend I never said anything at all if I'm wrong (I jest).

#asoiaf #a song of ice and fire #asoiaf asks to me #daeron fire and blood #daeron the prince #daeron targaryen #daeron targtower #aemond targaryen #aemond's characterization #daeron's characterization #hotd characterization #hotd writing #hotd critical #hotd comment

[yeniayofnymeria]

Dance of Dragons and Players

Will be happened second DoD? Short answer; yes.

-GRRM

Hi, short question. Will we find out more about the Dance of the Dragons in future books?

The first dance or the second?

The second will be the subject of a book. The first will be mentioned from time to time, I'm sure. - SSM

-Book

“ Dragons ?” said her mother. “Teora, don’t be mad." “I’m not. They’re coming.” “How could you possibly know that?” her sister asked, with a note of scorn in her voice. “One of your little dreams?” Teora gave a tiny nod, chin trembling. "They were dancing. In my dream. And everywhere the dragons danced the people died.” (TWoW, Arianne)

History repeats itself and GRRM knows it as a history lover. That's why he does the same in his books from time to time. Events can be based on the same root cause and similar points, but each has specific conditions and roles in itself.

Therefore, it will not be correct to search for one-on-one similarity while distributing the roles of the second dance that will take place(afterall GRRM will not copy and paste) but still, I want to talk to you about this.

According to you, which players of the second DoD can match the players of the first? How will the sides be separated? Greens and Blacks or something else? Hints from books? Reasons?

I'll start first. In my opinion, not all players match, but these are the ones I think match.(Some characters fit more than one person.)

Criston Cole - Jorah Mormont

Otto Hightower - Jon Conn. and Doran Martell

Corlys Velaryon - Tyrion Lannister

Dalton Greyjoy - Victarion Greyjoy

Larys Strong - Varys (Almost same name :D )

Erryk Cargyll and Arryk Cargyll: Well, these are twins Quenn/King's Guard, one was on Rae's side and the other on Aegon. In fact, they don't have a very important role, but a "tragic" sibling relationship. There are two separate rumors that they love and hate each other. These two brothers reminded me of Jaime and Tyrion; love and hate each other and i believe they will be two different sides in the first place (later, will change probably).

Also in books, Olenna Tyrell's has twins guards, their name are Erryk and Arryk too but I can not see them a role in this war.(for now)

Addam and Alyn Valeryon - Aurane Waters

Daemon Targaryen - Euron Greyjoy

The Shepherd- High Sparrow. In fact, the current High Sparrow also looks like the Sparrow in the time of Maegor and Aenys. We can say he is the mix of all of them.

This is the role distribution for me for now. Let's come to the leading roles.

How are the sides separated? A name, a color, a coat of arms ...

In fact, before the first Dance, divisions began in the form of the Rhaenyra party and the Alicent party, but then they were divided into blacks and greens because of the clothes they wore in a tournament.

No doubt there is no tournament. For the Dance of the Dragons, it is right to look at the colors of the dragons.

Rhaegal - Green (Jon)

Drogon - Black (Dany)

Viserion- White (Aegon?)

The first dance was between two sides, so it might be thought that the second dance would be the same. Readers often assume this way. Could be true. But we have three dragons and three colors. Also three of our throne candidates; Jon, Dany, Aegon.

If the dance is between the two sides, we will wait for them to separate as blacks and greens. If it will be experienced among three sides, it will be necessary to add whites.

Even Tyrion's eyes are a sign of this; green and black. He will play both sides like Moqorro's said.

"Someone told me that the night is dark and full of terrors. What do you see in those flames?"

"Dragons," Moqorro said in the Common Tongue of Westeros. He spoke it very well, with hardly a trace of accent. No doubt that was one reason the high priest Benerro had chosen him to bring the faith of R'hllor to Daenerys Targaryen. "Dragons old and young, true and false, bright and dark. And you. A small man with a big shadow, snarling in the midst of all."

"Snarling? An amiable fellow like me?" Tyrion was almost flattered.

And also he has dream. It is a sign too for Dance 2, i believe.

That night Tyrion Lannister dreamed of a battle that turned the hills of Westeros as red as blood. He was in the midst of it, dealing death with an axe as big as he was, fighting side by side with Barristan the Bold and Bittersteel as dragons wheeled across the sky above them. In the dream he had two heads, both noseless. His father led the enemy, so he slew him once again. Then he killed his brother, Jaime, hacking at his face until it was a red ruin, laughing every time he struck a blow. Only when the fight was finished did he realize that his second head was weeping.

It should not be forgotten that Tyrion is Jon's friend, and he has relatives with Stark as he is married to Sansa. (A bitter marriage, but ultimately a marriage.)

Some readers think that Jon cannot be part of this Dance because he is not interested sit the iron throne. I think we're looking at it from the wrong place. The sole aim and sole focus of this war will not be the throne itself. There are too many variable factors in the Second Dance that are not in the first.

What are those?

Starks and Targaryens hate the Lannisters, Targanyens (Dany) hate the Starks, Lannisters and Baratheons. Dany wants revenge. Lannisters cannot easily approach anyone this time, everyone hates them. But Tyreller wants to have power. Marg's being a queen means that Tyrels have power. So for now, there is an alliance between these two households. (Lannister-Tyrell) An probably there is this Blackfyre issue. There are the Others beyond the North. The battle of Ice and Fire will take place. Jon doesn't have zero ambition, as in the show. We know that he will experience a serious change after his resurrection. He will become a darker character. Anyway, even Arya can have an influence on Jon, as she turns into a vengeful spirit. (My “the champion” theory)

This dance will most likely be in the last book. In the last book, it is not possible to commit both the Dance and the Others war at the same time. This always makes me think. So I thought GRRM could nest these two battles.

As a result, Jon will be drawn into this war, even if he doesn't want to. Some things are inevitable, especially after deciphering his true identity. So, if the parties are going to be greens and blacks ... And if the colors of the dragons decide ... Then it seems inevitable that Jon is the leader of the greens.

If Aegon is truly a Blackfyre, Jon is the prince's only child. Is it wrong to wait for Jon to ride the dragon named after his father?

( I can't imagine Jon riding Viserion even if Aegon is the real Targaryen. Viserion name? Really? Püfff If the name of the white dragon was Rhaegal, okay but not. Actually, there is this too. If GRRM would not make Jon the leader of the greens, why he did call the green dragon as Rhaegal ? The white dragon would have given this name. Or he would have given the white dragon a more appropriate name. Since the dragon is white, we would think that Jon would ride this dragon. White-headed sword, white wolf arm and white wolf. It makes sense. But the green one was called Rhaegal and the white one was called Viserion. We need to think about that. )

One of the reasons I think the dance's main sides will be Jon and Dany is this.

A blue flower grew from a chink in a wall of ice, and filled the air with sweetness. . . . mother of dragons, bride of fire . . .

Jonerys fans believe this is a FS for "love". No it is not. First of all, the symbol of love is red rose, not blue rose. The blue rose symbolizes Lyanna and Jon. Another name for the blue rose is the snow blue flower. This flower is the symbol of the north and Winterfell. The sweet smell was presented as a death sign in this books many times.

Example:

He never left his bed, though, and the smell of sickness clung to him day and night, a hot, moist, sickly sweet odor. (Ser Darry's moment of death.)

A foul, sweet smell rose from the wound, so thick it almost choked her. The leaves were crusted with blood and pus, Drogo's breast black and glistening with corruption. (Drogo dies)

There was a smell of death about that room; a heavy smell, sweet and foul, clinging. (Cat's father's room)

Another important detail is that Undying ones showed her important things. The things and people threatening her, her enemies ... They tell her to be careful. In summary, Jon is a "death" threat to Dany, directly or indirectly. Ever since I noticed this detail, I waited for Jon to cause her death. I don't need to tell you the result. :D Of course I was waiting in the books ...

In order for this to happen, these two have to be enemies; greens and blacks.

Well, if there is a third side? Then it is Aegon. Whites. Blackfyre. Tyrion had a relationship with all three dragons. (He will meet Dany.) Moqorro actually counted all kinds of dragons.

3 number is important for Targaryens. Aerys had 3 living children, Jon is third child. Dragon has 3 heads. There are 3 dragons. Dany's prophecies and this Moqorro's dragon prophecies: old and young, true and false, bright and dark.

Generally, we thought that every word in a sentence describes a person, but so many dragons should not be expected. Besides dragon has 3 heads :D

Old-Young is 1 person.

True- False is 1 person.

Bright-Dark is 1 person.

All dragons are fighting, and Tyrion is in the middle of this war and is stuck in between them.

The white cyvasse dragon ended up at Tyrion's feet. He scooped it off the carpet and wiped it on his sleeve, but some of the Yunkish blood had collected in the fine grooves of the carving, so the pale wood seemed veined with red... He tossed the bloody dragon in the air, caught it, grinned.

This is an interesting detail. Perhaps the white dragon (Aegon) would die first in this war. If the dance is going to die between 2 sides (greens-blacks) then Viseron will probably never come to the west. (If this is a FS for Viserion. Viserion was the dragon that was frequently seen in this pov and took action. 6th book.)

What do you think?

#jonsnow #asoiaf #dance of dragons

[star-girl69]

I Loved You Like the Sun

a/n: short chapter again but since it’s the holidays i’m mostly just sitting around doing nothing so expect a lot of short chapters quickly i hope you all enjoy!!

warnings: mentions of death, swearing, incest, tell me if i missed anything!!

Daemon Targaryen x Rhaenyra Targaryen x Fem!Reader

Chapter Twenty Nine- The Dragon’s Treasure

—-

“I always thought you were quite lucky.”

It was late, and outside a storm brewed. The children seemed unbothered by it as they played before you, Jaehaerys, Jaehaera and Maelor.

“Why is that?” You asked her, half turning on the chaise you both shared. If you closed your eye, the sounds of laughing children sounded like your own.

It had been only a few days since Aemond had taken you. You felt like Viserys in his final days, like living was killing you. And truly, without them, you were.

Helaena told you as much as she could, and your friendship burned hot and fast. It reminded you of them, and you had no choice but to push it away lest you would break down sobbing in front of her. You liked Helaena, but you did not trust her. Not quite yet.

Helaena reached out, placed a delicate hand on your red dress. “You look so beautiful in red. I have only worn green all my life.”

“It does compliment you so well, though.” You comforted, but you knew it would not help.

“I suppose,” she sighed. Silence fell between you, rain pouring and thunder cracking.

Helaena told you the entire realm thought you to be dead. But she wasn’t trusted with much more information, only whispering she heard. The Blacks were securing alliances, Jace returning victorious with support from the Starks and the Arryns. Luke returned unscathed from Tarth, pleasantries exchanged and the confirmation of an answer you already knew.

Alicent sat in the far chair, closest to the fire, eyes flicking over a book you could tell she was not reading.

You were not content. Not happy. You were dying.

—-

Eventually, Rhaenyra had to have Y/N’s chair removed. She stared at it every council meeting, until someone raised their voice to get her attention, Daemon or Rhaenys placed a hand on her shoulder, or when her sadness became too much and she had to look away.

Rhaenyra’s promises to her father were now null and void, because each night her bed was empty and Daemon was not enough to fill the hole. Of course, she appreciated him, she loved him, but he was not her.

Her and Daemon has always been too similar, restless and chaotic, cut from the same cloth, burned from the same fire. She knew he loved her but she also knew that she was not her. Nothing could ever fill the hole she left.

While everyone talked about her in the past tense, Rhaenyra could not bring herself too. She is gone. She is lost. Not was, not were, never, never. To talk about her like that made it real, and she cannot handle it being real.

Rhaenyra misses her so much it consumes her every moment. She thinks about her in wake, in sleep, in that transitional moment after sleep before you wake. There is only twenty-four hours in a day, and it is not enough to miss her.

A soft hand upon her shoulder, and when she turns, Daemon’s signet ring shines in the light of the afternoon sun. It had been 3 days, and Rhaenyra could not take it.

“Yes?” She asked, straightening in her chair.

“Your Grace,” Corlys started, careful in his words. “There is only one option. We show the Greens what happens when you upset us.”

I am more than upset, Rhaenyra wants to say, but holds her tongue. She does not want to be here. She wants to be in her bed, sleeping with a pillow under her head wrapped in one of Y/N’s dresses.

Rhaenyra is lost. She knows it, everyone at this table knows it. Alicent knows it. Otto, too. That is precisely why they took what is most precious from her.

“My Queen,” Daemon says, stepping out from behind her and placing a hand on her face. He fills her field of vision, keeps her attention, and for a moment he is everything until she remembers her again.

“Yes?” She asks, trying to keep her voice level. He holds her so tenderly it makes her feel like a child, and she wants to sob. At her core she is just that, a child who misses her family and wants her best friend back. But the more rational part of her knows she can never get that back. But she has created a new family, filled Alicent’s spot. She will show no mercy to those who have ruined her life, her family.

“I still have contacts inside the city. Let me arrange it. They can use the tunnels, kill whoever you choose, bring us back their heads.”

She stares at him.

For a moment, she is almost disgusted that she would even suggest it. Then she remembers what she has lost, the wild, wonderful, beautiful mother of her children. Her wife, her lover, her treasure.

“Kill all of them.” She croaks, and he nods, but she thinks of her wonderful wife again, and seizes. She grabs his arm. “Don’t- don’t kill the children, or Helaena, please. She would not want that.” She watches as he clenched his jaw, gets that look in his eye where she instinctively knows who he is thinking of.

“My Queen?” Lord Corlys asks, and she suddenly realizes they had been speaking in hushed tones. But she doesn’t look at them. She looks at Daemon. When she speaks, she digs her nails into his arm, louder so the entire room can hear.

“We are dragons, and our treasure will be avenged. The realm will know the meaning of fire. Kill them all.”

—-

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#daemon x rhaenyra #daemon targaryen #daemon targaryen x reader #rhaenyra targaryen #rhaenyra targaryen x reader

[star-girl69]

I Loved You Like the Sun

a/n: sometimes you just gotta write some smut tbh

warnings: smut, swearing, mentions of death, incest, tell me if i missed anything!!

Daemon Targaryen x Rhaenyra Targaryen x Fem!Reader

Chapter Forty Two - Do You Live for Me?

—-

Otto Hightower was fighting a losing war.

Perhaps he had know this, perhaps he had always know this. But he knew the facts now- the North, the Vale, and the Riverlands were all declared for Rhaenyra. Otto could not even secure his homeland of the Reach. The majority of Houses supported Rhaenyra.

A new surge of anger swelled in him. Were the people of the realm so foolish? How could they want a weak woman to sit the throne? He knows his grandson is not perfect, but who even is? Aegon the Conqueror, for all his greatness, could not secure Dorne. King Jaehaerys had a blessed rule- but his children were all dead and gone by the time he passed as well.

Aegon is not perfect. He will not be the greatest king Westeros has ever had to pleasure of seeing. But he will be king.

But for now, Aegon is injured. Sunfyre could barely fly back to the keep, and his rider is left heavily sedated on milk of the poppy. His bones are broken. He is covered in bruises.

Aemond sits as regent now. He presides over all of them at this great council, and Otto is still Hand of the King. They will usher the realm into greatness for Aegon, and he will rule, he will rule, and it will be glorious.

But for now, Otto turns his attention back to the maester and the letter he reads.

“Finally, Princess Rhaenyra crowned Lady Y/N. Her crown was made of winding copper and gold, dragonglass and a large red ruby. The dragons all roared as one, but the Dragon of the Night was the loudest. Cannibal is still the threat we anticipated, but his rider is an unpredictable woman. They call her the Queen of the Night, now. Prince Daemon gave a speech, proclaiming dragons to be kingmakers, proclaiming that they will restore the realm.”

Aemond scowls from his place at the head of the table. The rest of the table is silent.

“We should have killed her when we had the chance. We still don’t even know how she escaped.”

Otto sighs. “Your mother-”

Aemond slams his fist onto the table. “I know what my mother wants!” He inhales, regains himself. “Well? We lost our opportunity once. Let us not lose it again. What should we do about the Night Queen whore?”

—-

“And then… I shouted ‘dracarys!’ and fire poured from Cannibals mouth- and onto the Green army.”

Daenys laughs at your wild hand gestures- cupping your palms around your mouth and exhaling as if you were breathing fire, and trickling your fingers down like falling ashes- while Aegon scrunches his nose at the mention of the Greens.

“I don’t like green,” he says, almost as if all the green from the world will vanish.

“Good.” Daemon chimes in from where he bounces Viserys in his arms. “Green is the color of usurpers-” Viserys’ laughs fill the room as Daemon squeezes his cheek, “the color of traitors. Your favorite should be black- the color of dragons.”

Aegon nods happily, excited to have his parents back after so long.

“Mama’s dragon?” Daenys asks, looking up at you from your lap. She touches your face, fingers trailing down your nose and your cheeks, while you rock in the chair.

“Yes, sweetling. Mama’s dragon is black. Cannibal,” you hiss playfully, and she laughs.

“Perhaps it is time we take them flying. Would you like to fly, my brave boy?” Viserys nods eagerly at Daemon’s words, and you look down towards Daenys.

Who are you to deny her the feeling of flying? Of being free?

—-

“Then, Your Graces, there is only one more matter to discuss.”

Rhaenyra sighs, meeting your eyes for a moment from across the table. You smile, reassuringly, hands itching to be useful. These council meetings are strenuous- going on for far often then they need to.

You suppose now they aren’t just council meetings. They are war councils.

But it is late, and you are tired, so you force yourself to straighten in your chair and listen to them. Although your mind remains elsewhere, you suppose it is the appearance that counts.

“Yes, Lord Bartimos?” Rhaenyra asks, hands digging into the edge of the Painted Table, clearly done with the day, even as she stands over the head of the table as Queen. Daemon stands to the other side of her, poorly hiding a yawn.

You sit on the other side, trapped to a chair. They insisted on it- you are still injured from the battle of Rook’s Rest, only occurring a few days prior- and the two insist in it. You feel slightly like a child, but you can’t condemn them for caring about you. They have realized now, that you are changing, they are changing, but some parts of them still stay.

Your eyes drift down to your bandaged arm- Daemon calls it a mark of war. You feel proud of it, in in a way. You have already been told what the common people are calling the battle- “The Night Queen’s Revenge”- and although you did not kill the two brothers, Aegon and Sunfyre are incapacitated and the Green forces at the battle are mostly dead, now.

You smile fondly, your mark of war, before looking up at Lord Bartimos.

“The matter of the children. Is it safe for them to remain here on Dragonstone? Perhaps we could arrange for them to be warded-”

You feel your heart rise to your throat. Does the council not believe the three of you can protect your children? And if you cannot protect the children, how can you protect the realm?

You see Daemon scowl out of the corner of your eye, and you cannot help but do the same.

“No.” Rhaenyra smiles as kindly as she can. “The children will stay here. This is the safest place for them, surrounded by dragons and warriors.”

“But-”

“You heard the Queen. Now, is that all?” Daemon asks, settling his palm on Dark Sister and standing behind your chair, fingertips touching your shoulders.

The memory of his hands in more pleasurable places makes a volt go up your spine.

You could tell he was uncomfortable with the idea of your children leaving, something you were sure he would yell about later. (Somehow blaming it on Otto Hightower- your husbands hate for that man runs thick.)

The lord nodded, so Daemon’s hand trailed down your arm to grab your hand.

“Daemon.” You whispered, but he only smiled, knowing what he was doing to you.

Rhaenyra looked slightly confused, but amused, as she locked her arm with yours and the three of you continued down the hall.

You were half surprised that Daemon didn’t start yelling and pacing as soon as the three of you entered your shared chambers.

Instead, he let go of your hand and fell back onto the bed. When you sat on the edge, he opened one eye, smiling to himself before closing it.

“Well? If you are going to yell and scream, please do it.” He ignored you, but Rhaenyra hummed in agreement from her vanity.

“If you are going to yell and scream, why don’t you get under me and do it.”

You ignored the desire in your stomach. “You’re avoiding the question.”

He sat up, suddenly, grabbing your hand in his own and pressing a chaste kiss to your pulse point. He looks up at you and smirks.

“Does your heart beat for me, my love?”

“You’re avoiding the question.”

Then, as quick as lightening, as quick as fire, he tugs you onto the bed and shoves himself between your legs. He only seems amused at your surprised yelp.

He stares into your eyes as he carasses your thighs, nails almost scratching, wrapping them up and around his waist.

“Does your stomach twist for me? Flame in desire?”

“Daemon.” If he is deterred by the gentle hand you place on his face, he does not show it.

He leans down, presses a kiss to your forehead that lingers.

“Rhaenyra!” You shout, noticing her absence, her silence. “Please get this rogue off of me!”

“I’m not feeling too well, sweetling. Looks like you will just have to suffer.” You cannot see her, but you know if you could, she would be barely containing her laugh. Instead, she is probably watching the two of you in the mirror, taking down her braids, getting some sick amusement out of it.

“Nyra,” you groan, but Daemon shushes you with a barely there press of his lips.

“Do your lips ache for mine, as mine do for yours?”

You scowl, but he only smiles, adjusting himself, pressing that part of him so close to where you always need him.

“Do you live for me, nuha daria?”

You bite your lip to keep an embarrassing sound from escaping, and his triumphant smile finally falls. He gives a swift cant of his hips. You bite harder, refuse to give him what he wants, even as it grows impossible for you.

“Fine.” He huffs, a petulant child, setting his hips into a steady pace as his lips touch the corner of yours.

You cannot speak, too afraid the sounds he draws from you will spill out like a jar of honey.

“The council members wish to send our children away, yes? I think they’re fucking fools, insulting us. Do they not think we are capable of protecting them? Do they not think I am capable of protecting them?” He scowls, his hip movements growing sloppy and more distracted, harsher as his anger leaks through.

You find it in yourself to speak.

“I- I am sure… sure they do not mean it that- that way.”

“Still. I’m the most seasoned warrior in the Seven Kingdoms. If they do not think me capable of protecting my own blood, how do they think I can protect the realm?”

“I know you can.”

His eyes meet yours, and he sighs, and you faintly feel the bed dipping with Rhaenyra’s weight. But she doesn’t make any move to join the two of you- perhaps she really is not feeling well.

You are just about to ask her when Daemon let’s put a pleases sigh.

“You were right. I do feel better.”

“Listen to your wives, Daemon.” Rhaenyra chimes in. “Every once in a while, we have a good thought or two.” He laughs, and you smile. When you look over at Rhaenyra, she seems completely engrossed in the scene in front of her.

“You do not want to join?” You ask, almost frowning.

“Of course I do.” You wait for her to make a move, but she is still.

“Nyra-?”

“Shh,” she shushes, placing a messy hand forward and pushing two fingers into your mouth. “You are ruining my show,” she all but croons, and Daemon grins like the rogue, like the demon he is.

“I think you deserve a reward,” Daemon says, voice low and rough with desire.

So, he lowers his face to your neck, and you give yourself, all of you, to them. That, you think, is better then any word you could speak.

Distractions are nice, you know, but you hope your dragons realize that they can hide and run all they want, but it will always be there waiting for them.

—-

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@wondergal2001 @akiraquote @a-lil-bit-nuts @anginoguera @thatkinkylesgirl1 @stitchattacks @honeypillowsblog @kaloafd @blackhoodlea @softtina @wallace02sblog @tetgod @hotd-fanfic @rxscpctals @iramagnus

#daemon x rhaenyra #daemon targaryen #daemon targaryen x reader #rhaenyra targaryen #rhaenyra targaryen x reader