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A Prince of the Seven Kingdoms by RedShadow74
Books » A Song of Ice and Fire Rated: M, English, Romance & Drama, [Daenerys T./Dany, Jon S., Rhaenys T./Rhaegar's daughter], Words: 156k+, Favs: 468, Follows: 599, Published: Jul 25, 2024 Updated: Jul 13
108Chapter 5: The Tourney Part Three
=Authors Notes=
I'll keep this brief I only wanted to thank the patience of the reader and all the great reviews, they have been some of my favourite parts of writing this story so far and I love that a few readers have decided between Team Dany and Team Rhae lol
The next chapter will be the last of the tourney then the feast and we will be back to castle life before the big stuff on the horizon
I wanted to share I intend to write more stories, both fanfiction and personal works on Fictionpress, I may upload to AO3 someday in the future but I'm not worried about any of it for now.
Thank you! please enjoy the chapter
JAEHAERYS
Jaehaerys stood in front of a full-body mirror that he didn't quite fill the frame of. Even at ten and two, he may have been a bit tall for his age but he always felt like his clothes were too big for him. He awkwardly fiddled with the buttons and collar on his grey and black tunic, it was Aegon's fourteenth name day and Queen Elia expected them on their best behaviour and look their best. Jae didn't move yet however, he didn't want to face the crowded halls of the red keep. A knock came on his door and it pushed open before he could argue it, Daenerys slipped inside wearing a ballroom gown in blacks, reds, and silvers that became goofy and frilly from her waist down. She slightly gathered the front of it in her hands to help her walk.
"You should stop just walking in," Jaehaerys said before looking back at the mirror.
"But, you said I was always welcome," she said quietly, her hands nervously coming together.
"That was when we were children, what if I were still dressing?" He questioned sounding more annoyed than he intended to be at the moment.
Dany looked down and her face turned beet red, "Sorry" she replied even quieter than before. A pang of guilt echoed through his heart and he looked back over at her quickly.
"It is fine, I only think… people whisper plenty about me they don't need to whisper about you as well" Jaehaerys explained, she looked back up at him and nodded slightly. "You look pretty," he told her, causing a smile to slowly spread across the princess's face.
"I was sent to come collect you, the feast will be starting soon" she explained much to Jaehaerys' chagrin. He left with her all the same the two young royals accompanied by Jaime Lannister. They made it to the grand hall, it was full of rows of tables and chairs all lined up with plates, cups, silverware and pitchers lining the tables. Rhaegar stood with a few of the men coordinating them as they put the final touches on the room. Behind him on a slightly raised-up section of the room sat a long table for the royal family and close friends who may be invited up to sit with them. It currently sat Aegon, Viserys, Monford, and Harry sat around the far left side of the table sharing a few words and laughs, more when Jaehaerys walked in.
"Ah, there you two are," His Father said. Rhaegar looked at his son for only a moment before his eyes stressed and grew sad before averting them to Dany suddenly. That's how things had become the older he became as of late, at first Jae thought he did something wrong, then he thought his Father finally just couldn't stomach looking at him, least that's what Viserys whispered to him, finally he came to the realization, he looked like his mother.
He always knew it was true, at least he assumed it. He didn't favour his father that much, his raven hair and deep grey eyes. Beyond that he knew he would grow taller than Aegon like a northern, his face was long like a northern, and he didn't enjoy the summer heat like a northern. Elia likes to say he looked more and more like the king each passing year but Jae never saw it, he wondered what he would look like with his Father's platinum blond and Violet eyes.
"Daenerys you will sit beside me, Jaehaerys the other side of her" he told them pointing up to the table and gesturing where they would sit. Behind them, the doors opened and in entered the Queen alongside her, her only daughter Rhaenys. The Princess only gave Jaehaerys a passing glance before continuing to walk by him wordlessly. Elia stopped by her husband and shared a kiss with him before the two began a quiet conversation about the feast and evening plans. Jae felt himself being tugged along as Dany guided him up to the table and their seats.
Before long the entire royal family was seated together, along with the Hand of the King Jon Connington and a few of Aegon's friends. Family by family the guests of court trickled in causing the hall to swirl with sound and live as the king motioned for a group of musicians to start up. Many of the lords and sometimes their wives approached the main table to present gifts and give their plaudits, as though Aegon had done more than be pushed into this world and be named. He received books, clothes, a few fine weapons, and fine jewels. He received boots and gloves despite this being the longest summer yet. He received praise and honours, as did much of the royal family, all save him.
As most eyes crossed over him they grew silent, only a small few shared with him a nod of acknowledgement for which he was grateful. The feasting began soon and Jaehaerys was content to eat in silence aside from the occasional chatter from Dany. He didn't get to enjoy her company most of the night as soon after they ate there was a line of boys who all sought a dance with the princess, both of them actually as Rhaenys took a turn about the room with Loras. Soon Aegon was on his feet as well and the number of maidens hoping to share a dance with the crowned prince on his name day was endless.
Viserys also stood but instead made his way over to Jaehaerys moving behind the king in the process. "Mayhaps you should ask for a dance, they may have some mutts in the kennels, you surely must also share my brother's taste for wolves hm?" He said in a quiet cruel tone laughing to himself as he walked away. Jaehaerys sank in his chair ever so slightly, it was difficult to tell but he felt far too many eyes on him from the crowd. People were staring and whispering about him, he stared down at the half-empty plate in front of him stirring his food around with his fork.
"Jaehaerys you should partake" he knew it was his Father before he needed to look.
"I don't wish to dance" In fairness it wasn't a lie, he had no desire to dance with any of the girls of court, save for Daenerys maybe.
"You are a prince it would be go-"
"I'm not-" Jaehaerys interrupts his Father only to cut his own voice short. He wasn't a prince, not a real one anyhow, no legal decree from his Grace would change what he was in everyone's eyes. None of the girls in court wished to associate themselves with the royal bastard, the next Blackfyre.
"Jae," the King tried before his son cut him off again.
"I am not feeling well your Grace, if it not bother you I'd excuse myself," Jaehaerys said without looking up at his Father's face, what he could only picture as a disappointed expression. If Rhaegar meant to say no he took his time thinking about it.
"As you wish," he said dismissively, a soft sigh on his lips. Jaehaerys stood and all but took flight from the hall. He had no destination, he thought about the Godswood for a moment of quiet but the fake heart tree gave him a hollow feeling inside. He mindlessly wandered the halls without a destination, only coming across servants and very minor members of court who wouldn't be missed at the feast. Soon however Jaehaerys found himself in a strange hall he did not recognize. What had once been the off-red stone walls of the red keep were now red velvety walls that became a dark, almost black wood halfway up and continued to the ceiling. The walls were empty at first before he came to a sudden stop in front of a painting.
A large painting of three Valyrians, a man standing between two women, all dawn in black armour with accents covering and surrounding them. A three-headed dragon pressed into the man's armour, and his black crown with rubies encrusting it. He needs no guide to tell him this was the conquerors, who beat seven kingdoms into one and forged his dynasty. He kept walking, seeing next, a painting of Aenys and his brother Maegor after him. One after another he saw king after king line the hallway. Jaehaerys couldn't remember ever seeing these paintings before in the keep, mayhaps he had stumbled into a private part of the keep in which these were clearly on display. A part of the keep he had, never been told about, or stumbled upon on his own…
Something felt sickly wrong around the long endless tunnel he now felt himself drawn towards. Despite not having torches or lanterns it was lit, however, despite it being illuminated he couldn't see more than 15 feet ahead of him. The hall was consumed by an ever-dark shadow and only moved away from him the more steps he took. Jaehaerys stopped again in the middle of his father's and grandfather's paintings, it was difficult to look at the mad king but he finally brought his eyes to that of the portrait.
"BURN THEM, THE TRAITORS IN MY STREETS BURN THEM ALL"
Jaehaerys looked around suddenly as the voice echoed around him, gone as soon as it was there. He looked at his Father's face next.
"He is the prince who was promised, I know it"
The words didn't startle him as the last one had, instead feeling more comforting. His voice swelled in Jae's chest giving him pride, though he was not sure why.
"Jaehaerys" he heard a woman's voice he didn't recognize whisper in his ear next, he whipped his head around again. Instead of seeing the opposing wall behind him now he was face to face with a large wooden door. All the heat was sucked from the air and every exhale pushed out a mouthful of fog in front of him.
"His name… is, Jaehaerys" Her voice sounded breathy and weak.
"Mother?" He could not help but ask the blank door.
"I'm afraid to die…" she whispered next, Jaehaerys felt his body move before he knew it as he reached for the handle. It was freezing cold to the touch, so cold it hurt.
Jaehaerys eyes shot open, his forehead was covered in a sheen of sweat. The cold of the dream was quickly replaced by the warm soft form of Daenerys curled against him, her head resting on his chest. Jae was short of breath as he glanced around the empty tent. The flaps were tied shut to ensure no one came looking where they weren't supposed to. The prince realized he had something in his hand and glanced to realize the wooden Direwolf was tight in his grip. Did I reach for it in my sleep? Jaehaerys couldn't remember holding as he fell asleep, his thoughts were short-lived as Dany began to stir in his other arm. He remembered she almost seemed insulted when he assumed she may wish to stay in his bed at the keep instead of his tent with him.
"Is it morning?" She asked the valyrian slurred and slowed still dripping. Ever since their first night together, she had made a habit of waking up earlier and earlier to be on his schedule. Her body was warm against his and she always clung to him like he might vanish in her sleep.
"I had a weird dream," Jaehaerys told her in the common tongue. She shifted resting her chin on his chest to look up at him, her hand coming up his chest slightly.
"Tell me," She said softly.
"I think I heard my mother's voice" he admitted, she had become his confidant recently, and he told her everything big or small. Jaehaerys began taking her advice and suggestions, like inviting Brienne and Baelish to the gathering last night. He even told Her about what Aegon had done.
"Oh Jae" she said, reaching up to cup his cheek. "There are nights I hear my mother too, in a swirl of smoke and flames I hear her telling me to be strong and brave, that I have a long journey ahead of me" Jae now listened intently. The loss of their mothers was one of the things they bonded over growing up, Viserys seemed to always be more moved by the death of Arys than Rhaella, but the both of them lamented the mothers neither of them got to know. She rose, taking much of the blanket with her as she sat up to stretch wearing only a thin chemise, her dress discarded along the floor somewhere. The plain white gown clung to her form and Jaehaerys couldn't help but stare which she blushed and giggled at. His little cot creaked slightly as she climbed over him and out and began running through her hand with her fingers. "What are you going to do about Aegon?"
"What are you going to do about your appearance is a better question" She gave him a strange look before he continued. "Your hair dishevelled, the same now wrinkled dress from yesterday, no one would have seen you return to the castle, some may call our honour into question" he explained, even now if someone busted into the tent it would look damning for the both of them.
"So be it, maybe then bumbling fools will stop putting their names forward for my hand" she sighed before taking a seat on top of his trunk to begin putting her dress back on. Jaehaerys quickly stepped forward helping her while trying to preserve her modesty.
"Do you not seek to be married someday?" he asked as the cloth slid over her head, she looked up at him with a slight blush.
"Of course I do," she said quietly as they stared at each other. Jaehaerys struggled to find the words, her violet eyes hypnotic as they captured his gaze.
"Dany I-" Jae didn't get the chance to speak when someone attempted to open the tent. Jaehaerys reflexively reached for his sword only to hear his sworn protector call out for him.
"Jaehaerys, his Grace has summoned the entire royal family to eat together this morn" There was a pause. "Have you any idea where Daenerys went?" Jaehaerys audibly choked and sputtered.
"I- uh, well- n-no, I have not" he stammered to a then silent Jaime Lannister, Daenerys of course had to hold a few fingers up to her mouth to stifle a giggle that threatened to put the whole mummer's act to shame. He did not fear Jaime would tell the King that Dany spent the night in his tent unsupervised.
"Right, well my prince shall I wait for you out here?" He offered not sounding very convinced.
"No!" Jaehaerys said far too quickly, "No, I'll be fine," he said. They waited a few moments before Jae wondered if he should continue their discussion from a few moments ago. "Dany I-"
"Save the poetry for when you do something poetic and noteworthy," she said, Jaehaerys knew he should have taken it as a slight to his pride, he was a war hero after all. But he just couldn't when he saw her playful smile and soft purple eyes, the round curve to her cheek giving her a full-faced smile that left no part out.
"You're beautiful you know" he less asked and more told her, despite her large blush at the statement she attempted to roll her eyes.
"Blame our Valyrian ancestors, now put some day clothes on and go, your father may not send a large search party after me but you on the other hand" she teased her cheeks a rosy pink. He did so quickly and was all but shoved out of his tent, once outside he took a second to strap Longclaw to his hip to be surprised by Loras Tyrell.
"I was worried I may have to drag you away from your aunt" Jaehaerys' eye snapped to him, then Tyrell put his hands up in defence. "Fear not, your secret is safe," he said as the prince finished with his belt.
"There is no secret," Jae said as began walking. Loras moved to follow him, his voice becoming a hushed whisper.
"Oh and here half the keep was convinced you were lying with Daenerys" he said nonchalantly like it wouldn't be a scandal if true.
"Well, it's a lie, the folly of court leads to a felled empire" Jaehaerys spoke slightly annoyed at the rumours.
"I did not think the North would turn you into a scholar or a poet" Loras quipped.
"The North has plenty of fine literature"
Loras snorted, "Yes yes, about snarks and grumpkins I'm sure" he snickered and Jae chose not to goad him further.
"Did you need something ser?" The prince asked dryly.
"With His Grace pushing for a marriage my grandmother can only saude my father to hold off for so long, it is obvious we will be tied to Aegon soon"
"Here I thought you'd be happy to learn your sister would be queen"
"Aegon is vile, he will bring Margaery no happiness" he explained.
"Still I know not why this concerns me" Jaehaerys pressed further.
"I simply wish you to understand that any distance that grows between you and our… Faction is not desired but one brought about by circumstances" Loras finished. The Knight of Flowers wanted to ensure the olive branch remained between them.
"Of course Loras, I would hate to assume your actions are a reflection of your opinions" Jaehaerys said with a very small smirk, Loras took a moment before smirking as well.
"You understand my meaning then," He said, giving the prince a pat on the shoulder. Jae didn't like the games of court but like Rhaenys told him last night he may need to learn how to play it.
"Before you take your leave Loras, I have an important request to ask of you, concerning the Joust" Jaehaerys said, stopping Loras one last time.
ELIA
The Queen sat upright and regal despite her children slouching around in their carriage as they travelled back to the tourney grounds. Aegon seemed exhausted, craning his neck around in search of a relief of some kind. The princess' to her credit seemed more awake than her brother but far more demure in his presence, she could expect that should it be Viserys instead but Aegon?
"Must Father force us to eat down in the filth and drivel of the grounds?" Aegon groaned from his seat in the shaking ride.
"He said there was a nice field we would be eating in" Elia clarified to her son, who only gave a half grunt in response. It was only the three of them. The King chose to ride ahead on horseback along with Ser Dayne in some newfound flash of youth. Viserys and Daenerys were missing, at least the king believed them missing for the time being. Viserys was with his whores, one of which looked far too much like her daughter for her liking, and while she wasn't entirely sure about Dany, the Queen would bet half the crown's coffers her good-sister had spent the night with Jaehaerys.
They had been inseparable according to her sources, her personal ladies ensured her the princess hadn't spent a single night alone but that her maidenhood was still intact. As cruel as it may be to spy on her own family there sometimes come matters that the king need not concern himself with, or that she didn't trust Verys with at all. She kept tabs on Viserys' whores, Rhaenys' debaucherous cousins, Daenerys and her friends, and now Jaehaerys. She did not know Aegon coordinated his plan on his brother but it wasn't difficult to find out the entire truth of the matter. Now her daughter sat quiet nervously glancing at the crowned Prince like he was a viper that may snap out at her.
"Mayhaps if you enjoyed calmer evening activities you may find better respite in sleep" Elia told her son, his nightly activities were the same they had usually been since his fifteenth name day. A night of vigorous drinking and laying with a pretty maid or two. As little as she wished to know about her son's bed companions, she needed to ensure he would not put slander and ruin to his reign before it began. That included making sure none of his women fell heavy with child, a task she failed at once. Most of his girls were easy to sway, out enough gold in their hands and they would take the tea. But one blasted girl, Marei, a golden-haired, green-eyed beauty who refused to give up the babe Aegon put in her.
She made no threats nor demands, when babe was born nearly two years ago now, she named the girl Elaena Waters. Elia kept very close tabs and Marei never revealed the name of the Father but Aegon's name had been amongst the whispers early. And when the babe had her father's platinum white hair and indigo eyes Elia knew she had to act. She had the two of them moved to a private cottage in the countryside, along with servants and maids loyal to her. She did not like hiding her granddaughter's existence away from the King but his reaction would be major. He would want the girl raised in court, and while she bore no hatred for Jaehaerys, Aegon's wife likely would not like the idea of royal bastards hiding. It was for the very life of the babe she must keep it hidden.
Aegon made no reaction to her statement, and the three of them seemed content to ride in silence. Even under his mom's gaze, he seemed relaxed until they arrived at the tourney grounds. He stood to exit before Elia quickly put a hand up to her son's chest.
"Let your sister go first" she ordered and Aegon slumped back down, Rhaenys stood and eyed her mother but said nothing as she slipped out of the ride. Elia stood and quickly pulled the carriage door shut and turned the latch over locking it before turning to her son and glaring at him. "Why must everything be a game to you?" He looked confused.
"What are-"
"Your father put a lot of care into your brother's tourney" Elia cut him off, Aegon rolled his eyes at the title brother. "Must you take joy in trying to ruin it for those of us trying to partake in the fun?"
"If you mean Harry's actions I can't be held responsible for-"
"Your father is likely to believe it but I am not a blind fool to the actions of her son" she said and Aegon was quiet this time.
"Mother?" Rhaenys called out from outside the carriage.
"A lot of work has been done to ensure the stability of the seven kingdoms and this family, I do not need your attempts to undo it because your ego was bruised" she pried.
"Does it not insult you? That there is a walking reminder of Father's infidelity, of a moment of weakness for the crown" Elia scoffed in her son's face, oh how she wished to throw his bastard in his own face.
"You have had enough moments of weakness to flood the Blackwater with them, my boy, you think embarrassing your brother will strengthen your rule? You will learn that sometimes family is the only thing you can trust"
"He is no brother of mine, he is a bastard, and when I am king Jaehaerys will know he is unwelcome in my court" He told his mother, crossing his arms like a petulant child.
"You would ostracize your aunt"
"Let her leave with him for all I care, they can go east or north for all I care and have babies at the edge of the world"
"And if one of those bastards decided they wanted your trueborn's throne?"
"So you agree Jaehaerys could be an issue"
"He will only be if you make him an issue, he seeks not glory or crowns, if you make him an enemy you will have an enemy for generations, if you make him an ally you may be able to keep a closer eye on him and his offspring, ensure house Targaryen lasts another three hundred years" Elia tried to reason with her son. Someone tried the handle on the door tugging on the carriage.
"My Queen, My Prince are you alright in there?" The Queen protector Ser Barristan Selmy called out. Elia gave her son one more warning glare before unlocking the door and stepping out to the worried faces of the kingsguard and her daughter.
"Apologies for the scare my Ser's just need to catch my breath a moment, Aegon chose to dote on his ailing mother, such a sweet boy," she said smiling kindly as she reached back to pinch a chunk of his cheek hard causing him to wince slightly. They had a short walk through the grounds, everyone cleared out of their way as members of the royal family came back encircled by their white knights. Their path took them just outside of the grounds to a hill overlooking the area. A tarp was laid out with a table and a circle of chairs around it, an array of fruits, sweets, and small loaves of bread decorated the table along with a couple of pitchers. A platter of sausages and fish sat in the very middle, aside it a small silver bowl of prepared eggs
Jaehaerys and Daenerys sat at the table, Jae partaking in some pulled bread and sausages whilst Dany relaxed back in her chair basking in the sunlight next to him. The Queen had to look at her good-sister again, noting her dishevelled hair which was braided into a simple tail that laid over her shoulder. Her dress was the same as yesterday and wrinkled over, The Queen worried something may have taken place but decided they didn't look like a pair who had just spent their night taking each other's first, I suppose she may not be Jae's first.
Their kingsguard, Ser Jaime and Ser Gerold, stood helmets off casually scanning the area and they spoke on something, sharing an occasional chuckle. Ser Barristan, Ser Arys, and Ser Mandon joined them soon all except Moore removing their helms as well.
"Your father?" The Queen called out to Jaehaerys who only shrugged as his mouth was full at the moment. He chewed and chewed and finally swallowed it.
"I arrived around the same time as him but he received a messenger and-" Jaehaerys began but never finished as his eyes moved over her shoulder. She did not need to look back to hear the gallop of a horse, she joined her daughter in looking back anyway, always enjoying the sight of Rhaegar atop a steed riding towards her. His long white hair flowed freely under his crown and his close friend and sworn protector was at his side. Rhaenys and Aegon moved to sit, her daughter choosing the seat on the other side of Jaehaerys, something else her mother took notice of. The Queen began towards her husband as he dismounted, he seemed upset by something, a scowl draped along his face.
"My love?" She questioned as he took a few steps and kissed her first before pressing a small folded-up piece of paper in her hand. He walked past her as she unfolded it quickly,
Terrible news from the East my king, the sell swords seek to march under one banner, the masters of Slaver's Bay send unsullied West with them, and all whispers lead to a black dragon at the centre of these actions. War is coming.
Elia's eyes read the paper, then she read it again and a third time before tucking the paper away and joining her family at the table. She took Rhaegar's hand and squeezed it, her king gave her a troubled but gentle smile before his mind went back to best tackle this matter. He will handle matters large, and she will handle matters small and hope that her matters do not become big.
MYRCELLA
Myrcella sat and clapped alongside the other spectators of the archery competition. She was not alone, her uncle Tyrion and younger brother Tommen joined her. Tyrion had been bored beyond sin the entire competition so far this morning, how did she know? Because he now sits half slumped over in his chair, completely unconscious. Compared to the excitement and noise of Melee and Joust both before and after the archery was a far more quiet, reserved affair. Only Tommen still enjoyed it, so here she was, Joffrey seemed to take very little interest in the games, short of watching to see if his friend was successful in his attempt on Prince Jaehaerys. Her mother decided the less of the games she had to sit through the better, especially with Uncle Tyrion around now, and her grandfather mumbled on about work that needed to be done before leaving with the hound in tow.
She did not know exactly where Jaime was but assumed it was duties to the royal family like always. Myrcella's daydreaming was snapped short when a small flurry of applause filled the air which she quickly raised her hand to join.
"Well shot hm?" Tommen asked her glancing up with big dazzling eyes, she swiftly nodded and hummed a light response. She couldn't lie she was also growing bored with the archery but it was a nice break after the brutality of the melee pits and what was likely to unfold during the jousting. Even she knew it was easier to sate the appetite of blood some men seemed to have, not Jaehaerys of course. Before she could let her thoughts drift to the prince and the events of last night a herald entered their sitting box.
"The Princess Daenerys Targaryen" Myrcella and Tommen were already on their feet by the time the man reached her name. Cella quickly reached over and pinched her sleeping uncle hard on the skin of his jaw until his discoloured eyes shot open and he flew out of his chair to his feet. Daenerys barely attempted to hide the giggle from her lips as she approached and took the seat by Myrcella. They all joined her in sitting as Tyrion found the wine which she overheard her grandfather having watered down.
"What gives us the honour princess?" Her uncle asked in a slightly raspy voice after his drink.
"I simply wished to spend the afternoon with my friend, and Margaery happens to have found herself in the company of Aegon," Dany said, also not hiding the slight disdain in her voice when reaching her nephew's name. It gave her a breath of relief hearing Marg would be the one fulfilling queenly aspirations. Her mother was mournful when her grandsire gave the order to have Myrcella stop her attempts on Aegon and move them to Jaehaerys, but Cella was content. She had little desire to be Queen, her mother had burned for it and Margaery seems almost born for it but the draw of power never enticed her. Aegon is handsome plenty but his schemes and bedmates would drive her mad after decades of marriage she is sure of it.
Everyone in court was only counting the days until the betrothal was announced and they would begin planning a grand royal wedding. The young lioness was far more content serving as a Lady in a castle than Queen of the seven kingdoms, or a prince's wife. She could not help but shyly think of Jaehaerys. Her mind fluttered back to the night before when she had time alone with the dark-haired Prince. They talked and laughed and he had even let ghost eat out of her hand when she asked to.
"You are certain he won't harm me?" She couldn't help but ask as the wolf's mouth was closer to her hand than it had ever been before. Her fingers were curled around a few small pieces of greasy steak that had been served earlier, her green eyes gazed up at his grey ones.
"No my lady, no harm will come to you so long as I am near" he promised her, sending her heartbeat racing like a horse down the lists. Ghost waited patiently for her to present the treat and when she did he took it from her fingers quickly, licking the remaining grease off her hand and tickling her slightly. "You may have gotten him going, he will likely go out and hunt tonight" Jae said chuckling.
"Your nephews will be jousting, yes princess?" her uncle asked, taking his seat on the other side of her once more pulling her from the sweet memory that still gave her heart a slight thud
"They will, though they won't be partaking in the initial rounds of jousting today being princes of the realm they have earned a sport tomorrow" she explained, Myrcella had no doubt Jaehaerys could joust but she wasn't sure the last time she heard Aegon had gone for a ride, on horseback at least.
"Your brother?" Tyrion asked, taking a long sip of his wine.
"Rhaegar has not jousted since Harrenhal" Dany clarified.
Her uncle chuckled, "I meant the Prince Viserys" which Daenerys visibly rolled her eyes at, it was obvious to anyone with eyes that she and Viserys did not get along. They did when younger but then he grew up and became obsessed with their heritage, began making absurd demands, and leered at the girls of his family as well once they came of age. Not to mention he joined Aegon's gang of errant lordlings alongside Myrcella's own brother. She was glad Tommen seemed so far more level-headed and well-mannered like herself but he had spent the last few years gushing about how amazing and kingly Aegon was to emulate his older brother no doubt. Thankfully it seemed to take further interest in the King's second son, as had Myrcella she could not lie.
"Viserys is either drowning in wine, women, or both by now, a tourney is the last thing on his mind" she explained and Tyrion could not hide the smirk.
"Oh to be the Prince Viserys right now" he japed earning a small smile from the princess. "We second sons can be incorrigible"
"I'm not so sure my Lord, Tommen seems very well-behaved, hm?" She posed before looking over at the lad and smiling, causing him to blush and stammer in response earning a chuckle from everyone present, save Tommen.
"I suppose we should all consider ourselves lucky that inheritance eludes our grasp" Myrcella chimed in. "I'd hate to see Dany thirst for the crown"
"Mayhaps I do thirst for a crown, just not a Westerosi one" She replied, Myrcella pictured Daenerys as the ruler of some far-off eastern country, Volantis, Lys, Mareen, Bravos she'd look out of place in most locations but Cella knows the Targaryen would be a good queen.
"Something draws your eye east Princess?" Her uncle asked to which Dany nodded.
"I would truly love to travel and go see some of the amazements of the world, I've seen the glory of Westeros plenty by now. The Hightower, Storm's End, Harrenhal, Casterly Rock, Riverrun and the dunes of Dorne all grow simple for me" she spoke.
"Casterly Rock is still the glory of Westeros" Tyrion half-heartedly argued.
"My point being, aside from Winterfell and the Wall everything left I want to see is in Essos, The Bells, the Great Pyramid, the Titan, even the old Valyrian roads" she sounded wishful like daydreaming.
"Someone is a fan of Lomas I see" The imp teased.
"Surly with the crowns means and the time of peace you would have the means to travel if you so wished" Myrcella said.
"I would, but…" she trailed off, unsure if she should continue. All eyes fell on her however and she seemed far too embarrassed to stay quiet. "I would only want to go if Jaehaerys joined me" she said looking down at her fiddling hands, her blush intensifying. Her nephew's return had brought out a new side Cella didn't know the princess had but it seemed some things never changed.
"Ah young love, oh to still taste it" Tyrion said.
"Most people turn their noses at the thoughts of, uhm, traditional Targaryen attraction" she said giving a much kinder term to incest.
"It's the gods who have the issues, the gods and I have never been very close besides, my family is not in a position to judge" Tyrion said, confusing Dany slightly. Her uncle didn't say more as his niece gave him a glaring stare, she knew he knew the truth he made too many passing jokes that had become obvious to her once she realized the truth.
"We are not in love either my Lord" Daenerys said even if it looked like it hurt her to say it aloud.
"I've seen enough besotted maidens to know love my dear, even if your nephew is still blind to it" he continued, Dany didn't attempt to deny the claims. Myrcella knew her friend's feelings, one of the reasons she felt a pit of slight guilt when she swooned over Jae, but if my grandsire arranged a marriage then there was nothing we could do about the matter. Another round of claps and cheers went up but by now the only one still watching closely them was Tommen. "It is a shame that many times love is not taken into account when marriage is at stake" her uncle added, causing Dany's smile to flinch slightly.
"Were you ever in love, uncle?" Myrcella couldn't help but ask, sometimes he made sad eyes towards lovers and couples but he never wed. Her mother was a heiress and Joffrey was after her, not to mention the lists of cousins they had so Tyrion's status in marriage and children did not really matter. But it bled her heart so to watch her uncle anguish in wine and whores just to be berated by her mother and grandfather.
"Yes, once my dear but that is a sad story for another time," he said, despite his smile, she had the pain in his gaze and he drained his cup. "Consider yourselves lucky that life is still so sweet my girls, taste it all before it turns bitter" Daenerys gave Myrcella an odd gaze at the words which the golden blonde girl just shook her head at. It was clear her uncle was starting to drink heavily as he filled his cup again, how many times now? She stopped counting after it got dangerously close to the tens, she knew there was little she could do to dissuade him from drinking so she had to force herself to become content to keep watching over him while getting hammered like a fine blade.
"I actually wished to speak to you Cella, about Jaehaerys" Myrcella's eyes snapped to her friend hoping for her to continue swiftly. "You see he is, lacking for allies at court and given that I have better and stronger connections than him and I thought mayhaps I could put them to use" She explained.
Tyrion snorted unabashedly, "Who does not lack for allies in court"
"Still, what is it you believe I could be of use to yourself, or the Prince even?" Cella couldn't help but question.
"Yes well, that is a delicate matter, but I had a very important task for you to carry out, one that should be explained further in private mayhaps," Daenerys said though her face did not indicate that she did not trust Tommen or her uncle, the idea couldn't help but eat away at her as she speculated at what the princess could ask of her.
JAIME
The ageing member of the kingsguard followed his charge step for step, matching stride, it was not just the two of them, however. The newly knight Ser Brienne joined them on their trip today. Jaime had agreed with the choice Jae had made to knight her, he did not however agree with her joining him in his task to protect the prince all hours he could. She was clearly a good fighter and stood just a tad taller than him but he knew nothing of her allegiances. Being from the stormlands it could be very likely she held resentment about the war, if she did however she was good at hiding it so far.
Jae seemed to have a purpose after breaking his fast with the royal family. They walked to the personal tent of Petyr Baelish, a young man he vaguely remembered from his youth. Word had spread of some foolish boy who nearly had himself gutted on the banks of the Trident by Brandon Stark. Then Brandon died, and the war started. He hadn't thought about the faceless boy for the last ten and nine years until yesterday. He had seen the man enter Jaehaerys' tent and inform him of something, and now they all entered his lavish tent.
It wasn't as big as his family's but it certainly stood out amongst many other lords and knights. It had four couches all covered in light blue and purple cloths and pillows, they all sat around a short table which featured a pitcher of some drink, a small bowl with some nuts and dried fruits in it. Baelish himself leaned back on the couch as a couple of pretty young ladies sat on either side of him, one brunette the other a redhead.
"Ah, my Prince," he said before standing and gesturing to the couch across from him. He did, Jaime and Brienne both choose to stay standing behind the couch at the ready. "And how may I be of service?" He asked, reaching for his cup to take a sip. Jaime didn't like the man much, his smile did not reach his eyes, and his gaze was ever shifting on resting on any spot too long.
"I wished to ask you about the information you gave me, it wasn't complete was it?" Jaehaerys said, his voice was level but the accusation was clear. Petyr smiled for a moment seemingly thinking over his words.
"No, it wasn't, and now that you know I'm sure you can see the value in my, information" He explained.
"Did you ever intend to tell me the whole truth?'
"Yes, only after the tourney with more information than just that to offer in continuation" he paused to take another drink. "That is of course if you intend to make use of my skills"
"I do, only I wish to know the price of such skills before agreeing fully"
"Mhm, well if it eases your mind I seek not gold, but perhaps, should you ever find yourself in a position to, repay your friends for their hard work with something of value," he said with a sly smile sliding across his lips. Jaehaerys nodded slightly but Jaime didn't like the agreement, it was vague enough that Baelish could come demanding anything in return and use whatever information he gathered over Jae to force his hand. He then wondered why, like his Father, Baelish was willing to put stock behind Jaehaerys. The White Knight didn't voice his concerns but glanced at Brienne to see she had a similar look of worry on her face as she watched.
"You said you had more information?" Jaehaerys asked.
"Yes, your uncle and a few of your cousins are riding south for the capital, they should be here before the next moon turns," he said, causing Jaehaerys' eyebrows to raise in surprise. Jaime was surprised as well, to learn the scheming of the capital was one thing but news from the North?
"How do you get your information if I may ask?" Jaime spoke finally from his spot.
"Well, people are easy to sway to your side if it is you who pays their expenses and puts food on their table hm?" He said.
"Where did you say you were the Lord of?" Jaime continued and Jaehaerys let him, likely curious about the answers as well.
"It is a rather sad piece of land I'm sure you have never been to Ser" He explained. "Called the Fingers northeast in the Vale of Arryn, I served as master of customs at Gulltown and if you seek out Lord Arryn I'm sure he will tell you I performed well at my position"
"Now you're in King's Landing," Jaime said a bit sceptically, no one made the move to the capital if ambition wasn't on their plate.
"Yes well, the city brings more, opportunity, I'm sure you agree," he said, eyeing Jaime callously. Before they could speak further another young woman entered the tent and whispered something in his ear. "I must apologize greatly my Prince, but a rather delicate matter requires my personal attention. If you need to seek me out, have word sent to the head girl at the Blue Pearl and I will be in touch with haste" Baelish said before standing and giving them a bow. Jaehaerys nodded and joined him in standing not long after and watched him leave, the three of them trailed out after him taking a different direction once outside.
The three of them walked in silence for a while before Jaime finally spoke up, "Be weary of Baelish" he advised Jaehaerys.
"You think he has other motives?" The prince asked, his eyes still forward.
"Anyone who willingly comes to the capital has other motives" Jaime said, earning a slight scoff from Brienne.
"I didn't" she attempted.
"You came for a knighthood, no? Let me guess no one on Tarth would knight you, or the whole of the Stormlands, so you decided mayhaps if I can prove myself to the king…" he trailed off, the look of annoyance and anger on her face told Jaime he was at least on track.
"Not all knights deserve their titles anyhow" she muttered quietly and Jaime let the jab roll off his back as they walked.
"I need a source of information if I'm to avoid further schemes, and given that I lack spies myself I have no choice but to trust uncertain allies" Jae told his protector.
"I know I know just remember we are not in the North anymore Jae" Jaime said only to receive a nod in return. They travelled in silence as Jaime followed the prince to the royal viewing area, Brienne was forced to depart. Entering. They found the King, looking deep in thought, sitting with the Queen, Princess Rhaenys, along with her cousins Princess Arianne, and Tyene. Aegon was present as well but with him was Margaery Tyrell, they sat off to the side together whispering and giggling about something though Aegon had a wandering eye of sorts when it came to the cleavage of her dress.
"Jaehaerys," Elia said softly and gestured to the open seat beside her. He went stiff for a moment not sure if he should sit so close to the Queen in front of the crowd all watching the first day of jousting. "Do not make me order you" she joked with an easy smile, Jae finally moved to sit alongside her before Jaime moved to stand guard.
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