Shaena was a liar.
Sometimes she thought that she was a good one too, now that she knew the importance of keeping her thoughts close to her heart. After all, she had managed to fool Ashara into thinking that she would feed her to her dragon if not for Rhaegal, for the poisoned love that he held for her.
It was not true.
Oh, how Shaena wished for that to be the case, for her to be able to shed whatever friendship and affection existed between them. Unfortunately, she could not. The many years of their friendship endured. The fact that Ashara still lived was proof enough. If this was a trap, then Ashara had executed it perfectly. Now, Shaena actually cared for her, which was why her betrayal hurt all the more.
It was why she had wanted to hurt Ashara the same way she had hurt her.
Shaena thought that her words did well enough at that, even if it left her feeling nothing but emptiness at the end.
Nothing had changed. Rhaegal had betrayed her. Ashara had betrayed her. What did it matter that she was able to hurt Ashara in both spirit and body? The truth remained the same.
Nothing was over. As Shaena stared at herself in the mirror as the maids finished dressing her, she realized that this was only the beginning. Maybe even a preamble, a word which she had learned recently which seemed so fitting at this moment.
The future was still undecided, and so there was a lot left of the story to go.
"Someone seems to be doing better than a certain young highborn lady I saw leaving these quarters not long ago."
Shaena's face remained blank as Rhaegar walked into her chambers without even as much of a knock. He seemed newly bathed and wore fresh clothes. Dark Sister remained safely strapped by his side. He rarely let the sword out of his sight, so Shaena was not surprised.
Her maids looked alarmed.
"My prince, the princess is-"
"You are done, correct?" Rhaegar waved them away with a friendly smile. "Then leave us. I wish to share some words with my favorite sister."
'I'm your only sister,' Shaena thought with a roll of her eyes.
Her maids looked uncertain as they traded glances, unsure of who to listen to. She had not dismissed them, after all.
Shaena decided to give them a reprieve. "You may go."
The maids did not need to be told twice.
Rhaegar watched them go in silence. The last one closed the doors behind her in haste.
Her maids were loyal, but even they wanted no part of this mess.
"They appear to be on edge," he commented as his eyes began to study her. She did not like when he did that. He was too good at it. "I suspect that it will not take long for father and mother to learn of what happened. It is a miracle that they have not already. Ashara was seen limping and bloodied after leaving your chambers."
Shaena glared at her brother's reflection in the mirror.
"Did you come here to dance around what's on your mind, brother?"
She was not in the mood to entertain him.
"Of course not." Leaning against the wall, Rhaegar crossed his arms. "You think too little of me sometimes, Shaena. I'm here to comfort you in whatever small way that I can."
The realization struck her fast.
"So you knew."
Rhaegar hesitated, but it was enough of a confirmation for her.
"I suspected," he tried to amend. It made little difference to Shaena. "I did not intervene, for I did not think it serious enough that it would lead to this outcome. Rhaegal and Ashara have always been close. From their first meeting many years ago, they have been inseparable. The songs often speak of such love. Of a mere fateful meeting strong enough to draw two souls together. While not wholly accurate, it almost fits them. I'm sure our brother did not expect it nor wish for it."
"What does that change?"
"Nothing." Rhaegar offered her a kind smile which reminded Shaena of Rhaegal's. It did not help that they shared the same face. "I'm not here to make excuses for either of them. I'm sure Rhaegal won't either when he arrives. However, I feel some amount of responsibility for what's happened. I was the one who first suggested that he could take a second wife as our ancestors once did. He is different from father and I. From all our brothers. At the time, I assumed that there would be another-"
Rhaegar stopped himself, but it was enough for Shaena to understand where his mind was at.
Shaena's eyes bore into her brother through the mirror, which made Rhaegar shift uncomfortably against the wall.
"For someone who is praised for his honeyed words, you are doing a poor job of expressing yourself right now, brother," she chastised him, slightly exasperated at the fact that Rhaegar thought his words would cheer her up. As if the fact that if they had another sister Rhaegar would push Rhaegal to take her as a second wife would make her feel anything but annoyed, especially at this moment.
There was a silence which settled awkwardly between them.
"You deserve to know the truth," Rhaegar finally responded. "Of everything."
It sounded nice, but did he mean it?
"Then tell me." Shaena turned to face him. "Where is your mind now? What do you think of all of this? Of Ashara's arrogance? Of Rhaegal's idiocy?"
Rhaegar did not cower from her words. "I think our brother is full of contradictions, Shaena."
That gave Shaena pause. She did not expect such a response.
"What?"
Rhaegar chuckled softly. "As much as you love him, that love can also cause you to be blind, sister."
Shaena almost pouted, but instead she frowned. "Are you trying to make a joke?"
"Far from it. Not under these circumstances." Rhaegar shook his head. "Rhaegal believes our family to be superior. He believes our blood to be the true masters of Westeros, and yet he welcomes anyone who can be useful to his plans and ambitions. Whether they're Valyrian or not makes no difference to him. The Ironborn are one such example. The Skagosi are another. He has the power and will to bend the lords to his banner, yet he exercises caution. He does not want war, but his existence can very well lead the realm to it." Rhaegar gave her a knowing look. "This is yet another example of it. There is a reason why the Dance of the Dragons happened."
Shaena didn't know if Rhaegar was comparing her to Alicent Hightower or Rhaenyra, but either one would be an insult.
"I don't care about that throne," Shaena stated. Her dragon was more important to her than some crown. A crown was not power. Titles were not power. Power was the ability and will to make things happen. Power was something that could be seen. It was tangible. The throne itself meant nothing without power.
It was a fact she had learned watching Rhaegal all these years. The realm called their father king, but the prosperity of their family came from Rhaegal.
"Our brother has power." Rhaegar seemed to understand where her mind was at. "Too much power some might say." He chuckled again, only this time there was some bitterness mixed in. "Once, when we were younger, I thought that I needed to be the one to guide him. He might be the crown prince, but I was still the older twin. I needed to make sure that he was not going to be corrupted by the abilities which the gods blessed him with. And yet, I have found myself wondering what the purpose of that vow was. Without me, Rhaegal has accomplished many great things. Brightflame, Dark Sister, his Valyrian steel armor. The dragons. The dragonstone. Our trade prosperity. The census. And so much more. It has been through his efforts that our family has won back the fear and respect that we lost for so long. And yet, he shares these accomplishments with the rest of us. He does not hoard them for himself."
Shaena was silent, allowing Rhaegar to get this off his chest. She was starting to see how much this had been weighing on him.
"He could very well ask father to disinherit me and my line," Rhaegar admitted after a moment's pause. "It would be an easy solution to one of his problems, and yet the thought has never once crossed his mind. I can tell."
"Father would never-"
"I've known our father longer than you have, Shaena," Rhaegar cut her off. "Rhaegal is the favorite. We all know it. After you and Daeron were born, he was able to share some of his love with the rest of us, for he had everything that he desired. The perfect heir. A bride for that heir, and a clear succession when our house needed it the most. But for those first few years when you and Daeron were not here, Rhaegal was all that was on his mind. I was but an afterthought. Even now, as loving as he has become, I know that all Rhaegal would have to do is ask father to remove me from the line of succession for it to happen."
Despite the callous nature of Rhaegar's words, Shaena found no bitterness in her brother. Rhaegar seemed oddly at peace with the whole situation, almost as if their father's indifference did not matter to him.
Perhaps it didn't. For despite it all, Rhaegar was still happy it seemed.
She didn't know about any of this. As far as she could remember, their father had always been kind and attentive to her. He shared stories with her. He told her of his private thoughts at times, such as his anger at the Martells for trying to take advantage of their mother. He was willing to be her confidant. She trusted him.
Shaena could not imagine their father any other way.
"What are you trying to accomplish by telling me this?" she finally asked, not understanding.
What was the point?
"The point is, dear sister, that you should never doubt our brother's love toward you. Toward all of us. He cares more than you can imagine." Rhaegar pushed himself off the wall. "All that being said, he still lied to you. He still hurt you. If you wish to punish him for it, then I will not begrudge you for it. I will also not resent our brother for his choices. I cannot. Not after everything he has done for us."
Shaena frowned as she looked away. "Even if it leads us to despair?"
She missed the smile that graced Rhaegar's lips.
"You do not hate Ashara, correct?"
Shaena did not answer.
"I believe life rarely provides us with clear answers," Rhaegar continued, not seeming to mind her silence. "I know how stubborn the three of you are. Only you can find the answer that you think is right and go from there. All I can do is be there to support you both after everything is said and done."
"And not Ashara?"
"She is a dear friend, but you are family."
Those were Rhaegar's parting words.
Shaena would spend much time thinking about this exchange.
The conversation left Shaena with more questions than answers, but the answers would come to her a couple of weeks later when Rhaegal arrived.
It was only then that everything would be laid bare.
---
Rhaegal returned to King's Landing quicker than expected. What should have been a three week trek from Casterly Rock turned into a journey that lasted shorter than two weeks.
The Kingsguard, Jon, and all the others were curious to know what was the cause for his haste, but they did not question his command. They marched through several sleepless nights just fine. One of their biggest stops had been at the keep of House Payne and then another at the keep of House Norcross. They spent one night at each keep, but it gave the knights the rest they needed.
The reason for Rhaegal's haste was none other than the wonderful news that Malora had shared with him shortly after he had departed from Casterly Rock with his younger brothers.
Shaena and Ashara had fought.
The so-called Mad Maid had been gleeful when she appeared in his dreams one night to relay the information to him. Apparently it had been rather amusing for her to see his sister and Ashara come to blows over him. She had even been gracious enough to share her memories of the event through the glass candle, where Rhaegal was able to see for himself the consequences of his choices.
A different man might have felt pride at being able to cause such a strong reaction from a highborn lady and a princess.
Rhaegal only felt trepidation.
It was his fault really. While only being 10, Shaena was intelligent and rather observant when she wanted to be. He should have realized that something was wrong when Shaena started to act more clingy during the tourney. He had underestimated her. He did not know how she had figured out his relationship with Ashara, but he did know that it was not a secret that could be kept forever.
He had just wanted to talk to her about it on his terms, which would have happened after the tourney concluded. Now, he had lost his chance. What rotten luck.
Malora would give him more updates in the following days. Not surprisingly, his mother realized that something had occurred between Shaena and Ashara after some of the maids spoke to her about their fight. What was surprising was that it was Melisandre who acted as the peacekeeper during all of this. Once she learned about the situation, she advised Rhaella to let Rhaegal handle it when he returned and ensured that Ashara and Shaena did not fight again by keeping a close eye on both.
Rhaegal did not know what his father's reaction was. Malora only said that Aerys was calm when Rhaella went to speak to him about Ashara and Shaena's fight. His father did not reprimand Ashara nor did he offer any words of comfort to Shaena. Instead, he almost seemed….understanding? At least, those were Malora's words.
His parents were another matter entirely. It was another conversation that he was going to have to see through, but he would save that for after he spoke to Ashara and Shaena. They were what mattered right now.
Rhaegal was only thankful that there were no further altercations. While Melisandre was there to ensure the peace, neither Ashara nor Shaena went out of their way to approach the other after their fight. They were apparently waiting for him before they did anything else. It prevented the situation from spiraling out of control. The servants loved their gossip, and it would not take much for one of them to mouth off to the wrong person before rumors spread to the rest of the city.
'Not that there aren't rumors already.'
Before he left Casterly Rock, Rhaegal noticed the way Tywin's eyes changed when he saw Ashara flying together with Shaena on dragonback. It was as if he was recalculating everything that he thought he knew up to that point. As smart as the man could be, sometimes he was more blind than anyone else.
'Perhaps he purposefully blinds himself.'
A convenient lie was easier to swallow than a bitter truth.
Not that it mattered much. Tywin was the least of Rhaegal's concerns, especially now that the lion was no longer the Hand of the King. Whatever the man's thoughts were, they were largely irrelevant in the grand scheme of things.
Rhaegal spent the next several days thinking about what he was going to say. He knew what had to be done. Not that it made the situation any easier. There was a clear solution, but it was one that had to be agreed upon. If there was no agreement, then he knew that he would have to put his duty above his feelings.
He would not risk the future otherwise. Not even his love for Ashara was enough to change that. After seeing their fight for himself, he realized that now.
'That's a lie, and you know it.'
Rhaegal did not give a response to the tiny voice in the back of his mind.
It was only when the familiar sight of the walls of King's Landing came into view that Rhaegal finally found some peace.
This section of the walls was still not rebuilt with the dragonstone, but that would happen in time. Already preparations were being made to continue tearing down the rest of the walls. Once that happened, King's Landing would truly be a new city. From there, it was just a matter of continuing with the construction on the other side of the river.
'The roads will finish soon after.'
Thankfully Steffon had accepted his "kind" suggestion to have a detachment of his Dragonguard flush out the bandits in the Kingswood even before the tourney had commenced. If the Baratheon's easy acquiescence to this particular matter was any indication of his leanings, then Rhaegal was confident that Steffon would accept the rest of his proposals without trouble. The most important of them all were the foundation of the Dune Road and the establishment of a census in the Stormlands.
This also meant that Rhaegal was going to have to negotiate with Doran Martell now that Loreza was dead. And soon.
Rhaegal put that out of his mind as his carriage rode through the gates of the city to the applause and cheers of the smallfolk. The red dragon banners were easy to spot, and Rhaegal had already sent a rider ahead to inform the City Watch that he was soon approaching. Perhaps an unnecessary measure given that Ancalagon was flying over them. The dragon was a stronger mark of his identity than any rider.
Speaking of his partner, Rhaegal was able to sense through his bond with Ancalagon that the dragon was becoming annoyed by all the aimless flying. At least, that was the emotion that Rhaegal was able to interpret. He had to reassure his partner that they would have a more direct target in the coming days.
Rhaegal was unable to see Ancalagon off to the Dragonpit. As much as he wanted to personally say his goodbyes to the dragon, he needed to head straight to the Red Keep.
Rather than becoming more annoyed by this, Ancalagon almost seemed amused through their bond as he flew off to Rhaenys' Hill where his siblings were roosting.
Perhaps the dragon was misunderstanding something, but regardless Rhaegal promised to make it up to him once his main business was concluded.
Once again, Rhaegal could sense the confusion from the Kingsguard and others by his behavior, but they thankfully did not ask any questions. The Kingsguard also wanted to resume their posts at the Red Keep as soon as possible, so that helped. They had a well-earned rest the night before, so they had come prepared to continue with their duties.
The cheers from the smallfolk followed the procession all the way to the Red Keep.
Jaehaerys was in awe as he looked out the window.
"Wow! They're so happy!" It was only the second time that he was seeing the love the smallfolk of King's Landing had for the royal family for himself.
Jon chuckled. "But of course they are, my prince. Your brother has returned to them, and they know how important he is."
Rhaegal was too caught up in his own thoughts to hear what Jon had said or how Jaehaerys looked mesmerized by the young Connington's words.
There were many who were waiting to receive Rhaegal at the main courtyard of the Red Keep. Brynden for one. He wore his armor and stood proud as always. Behind him stood a dozen or so of the Dragonguard, all of whom were Skagosi.
"Welcome back, Prince Rhaegal." Brynden greeted him as Rhaegal emerged from the carriage with Jaehaerys holding his hand. A maid holding a sleeping Viserys stepped out from one of the other carriages. His youngest brother had been peaceful during both trips, only ever crying when he was hungry or needed to be cleaned. He could be quite demanding on such occasions.
"Ser Brynden. I trust everything is well?" Rhaegal returned the greeting as Jon emerged from the carriage behind him.
"There are many reports waiting for you, my prince," Brynden answered. "Nothing that needs your immediate attention. From what I hear, Ser Edwell was rather successful in his campaign against the bandits in the Kingswood."
Ser Edwell Celtigar. A rather talented knight with little renown. While not possessing the skills of someone like Arthur or Barristan, the knight was still worthy of praise. It helped that he was eager to prove himself, which was why he had joined the Dragonguard when the opportunity presented itself. The Dragonguard provided Edwell with a stronger chance to make a name for himself than if he remained at Claw Isle. He was a distant relation to Lord Ardrian with no strong claim to the island, and the lord already had plenty of sons with his lady-wife, the beautiful Alyssa Velaryon.
Rhaegal was glad that the knight had proven himself once again.
"I'll go over the reports in due time. For now, I have to-"
"Rhaegal!"
Rhaegal paused when his mother walked into the courtyard, accompanied by some of her own guards. She was dressed well and wore her rather modest crown. Well, modest when compared to the crown of the Unworthy.
"Mother." Rhaegal was happy to see her even though he could tell that she had come to greet him with a purpose. Thankfully, she did not start berating him and instead embraced him in a hug before she did the same to the excited Jaehaerys.
"Mother!" His younger brother was more cheerful with his greeting as Rhaella happily scooped him into her arms.
"I'm glad to see you're doing well." As she said this, she was already glancing over to the maid who was carrying the sleeping Viserys.
Understanding the queen's intent, the maid quickly hurried to her side and presented the sleeping Viserys to her.
Rhaella quickly looked over her sleeping son until she was satisfied, her face softening at the sight.
"I hope he did not give you much trouble."
Rhaegal chuckled. "As I mentioned the first time, he was a delight."
There was only one time when Viserys had become particularly fussy, and even then it couldn't be called a tantrum. His brother had quickly become calm and happy when Rhaegal showed him Ancalagon. It seemed as if his youngest brother was already in love with the dragons. He never shied away from them.
"I was good too!" Jaehaerys said as he raised his arms in excitement. "Tell her, Rhaegal!"
"I don't know. I remember you complaining once or twice…" Rhaegal trailed off.
Jaehaerys pouted. "Not fair. I was just bored. That does not count!"
Smiling, Rhaella placed the boy back down on the ground. "You can tell me all about it later, dear. Right now, there is something that I must say to your brother."
Rhaegal understood. He signaled to Arthur.
"Arthur, take my brothers to their chambers. I'm sure His Grace will want to see them. Have some of the servants carry our belongings to the royal apartments. I wish to go on a stroll with my mother. Alone."
With quick understanding, Arthur relayed the orders to the rest. Jaehaerys looked slightly confused by this, but some gentle reassurance from their mother was enough to get him moving.
The Kingsguard quickly scattered to carry out their tasks while Brynden and the Dragonguard did the same. Only Jon was slow to move, looking unsure of where to go. It almost seemed as if he wanted to follow Rhaegal at first, but thankfully Arthur shoved him away.
"Come with me, good Connington."
Rather than getting offended, Jon just did as he was told, even if he did glare slightly at the youngest of the Kingsguard. Arthur merely chuckled. He would not take such liberties with someone else, but he and Jon were on good terms.
Rhaegal watched them go with slight amusement before he led his mother into the Red Keep, the two walking together with their arms linked. As they walked, many of the servants bowed as they passed by. He was slightly surprised by Melisandre's absence. Unlike Marwyn and Qyburn, she was still supposed to be in the castle.
"I had your red priestess stay in the Maidenvault with your sister and Ashara."
Rhaegal was more surprised as he glanced at his mother. "How did you-"
"I'm your mother."
She said that as if it explained everything, as if being his mother gave her the ability to read his mind.
Yeah, it probably did.
Rhaella squeezed his arm. "I know what has happened, which is why I sent the two of them to the Maidenvault rather than ambush you as you arrived. I did not wish for them to cause a scene. The red priestess has been most helpful in keeping the peace."
Yes, it was not a role that Rhaegal had ever envisioned for her. He would have to give his thanks later.
On an unrelated topic, it might be time to change the name of the Maidenvault. The keep was more like a temple now than a prison.
"Everyone in the castle suspects a scandal has taken place," Rhaella said as the two of them walked into one of her personal gardens. There were some servants and guards nearby, but otherwise they were alone. "Many saw Ashara bloodied the night of our return. The servants are whispering that a fight broke out between her and your sister."
Malora said as much.
"I know, mother."
Rhaella studied him. She did not ask how he knew. "Then you must know what I mean to say."
He stepped away from her. Rhaegal took a moment to glance at the flowers that his mother loved to look after. It was an activity that he did not share with her.
"I already know that you do not approve."
"Yes. I do not. I warned Ashara once. It seems that it did not work." Rhaella folded her arms in front of her. "Perhaps it should have been you that I spoke to first. Then maybe none of this would have occurred."
Rhaegal looked at her. "Do you believe that?"
Rhaella looked resigned. "No. I cannot control you any more than I can control the weather, nor do I wish to do so. I want you to be happy, Rhaegal."
"Then-"
"But you also have an important duty to uphold. A duty that you have been burdened with."
"I am upholding it."
"It does not seem that way to me." Rhaella paused before continuing. "Is this love of yours worth the future of our house?"
Rhaegal had already thought of that.
"I've had time to do much thinking when I learned the truth of what was happening here. I have an answer, but it is not meant for your ears."
"Then whose?"
"Shaena. And Ashara."
This started and ended with them.
Rather than continue to argue, Rhaella seemed to accept his answer, which surprised Rhaegal.
"Good. I'm glad."
"You are?" Rhaegal was taken aback.
Rhaella allowed herself to smile a little. "As I said, I cannot control you, son. The best I can do is give you my honest thoughts. I feared that you were rushing into something. That you were not thinking. Worse, that you were not thinking of your sister. I can see that I was mistaken."
"I still hurt her."
"Yes." Rhaella did not lie to him. "She is hurt. She has many questions for you. I hope your thoughts can give her the peace that she seeks."
One way or another, it would. Rhaegal would make it up to her. It was Ashara who stood to lose more now. However, it was something that he could not protect her from. They had made their choice, selfish as it was. As much as he loved her, there were sacrifices too great to make.
"I will not keep you any longer." Rhaella turned to her flowers. "I'm sure the two of them are eager to see you."
Rhaegal was already moving but stopped when Rhaella spoke again.
"Your father wishes to see you after you are done."
Of course. There was a reason why he had not come to greet Rhaegal personally.
Rhaegal did not think about that as he headed for the Maidenvault.
It was time to have one of the most important conversations of his life.
---
It had been almost two weeks since Ashara was in the same room as Shaena. Ever since their fight, they had done their best to stay clear of one another, to the point that the other ladies in the Red Keep had taken notice. They no longer even broke their fast together. Ashara had to endure countless questions from Shaena's ladies as they were too afraid to ask Shaena herself. They were all eager to know more about the rumors swirling around in the Red Keep.
It was a courtesy that Ashara did not grant them.
Even that torture paled in comparison to having to stand inside this room with what appeared to be a shrine to some foreign god. The Lord of Light, was it? It was the god of the red priests. Ashara had heard that the Maidenvault had been renovated, but she did not think that the king would so prominently display a foreign god.
Ashara studied the altar. Fitting that a god of fire seemed to be favoring Rhaegal. Not that Ashara was one to believe in the gods, but she would not lie and say that she felt nothing as she watched Melisandre kneel before the altar. There was definitely something permeating from the foreign woman.
"It might ease your mind if you pledge yourself to our lord, Ashara Dayne."
Even though her back was turned to her, the red woman still seemed to be able to tell that Ashara was watching her. It was the sort of strangeness that Ashara had come to expect from someone like this red priestess.
Ashara shook her head. "I have no need of your god."
"You might, more than you know. After all, you wish to pledge yourself to his champion for eternity, do you not?"
Shaena was watching them now, but Ashara kept her eyes on the kneeling woman.
"My feelings have nothing to do with your god."
"Mhmm. Still doubtful, I see."
Ashara felt an emotion she did not feel often.
Irritation. At someone else.
There was something about this red woman that got under her skin, quite easily she might add. Perhaps it was the way she spoke, as if she knew everything. As if she could see right through her. She had been doing it often these past two weeks.
It was not appreciated.
Thankfully their conversation ended there. Ashara had had to endure the red woman's presence often, but that did not mean that she had to speak to her.
The red woman seemed to take great delight in observing Shaena and Ashara. Not that there was any real reason for her to do so. Ashara knew better than to let another fight occur between her and Shaena. She would not cause an unnecessary scandal if she could help it. She had already come close. She was only thankful that her injuries had healed perfectly. She had expected some sort of scar from where Shaena had bit her and punched her, but her skin remained unblemished.
It was strange, but Ashara tried not to think about it.
Shaena, as always, was more open to the red woman. The two of them had shared many talks over the past two weeks. About what Ashara could not say. But it was a friendship that the red woman shared with most of the Targaryens, which included little Jaehaerys. The young prince was curious about the red woman's god and sometimes asked her questions.
No doubt the septas in the castle reported all of this to the High Septon. The fat man was already displeased about the red priests' presence in the capital. The fact that most of the king's children, as well as the king himself, favored the foreign religion over the Faith of the Seven was driving him mad. But the man was more talk than action, and Ashara knew that it was not the inept High Septon that Rhaegal was cautious about.
Those thoughts left Ashara for the time being as she heard footsteps approaching. From the way Shaena perked up she must have heard them as well.
"So our champion returns." Melisandre's voice sounded sensuous as she stood back to her feet.
Ashara did not comment on the red woman's strange behavior as the doors to the room were opened. The one who stood on the other side was none other than Rhaegal himself. He was finely dressed as always, wearing his favored black and green cloak.
Shaena did not run to him, choosing instead to remain where she stood. Ashara did the same. She would not risk Shaena's ire. Not right now.
"I'm pleased to see your safe return, my prince," Melisandre greeted Rhaegal as she walked up to him. She placed a delicate hand on his shoulder. "I was starting to fear for my safety. If you had dallied any longer, the worst might have come to pass."
Ashara wondered if the red woman was naturally dramatic or if her faith was the cause of her theatrics. The red priest Thoros had similar quirks with his drinking and jesting.
Rhaegal took her comment in stride.
"I would like to speak to the two of them alone, Melisandre. We can talk later."
"Hm. Very well." The red woman did not appear offended by the quick dismissal as she smiled. "I hope to see the results of your choices for myself."
Those were her final words before she made her departure from the room, her steps silent.
Ashara watched Melisandre leave the shrine before closing the door behind her, providing them with the privacy that they needed. Other than the red priests, few servants came to the Maidenvault these days as per the red priests' wishes.
The silence that followed only lasted for a couple of seconds.
Rhaegal spoke first.
"I'm surprised neither of you have screamed at me yet."
Ashara knew that he was only saying that for Shaena's benefit. More importantly, Ashara was surprised that Rhaegal seemed to be informed about the fight already. Who could have told him? Rhaegar?
Shaena's eyes narrowed. "So mother told you."
"In a sense."
So it was someone else.
Shaena was not discouraged by Rhaegel's response. "I considered many things while you were away. I don't think you want to know what came to my mind first."
"I suppose that's fair."
"Is that how you want to begin this conversation, brother?"
"I had some ideas of my own, dear sister, but I think we both know there is no good way to have this conversation."
"The truth should suffice."
Rhaegal nodded while Ashara remained silent. It was Shaena who needed to have this confrontation right now.
"Then ask. I will not keep the truth from you."
Shaena took Rhaegal's word as a challenge. "Do you mean to replace me?"
"No."
"Do you mean to have two queens?"
Rhaegal locked eyes with Shaena.
"Yes."
The girl's teeth clenched. "What of me? Of our future?"
"I thought I could keep my feelings for Ashara and my feelings for you separate. That I could make you both happy. That it would make it easier. I was wrong."
It was the first time that Ashara was ever hearing Rhaegal say that he was wrong. She didn't know what to make of it.
"I will not ask for your forgiveness. Words are cheap. I will strive to correct my error through action."
"How?" Shaena pressed him. It seemed like a simple question at first.
Rhaegal glanced at Ashara. "First, I think it's only fair that I should apologize to you as well, Ashara. I hoped to have this conversation under different circumstances. Perhaps not better, but more appropriate."
"Does that mean that you were planning on confessing even if I had not done anything?" Shaena asked.
"Yes. I told you before we left for Casterly Rock, did I not? That I wished to speak to you."
"That was for-"
"The magic is part of this conversation, Shaena."
Ashara was confused but also intrigued. Magic? Rhaegal and Shaena were discussing magic? She was aware of Rhaegal's magic, but what magic did Shaena have?
"It is a step that I thought might be necessary. It was not my original plan. After what's happened, I feel it is more necessary than ever."
"I don't understand," Ashara admitted. The conversation was heading in a different direction now, one that she was unfamiliar with.
Rhaegal gestured to the two of them. "I wish to make you both my queens. I could give you a number of justifications for my actions. Words of flattery. But ultimately, it is because I love you both. I wish to make you happy at my side. I thought that I could correct the errors of the past if there was understanding among us. However, after witnessing the two of you come to blows, I saw a premonition of what is to come. History has proven that the laws of man are never enough to hold back the greed and ambition within the human heart. In my hubris, I thought that I could do differently. That I could be better. I no longer have that delusion. I do not wish to discriminate between my future children, and so I must seek a new solution."
Ashara could feel her heart start to beat faster. This was not the same Rhaegal from just some moons ago. He had changed. Or perhaps, it was accurate to say that he was changed? Because of her fight with Shaena, Rhaegal's mind was on a different path now. But how did he know of the fight in the first place?
Ashara did not have to think too hard about it.
'Probably through Malora.'
No doubt it was her doing. The Mad Maid was the type to enjoy such drama, and from what Rhaegal had told her of the Hightower lady she had the ability to observe any place and person in the Seven Kingdoms, with some minor restrictions.
But the way Rhaegal was speaking now, it was almost as if he was prepared to end his relationship with her. And that scared her.
Shaena seemed similarly confused.
"Four years ago, I managed to discover long forgotten secrets of our house," Rhaegal continued. "More heirlooms. Dragonstone holds more than just dragons now. For deep within its walls, scrolls filled with dragonlore, histories of Old Valyria, and ancient magic were safely stored, just waiting to be rediscovered."
Ashara held her breath.
Shaena had a similar reaction. "The magic you spoke of-"
"Blood magic," Rhaegal said with a slow nod. "The same magic that our ancestors once mastered. I won't bore you with the details as to how the scrolls got there, but they reveal much of what our family lost over the centuries. This is one of my gifts to you, sister. The opportunity to learn and master blood magic."
A "gift"? Ashara could hardly classify such a thing as a mere gift!
Shaena's eyes were bright with curiosity and determination even if the rest of her face was still filled with caution.
Despite noticing this, Rhaegal carried on with his explanation.
"One of these scrolls talks about the ability to not only manipulate the body during childbirth to make the process easier but also the skill to manipulate the child within."
Manipulate?
"What are you saying?" Ashara whispered. "How could such a thing be possible?"
A faint smile appeared on Rhaegal's face. "The Freehold lasted for nearly 5,000 years, Ashara. During that time, whether through their own ability or through the knowledge of those who came before them, the Valyrians mastered many powers. This blood magic was but one means through which to ensure that the dragonlords never died out."
To Ashara, it seemed as if Rhaegal was leaving many details out. Or perhaps he did not know the full history of the scrolls. Either way, it was clear that there was more to those scrolls than what she was hearing.
However, there was a more obvious question that she needed to be asking.
"To what extent can the unborn child be....manipulated? Just what sort of manipulation is it?"
"I do not know the full limits of the magic, but the scroll spoke of one method. The ability to guide or even control the gender of the child within the womb."
With this answer, Ashara began to piece together Rhaegal's intentions. What he was proposing.
"You mean to have me only carry daughters."
That was his plan, wasn't it? For Shaena to master this magic and then use it on her? Perhaps Shaena would also use it on herself, to have her birth only sons.
Rhaegal met her eyes with his own. "Yes."
Ashara was too stunned to be able to respond right away. When she heard that Rhaegal had finally returned to the Red Keep, she thought herself prepared to finally end the lies that they had surrounded themselves with. She thought she was ready for anything this day could throw at her.
She was wrong. But who could blame her? Who could expect to suddenly be surrounded by talks of forbidden magic and the future of her children?
While Ashara struggled to come to terms with this new development, Shaena took a step forward.
"I accept." She symbolically and enthusiastically jumped on the idea as she continued to make her way closer to Rhaegal. "However, I also have stipulations of my own, brother."
Rhaegal looked at her, surprised. He still managed to ask, "What are they?"
"I will name our first child. And you and Ashara must keep your distance from now on. At least until I deem it otherwise."
"Shaena-"
"I will hear no argument from you about this." Shaena brought a finger to Rhaegal's lips as she stood on her tiptoes. "You have still hurt me, and I seek recompense." Before he could reply, she was already turning toward Ashara again. "Well, Ashara? This is your chance to prove your words. Or were you lying to me when you said that the throne did not matter to you?"
Ashara stared at Shaena in silence. There were many thoughts swirling through her mind right now. She did not know why Shaena so easily accepted Rhaegal's proposal. Even if she bore only sons, she would still be sharing Rhaegal with her. Did the princess not hate her? Was that not why they had fought? Shaena had made it clear that she would feed Ashara to her dragon if not for the love Rhaegal had for her. So where was this coming from?
For the first time in her life, Ashara also wanted to curse at the girl. Dammit it all, her words had been genuine. The throne did not matter to her. But it was a different story for any of her hypothetical children. She would want the best for them, but she also did not want them in danger. It was the whole reason for her self-control. She did not want to risk a pregnancy that would threaten not only her child's safety but also Shaena's. However, it was not a perfect solution. Even if in the future Shaena became pregnant first, what would happen if she had a girl and Ashara gave birth to a son? Rhaegal already stated that he did not wish to discriminate between his children, and if he did how would that child feel as they grew?
There were too many unknowns. Too many risks.
Even so, Ashara felt wary. Magic was dangerous. Blood magic in particular was said to be cursed. Rhaegal was lucky that his magic never got out of control, mostly thanks to his incredible will and training. But this was different. Would her children still be normal if such magic was performed on them? Could they be considered human? Or some sort of monstrosity? Rhaegal did not seem to hold such fears, but Ashara was different from him. She did not have his confidence in these matters.
There was also a side of her, however small, that chafed at the thought that she would play such a role in her marriage. As if she were less important than Shaena in Rhaegal's heart.
It was an irrational emotion. The fact that Rhaegal was making such a proposal in the first place was proof enough that he valued her deeply. He was looking for any way to make their relationship work.
Ashara also knew that it was her irrational emotions that had placed her in this predicament in the first place, so it was too late to complain about such feelings.
Still, she did not agree. Not right away.
"If I refuse?" she asked instead, directing the question at Rhaegal. "What is to become of me then?"
Would Rhaegal risk her walking away, when she knew so much already?
Rhaegal looked prepared for her question as he answered with no hesitation.
"Then this is where we must part ways." He looked resolute. "I will not force anything upon you. It is your choice. Just as I've made mine, you must make yours."
It looked as if he wanted to say more, but he withheld the words and became silent, merely looking at her with a quiet acceptance.
It was foolish. It was stupid. Did Rhaegal not realize what could happen? What she could reveal to the realm if she felt slighted by all of this? Not just about his magic, but about his intentions?
A thought began to manifest inside Ashara's mind. A thought that had been slowly forming for many years now, one that she was perhaps subconsciously aware of. It was about the one weakness that Rhaegal seemed to possess. For as direct and condescending as he could be toward others, those actions were born from the power that he possessed. He could back up any talk, no problem. Ultimately, it was foolish to expect someone like Rhaegal Targaryen to be any less prideful and confident than he was.
But this? This emotional vulnerability he had toward her? Where he offered her so much leeway? It was a weakness.
There was a saying that Ashara had heard recently but could not currently remember its origin. Something about love being the death of duty.
Rhaegal said that he was prepared to fulfill his duty, but that was not accurate. Because he was willing to let her walk away when she was such a vulnerability, he was failing to uphold that duty. Ashara had no intention of ever betraying Rhaegal, but if she were different, if her intentions were more self-serving than they already were, if she were any more ambitious, then she could ruin Rhaegal like no one else could.
What was she to make of all of this then? Was she prepared to make such a sacrifice? Was she prepared for the repercussions? To stand next to Rhaegal and Shaena as the realm learned that there were to be two queens once more?
Was this to be her future?
'If I walk away now….'
The thought ended there, for as soon as it had formed Ashara noticed the look in Shaena's eyes. Her eyes appeared almost….hopeful?
'What does this mean?'
Ashara did not understand. She did not understand what Shaena was thinking. Was this the same girl who had stood against her weeks prior? Where had her anger gone?
Ashara did understand one thing, though. If she walked away now, it would be the last time that she would ever be this close to either of them. She knew this. They would send her away back to Dorne. And the thought of that happening left her with more regrets than she could count.
If she didn't know any better, then Ashara would say that Rhaegal and Shaena had manipulated her too well if she was considering all of this.
"I have questions, Rhaegal. Many of them."
Rhaegal slowly nodded. His face was devoid of any emotion as far as Ashara could tell. "If you wish to leave, then I shall arrange-"
"No." She stopped that thought as she raised a hand.
At the end of the day, all of this could still be a mistake. She did not know. What she did know was that leaving now would most certainly be a mistake, one that she would never forgive her for. So if she was making a mistake either way, then she would choose the mistake that allowed her to perhaps still be happy.
So she uttered the two words that would forever change her future.
"I accept."
---
There was no resounding resolution. There was not a clear solution that left everyone smiling. There were conflicting emotions that needed to be settled, which would take time.
There was also no fight.
Perhaps it was a reconciliation of sorts. It was too soon to tell. While Shaena did not remain distant, the closeness that she and Rhaegal shared had not returned. Not fully. Now that she was forced to confront the betrayal that had taken place for the past four years, Shaena could not behave the same way.
Rhaegal did not blame her.
He also did not blame the conditions that she had set in place. It was only fair.
He had not lied when he said that he loved Shaena. It was not the same type of love that he held for Ashara, however. How could it be? His sister was ten. He was eight and ten. That was likely to change in the coming years, but for now his passion was aimed solely at Ashara. He would not abandon her, though. Not unless she asked for it. The thought made him incensed.
Why was he this way, he wondered? To want both? Was there a specific moment in his life that set him down this path?
Asking such questions was pointless. At the end of the day, it was still his decision to make. To try and grab it all.
How self-serving.
Rhaegar was waiting for him outside when Rhaegal stepped out of the room. Shaena and Ashara were staying behind to finally have an honest conversation between the two of them. Thankfully Melisandre was nearby if the situation got out of hand again, but Rhaegal doubted that that would be the case. Not this time.
"So you live."
Rhaegar's joke made Rhaegal want to laugh, but he did not. He couldn't. Not yet.
"For the time being."
"So you're going through with it."
Rhaegal did not answer. Not directly. "Do you disapprove of my actions, brother?"
"I do." Rhaegar did not lie to him. "I don't know how you intend to make it work. I care for Ashara, but she is not one of us. She does not understand."
"She still remains."
That was enough for Rhaegal. It wounded him to utter the words that he had, that he was prepared to discard his relationship with her for the sake of his duty. But it was the conclusion that he had reached after many days of thinking on the road. When Malora showed him the memory of Ashara and Shaena fighting, in it Rhaegal saw the future. If the mothers were at odds, then what would that mean for the future of his children?
Even so, he would not lie to Ashara. He had already lied to Shaena. He would not repeat the same mistake. He gave his honest intentions. If she did not agree, then she was free to pursue her life elsewhere, with her dignity still intact. Rhaegal would swallow the pain of that outcome as he faced the future alongside his family.
That did not come to pass, however, and now a new compromise was reached.
This did not mean that he was freed from all his troubles. No, there was still one last obstacle that he needed to overcome.
Rhaegar offered a comforting hand on his shoulder before he took his leave, for now Rhaegal stood before his father's solar inside Maegor's Holdfast. The door was being guarded by Ser Jonothor and Ser Gerold.
The Kingsguard had not wasted any time resuming their duties it seemed.
Ser Gerold did not wait for Rhaegal to introduce himself. Rather, the Commander of the Kingsguard opened the door when he first spotted him.
"His Grace waits for you inside, my prince."
Of course. Rhaegal expected nothing less.
Giving his thanks, Rhaegal stepped inside the room as the door was closed behind him.
"I always knew you could not be perfect."
Those were the words that Rhaegal was greeted with as he laid eyes upon his father. Aerys was seated with a cup of wine in hand. Like his mother, he wore his crown as he watched Rhaegal enter the solar.
Despite the cruelty of his words, Aerys did not sound angry. He did not appear angry either. Instead, he almost seemed at peace as he sat there, waiting for Rhaegal to finally appear before him.
"I thought that perhaps there was no way I could have given birth to such a perfect prince," Aerys continued calmly. "Now I see that there's more of me within you than I imagined."
Rhaegal stood his ground. "Father-"
Aerys raised his hand, stopping him. "You don't have to explain yourself to me, Rhaegal. I know more than you realize. I always assumed that you were bedding the Dayne. I just did not imagine that you would also choose this foolishness."
Rhaegal was silent. There was no need for an explanation here. His father already understood.
"I loved someone before I loved your mother. Did you know that?" Aerys confessed softly. He then laughed. "Or perhaps I didn't. Perhaps it was just my lust making me think that I loved her. I do not know. I no longer remember. I do not care. It's been too long. Time has a way of making most decisions inconsequential. I still remember my anger. I felt wronged when my father forced me to marry Rhaella. He had made his choice. Why couldn't I?"
Rhaegal listened. He still remembered how his father once had many lovers even after he was married to his mother. He took to bed anyone who caught his eye. They never lasted. He did not know that there was someone that he could have genuinely loved, though. This was new.
"If there is anyone who should take a second wife as the Conqueror once did, then it should be you. If that was your intent, then I would agree to it with no reservation. I would have even sought a suitable Valyrian bride for you." Aerys paused as his eyes narrowed. "But that's not what this is about, is it? This is not for the family. This is for you. You love this Dornish girl."
"Yes."
Rhaegal admitted it. For the first time, he was acting out of pure self-interest.
"And your sister?"
"I have caused her pain. I cannot take that back."
"Yet, she wishes to remain by your side." Aerys stood up from his seat. "I can tell. She has not once asked me to break the betrothal. I can only assume that her head is filled with the same emotions that have blinded you."
It would appear that that was the case.
"What if I were to do so anyway?" Aerys threatened. "I could let you have this Dornish girl. Give Shaena to Rhaegar. Burn the Blackfyre girl instead. What would you say then?"
"I would not agree to it."
Aerys laughed. It was a loud laugh. "You are more greedy than I realized. Or perhaps I was never paying enough attention."
His father idolized him. Rhaegal had known this fact for a long time. Now, his father was starting to see him in a different light.
"Worse still, I know Shaena would never agree to it either," Aerys said with some humor. "She would sooner burn the throne than let that happen."
Rhaegal could picture that happening pretty well. Shaena was more stubborn than any of them.
"I could say I understand why you're doing this. I could try to give comforting words. But there are none. I do not approve."
Rhaegal did not expect anything differently.
"But I also know of your stubbornness, son." Aerys approached him. "Trying to sow division between us when we already have enough enemies would be a fool's errand. Many want to bring us low again. To have us weak. I will not let that happen. So I will let you take responsibility for your choices, son. Let our descendants decide for themselves whether you are a fool or not, for I do not have the right to do so. Not after everything that you have accomplished."
Rhaegal could hardly believe it. He expected something different from his father. A stronger fight. A stronger condemnation. Rhaegal had been prepared to explain so many things, and yet his father was not asking for any of it.
"Perhaps the gods will be merciful, and this one mistake will be forgiven in light of all your other successes." Aerys placed a hand on Rhaegal's cheek. "I pray that you understand that this is a choice that cannot be undone once it's taken."
"I know, father."
"Then it is decided. You shall marry both in the Great Sept in four years. It will be a wedding like none other. The whole realm will be invited to watch the future take shape before their very eyes. Let them see what their future king has decided. And then we shall watch how they respond."
It would be a marriage that would either strengthen the house of the dragon or lead it down a ruinous path.
It was to be a blood marriage in every sense.
------
Late update. I wanted to post this last week, but life got in the way. But hey, just as the characters had to sit through the actions of the last chapter for two weeks, so did you. Funny how that worked out.
Anyway, I wanted to write this to make a couple of things clear. We have reached the finale of the double love development/arc of Rhaegal/Shaena/Ashara, or however you label it. I know some have called it "pointless drama," which is absurd to me. It's basically displaying Rhaegal's shortcomings as a character: he thinks he can do something, so he will, damn the consequences. This time, it caused him to hurt someone whom he claims to love.
Secondly, I will not try to convince anyone of the merits of the main match. Some will hate it on principle, and their minds will not be changed. At the end of the day, I thought it was more interesting and fun to write things this way. That's my main motivation for my stories.
Thirdly, actions have consequences, however small.
I think that's all. I just hope I didn't spell Doran as "Dora" again. Damn app. Sometimes it doesn't update the chapters even after I've gone back and fixed the spelling mistakes. Technology hates me. Hopefully my next update will be quicker.