Chapter 42: Chapter 40 : Blood of the Dragon
Aemon Targaryen (109 A.C. Ten Moon twenty-two day.)
Beach near High Tide
He felt whole holding little Arya being wrapped against his chest. 'It was a bond he felt similar to Aegon, although he could only show fatherly affection to the boy in private. Although that would be possible now, when he grew older, he could now be more than an uncle to him. Yet, with Arya, he didn't need to. He showered the child with all the love it deserved.' He thought as he kissed her silver hair crown.
He wondered if Alyssa would be happy with her great-grandchild. 'Maybe his father didn't talk often of Alyssa and knew some of what was written in the histories. He hoped she would be happy.'
A rumble pulled him out as Balerion landed on the beach. "Ready, Arya? I suspect your namesake would have loved doing what you are doing now. Although before, there was no time. Now we have plenty of time, and you will fly through the skies one day as true Targaryen." Arya only bubbled at his words, yet he liked any little sound she made.
"Is this one of your hatchlings," Balerion questioned as his giant face came close and when he sniffed the smell of Arya. He could feel the change in wind flow. "Arya Targaryen, meet Balerion, my oldest friend beside Ghost." He said to Arya.
He said, and Balerion moved even closer, and he could feel the heat of him. He took Arya's little hand and put it on a scale of Balerion. Arya giggled at the touch. "A dragon for true," Balerion said through their link.
"Come, little one, let's get you on your first flight." He said as he mounted Balerion. 'Oh, I should have done this with Arya before the battle to reconnect with her. Unfortunately, it was now too late for that.'
"Soves, my friend," He exclaimed as he ensured Arya secured snugly against his chest, ensuring she was well-protected. Balerion's immense wings began to spread, casting a vast shadow over the beach. The dragon's muscles coiled, and they ascended into the sky with a mighty leap.
The rush of wind greeted them, cool and refreshing. Arya's silver hair fluttered wildly, her giggles turning into joyous squeals. He felt a deep warmth in his chest, a mix of pride and affection. "Look, Arya," he said, pointing to the sprawling landscape below. "This is where dragons belong; you shall see the other part of blood one day." He murmured.
Laena's Bedchamber
He sat beside Laena's bed, cradling Arya gently in his arms. The soft morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a golden glow over the room. Laena lay peacefully, her breathing even, a serene expression on her face. He couldn't remember the last time he had seen her so at peace. Perhaps it was because she had given birth to their wonderful daughter just a few days ago.
As if sensing her father's thoughts, Arya let out a small, plaintive cry. He rocked her gently, murmuring soothing words. "Oh, hungry little one, should we ask muna for help?" He glanced over at Laena, watching as her eyelids fluttered open.
"Morning, my dear," he said softly. "Sleep well?"
Laena stretched languidly, a smile playing at the corners of her lips as she turned her head to look at them. "I did, surprisingly," she replied, her voice still heavy with sleep. She reached out to touch Arya's tiny hand, her fingers brushing against the baby's cheek. Arya stopped crying and stared at her mother with wide, curious purple eyes.
He couldn't help but marvel at the sight. The bond between mother and daughter was already so strong, and it filled him with a warmth he couldn't quite describe. "She missed you," he said, a smile tugging at his lips.
Laena chuckled softly. "And I missed her." She sat up slowly, reaching out to take Arya from Aemon's arms. "Come here, little one. Let's see about that hunger of yours."
He watched as Laena settled Arya against her breast, the baby instinctively latching on and suckling eagerly. He felt a deep sense of contentment as he observed them, the room filled with the gentle sounds of Arya nursing.
"I did. What have you two been up to? As she normally wakes us up before this hour." She said as she looked at the sunlight that was glowing into the room.
His eyes sparkled with excitement as he recounted their morning. "We took a flight with Balerion. Arya had her first taste of the skies. She giggled the whole way."
Laena's smile widened as she looked at Arya, then back at Aemon. "Her first flight? Oh, Aemon, that sounds wonderful."
"It was," Aemon agreed, his voice filled with emotion. "I wanted to share it with her, to start building these memories. There will be many more flights, I promise. Soon, we will do it together when you are able."
Laena reached up to caress his cheek. "I would like that. Aemon, thank you For being here. For being such a wonderful father."
He leaned down to press a tender kiss to her forehead. "There's nowhere else I'd rather be. We're a family now. And I'll always be here for both of you."
Rhaenyra's Chambers
"Fuck," He groaned as he spilled his seed inside her. "Fucked indeed, Husband." Rhaenyra purred. "I fuck any time you want." He growled as he kissed with passion.
"How are you? I know I have been busy since Arya's birth." He asked after he rolled off her, and pulled her into his embrace. "Content, Aemon, I'm delighted everything is alright with Arya, and the Isle of Driftmark and High Tide is always a nice respite from the Red Keep," Rheanyra said with a smile. "I do hope that I can give you that as well. A child from us both, I do love that little girl, but holding something similar in my arms." Rhaenyra said, a little more nervous.
" Would you blame me if I couldn't give you a child?" She asked. He heard her voice crack a little. His heart broke a little for her. 'Damn Viserys, he knew he loved Aemma, but that didn't stop him from pushing for a child.' He thought in anger.
"Never. I don't care for you because you are the King's daughter or because you ride a dragon. No, I love Rhaenyra for Rhaenyra and nothing more. Never forget that." He said as he kissed her, wiping away a tear that had fallen and run down her.
His hand went to her belly, "I have no worries, Nyra. You will be a wonderful mother one day." He said, 'It was, something could say, that was true. In the past, Rhaenyra Targaryen gave birth to five healthy children and one stillbirth. However, the last one was most likely because of the stress and shock of her usurpation.' He thought as he embraced her more tightly.
"Thank you, Aemon. I love you." She said, "And I you." He said as he kissed her again.
Rhaenys Targaryen Velaryon (109 A.C. Ten Moon twenty day.)
High Tide
'She was a grandmother and loved the little girl with her, her father's grey eyes, and her mother's curls. Arya Targaryen was a true mix of her daughter and her father.' She thought as she held the little babe in her arms and stood on the terras of High Tide.
"Are there my girl," Aemon announced as he approached her. "She is a beauty, isn't she?" He questioned. "She is Aemon. You and Laena gave me a wonderful grandchild.
"It's a strange feeling. I never felt like this for anyone. I didn't need anything to love that girl. It was there the moment she was born." Aemon said as he looked at Arya with love. "Hmm, I know. I felt similar when Laena was born, and with Laena, I felt no different." She answered.
"I'm still relieved that I was here in time, and I still have to thank you for being there for her when I wasn't. Duty is sometimes comes in the way of love." Aemon and there was a hint of familiarity in his voice. "Yes, duty can be the death of love. My father fell in the name of duty. Never seeing Laena being born, or did this little one." She answered. There was a sense of longing in her voice when she said that.
"Hmm, yes, I wish I would like to have met him. You, your mother, always spoke fondly of him, and so did my father. Did you already send word to you're her about the babe?" He asked. "I did, and she will be arriving in a week. She also asked to be able to reside in High Tide for the future and be closer to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren." She answered.
"Mmm, then able to see her for a time. I'm planning to move to Dragonstone in a moons time. Parts of the men from Stepstones will be arriving and need to be there, and there are other things I need to do on Dragonstone." He answered that she had expected the answer. Aemon was an heir, Prince, and lord of the castles with many duties.
"My husband and son?" She questioned. "Will be coming as well. I sent them a summons with the eagle, announcing Arya's birth. A day before her birth, I received word of the first payment of Triahcy arriving. Vaemond and lord Desmond will stay in the Stepstones for the time to have general command until the region is settled." Aemon answered.
"Well, it seems I will be traveling to Dragonstone." She said with a smile. "You are always welcome there, and it is our ancestral home after, a seat for dragons," Aemon said with a smile. "Where we will stand strong for centuries to come, we are Valyrians, and I carry the blood of winter in my blood. Both lines of magic and the things the Andals and Seven have held against us. There are many things in this world one might not believe or trust simply because one doesn't understand or control it." Aemon said harshly, 'Not that he was wrong, it was maybe one of the mistakes or needed necessities King Jaehaerys made after his father and uncle reign, the faith, and realm. He united the realm, but some parts of her house were lost, and even some parts of their house were preserved.' She mused.
"The realm might not be ready, although you have already built your power. The Stepstones are yours, and the men you fought with sing your praises. I even heard that Redweyne's are favorable toward you, and then there is North. You have them in your hand; their most significant factor is Balerion and another dragon. My daughter's mount, Vhagar, maybe the only dragon to pose a threat to him." She said, and it was true.
"Power resides where man believes it resides. It's a trick, a shadow on the wall. Anyone can cast a shadow. Just look at our Lord's Hand. A second son with nothing to inherit is now the goodfather to the King and grandfather to the Prince of the realm." Aemon answered, and it was a wise saying. "I hold power because of Balerion, and it's true, but I would not rule or lead if the people around me would allow for it. Who would win if thousands of little mice attacked a bear?" Aemon questioned.
"Depends on the will of the mice. It might die for a thousand bites if they come long enough. Just look at Aegon and Dorne. He eventually bled out of willpower to continue the war. Dorne's will eventually broke him." She answered.
"Yes, it is true. It all depends on the will of either party willing to prolong something. In the end, one will give up or break apart until nothing is left." Aemon said it, although he spoke it in a grimmer tone. 'Did he think there would be a war when he ascended to the throne?' She wondered.
"You suspect war will come?" She questioned. "There is a possibility. Do you truly think Daemon would accept me to rule Rhaenys? Ever since the Great Council, he was supposed to rule after Viserys, and now I'm his heir. Daemon might have accepted a son his to rule, but not me. So we might have to prepare for war to come, and even more now. As I would rather die than see her eyes close before mine," Aemon said as he stared at his daughter.
"A child is a powerful motivator. I found myself in a similar position when my father went off to Tarth. I would have joined him if not for Laena, who was in my belly then. He told me I had my own battle to fight, and he would see his grandchild. Yet it wasn't to be. He died for the realm." She said, 'She wished her father had lived and could see his great-grandchild like Jaehaerys had, but it was not possible.'
"Hmm, my namesake is someone to inspire to be. It's a shame he never got to see Arya, Laena, and Laenor." Aemon mutters, in saddened. "As was it with my own father, Arya has his eyes if not the color."
The babe in her arms gurgled softly, her tiny hand grasping at the air, and she couldn't help but smile at the innocence that radiated from her granddaughter.
"Your father was a good man, and he loved you," she said softly, her voice tinged with a bittersweet note. "He would be proud of you, Aemon. On what you have achieved, and would a proud grandsire, as would have been mine."
Aemon nodded, his eyes never leaving Arya. "Love is our strength and will carry us through the darkest times. But we must be vigilant. We cannot afford to be complacent. Many would seek to take advantage of any perceived weakness."
She sighed, knowing the truth of his words. The realm was a fragile thing, 'the reign of Aenys and Meagor was proof of that. A delicate balance of power and politics that could shift at any moment. She knew that Aemon's position as heir to the throne made him a target. But she also knew that he was strong, capable, and wise beyond his years.'
"We will be ready," she said firmly. "Whatever comes, we will face it together. Our family has endured much, and we will continue to endure. For Arya, Laena, Laenor, and all those who come after us."
Aemon reached out, gently brushing a finger against Arya's cheek. The babe cooed in response, her grey eyes wide and curious. "She will grow up in a world different from ours. The power of the dragon will rise," he mused. " That world that we will shape with our actions and our choices. It is a heavy burden that power, but also a great honor."
Aemon's expression grew serious once more, and he glanced out over the terras, his gaze distant. "The realm will be changing, Rhaenys. With war done, it is time to face the forces of the shadows and prepare for them. We cannot yet see all the forces at play, alliances, and enmities forming in the shadows. We must be prepared for anything." 'The damn maesters, when she Corlys had heard, all the possible had done and wanted. Melelys had unleashed a roar that felt like it had the foundations of High Tide tremble.'
"Well, it will be difficult without proof and their power over the realm. With scribtors, we are gaining more control. However, it's still a minor compared to what they hold, where we have to bid our time." She urged.
"You aren't wrong, but soon, the power of Dragonstone will rise, and with it, our control." He said and gazed toward the sea. 'Fire and Blood.'
Lyanna Stark Targaryen (109 A.C. Ten moon Twelve days)
Kingslanding – Lyanna's Chambers
She reread the message. 'A daughter mother, with Laena's silver curling hair, mine, and our eyes. She is given the name Arya Targaryen. Laena is faring well and resting, and the rest are all in awe of her, as I am. See you soon on Dragonstone. Give Alicent and my brother my support for the upcoming birth.' The letter ended. 'a granddaughter, and they named her Arya, after a niece she never knew. Although her son told her she was like her and
"Well done, my boy. On the morrow, I shall send a reply." She said to Brandy as she stroked the eagle, white feathers glistening under her touch. "Here you go, a reward." She picked up a piece of dried beef, and the bird eagerly snatched it from her hand.
With a final pat, she turned and made her way to the council chamber. The castle's halls were quiet, and the echoes of her footsteps were the only sound as she approached the heavy wooden door. She pushed it open, revealing the small council already in discussion.
"My lords, settling the Stepstones will require a delicate balance. We can see favoring any houses." Otto was saying but stop when she walked in.
Lord Lyonel Strong, Master of Laws, the Master of Coin, and Lyman Beesbury rose as she entered. "Princess," they greeted with a nod.
"Lord Strong, Lord Beesbury, Your Grace." She acknowledged them but didn't give the master of ships, grand measter, and Lord Hand any. Those two had given her son nothing but trouble.
"We have received word from High Tide," she announced, holding the letter. " Princess Laena has given birth to a healthy daughter. Aemon and her named the Arya Targaryen." There were frowns of some council members,
"Oh, what wonderful news, a future queen of the realm," Viserys exclaimed, his eyes lighting up with genuine joy.
"Indeed, it is a gracious day for the realm," Lord Lyonel said, his tone sincere. "My congratulations, princess, on the birth of your first grandchild. May there be many more." Lyman Beesbury added with a respectful bow.
"Thank you. I already have a grandchild, my lords. Aegon is my grandchild, also. His Grace is my stepson." She said, her voice steady, though she knew something they all didn't, the truth about Aegon's birth.
"Lord Hand, wonderful news is not?" Lyonel questioned. "The future King of the Realm has strengthened his line, a future Queen of the realm." The rest of the council looked at Otto.
"Indeed, it is welcome news, a new princess for the realm. Can we expect the Prince to arrive soon to present the child to his Grace?" Otto said, looking at her.
"Not likely, Lord Hand. My son will soon travel to Dragonstone and welcome the men arriving back from the Stepstones. After me, my daughter and I shall travel North for the wedding of Rickon Stark, the heir of Winterfell to Giliane Glover. Aemon has also informed us of his intention to travel there, although it isn't his only purpose, as he wishes to visit his lordship of Seadragon Point." She declared.
"Yes, my brother is always busy with his duties. Greeting my niece can wait, as for the wedding. Perhaps I could travel there on Goynogar after the Queen has given birth. It would show crown support for the North and show them our appreciation." Viserys mused aloud. 'To be honest, getting Viserys out of this place might be good for the man. It would also show the King respected all parts of his Kingdom.' She thought.
"Your Grace, a journey to go take moons would go for you to be away that long from court." Tyland Lannister said. "The King is not the King of Kingslanding lord Lannister. He is the King of the Seven Kingdoms. You better do well to remember that. Princess Rhaenyra and the late Queen Aemma travel to Westerlands. Was that also not too much time for them to be away from court?" She questioned the man.
"I apologize, princess. I only had the best interests of the realm at heart." Tyland answered quickly.
"It doesn't matter now. The current heir has his duties and will likely travel North soon. Also, he has a first child. I say it is all good with said child. Let's pray the Queen will fair much the same when the child comes." Otto said, cutting in between them.
"Very well, Lyanna. Is there any other news you wish to share with the council?" Viserys questioned her.
"No, Your Grace, If not else be required of me, I shall visit my gooddaughter." She answered.
"Very, well have a good day, Lyanna, and shall make sure the bell's well rung and the people are notified of the birth of one of our new Princess." Viserys, with a bright smile.
"Goodday Princess," They all said, and she left for Alicent Chambers.
She arrived and saw the old, always dutiful Addam Tarth waiting at the Queen's door. "Princess, goodday, her Grace is within. Shall ask for entry." He questioned. "If you, Ser Addam.
"Enter," came the soft yet firm voice from within.
She pushed open the door, stepping into the warm, candle-lit room. Alicent Hightower sat by the window, her face a mixture of weariness and anticipation. She looked up, a faint smile playing on her lips.
"Lyanna," she greeted warmly, "Please, come in."
"Alicent," she replied, closing the door behind her. She moved to sit beside the Queen, her gaze briefly falling on Alicent's rounded belly. "How are you faring? I know the last days of waiting can be the hardest."
Alicent sighed, resting a hand on her stomach. "I'm well enough. The maester assures me everything is proceeding as it should. But the waiting...it tests my patience."
She smiled knowingly. "It always does. But soon, you will hold your child, and all the waiting will be worth it."
Alicent nodded, her eyes softening. "And you, Lyanna? How are things?"
"Busy, as always, preparing for my departure to North and Dragonstone," she replied. "I wanted to share some news with you. We received word from High Tide this morning." Alicent's curiosity was piqued. "Oh? What news?"
"Princess Laena has given birth to a healthy daughter," she announced, her voice filled with pride. "Aemon and Laena have named her Arya Targaryen."
Alicent's eyes widened in surprise, then softened with genuine joy. "That's wonderful news! I hope Aemon and Laena are happy. How is Laena? I hope all is well."
"She is faring well and resting," she said. "Aemon and the rest in High Tiden are in awe of her Arya, and he says in a letter that she has Laena's hair and his grey eyes."
Alicent's eyes softened further. "I'm glad to hear that. Aemon must be overjoyed. He will be a wonderful father. He is already Aegon's great uncle." Alicent said, smiling. 'Oh, dear. She still loves her son, and from what she has seen from Aemon's interactions with her and Aegon, he did care for them. She wondered if he would take her advice.' She thought as she looked at the Queen.
"I have no doubt he will be. He has always been good with children, his sister, his cousins, and his nephew." She said with a smile.
"Lyanna will be going to Dragonstone soon, and I was wondering if you would stay until my babe is born. I would do me well to have you beside me during birth." Alicent questioned a bit anxiously.
"No worries, my dear, I will be dear to you. Visenya and I shall not be moving for another moon, as Aemon will only depart for it at the beginning of the elven moon." She said in answer as she took hold of her hands.
The castle was abuzz with anticipation, as Alicent's labors had begun twenty days later. She made her way swiftly through the corridors, her heart pounding in her chest. 'She had been by Alicent's side throughout the past few weeks, offering support and comfort, and now, as the moment drew near, she was determined to be there for her less adopted daughter.' She thought as she walked toward Alicent's chamber.
She entered Alicent's chambers to find the Queen in the throes of labor, surrounded by maesters and midwives. Alicent's face was contorted with pain, but her eyes were filled with determination.
"Lyanna," Alicent gasped, reaching out a hand.
"I'm here, Alicent," she said, taking Alicent's hand in hers. "You are strong, and you will get through this."
The hours passed in a blur of pain and effort. She stayed by Alicent's side, offering words of encouragement and soothing her as best she could. The maesters and midwives worked diligently, their faces a mix of concentration and concern.
As the night wore on, Alicent's cries grew more intense. She felt a pang of helplessness, wishing she could do more to ease her daughter's suffering. She squeezed Alicent's hand, murmuring words of comfort. "You are doing wonderfully, Alicent. Just a little more."
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the cries of a newborn filled the room. Alicent collapsed back onto the pillows, exhausted but relieved. The midwife carefully placed the baby in her arms.
"A daughter," the midwife announced with a smile. "A beautiful, healthy daughter."
Alicent looked down at the tiny bundle in her arms, tears of joy streaming down her face. "Helaena," she whispered. "Her name is H Helaena Targaryen."
She felt a surge of emotion as she looked at the newborn. "She is perfect, Alicent," she said softly. "You did it." The babe looked like a full Targaryen, with silver and gold hair of Viserys with purple eyes. 'Not Aemon's eyes this time. This little bundle was Viserys, his second daughter.' She thought with a bright smile as she caressed the babes cheek.
"What happy news, a daughter," Viserys said with a smile. As he walked into the chamber, "Let me see. Oh, she has my eyes and hair. She is a true beauty. Have you decided on a name, dear?" Viserys asked, holding Alicent hands and sitting down beside them on the bed.
"Helaena Targaryen," Alicent answered softly as she tucked Helaena in more closely to her. "Hmm, wonderful name, Helaena Targaryen," Viserys said, as he kissed the child on the borrow.
"Lyanna, thank you for help. I appreciate the support you have shown my wife." Viserys said. "Do not worry, Viserys. Alicent is like a daughter and is wise enough to show my support whenever possible." She as squeezed Alicent hand.
"Leave to both be, for now, enjoy your daughter." She said as she kissed Alicent's cheek. "I'm coming back later with Visenya. I'm sure she wants to see her new niece." She announced and left the room.
Hello everyone!
If you've enjoyed my stories and would like to support my work, consider joining my supporter community. Your support means the world to me and helps me continue creating the content you and I love.
By becoming a supporter, you'll get access to exclusive benefits like:
Early access to new chaptersWriting and story updates.Access to concept art for the stories.And, of course, you will support me.And much more!
Join now and be part of a community that loves and supports creativity. Your contribution makes a huge difference and allows me to keep bringing you exciting new stories.
The following link: Tumblr/ (You can see how to support me from there.)
(This link will be added to all the stories that will hit ten chapters)