It was a clear and crisp afternoon in the royal garden of the Red Keep as the six-and-ten-year-old prince Baelar Targaryen went down the road in awkward silence with the six-year-old Aeron, who was holding his dragon figurine, as neither of the half-brothers knew what to do or say to each other.
"Where did you get that?" Baelar said, trying to start a conversation.
Aeron looked up to the prince and said, "From Daemon. He said it was made out of dragonglass from Dragonmont, and the eyes are made out of rubies."
"How kind of Daemon to give it to you," Baelar replied with a smile as the two went back into awkward silence.
"What's it like to be a prince?" Aeron suddenly asked Baelar, who looked at the boy.
"Well, there are a lot of responsibilities to be a prince," Baelar answered, "Getting up in the early morning, morning pray, learning history, showing up for public affairs."
"Sounds boring," Aeron stated.
"It can be, but there are some ways to have fun," Baelar chuckled.
"Like what?" Aeron asked.
"Well, there is hunting, hawking, sword fighting," Baelar listed, "Although my favorite one is playing cyvasse."
"What's cyvasse?" Aeron asked again.
"It's a board game from Volantis," Baelar explained, "It's a game that makes you use strategy to win."
"I never hear of it," Aeron replied.
"Well, no one plays it in Westeros," Baelar told him, "Aegon learned it in Volantis when he was younger and taught me how to play it."
"Have you been to Volantis?" Aeron continued the conversation.
"Once, when I was little," Baelar answered, "Have you been there?"
"No," Aeron answered, "We used to live in Braavos, but then we moved to Driftmark when I was three, and we have stayed there since."
"Ah," Baelar said, "Do you like Driftmark?"
"Yes. The Velaryons are very kind to me," Aeron replied, "Especially Laena. She's very nice."
"Laena is very kind," Baelar agreed, remembering he grew up with Laena when her father was still master of ships in the small council.
"But my favorite place is at the harbor in Spicetown," Aeron said.
"Really," Baelar replied, "what did they have there?"
"Spices, fruits, and other things from Essos," Aeron answered, "Father took me there all the time."
Baelar flinched a bit after hearing the boy say, Father. Not my father or your father, just father. "Did he?"
"Yes, he did," Aeron answered, although he could tell Baelar was uncomfortable by the tone of his voice, "He talked about you."
Baelar stopped walking as he looked at Aeron after hearing those words, "He did? What did he say?"
"He said that you were a great son and how you entered a tourney and brought down three men," Aeron explained.
"He said that," Baelar asked with a small smile, remembering all those years ago when he was upset about his defeat from his fourth opponent and how his father made him feel better.
"He said he was proud of you," Aeron continued, "He always talked about wanting to see you again."
Baelar was worried about what his father had said about him since their falling out. But now he knows that his father wants to see him again; it gave him peace for the first time since hearing he was killed. "Thank you for telling me this."
The half-brothers smiled at each other as they continued their more comfortable walk.
Aeron then had a question to ask. "He said you had a dragon named Orvax."
"Yes, I do," Baelar confirmed, "I claimed him when I was two and ten.
"How?" Aeron asked.
"Well, usually when a Targaryen babe is born," Baelar begins to tell the tale, "They would place an egg in the cradle and wait for it to hatch."
"And yours hatch?" Aeron asked, wanting to know more.
"No, it didn't," Baelar said sadly, "Although father told me that if I want a dragon, then I would have to claim one."
"What does that mean?" Aeron not understanding what Baelar was saying.
"It means I went to the Dragonpit and chose a dragon there," Baelar explained, "which was Orvax."
"What's it like to have a dragon?" Aeron asked, wanting to know the feeling.
Baelar stopped walking and began to say, "It feels like we are connected. We are one mind, body, and soul. Orvax knows what I feel like no one else can. Like, we are the only ones who understand each other.
"Will I get to have a dragon," Aeron asked after hearing Baelar's words; however, the prince looked at him hesitantly.
"Did you ever ask Father about it?" Baelar then asked.
"Yes," Aeron answered, "He said I was too young to worry about it."
Baelar looked at him apprehensively, not knowing what to say. Since he was an illegitimate child, he would never get a dragon. He then remembered Rhaenyra telling him that Aeron doesn't know what bastard means, so he decided to say, "Well, he's right. You are too young to worry about it."
Aeron looked at him and then to the ground. His father said those words before he died, but he could tell they didn't want him to have a dragon. Why can't he have a dragon? First, his father said no, and now his half-brother. Seeing that Aeron was upset by his answer, Baelar tried to change the subject and say, "Why don't we go see the view of Blackwater Bay."
Still upset about not having a dragon, Aeron decided to go with him. The half-brothers then walked to the balcony that oversees Blackwater Bay while Melina was at the gardens' entrance, looking closely at them. She was nervous about being in the Red Keep. When they arrived, Melina tried to avoid people, knowing they were gossiping about her presence. She also dreaded running into Claryssa Hunter, who made her presence known by walking up to Melina's side.
"It seems they're getting along well," the noble lady said, making her presence known, "you can never truly tell with children until they come together."
Melina, shaken by her presence, stayed silent. This was the first time the two women met. Claryssa was a tall, regal woman with fair skin, brown eyes, and light black hair that looked almost brown in the sunlight. She had a statuesque beauty, while Melina has a softer, more foreign beauty with brown skin, eyes, and raven black hair. Both women were the same height, and Claryssa was older than Melina, but the braavosi mother felt so small in comparison after finding Claryssa's presence intimidating.
"You have a tongue, I take it," Claryssa japed at the younger woman.
"Forgive me, my lady," Melina said softly, not wanting to cause problems, and started to walk away.
Claryssa chuckled, "Am I really that frightening?"
Melina turned around and replied, "Considering the circumstances, I figured you would want me out of sight."
"Not necessarily," Claryssa said, getting a confused glance from Melina, "I'll admit there was anger, but I must admit that I'm also intrigued to see the woman who just so happened to capture my husband's interest longer than any woman he'd been with," Claryssa explained while emphasizing the words, my husband. "I mean, no doubt that you would be beautiful. Aegon was always weak regarding beautiful women, but I don't understand why he stayed with you."
"Stayed with me?" Melina asked, trying to understand where she was going with this.
"Well, Aegon only stayed in one place for a short time. Always flying around as he wished," Claryssa said, "And yet after meeting you, he flew wherever he desired like before but came back to you every time. I don't know how you did it."
"I don't know, my lady," Melina said timidly, "there was no certainty of what was in Aegon's mind."
"Oh, I think you misunderstood me," Claryssa corrected, "I meant, how did you put up with him."
Melina looked at her, wondering why she would ask that.
"I put up with him," Claryssa continued, "The embarrassment and humiliation his childish behavior brought because, as his wife, I had no choice, and yet, you didn't have to. But you did anyways. Why?"
Melina stood there in silence. She tried to come up with an answer but didn't know what to say.
"What am I saying? But, of course, you put up with it. What woman doesn't want to gain the favor of a Targaryen." Claryssa said as she looked at her son with the little boy, "However original the tactic may be."
Melina stared at Claryssa, astounded by what she was saying. "Tactic?" she repeated. Was she insinuating that she was only using Aegon for her ends and only had a child with him to secure her "position" as his mistress?
Claryssa looked at Melina and found her confused face amusing, "Well, don't sound so surprised that people might be thinking about it. It's been done before. Desperate and ambitious women degraded themselves by allowing the lords to grind on top of them because they liked the benefits of being their whores. Not to mention bearing bastards to secure their position," she finished while staring at Aeron, which caused Melina to feel tense.
"I understand your anger at me, but I will not have you place it on my son," Melina replied to the older woman. Trying to be brave for her son.
Claryssa looked back at Melina and said, "I have no anger against the child. On the contrary, he has my sympathies."
Melina, with her eye furrowed, said, "Your sympathies?"
"Well, growing up in the status of his birth, one would feel sorry for him," Claryssa taunted, "I'm sure he was raised with many privileges when his father was still living. But now that he is gone, one wonders what will happen. Such a heavy question for a child."
"My son and I are being housed with the Velaryons, as you might have heard," Melina shot back more forcefully.
Claryssa chuckled and said, "Yes, when they needed Aegon for the Stepstones, but now he's dead. So I don't suppose they have any reason to keep you housed in High Tide, do they not?"
Melina thought about what Claryssa was saying. She then remembered what Aeron asked before they left Driftmark. He wondered what would happen to them now that Aegon was dead. She and her family lived mainly in Driftmark because Aegon contributed to the war effort.
"That's why I feel sorry for your son," Claryssa said as she looked at their sons, "You may have the king's attention now, but that's only because he feels obligated to do so. It will fade in time. Do you know what happens to mistresses and their bastards after they lose the attention of powerful lords and kings?" She then looked at Melina, who was staring at her intently, "I don't know either. I guess that's what happens. Yes, they're all kind to you in the beginning, but in the end, no one really cares." She explained with a condescending smile. She was about to leave, but not before whispering in Melina's ear, "Especially for a Braavosi Whore." And with that, Claryssa, giving a condescending smile, walked away, leaving Melina stunned by her words. The Braavosi Whore. That was what everyone was calling her. She then looked at her son, wondering if Claryssa's words were true.
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Areqo Sorren was in the manse provided for his family, wondering how his grandson was faring with Prince Baelar. His daughter was afraid of what would happen there, so her brother offered to be there for protection. He was trained in water dancing since he was a child, but when the Kingsguard arrived to collect them, they said it was unnecessary.
The merchant lord was sitting in a chair by the fireplace, reading a note sent by his family from Driftmark, mainly about the Sorren Bank. Before Aegon died, the bank provided financial support and helped pay mercenaries, weapons, food, and equipment. Still, now that he passed, many soldiers have been leaving by the minute, demanding their payment. While reading the letter, a servant came to him.
"My lord, the king has arrived, wishing an audience with you," the servant announced.
Surprised by this announcement, Areqo put the letter away and walked to the foyer, where he saw the king, with two Kingsguard members and some attendants, waiting for him.
"Your Grace," Areqo bowed to show respect to the king who came for a surprised visit.
"Lord Areqo," Viserys greeted, "I hope you can forgive the intrusion, but I wish to speak with you on behalf of your grandson."
Areqo, not wanting to disrespect the king, replied, "Of course, Your Grace. Is there anything you would like," he continued as he gestured to a servant to get anything for the king.
"No, but thank you for the kind offer," Viserys said as the merchant lord led the king inside the manse, who finally saw what it was, "Princess Rhaenys told me of the current living conditions of the establishment provided for your family; however, I see it is much worse than I imagined."
He and Areqo sat on the couch in the living area as they continued their conversation. Areqo told the king, "Well, we understood the circumstances of it."
"Circumstances?" Viserys questioned.
"My daughter's relationship with Prince Aegon," Areqo reluctantly replied. "We didn't expect to be treated kindly."
"Ah, yes, well," Viserys replied, "I apologize for any disrespect you and your family have received since your arrival."
"Thank you, Your Grace," Areqo thanked the king, "And I apologize if our presence caused any disruptions at court. We weren't expecting to come to the funeral, but Daemon,"
"I understand. Daemon always did have his way in all things," Viserys assured him. "But I did not come here to speak about it."
"Yes," Areqo said as the two men began to focus on the point of this meeting.
"Years ago, Aegon requested your daughter and her son to live in King's Landing." Viserys began to say.
"Yes, I remember him telling us that," Areqo replied. Although they believed the king would not fulfill that request, the merchant lord decided not to say that.
"Well, I've been thinking of honoring my brother's memory to fulfill that request." Viserys finished.
As he stared at Areqo with surprise, he began to say, "You mean to have us stay in King's Landing."
"With better accommodations, of course," Viserys assured him as he looked around the household, "I could arrange to have you all moved to a better manse with a provided income with Aeron getting tutors, even a master at the arm to teach him the art of word fight. As well as providing a building for you to open an office for the Sorren Bank. I'll even allow Aeron to take a place at court, having him as a page or squire. Maybe even a cupbearer."
Areqo was astounded by the offer the king was giving. He was offering the boy a place at court along with a provided income, tutors, and a master at arms. Normally, any lord would take the offer, but Areqo knows his daughter might not see it that way.
"I thank you for this tremendous offer, Your Grace," Areqo told Viserys, who gave an assuring smile, "I just need to speak with my daughter about it before we can make any decisions."
"Yes, of course," Viserys giving an understanding nod, "Although I hope she would accept it."
"Well, my daughter tends to speak her mind on such matters freely," Areqo replied, "Especially when it comes to her son."
Viserys chuckled and said, "My daughter has that tendency too."
"I can see that from the funeral the other day," Areqo said as the two fathers chuckled together, understanding how maddening it can be for fathers to raise their daughters.
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Leah and Rhaenyra were walking around the royal gardens with arms linked together. While the herbs and medicine maester Orwyle provided Leah was giving her some relief, she was still getting fatigued and short breath from time to time. Rhaenyra, wanting to help her friend, decided that walking in the fresh air would do her good. So the two friends walked while Ser Criston Cole was behind as the princess's sworn shield.
"How've you been feeling?" Rhaenyra asked her friend.
"Better now," Leah answered, "My headaches are getting better, although I have still been getting tired more easily as of late."
"Three more months, and it's over," Rhaenyra assured her, although she was worried for her friend. The pregnancy was becoming harder on Leah as she had swelling in her hands, ankles, and face. Not to mention the headaches and the recent pains in her upper body. She prays that nothing happens to the baby, but she also prays nothing happens to Leah. Her mother, Aemma Arryn, got pregnant over and over until childbirth killed her, and now she fears it will happen to her friend.
"Alicent told me about the agreement you and your father made about your marriage," Leah said, "Having the ability to choose your own husband."
Rhaenyra looked at Leah, finding it odd that she brought up the subject, "Yes, he did."
"That must be great," Leah commented, "An opportunity not all maidens would have."
Rhaenyra realized what Leah was saying, "You want to speak about Alicent again."
"It's been three years Rhae," Leah implored, "You can't stay mad at her forever. Especially about a matter she had no say in."
"She married my father without saying a word to me," Rhaenyra argued.
"Because her father and the king told her not to," Leah countered, "she was simply doing what she was told."
"What she was told," Rhaenyra repeated sarcastically.
Leah stopped them from walking and made Rhaenyra look at her, saying, "Tell me, to my face, that she had any choice in the matter."
As Rhaenyra was about to answer, the more she thought about it, the more she knew that Leah was right. Remembering they live in a world where women have no say in most matters, such as marriage.
"Rhae, Alicent is doing all she can to make things right," Leah continued, "She was the one who convinced your father to allow you to choose your own husband."
Rhaenyra looked at Leah with surprise. She remembers the conversation she had with her father about marriage. She has to marry, but her father allows her to choose who she must take as a husband. Now she knows Alicent convinced him to give her that choice.
"Long ago, when we became friends, we agreed to be sisters. To be there for one another and support each other through hard times," Leah said, "That is what Alicent is doing and helping you. Please. Speak with her, so we can all be sisters again. All of us." She finished as she took Rhaenyra's hands into hers.
Rhaenyra looked at her friend, who was begging her to reconcile with their friend. She must admit, she does miss Alicent. She missed being with her friends, sitting together in the godswood, gossiping about affairs on the court. She missed that. So, she gave Leah a nod, who gave her a grateful smile as they continued to walk through the garden. Just then, they saw Baelar on a balcony with his half-brother, holding a dragon toy, looking over Blackwater Bay and seeing some ships passing by. Deciding to converse with them, the two friends made their way over to them.
"Baelar, Aeron," Rhaenyra exclaimed as they turned and saw the two women and Criston Cole approaching them.
"Leah, how are you feeling," Baelar asked after kissing her cheek.
"I've been well," Leah replied, "Rhae and I thought that a walk in the fresh air would do me good."
Baelar nodded, glad that Leah was feeling better, "Leah, this is Aeron. Aeron, this is my wife, Leah."
Leah smiled at the boy, "Hello. It's nice to meet you, Aeron, finally."
"Nice to meet you too," Aeron greeted back.
"Aeron and I were just getting to know each other while he's here," Baelar said.
"Well, I'm glad," Leah smiled, "It would be good for the both of you."
"Baelar was showing me the ships at Blackwater Bay," Aeron told them, "It's not like the ocean at Driftmark."
"Oh. I'm sure you saw many things at Driftmark," Rhaenyra replied, knowing the island had merchants and traders from exotic places.
Aeron then looked at the princess and asked her, "Rhaenyra, do you have a dragon?"
Rhaenyra looked at Aeron and replied, "Yes, I do. A yellow dragon named Syrax."
"Does everyone have a dragon," Aeron asked again.
"Only the royal members of House Targaryen," Baelar told him.
"But Laenor has a dragon named Seasmoke," Aeron pointed out.
"Well, his mother is Princess Rhaenys Targaryen," Baelar gently reminded him, "so he has royal blood."
"Well, father was a prince," Aeron countered, "Don't I have royal blood."
Everyone then looked at him apprehensively. Yes, Aeron has royal blood since Prince Aegon was his father. However, the deceased prince was married to Baelar's mother, not Aeron's, making him a bastard, and Rhaenyra told them Aeron doesn't know what a bastard is. Before they could say anything, Aeron's mother came over to them. After her encounter with Claryssa Hunter, Melina decided it would be best if she and Aeron left.
"Prince Baelar, Princess Rhaenyra, Lady Leah," Melina bowed to them, "I believe it's time for Aeron and me to leave the Red Keep."
They were surprised Melina wanted to take Aeron back, especially since they had just arrived. "Are you sure, my lady," Baelar asked, "You both just arrived?"
"I'm sure we already imposed too much of your time," Melina said, urging her son to accompany her.
"I assure you, it's been no trouble," Leah tries to assure the boy's mother.
"I was having a good time," Aeron whined.
"Aeron, remember we are guests. We need to be respectful," Melina told her son.
"Can I at least see the Dragonpit," Aeron suddenly asked.
Melina looked at her son with a questioning look, "Why do you want to go there?"
"I want to see Nightwing," Aeron said. He had already been there with Daemon two days ago, but since then, he had this unrelenting yearning inside him, wanting to see her. As if something was calling him to her, and now was his opportunity to see Nightwing.
"Aeron, I don't think the king would allow that," Melina told him, "Besides, Nightwing is temperamental and very dangerous."
"But I want to see her," Aeron whined, "Father used to let me see her all the time."
Melina didn't know what to say. She doesn't think he was allowed to see her because he was a bastard and might accidentally claim her.
"I don't think it would be an issue," Rhaenyra interjected as all stared at her.
"Forgive me, my princess, but I do not believe the king would allow it," Ser Criston Cole said.
"It could be dangerous, Rhae," Leah agreed, not wanting anything to happen to the little boy.
"The Dragonkeepers will be there to keep Nightwing in check," Rhaenyra argued.
"The Night's Terror was never truly tamed princess," Ser Criston replied, "She might still be dangerous."
"Aeron just said he used to see her always," Rhaenyra countered, "She wouldn't harm him."
"She never did," Aeron confirmed the princess' words.
"Aeron," Melina tried reasoning with her child.
"I might never see her again," Aeron pleaded to his mother, "Please."
Baelar wasn't sure if this was a good idea, but once he saw Aeron's pleading look, he couldn't refuse. Judging by what he was saying, Aeron knew Nightwing and wanted to see her since she's probably the only connection he has to their father, "We can go."
Melina looked at Baelar with surprise, "But the king,"
"Rhaenyra and I will deal with the king," Baelar assured her as he looked at the princess, who nodded in agreement, "Only a couple minutes wouldn't hurt. If you agree to it."
Melina looked at the prince and princess and then at her son, who gave her a pleading look. Then, after a few seconds, she said, "Only a couple of minutes."
Aeron was happy that he would see Nightwing as he took Baelar and Rhaenyra's hands and led him out of the royal gardens.
"You all go ahead," Leah said, wanting to stay behind.
"Are you sure," Baelar asked with his eyebrow raised.
"Yes, I shouldn't overexert myself," Leah replied as she placed her hand on her swollen belly.
Baelar stared at her momentarily but then relented as he kissed her and left with the others. Leah, going in the opposite direction, stopped at a nearby tree. Seeing that no one was around or could see her, she immediately clutched her upper body as the pain returned. Then, taking a couple of deep breaths, the pain passed as Leah was worried again for her child.
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It was a long ride as Aeron, Melina, Baelar, Rhaenyra, and Ser Criston rode to the Dragonpit. Once they arrived, they made their way up the large flight of stairs until they reached the top. In the middle of the stairs, there was a small marketplace that was selling exotic goods. After spending a few minutes in the market, they went up the shorter flight of stairs leading to the main gate, which consisted of massive doors, mainly bronze with some iron. As the right gate opened, the visitors entered as Aeron saw the Dragonpit more clearly in the daytime. The inside was a large arena that seemed to hold less than a hundred thousand people. Once showing Aeron and Melina a better look at the Pit, the Head of the Dragonkeepers came to Baelar and Rhaenyra.
"My half-brother would like to see Nightwing.", Baelar told the Keepers.
The Head Dragonkeeper looked at Aeron apprehensively. He remembers him coming to the Pit with Prince Daemon, who commanded them not to speak about what transpired. Then, deciding not to earn the Rogue Prince's anger, the Head Dragonkeeper asked, "Does the king know of this?"
Baelar looked at Aeron, then back to the older man, and said, "Princess Rhaenyra and I will speak to the king later, and we will take full responsibility for it."
"My prince, I must implore you that it might not be wise for the child to be in the Pit with the Night's Terror," The Head Dragonkeeper said.
"I assure you, nothing will happen," Baelar told the old man before giving him a small glare.
Seeing the visitors as Criston Cole nodded, the Head Dragonkeeper said, "Only you and the child."
Knowing the severity of what they were doing, Baelar nodded as he urged Aeron to come with him. Melina still held a grip on him, not wanting him to go down to the Pit.
"I will make sure we are safe from the dragon," Baelar assured her, understanding why she was so nervous.
After a minute of thought, the mother let go of her child as he followed the prince and the Head Dragonkeeper to a passageway deeper into the Pit. Seeing Melina was still nervous as she fidgeted with her hands, Rhaenyra told her, "Baelar will keep him safe, and the Dragonkeepers will keep Nightwing under control." Melina gave the princess a grateful smile but was still afraid for her son.
Aeron and Baelar followed the Dragonkeeper as they walked through the passageway, going deeper and deeper into the Pit. They entered a chamber with many openings that were lairs for the dragons. They soon stopped at a specific lair that belonged to Nightwing. The Dragonkeeper readied his staff and called out The Night's Terror, who slowly emerged from her lair. It was dark so they couldn't see her well due to her jet-black scales, but they could feel her presence and hear her growl as she came closer. Aeron was about to get closer to her when Baelar stopped him.
"We're close enough, Aeron," Baelar said as he kept the boy close.
"But I want to pet her," Aeron whined annoyedly. Nightwing began to growl as the Dragonkeeper exclaimed Valyrian commands to subdue her.
Baelar reached Aeron's eye level and told him, "I know, but right now, Nightwing doesn't have a rider, which makes her dangerous. One wrong move and she could hurt us very badly. You've wanted to see her, and you have. Now we need to go before something bad happens to you. Ok?"
Aeron gave him an irritated look. He wanted to stay and pet the dragon, but he could see it would not happen. So, giving him a slow nod, Baelar took Aeron's hand to lead him out of the Pit, but not before Aeron looked back at the she-dragon, who stared back at him very intently.
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Returning to the Red Keep as the sun began to set, Melina was ready to take her son back to the manse until Baelar offered to take Aeron to their father's old room in Maegor's Holdfast, which the boy wanted to see. He remembered his father's stories about the Red Keep, mainly about Maegor's Holdfast, the castle within the castle. Once seeing her son's excitement, she again couldn't say no. So they went up to Maegor's Holdfast, which held the private rooms for all the royal members of House Targaryen. However, they did get many looks, stares, and whispers from the courtiers seeing Aeron and Melina's presence in such private quarters. When they entered the room of Aegon Targaryen, Aeron immediately explored it—seeing the books and decorations placed in it.
"This is his room?" the boy asked as he climbed on the bed.
"Yes," Baelar chuckled, "This is where he slept before he left for the Stepstones." However, it was a hard place for him to be in since he hadn't entered this room when he heard his father had died.
"I wish I could stay here," Aeron confessed softly but loud enough for Baelar to hear. He had enjoyed his half-brother's company so far and didn't want it to end.
"When I heard that you were in Maegor's Holdfast," Daemon announced when he entered the room, "I just had to see it myself."
"Prince Daemon," Melina greeted.
"Melina," Daemon greeted back and then looked at both of his nephews, "I take it has been a fulfilling day."
"Baelar took me to the Dragonpit," Aeron exclaimed as he went to sit on the bed.
"Did he now?" A voice was heard as everyone looked to see it was King Viserys with his Hand Otto Hightower, "The Dragonpit is a dangerous place."
"Forgive us, Your Grace, but," Melina said, about to defend herself and her son until Baelar interjected.
"It was my idea, Your Grace," Baelar admitted, "Aeron wanted to see Nightwing and Rhaenyra, and I thought it wouldn't be harmful to have a couple of minutes to see her."
"Is that so?" Viserys looked at Rhaenyra.
"It was only a few minutes," The princess shrugged.
"Regardless, it wasn't safe for the boy to enter the Dragonpit," Otto said, "No telling what would have happened."
Viserys stared a bit at his daughter, not approving of them letting the six-year-old child in the Dragonpit with The Night's Terror, but since there had been no trouble, he decided to let it pass, "Well, nothing did happen, Otto. That's all that matters."
"Of course, Your Grace," Otto bowed to the king, although he looked sternly at the boy and his mother. If he had his way, they would not be here since it is disrespectful to have the Braavosi Whore and her bastard in the royal court.
"Well, Your Grace, I thank you for allowing Aeron to come here," Melina thanked the king, "but it's time to take him home for the night."
"Of course," Viserys said, although Baelar had a thought.
"What if Aeron spends the night here," Baelar asked. After spending the day with Aeron, the prince wanted the boy to stay longer.
"In the Red Keep," Viserys asked, taken aback by Baelar's request and everyone else in the room.
"Well, you did say that our father wanted us to grow as brothers," Baelar explained as he put his hand on the boy's shoulder, "Perhaps this would bring us closer. And he can return to the manse in the morning." He then looked back at Aeron, who gave them an excited smile. "He can even sleep in this room."
Daemon gave him an amused look while Rhaenyra smiled at her cousin at this request. Viserys smiled, happy that Aegon's wishes were being fulfilled, "I believe that is a splendid idea."
Otto Hightower, however, did not agree to it, "I do not believe it would be appropriate, Your Grace."
"Why not Otto," Viserys asked, "My brother wanted his sons to be together and grow as true brothers. Why not take any opportunity to make that request a reality. If Lady Melina agrees to it."
"Can I, Mother?" Aeron asked excitedly.
Melina looked at her son. She could see he wanted to, but she was afraid to leave him alone in the Red Keep.
"It is only for one night," Rhaenyra said in agreement.
"Prince Baelar, I do not believe your mother will be pleased with this," Melina said, not wanting her son to be here.
"I will handle my mother," Baelar assured her.
Seeing the apprehensive look on Melina's face, Viserys assured her, "You have my word; your son will be safe in the Red Keep. I will have a Kingsguard knight to guard the door until morning."
"Please, Mother," Aeron pleaded as his mother saw him wanted to stay.
Seeing that she could not avoid it, Melina said, "Very well. Only for the night."
Aeron smiled as he was allowed to stay in his father's room.
"Splendid," Viserys exclaimed, "We will have him ready for the night, and you can pick him up in the morning." The king and his daughter then walked out of the room with his Hand following him, but not before giving the mother and son one last look before leaving the room. Aeron smiled at Baelar, who smiled back at him. The prince then looked at Melina and told her, "You have my word. No harm will come to him."
"Thank you, Prince Baelar," Melina replied, still not wanting to leave her son here.
Before the prince left the room, he told her, "I want to also thank you for giving me the letter."
Melina smiled at him and said, "Your father wanted to reach out to you in person, but," She stopped herself before saying that Aegon was dead, "He would've wanted you to have it."
"Thank you," Baelar said softly. He then left the room while some servants came to help Aeron get ready for bed.
As he left, Daemon, leaning at the doorway, told him, "Your mother might not take this kindly."
"What she thinks is no consequence to me," Baelar dismissed, not caring about his mother's thoughts.
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After the servants finished preparing him for the night, Aeron was in a nightshirt on the bed, speaking with Laena as she, Laenor, Rhaenys, and Corlys were visiting him and his mother. They are a bit worried about having the boy in the royal court of the Red Keep since he is a bastard, but they trust Viserys to ensure no harm comes to him.
"How does it feel to sleep in a royal room," Laena asked.
Aeron smiled, "It's fun. It's like I'm a prince."
"Then I suppose you will sleep like one," Laenor chuckled.
Rhaenys smiled at Aeron's excitement but then noticed Melina was still nervous, "My cousin, the King, will ensure nothing will happen."
Melina nodded to Rhaenys, but it didn't make her feel better.
"We should go to let him rest," Corlys said before turning to Melina, "We could escort him back to the manse."
"Daemon already offered, but thank you," Melina thanked the Sea Snake. As they started to leave the room, Melina sat on the bed to tell her son, "Remember, you have to be on your best behavior."
"Yes, Mother," Aeron told her.
Melina stroked her son's hair and kissed him goodnight on his forehead. Then, she went to the door until her son called for her.
"Mother, what's a bastard," Aeron asked suddenly.
Laena and Laenor left, but Rhaenys and Corlys were still in the room and heard the question. Melina stared at her son intently, asking softly as she sat on the edge of the bed, "Where did you hear that word?"
"I heard some people talking about me at father's funeral," Aeron explained, "And I heard they called me a bastard."
Knowing she couldn't avoid the subject, Melina told him, "A bastard is a person whose mother and father are not married to one another. You're a bastard because your father and I were not married when you were born."
"Is that bad?" Aeron asked as he looked up at his mother.
Melina then took a deep breath and said, "They believe that bastards are not good people when they grow up. That they are wanton and treacherous by nature."
"But, I'm not treacherous," Aeron replied softly, not liking the answer.
Seeing her son becoming sad, Melian then took her son's hands and told him, "It doesn't matter. No matter what they say, you are a Targaryen. You don't have your father's name, but you have his blood. You are a descendant of Aegon the Conqueror, a descendant of dragonlords of old, and the blood of Old Valyria. That is who you are. No one can take that from you. Do you understand?"
Not saying anything, Aeron nodded as she kissed him on the forehead and caressed his face. "I'll be picking you up in the morning." She said as she got up and slowly went to the doorway with Corlys and Rhaenys following her. Before she left the room, Melina gave her son one last look for the night, smiling at him while he smiled back. She then left the room as the door closed with a Kingsguard knight guarding it.
"He'll understand in time," Rhaenys assures her.
Melina shakes her head, "I was waiting until he's old enough to understand it."
"He's a strong lad," Corlys said as they saw Daemon waiting to escort Melina back to the city.
Noticing Melina's demeanor, Daemon asks, "All is well?"
"I still think coming here was a mistake," Melina admits as Daemon, Rhaenys, and Corlys walk down the hallway.
"He will not be harmed," Daemon assured her, "As idle as my brother is on certain affairs, he will keep his word and ensure Aeron is safe."
Melina sighed and said, "I just hope we can return to Driftmark after all this is done."
"Judging by what Viserys wants and how Baelar is to Aeron," Daemon countered, "I don't think they will want the boy to leave King's Landing."
Melina looked at Daemon with a nervous look as they made their way to the exit of the Red Keep. Meanwhile, in the room, Aeron was lying on his bed while holding his dragon figurine, pretending it was flying. Baelar then entered the room, holding a board with a few pieces. "Is the dragon flying for the night?" he said as he sat on the bed.
"I named him Balerion," Aeron replied as he sat up,
"Oh. After the Black Dread himself," Baelar amused.
Aeron smiled while he noticed the board, "What's that?"
"I thought we could start playing cyvasse," Baelar offered, "Father and I played a lot, so I thought I could teach you so we can play it."
Aeron looked at the board Baelar was setting and decided, "Ok."
The two half-brothers smiled as Baelar began to explain the rules to Aeron. However, before Baelar did anything, there was a question he wanted to ask that had been on his mind for a long time. "Before we start, I wanted to ask, did Father ever wear a red ruby medallion before he left for the Stepstones? Shaped as a three-headed dragon."
Aeron looked at Baelar. "Yes?" he said, remembering Daemon telling him that Baelar might want it.
"Was he wearing it when he died?", Baelar asked, wanting to know if he could still get it.
Aeron looked at his half-brother apprehensively. His father gave the medallion to him after Baelar gave it back to him, so it now belonged to him, and he didn't want it to be taken away. "No. They didn't see him wearing it when he died," he lied as he looked to the right. But, of course, he always looked to the right when he lied, but Baelar didn't know that.
"Oh," Baelar said softly. His father gave it to him, but he threw it back to him. He wanted it back since it was all he had from Aegon, but now it appears to be gone. After a few seconds of silence, Baelar said, "I just wanted to know. Anyways, let's learn how to play cyvasse."
Aeron nodded as Baelar started to teach him the rules of the game. He knew it was wrong of him to lie about the medallion. It was back at the manse and hidden in his room. He can see that Baelar wanted it, but his father gave it to him. So it was his to keep.
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Melina entered the manse her family was staying at and began to walk up the stairs to her room while her father came out of the sitting area.
"Where's Aeron?" her father, Areqo, asked.
Melina turned to her father and said, "Prince Baelar offered him to spend the night in the Red Keep."
"By himself?" Areqo asked in surprise.
"The king said he would ensure he is guarded and safe, and Aeron wanted to be there. Right now, I want to go to bed." Melina said tiredly from her day, mainly from Claryssa Hunter. She began to walk up the stairs until her father told her what had happened today.
"You should know that the king was here," Areqo quickly exclaimed.
Melina stopped where she was and turned back to her father, sharply asking, "Why?"
"He is offering us to stay in King's Landing," Areqo said.
"Did he," Melina replied.
"He said he would make sure Aeron would be provided for. He would move us to a better manse and even offered Aeron a place at court." Areqo explained, "He even said that he would provide us an establishment to open an office for the Sorren Bank."
Melina looked at her father, not knowing how to feel about what her father was saying. "What did you say?"
"I said I would consider it with you," Areqo told her, "And I think it's something we need to discuss."
"You think we should take it," Melina replied. She wasn't sure if it was right for her son. They were supposed to be here temporarily. Now there is talk of staying here permanently, without her knowledge. The king should have spoken to her about it, not just her father. She was Aeron's mother. Didn't she have a say in her son's future?
"Well, Lina, this isn't an offer many people would turn down," Areqo said, "especially since the king made it."
"So you think we should stay in King's Landing," Melina questioned harshly.
"I think we need to discuss this for Aeron's sake," Areqo said, "He might not get other offers due to his…" he trailed off, knowing his daughter did not like Aeron's title from birth.
"Because he's a bastard," Melina finished, "Yes, because of the shame he has as a bastard by being born from the Braavosi Whore."
Melina then walked up the stairs as her father tried to call her, "Melina, that's not what I," But knowing his daughter, there was no talking to her at this time. Melina went to her room and slammed the door. She was still thinking about the name she was given. Braavosi Whore. She then started to think about Viserys' offer. She knew other mothers would accept it in a heartbeat, but she wasn't sure if it was right for her son. People were already gossiping about their presence during their supposed visit, but having to suffer them permanently was another matter. She didn't want her son to be ridiculed and suffer the cruelties everyone noble would give him just because he was a bastard. She then began to wonder what Aegon would have wanted.