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A long time ago during the age of Valyria. A noble family called Dragonborn, as well as their army approached the rushing waters. The sails carrying the symbol of the house, a golden dragon and its soul leaving its body.
Their leader standing up front and center was a fierce-looking woman, her hair braided in blood, dragon blood.

No one knew where they came from just that they sailed from the far west. They had come for the dragons and their eggs. In their words
“To steal their souls.” From there a gruesome war happened then eventually a treaty. The Targaryen's agreed to give the other side dragon eggs in exchange for the Dragonborn’s to never set foot on Valyria ever again.

But how did the Dragonborn’s achieve their power? Who can be Dragonborn? Where do they live?

It began when a little girl no older than the age of eight watched as a dragon shook the ground as it fell, slowly dying.
A rush of wind suddenly came towards her as it took its last breath. The girl collapsed on the floor in pain as it happened.
Some say she took its very soul. Others say they saw colors surrounding her as it happened.
But one thing was for certain she had scales grow on the right side of her arm.

It wasn’t till in her teenage years when she found out about her power.
She and her younger brother were attacked by thieves in the middle of traveling. She didn’t know how but when she saw them hurting her brother something rose from her throat. She forced out a fiery scream burning everyone but her brother into skinned corpses.
From then the house grew into nobility and power. The people around them calling them the Dragonborn’s.
That is how their house's name came to be.

The Dragonborn’s have always lived in a country somewhat the size of Dorne and not too far away from Westeros, named Summerset. After more of them gained power the family overthrew the rulers, taking the land as their own. The family then built what was known as the lesser sister to Valyria.

On the question of who can be Dragonborn. It seems only certain females have the power.
If there have been any male Dragonborn’s it has never been recorded.

Since the destruction of Valyria the two families had a minor change to their treaty. Dragonborn’s would be allowed in Westeros but only if the king allows them to.

Now read about the future Dragonborn and her story, as well as her children’s, during Fire and Blood.

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Many years later during the time Jaehaerys Targaryen first of his name was ruling. We meet the newborn Kore, a Dragonborn and heir to her family, wrapped in a golden fabric.

Like most newborn girls born into the Dragonborn family, there was an egg planted inside of her cradle to possibly steal the soul from. Once she did, blue scales started to grow on the baby's hip. Tears fell from her brown eyes as she felt nothing but pain throughout the night. Although her family on the other hand celebrated the Princess's power, now knowing they have a girl who could succeed after her father.

During her childhood years, the princess grew into a joyful and ambitious young girl. Her brown hair grew long, touching her waist. Delicate features seemed to be covering her entire body. Her eyes having a kind look to them as well as the small smile she held. Her beauty wasn’t only known to those in Summerset but those in Westeros heard of her as well, specifically those in King’s Landing. Hence, she was named the Jewel of Summerset.

**Summerset Castle Courtyard**

It was overwhelmingly hot this afternoon. The overgrown flowers that hug the walls of the courtyard drooped sadly. The birds that lay on the cool water hung their mouths open.

Luckily for Kore and her sworn shield, Willow, they had the privilege of practicing their archery in the shaded section of the courtyard.

Willow is also a Dragonborn who gave up her title to become a protector. She matured very fast for her title as she was only four years older than the teenage princess. She is known to be exceptionally skilled with a bow, constantly hitting her target. She even uses her fire on her arrows to leave no victim alive. Although she does burn her fingers when she rushes.

“I overheard your brother talking about becoming Lord of Sun Hall” Kore spoke as she aimed her bow.

“Just a month ago he talked about becoming a maester” Willow said, fixing Kore’s stance. “He can’t choose what he wants to do and he’s already twenty, I’m surprised my father hasn’t berated him.”

“As if he could do anything about it.” Kore laughed “Your father and mother have no control over him.”

Willow stepped back as the princess released her fingers letting her arrow go straight through the red circle. “Reg means well you know that” Willow stated as she picked up the scattered arrows.

“I know. I didn’t mean it like that” Kore responded looking at Willow who in return gave the princess a small smile.

“It’s getting warmer. Would you like to head inside and continue your history lesson?” Willow asked.

“I don’t see why I need to learn more about the past than I do about the politics of war” Kore spoke linking her arm with her distant cousin.

Willow looked down at Kore “Not everyone can read about our history, and I do believe knowing about our so-called friends in the east can help. Who knows perhaps in the future we could have an allegiance with them.”

“I doubt everyone would agree to one. But I have heard about my father talking to those in Dorne as well as the North” The princess boast.

**Summerset Castle Library**
Summerset’s Castle isn’t just known for its beauty but for the gigantic library, it holds. The library is filled with books from not only Summerset but Westeros and Essos as well. Some even say it holds books from other parts of the world.

“To those down in Hollows Land release those you have captured, lay down your weapons, and pledge allegiance to the crown. Choose to not follow these orders and we will have no choice but to eradicate everyone there including the captured.” Brightsword said, her voice firm and rough.

“Aunt Juliet, a pleasure to see you here” Kore said as she walked toward the tall woman “As it is to see you, princess. Watch the sword young one” Juliet said, turning her body. Her sword crackled loudly as the two hugged.

Juliet then turned to Willow “Daughter.” “Mother” Willow uttered.

“You caught me in a strife” Juliet said nudging her head to the side. Papers were scattered all over the table, Juliet’s writer threw down a crumpled letter and then continued writing.

“Anything you might need help with?” The Kore asked, hope filling her eyes.

“I’m afraid not Princess. Here I will be out of your way. Come!” Juliet said, beckoning her writer. “Alright” Kore said, giving a weak smile.

“Soul Taker. Her name may have been lost over time but that never mattered. Her title alone was enough for the people of Valyria to fear” Kore read.

“What of her other title?” Willow asked. “The Slayer of Dragons. Our ancestors may have slain dragons as well but only she has the title” Kore said, not reading from the book this time “Why is that? No other Dragonborn has slain the amount of dragons she has.”

“Come on test me on someone else! Something else!” Kore pleaded “I know more than most do of our own family.” “Fine, how about my mother?” Willow asked.

“Juliet the Brightsword, Lady of Castle Brightsword as well as a Dragonborn. Her yellow scales grew on her right shoulder and ear. She is a fierce woman who rose quickly in strength. Perhaps all of it is in that magical sword. Or that heavy armor.” Kore responded “But if you meant your birth mother, she is Ansley. Lady of Ocean Tower. She may not be a Dragonborn like Juliet, but I do believe she can hold her own if necessary.”

Willow folded her hands as she looked out a nearby window. She sighed quietly as Kore laid a hand on her back. Kore and Willow quickly sat up straight as a maid spoke through the library door “Princess Kore?”

“Come in!” Kore loudly said “Your father King Edmund has sent me. He wishes to see you” The maid said as she entered the room. “I see” Kore sighed “I will be right there. Willow why don’t you stay here”

“As you wish Princess” Willow nodded.

**Summerset Castle**
Kore was left outside of her father’s study room. No maids or any workers in sight. Her hands seemed to tremble from behind her back. It seemed like hours till she let in a breath and opened the door.

“You wished to see me father” Kore said.

King Edmund seemed to pay no mind as he continued his brisk writing. Kore stood there momentarily before closing the door and slowly walked near him.

“Those damned white hairs” King Edmund muttered “They try to stop our alliances in places they don’t even have a hold of.”

King Edmund looked up at Kore “Sit girl don’t just stand there.”

“Father what did you call me for?” Kore asked as she sat down.

“I called you here to talk about suitors for marriage, your marriage” King Edmund said.

Kore sat stunned “What” She quietly said.

“What, you didn’t think you would never marry did you?” King Edmund asked his frown somehow looking more disappointed.

“No, I… Just not this soon” Kore said. “You will be given time, but you will marry. Do you understand me?” King Edmund asked.

“Yes father” Kore responded. She seemed to lose her breath before speaking again “I… I will leave you now.”

The king then shooed her away before continuing his writing.

Chapter Text

Now at the age of sixteen, King Edmund has planned to send Kore to King’s Landing to marry Prince Daemon sometime in the current year. Seeing as her past suitors seemed to fear being near her sworn shield. The Princess and her sworn shield would also witness the crowing of the new King, Viserys Targaryen first of his name.
The recently deceased King Jaehaerys agreed to the marriage when King Edmund threatened to break their treaty and steal The Reach from them. Not wanting to start another war between the two houses, King Jaehaerys agreed.

Kore now sat in the dining hall with a few family members in the early morning, discussing her current engagement. “On your wedding night you could stab his dick” Reginald commented his mouth full of food. Willow turned to look at her half-brother disgusted “Please close your mouth. Food and spit are getting everywhere.” Smiling Reginald shoved more food into his mouth.

“Princess, how do you feel?” Lady Ansley asked “After so long two members of our family will be able to step into King’s Landing and both being Dragonborn's!”

“I feel excited I hope to see the Dragonpit soon” Kore excitedly spoke. “Willow tells me she wishes to see the Great Sept” Lady Ansley said. “We will have to visit there then” Kore said.

“You should steal some eggs while you are over in the pit” Lady Edith said. “Don’t you already have enough for a hundred Dragonborn’s?” Arthur asked. “We do, but taking more away from them means more power to us” Lady Ansley answered.

“Don’t throw your food at my hair!” Willow said, smacking Reginald’s head with a spoon. “Yes I'll write to you from my grave once I lay a hand on those dragon eggs” Kore said.

“You won’t be laying a hand on any dragon eggs if you know what's good for you” Queen Aurora spoke as she walked into the room. The pink dress she wore seemed to shine with her, dancing in the sun’s rays. Her hair fair and long. Her eyes a gentle green, the opposite of her husband's cold brown ones. Kore stood up to hug her smiling as she said “Mother.”

“I'm sure you have already heard it a hundred times but what you are about to do will unite two great houses” Queen Aurora said holding onto her daughter's hands “I hope I will do you and our family proud” Kore said “You always will my little flower” Queen Aurora responded.

**Summerset- Kore’s Bedroom**

“What color would be best for a coronation?” Kore asked holding up a long red floral dress as well as a long plain blue dress. “Well red is one of the Targaryen colors but I do know you prefer blue over it” Willow said “I think blue would look quite flattering on you but red is the best option” Reginald said as he laid on Kore’s bed.

“I have been wondering. Will your children be both Dragonborn as well as a dragon rider?” Reginald wondered aloud “Perhaps that is the reason I will be wedded to a Targaryen” Kore said throwing the blue dress onto Reginald.

Reginald held the dress up to his body “I think it would look more flattering on me than you now. Perhaps I should marry the prince.” The two girls laughed as Reginald got up with the dress and waltzed around the room.

“Do you think he's as dashing as they say?” Reginald asked. “Him being dashing isn’t what I should be wondering about” Kore said. “Oh I see” Reginald smirked as he tossed the dress onto a chair “No not that. I would just like to know if he is… kind” Kore said. “I’m not too sure about kind but people describe him as daring” Willow said.

‘Daring. That’s…good right?’ Kore wondered in her mind.

**Summerset- Eternal Port**

The blue sea was calm as the sun started to fall down. Its smell seemed to be extra salty. Kore and her sworn shield waited on the wooden ramp to be sent off. Each family member sending their farewells. Reginald walked up to Willow and hugged her before doing the same with Kore. “Did you bring a gold dress” Reginald mumbled into her ear in a mischievous way “Of course I did” Kore whispered back as she pulled away.

“See you later sister” Reginald said hugging Willow tight “See you” She said hugging back just as tight.
King Edmund now walked up to his daughter putting a hand on her shoulder “Don’t let me down, do what you need to.” “Of course” Kore said.

“You should come home if it becomes too dangerous” Queen Aurora said moving her husband to the side to hug her daughter. “Let’s hope it never comes to that” Kore responded.

“Goodbye everyone!” Kore said “I will be back one day!”

“Soon I hope” Willow said to Kore “As do I” Kore said as they both waved off from the moving ship.

**Eternal Royal Ship**
“I already miss it” Kore sadly said as she sat on her cabin bed “Now that it has happened I fear I will not survive.”

“Don’t say that princess” Willow said “I am here to protect you and remember you will always have a piece of home when I am not with you” Willow pointed to Kore’s waist.

“Damn scales randomly itch” Kore said scratching her waist “It is hard not to remember” “A small cost for power” Willow said placing a hand on her left calf.

“A power the Targaryen’s will have” Kore said. “Only if we let them have it” Willow stated. “I need air” Kore said quickly leaving the room “Stay there.”

The stars seemed to be clouded but it was beautiful either way. Kore sometimes dreamed of sailing her own ship just to see the stars from the vast sea. Kore even wondered if she would be able to touch them once she dies. The princess hummed as she sat down and laid her head between the railings, hoping her life would be all right in the foreign country.

**King’s Landing- Day of Coronation**

The carriage ride up to the castle was nauseating. The streets reeked and the people matched its smell. There seemed to be brothels on every street or it could just be a regular civilian's house. As the carriage arrived the view suddenly got better.

“Wow look at that castle” Willow said preparing to get out “It's pretty small” Kore said looking around the area “Look!” Kore grabbed Willow’s shoulders and pointed “I believe that’s Viserys and his wife Aemma!”

“If you don’t mind princess I have to make a good appearance as your shield” Willow said mentally preparing herself “Of course” Kore said as she made sure her hair was alright.

The carriage stopped and a guard opened the door. Willow walked out first with a serious look on her face. As Kore stepped out Viserys and Aemma walked forward “You must be Princess Kore” Prince Viserys said smiling.

“It's a pleasure to finally meet you” Princess Aemma said. “As it is to meet both of you” Kore said and turned to Willow “This is my sworn shield, Willow.”

“Ah yes the other Dragonborn correct?” Viserys asked. Willow nodded in response. “I must apologize my brother isn’t here at the moment. Who knows where he is” Viserys said. “I’m sure he will appear soon. It is a big day for you” Kore said.

“As it is for you” Viserys said. “Well I'm sure the two of you must be tired we will let you get settled and ready” Princess Aemma said.

“This place is beautiful” Kore said as the two began following a maid to Kore’s room “I must agree with you princess” Willow said “If I'm being honest I wasn’t expecting that. Father always put this place down” Kore said “It makes me wonder what a dragon would look like up close. Perhaps they are beautiful as well.”

**King’s Landing- Throne Room**

As the room began to fill the two Dragonborn’s walked near the front and close to the Velaryons. Kore shifted her eyes to look at the Queen Who Never Was. Kore honestly felt remorse for her, she even thought that the previous king would have chosen Rhaenys. Kore’s eyes then shifted to the Sea Snake. She didn’t know much about Corlys but if Kore was being honest she felt jealous of his sailing skills.

As her eyes seemed to move downward she noticed a small figure appear beside her “Hello there young Princess” Kore greeted Princess Rhaenyra.

“Hello, are you the Dragonborn?” Princess Rhaenyra asked the Velaryons turned their heads at that question. “I am as is my sworn shield” Kore answered as she nodded her head to Willow, who then greeted the young princess “A pleasure to meet you Princess Rhaenyra.”

“The princess of Summerset?” Princess Rhaenys asked. “Yes Princess Kore” Kore responded “And you must be Princess Rhaenys and Lord Corlys.”

“I must say I'm surprised you aren’t wearing the color of your house” Lord Corlys said. “My family only wears gold when we coronate a new ruler or when we get ready or mean war” Kore spoke “It is a common misconception anyone can make, gold means victory for us but means death for our enemies.” “Good to know” Corlys said.

“How can you breathe fire?” Rhaenyra asked. “Well we grow a special set of skin and moisture in our throats when we absorb our first soul” Kore said “I hear it’s a painful process more than the scales. Luckily we don't remember the pain.”

The princess didn’t seem disgusted by Kore’s words but rather curious to know more.

The room seemed to quiet down and Princess Rhaenyra moved to her mother. “I was wondering where he was” Corlys said. Kore turned her head to see who he was talking about “Princess I believe that is him” Willow whispered in Kore’s ear.

A man with long white hair and he was indeed as people called him dashing. He seemed to waltz into the room as if this was for him.

“Prince Daemon” Rhaenys said walking closer to Kore “Your future husband.” “I can’t tell if you are pitying me or not” Kore mumbled. “Something like that” Rhaenys whispered. Prince Daemon seemed to spot the Valaryens and then the Dragonborn’s. He held a smirk once he noticed the Dragonborn’s and walked up to Kore.

“You must be my future wife” Prince Daemon said

“And you must be my future husband” Kore said.

The two stared at each other, observing each detail on the other. Even as the room turned their head towards Prince Viserys who now walked into the room, they couldn’t seem to look away from each other.

“Did you accept this marriage?” Kore whispered as the coronation now started “No but neither did you, right?” Daemon asked, whispering as well.

“No” Kore responded turning her head to watch Prince Viserys “Shouldn’t you be watching your brother?” Kore asked.

“I would rather keep watching you” Daemon said, stepping in between the Dragonborn’s. Willow who was watching the coronation the whole time turned her head and held an offended face.

Daemon leaned into Kore “Have you ever seen a dragon?” He asked “Just the eggs” Kore responded “Will you allow me to take you to see mine?” Daemon asked “Only if you let me ride on one” Kore said, slightly smirking.

**King’s Landing- Dragonpit**
“The Dragonpit lives up to the stories” Kore said as the two wandered around. Willow staying a few feet away from them. “They talk well about our structures in Summerset?” Daemon asked “Just the structure’s everything else is the complete opposite” Kore said.

Suddenly there was a high-pitched shriek ‘Was that a whale?’ Kore asked herself. Willows's face suddenly had a look of surprise. As the three turned a corner Kore spotted a dragon. It had red scales and a very long neck, it was like a giant lizard.

“This is Caraxes, my dragon” Daemon said, walking up to Caraxes. Kore and Willow stood in complete awe. It was nothing they have ever seen before. It was nothing Kore pictured one to look like.

“Come here” Daemon beckoned Kore “It won’t hurt me, will it?” Kore asked “He won’t, I’m sure you would fight him off if he tried to” Daemon said, extending his hand. Kore took it and touched the scales of Caraxes as Daemon placed her hand on the dragon. It was rough and warm, Kore felt the horns around the head and even they were warm to the touch.

“Your guard seems to be in shock” Daemon said. Kore turned her head to Willow who hadn’t moved at all, except one hand now on the hilt of her sword. “Do you still wish to ride one?” Daemon asked.

That snapped Willow out of her trance “I must intervene-“ Willow started but the two had already begun to mount the dragon “I will be fine cousin!” Kore shouted.

Kore wrapped her arms around the Prince tightly “Sōvēs!” Daemon shouted to Caraxes “Don’t let go” Daemon joked as Caraxes quickly took off.

It was frightening to the Princess at first. But once she saw how breathtaking everything looked from up high she somewhat relaxed. Kore focused on the orange and yellow colors reflecting off the setting sun. It was different when you were up high almost as if you could go over it.

“How is your first dragon ride going for you Princess?” Daemon asked “Wonderful” Kore breathed “Thank you for this.”

‘Daring is a perfect word’ She thought.

The two landed back at the Dragonpit after what seemed like minutes for Kore but hours for Willow. “Please don’t do that again” Willow pleaded, inspecting to see if Kore was hurt “You must try it if they ever offer it to you!” Kore joyfully said.

“I would rather ki…” Willow began but stopped when the red dragon turned his head to look at her.

**King’s Landing- Palace Hall’s**

A week had now passed since the dragon ride. Daemon was and wasn’t what the Princess was expecting. She knew he would be bold and somewhat impulsive but she wasn’t expecting such charm from him. If anything she thought he would be arrogant, not to say that he wasn’t.

“Back in Summerset during the reign of Alexander the Beheader. It was said he became a Dragonborn after his mother died. They say he took her souls the minute of her death” Kore said.

“Was it true?” Daemon asked, leaning on a wall “No if it were true then it would have been written” Kore said “Once we die, our souls do as well.”

“Tell me more about you. I am hearing these stories about your family but nothing of yourself” Daemon said. “There is really nothing to tell. I have never traveled outside the city walls. Everything I know is from books and letters” Kore said.

“Have you ever had a lover?” Daemon asked, walking up to Kore. “Never, I had no time even if I wanted to” Kore responded “I suppose you have though.”

Daemon smiled “Perhaps I won’t have anymore.” “One can only hope” Kore said, turning her head up as the two seemed to have no more space between them.

“I may have never had a lover but maybe you could show me what it would be like to lay with one” Kore said softly “I could show you more than that” Daemon said as he grabbed Kore’s head with his hands and slowly leaned in to kiss her.

Chapter Text

**King’s Landing- Kore and Daemon’s shared Bedroom**
It had been eight months since Kore and her sworn shield had first arrived. Eight months since the betrothed couple first met and eight months since their child was conceived.

“We have been holding off for too long my love. My father has gotten furious” Kore said from their bed “He could understand one month he took one to get to know my mother. But eight!”

“He shouldn’t be upset. Have you not told him about the little one” Daemon said.
Daemon walked over and sat down placing a hand on Kore’s stomach.

“Of course I have. But he as well as everybody else will see them as illegitimate till we get married” Kore said, placing a hand on top of his. “It’s time” Daemon said. “It is. Let’s tell your brother” Kore said “Help me get up.”

“You are not walking all the way over there” Daemon said. “Obviously. Not unless you would be willing to carry me” Kore said.

Kore picked herself up with the help of Daemon's shoulder. “I will talk to my brother, you stay here” Daemon said. “Why not ask him to come here?” Kore asked “Shouldn't I be with you?”

“Don’t trouble yourself, I will be back quickly” Daemon said, placing a kiss on her forehead.

As Daemon left Kore called in Willow. Willow now wore polished silver armor which was similar to her previous armor. She also cut her hair short so she could put her helmet on easier.
“Could you call in a maid?” Kore asked “Tell them I need to get dressed.”

“As the Princess commands” Willow said “You know I hate it when you are formal with me stop that” Kore said.

“As the-“ Willow started holding a slight smirk “Shut up and go” Kore said pointing at the door.

**King’s Landing- 20 minutes later**
“You should be resting” Willow said. “Everyone keeps saying that” Kore complained “I won’t stay in bed all day just because I might give birth at any moment. Princess Rhaenyra also wished to tell me more about Westeros.”

“You seem to have become quite fond of her” Willow states.
“She’s a charming young girl and have you seen her ride that dragon!” Kore exclaims “All the way up in the air at such a young age I wish I could have done that when I was little.”

“I must say I wish the same” Willow said.

**King’s Landing- Two Hours Later**
“House Martell. Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken. They seem to be very intriguing to me“ Kore said “You know I’m sure with my help I could build an alliance with them.”

“You think so?” Rhaenyra asked. “Well, one can hope” Kore said “You should head off Princess you can tell me more if you wish later.”

“Promise?” Rhaenyra asked. “I promise” Kore said, ruffling Rhaenyra’s hair.

Kore walked Rhaenyra out and from afar she saw Daemon and in his hand, he carried a bronze dragon egg.

“So that’s where you have been” Kore said as he got closer. “I did not expect to be gone so long” He said, kissing Kore’s cheek. Kore softly touched the egg. Its scales were rough and hard as if it were an actual dragon.

“I thought we would try giving them a dragon” Daemon said, walking into the shared room. “You know if they were to become a Dragonborn we would need one more just in case” Kore said.

“I don’t think my brother would allow that” He stated. “Then I’ll have to message my father to send some” Kore said.

“I think this one is a boy” Daemon said. “I do as well but we need to keep an open mind. It’s not every girl who can become a Dragonborn but we cannot miss out on one due to that" Kore said.

**King’s Landing- Day of the Wedding**
The room is decorated with beautiful white flowers that hung down from walls and pillars. Instead of gold being decorated with the flowers and decorations, silver replaced it.
The couple's attire matched its colors. Kore has a silver wreath on top of her head and Daemon wears a similar pin on the front of his attire.

The dress Kore has on is a white almost silver color. The sleeves are long, see-through, and falls down below her knees. The bottom of the dress has a train of pure white flowers. Her hair was braided around the back of her head.
Daemon has on a white and silver suit, his buckles and belt being silver. His hair was let down as it always was.

“Princess Kore… Prince Daemon” Otto Hightower greeted “I hope all has been well with your pregnancy Princess.”

“It has, thank you Ser Hightower” Kore responded. “Does he have to be here” Daemon said to Kore as Otto left. “He’s the Hand of the King” Kore said, placing a hand on top of his.

“So? He’s a cunt” Dameon said. “I know he’s a cunt I don’t like him either. But his daughter is such a sweet girl and I wouldn’t want Rhaenyra to be alone with only Laena the entire time” Kore said “Why don’t you leave me and enjoy yourself? One of us should be over there at some point.”

“Are you sure?” Daemon questioned “Go” Kore said.

Kore turned her head to Willow who stood close to the table. Although Willow was in her armor it fit the color scheme. Kore did convince her to at least put her hair in a different style.

“Are you enjoying yourself?” King Viserys asked. “I am. Thank you for doing this on such short notice” Kore said smiling at the King.

“I was hoping to hear the news soon. I'm glad you didn’t wait any longer” He said. “Both of us feel the same and since the little one will be here soon we would rather get married first” Kore said.

“A good idea. I’m sure your father agrees?” Viserys questioned. “Yes he approved immediately once he received my letter” Kore said.

“I do hope he is proud of you, his daughter bringing together our two houses” He said raising his cup to Kore. “I hope so as well” Kore said raising her cup as well.

Kore grabbed a plate of food as she watched the people dance. Weddings in Westeros were different, great and noble houses were allowed to celebrate with the family. While in Summerset it was a quiet affair where only the family was allowed, then again no one outside the family, guards, and helpers were ever allowed near the castle. Not since the reign of the previous king.

‘A sad tale, not one that should be thought about on a day like this’ Kore thought.

A sharp pain suddenly hit Kore’s stomach and she quickly touched it. ‘Not right now’ Kore pleaded in her head ‘Please not right now.’
The pain only seemed to increase before stopping for a minute or two and then continuing again. “How unlucky of me” Kore painfully said. Willow and those sitting by the Princess turned their heads at her. “I need to go, the baby is coming now” Kore said.

Willow quickly rushed towards her and began to lead her out of the room as Viserys ordered the guards to help make room. Daemon quickly pushed through and rushed over to help carry Kore to their bedroom.

**King’s Landing- Kore and Daemon’s shared Bedroom**
As the maesters helped the screaming Princess it seemed the birth would be complicated and as the maester was explaining this to Daemon Kore yelled “I swear to every living and nonexistent god I will get over there and strangle you if you don’t shut the fuck up and help me!”

Throughout the entire time Daemon never left Kore’s side even when she almost broke his fingers.

**King’s Landing- One hour later**
“Congratulations it is a boy” The maester said as he cleaned the boy's face.
The boy was born with his father's Targaryen hair and his mother's brown eyes. “Give him to me” Kore weakly said.

She happily sighed as her baby was given to her “Oh my look at you. So little and adorable” “He has your eyes” Daemon said grabbing his boy's small hand. “I think he has your ears” Kore said. “Really” Daemon laughed.

“Vaegon is a good name” Daemon suggested. “Vaegon… I like it” Kore painfully smiled as the afterbirth effects were now coming.

“Rest now my love I will take care of him” Daemon said as he gently took Vaegon from her.

**King’s Landing- Three days later**
Summerset celebrated the birth of the new Prince and hopefully future king. A ship was filled with gifts for the newborn including three dragon eggs for Kore’s future children.
Even though Vaegon wasn’t a girl or a Dragonborn like King Edmund was hoping for, he took in a little bit of pride knowing that there would be a male heir after his daughter.

After Kore finally got her three days rest, the wedding ceremony finally began. Vows were said and a loving kiss was shared by the newlywed couple.

“I love you” Kore said “And I you” Daemon replied kissing her once more.

Chapter Text

By the time Vaegon was two Kore and Daemon had their second child. A girl named Aramina, she carries Targaryen hair and her eyes are mismatched, a Targaryen eye on the left and brown on the right. Sadly her egg did not hatch but she did steal the soul of the other from Summerset. The baby then grew green scales on the right side of her stomach.
Those in Summerset celebrated the birth of another child and a new Dragonborn. This time not only did they send a ship of gifts but with the gifts was Kore’s uncle, Luke ll.
King Viserys had allowed him alone to enter Kings Landing on the request to see the new Dragonborn.

Luke ll is the third-born and older brother of King Edmund. The reason he isn’t the current ruler of Summerset is that he decided to become a priest for the Mother of Magic. In a short way of explaining they are similar to the red priestess but just for a different god, they are called the whispering priest or priestess.
It was always a wonder why he became one, he was always called the most handsome out of his siblings and many ladies fawned over him. Who could blame them? He has curly brown hair that bounces off his shoulders, soft brown eyes, even his hands had a soft look to them, and his voice was quiet and captivating.

**King’s Landing- Kore and Daemon’s shared Bedroom**
“My dear niece’s” Luke said as he entered the room. Willow turned her head from the wall she leaned on “Uncle!” She said surprised.

“We were expecting to see you later in the day” Kore said getting up from where she sat. “I would rather see my family now than later” He said hugging Willow and then Kore “Now where are the children?” Luke asked.

“In the nursery, come” Kore said, linking arms with her uncle.

“How has your marriage been? Has he been treating you well?” Luke asked. “I believe we have been doing well. Although on some occasions he leaves me with the children and does not come back for hours" Kore said.

“I see. Might I ask where your husband might be now?” Luke asked as a few maids passed by. “If I had to guess I would say Flea Bottom” Kore replied. “Flea… bottom?” Luke questioned.

“It is a part of King's Landing filled with poverty and crime” Kore said. “I knew Westeros was filled with crime but I wasn’t expecting it to be in its own capital” Luke chuckled. “That’s what I thought when I first walked through there” Kore said.

“Although I must admit I do admire their famous structures” Luke said “I hope before my departure from Westeros I would be able to see the Lighthouse in Oldtown.”

“Why not the wall up north? I’m sure a small detour would not hurt” Kore said. “You know I cannot stand cold weather. The heat is better” Luke answered.

The three entered the nursery where Vaegon was being held by a nurse and Aramina laid in her crib. “Please leave us” Kore said to the nurse who handed over Vaegon to her and quickly left.
“They look like you” Luke said as he crouched in front of Aramina’s crib. “I would hope so” Kore laughed “I pushed them out of me”

“Her eyes are gorgeous, two different sides to her” Luke said as he inspected the two “And he will grow strong and kind.”

“Are those predictions or your own speculation?” Kore asked. “Both” Luke responded. “May I hold her?” He asked. “Of course” Kore said.

Luke picked up Aramina and she stared up at him. “In the future, the Princess must make the choice of choosing a dragon or deciding against it if she is made aware of our… history in her early years” Luke said smiling at the baby “If she chooses not to then… I believe you must have another girl. If you do not, I fear the reason for you being here would be a waste, in the eyes of your father at least” Aramina grabbed at Luke’s cheeks and started smacking them.

“I am aware and I am willing to accept those consequences if that does happen” Kore said as she began to bounce Vaegon in her arms, making him laugh.

“Are you not able to see if Princess Kore would have another girl or not?” Willow asked. “The mother shows me small glimpses of pictures nothing more than that” He said, placing Aramina back in her crib “If I knew anything I would tell you.”

“Now onto a question I had. Did you marry him in our way?” Luke asked. “Hemera’s? No, neither did we in the old valyrian way” Kore responded.
Luke kissed his teeth “I suppose that is alright. Although it does mean he has more room to be unfaithful.”

“I don’t think it matters, everywhere in this world men are unfaithful to their wives. We just have to hope nothing like that happens, or else if our family finds out terrible things might happen” Kore said.

“We could have our own way to prevent that, our own plan to keep our family from finding out. Not that I am expecting the Prince to be unfaithful but he is a Targaryen” Luke said.
“I would like to believe in my husband but if you or even Willow come up with anything do tell me” Kore said, placing Vaegon in his crib.

“Would you mind calling in a maid? I’m sure our uncle would like to rest now he has had a long trip” Kore said to Willow as she began to leave the room.

“Where are you going, Princess?” Willow asked quickly catching up to Kore.

“Just to the gardens. Stay with my children and the maid or if our uncle wishes with him, I would like to be alone if you don’t mind” Kore said.

**King’s Landing- One week Later**
Luke ll would be departing from King’s Landing on this fine morning.
“Farewell Princess I hope to see you in the near future” Luke said as he hugged Kore. “I will miss you uncle” Kore said hugging back “Me and Willow will be writing to you if anything happens.”

Luke gave her a smile and entered his carriage. “Safe travels!” Kore said as she and Willow waved him off.

**King’s Landing- Two years later**
“Our children are growing too fast” Kore said as she watched Vaegon walk around the room. “Yes they are” Daemon said.

“I think one day he will be a greater swordsman than the conqueror himself. I also think he loves his father more than anyone else” Kore said as Vaegon clung to Daemon's pants. Daemon chuckled and picked him up.

“If that were true his first words would have been father and not mother.” Kore went over and kissed Vaegon then Daemon on the cheek.

“Will you be watching me win this year's tourney?” Daemon asked. “Obviously. Who else would you ask for their favor? Your brother?” Kore said. Daemon let out a laugh.

“Whoosh!” Aramina said getting up with the help of her crib “I think our girl would want to watch you as well” Kore said “You get going I shall see you there.”

Once Daemon left after settling Vaegon back down, Kore took Aramina in her arms.
“My little Dragonborn”

Chapter Text

**King’s Landing- Two Years Later**

The birth of a Prince or Princess, the possible heir to Viserys and the Iron Throne was about to be born soon. 

“Mother” A quiet voice whispered. “Mother wake up. Fathers back!” Another voice said. “Aramina” Kore yawned “Stop jumping on the bed.”

“But mother!” Aramina said throwing herself next to Kore. “We have to see him!” Vaegon said. “Why don't you go get Willow so she can take you to him” Kore said, turning over to her side to give a kiss to Vaegons head and then to Aramina’s “I will see your father later. I need to rest.”

Aramina let out a huff before jumping off her mother's bed. Aramina may only be the age of four but she had grown to have so much adrenaline and excitement in her compared to her brother. 

“Promise us you will teach us about Hermera then” Vaegon compromised. “My little boy wishes to learn about faith” Kore chuckled.

“Can you also promise to let us name the baby?” Aramina asked. “I can promise to teach you about Hermera but we would have to talk to your father about naming the baby. Now go”Kore said.

“Love you mother!” Vaegon said as he grabbed his little sister's hand and dragged her away. “And I love you both infinitely” Kore replied as she put a hand on top of her stomach. 

“Aunt Willow please take us to our father!” Aramina pleaded. “What did your mother say?” Willow asked. “She said yes” Vaegon said.

“Alright then. Come along, young prince and princess. Your father should be near” Willow said.

Vaegon carried Aramina on his back as the three walked around the castle. “I like Aegon” Aramina said. “Aegon? That sounds a lot like my name” Vaegon said. “Many names sound similar to yours” Aramina said.

Aramina let out a happy gasp as she saw Daemon walk up a flight of stairs they were near. “Father!” Aramina shouted as she got off of Vaegon. Daemon smiled as he noticed his children running towards him.

Daemon kneeled down at the top of the stairs and was tackled by the siblings. “Father, we missed you!” Aramina exclaimed. “I did not realize I was gone for that long” Daemon said, hugging his children “Is your mother resting?” He asked.

Vaegon nodded before answering “I think she’s been in a lot of pain again.” “That’s not good. Have they been helping their mother feel better?” Daemon asked Willow. “In their own way. They insist that the Princess tells them stories instead of the usual walk around the garden” Willow said.

“Why don't you take your sister and bring something from the garden to your mother, I’m sure she would appreciate it” Daemon said to Vaegon “After that, you can spend time with me and your mother.”

“Alright!” Vaegon said as Aramina grabbed his arm and started to drag him down the stairs. “Hurry up” She said. “I will fall if you keep pulling me” Vaegon said. 

Willow nodded her head towards Daemon and followed the siblings. 

The following day after the family spent their time together. Kore decided to get up and write to a friend in the east. Like many others in King’s Landing, it was good to keep ties with those that could give you information, for a price of course. 

As she finalized her letter Daemon walked in making Kore look up from the letter. “I heard you took the gold cloaks last night and terrorized men and women in the streets” Kore said, folding the paper.

“Just the criminals” Daemon said as he went up and planted a kiss on her cheek. “I’m sure there are more than the ones you had gotten” Kore said. “Then they will pay for their crimes as well” Daemon said. 

“Who are you writing to?” He asked. “Just one of my cousins” Kore answered. Daemon placed a hand on Kore’s stomach “We should not be lying to each other.”

Kore sighed before saying “No we should not… Why don’t you tell me more about last night, was there anything else interesting?” “I said to the gold cloaks that the people would learn to fear the color gold” Daemon chuckled.

At that Kore laughed “If they had not already they surely will now.” “Yes, they will” He replied. 

“Will you have the strength to watch the tourney?” Daemon asked. “I am stronger than I look. I’m a Dragonborn after all” Kore said “Now if you do not mind I must send my letter.”

“Let me” Daemon said. “I can call in Willow” Kore argued. “Trust me” Daemon said.

Kore looked into Daemon's eyes. “I trust you” She said, handing over the letter. Kore got up to kiss Daemon “I also love you.” “And I love you” Daemon said, kissing her back.

**King’s Landing- The Tourney**

Kore held onto Willow's arm as she sat behind Rhaenys and Corlys. Vaegon and Aramina sat next to their mother.

“Throughout the years each time I have seen you except the first you have been with a child” Rhaenys said as she and her husband turned around. Kore let out a small laugh “What can I say I just want a large family.”

“I am sure you do. Another girl would make you and your family happy” Corlys said. “And you wouldn’t if you had the power my family has?” Kore asked. “I believe that I would” He replied “But there is power in each of our families.” “Yes there is” Kore said.

“How much longer before this one is born?” Rhaenys asked. “Around one more moon. You know the little ones wish to name them” Kore smiled. “Do they have any specific names?” Rhaenys asked, looking at the siblings.

Vaegon shook his head but Aramina answered “An original name unlike my brother’s.” The three adults let out a laugh at that “Yes we wouldn’t want another Maegor would we” Corlys said.

King Viserys stood up and everyone quieted down. “I know many of you have traveled long leagues to be at these games. But I promise you will not be disappointed” King Viserys said “When I look at the fine knights in these lists I see a group without equal, in our histories and this great day has been made more auspicious by the news that I am happy to share. Queen Aemma has begun her labors! May the luck of the seven shine upon all combatants!” Everyone in the crowd cheered and the tournament began.

Princess Rhaenys had her favor asked by a Baratheon. “Vaegon tell me what the Baratheon motto is?” Kore asked. “Ours is the fury” He answered. “What about House Bolton?” Kore asked. “Our blades are sharp” Vaegon quickly answered. “Good” Kore smiled “Best to keep that head of yours sharp.”

“Fathers next!” Aramina said as she sat on her legs to get a better view. “Aramina!” Kore scolded “Sorry mother” Aramina said but didn’t switch her position. 

“Prince Daemon of House Targaryen. Prince of the city will now choose his first opponent!” An announcer said. 

“For his first challenge, Prince Daemon Targaryen chooses Ser Gwayne Hightower of Oldtown, eldest son of the Hand of the King” The announcer said. ‘Of course, he would pick Hightower’ Kore thought as she rolled her eyes. 

After the second round, Daemon went for the horse's legs and knocked Ser Gwayne off his horse. The crowd mixed with displeasure and cheers. His children being a part of the cheers.

Daemon rode up and Rhaenyra greeted him with Alicent next to her. “Now I’m fairly certain I can win these games, but having my wife’s favor would all but assure it” Daemon said looking towards Kore. Willow quickly went to help Kore get up as she grabbed her wreath.

“Good luck dear husband” Kore said as she gave him the wreath and he nodded to her. 

King Viserys left as she sat back down and the tourney slowly turned more violent with a man even dying. Putting a sour taste in Kore’s mouth. But as always the crowds seemed to love it. 

“Ser Criston Cole will now tilt against Set Daemon Targaryen, Prince of the city!” The announcer said. In a later unexpected move, Daemon got knocked off his horse and yelled for his sword as he got up.

“Prince Daemon Targaryen wishes to continue in a contest of arms!” The announcer said.

At first, it looked like a tie. Then one kept knocking the other onto the ground. But as Daemon arrogantly boosted to the crowd Ser Criston knocked Daemon to the ground and kept him there.  In the end, Ser Criston won and asked for Princess Rhaenyra’s favor. 

After a line of whispering a lord finally called to Kore “Princess.” Kore turned her head and called Willow over to him.

The lord whispered into Willow’s ear and Willow went to Kore “The Queen as well as the baby passed Princess.” “What?” Kore questioned.

It all seemed to happen so quickly. At first, everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves and then the next thing they knew a funeral was happening. But even funerals can happen in a blink of an eye.

**King’s Landing- Palace Halls**

“Rhaenyra” Kore said as she ran into the Princess “I might not know how you feel but I couldn't imagine my mother dying. I am truly sorry for your loss.”

“Thank you aunt Kore” She replied giving a small smile “I appreciate your words.” Kore bowed her head before leaving, Willow following close behind who also bowed her head to the Princess. 

“Have you seen Daemon?” Kore asked a nearby guard “I believe I saw the Prince leave with his gold cloaks earlier Princess.”

“I see. Thank you” Kore said.

“Would you wish for me to find him?” Willow asked “That won’t be necessary. I know someone that could tell me what he is doing” Kore replied. 

**King’s Landing- The Next Day**

“The Heir for a Day? Really.” Kore said. “Who did you hear that from?” Daemon asked.

“An acquaintance” Kore said “But that doesn’t even matter since by the end of the day everyone will know what you called the baby.”

“We should get going” Daemon said, walking away from her. “Where are we going?” Kore questioned as she placed her hands on her hips. “Dragonstone” Daemon answered.

“Should I guess that your brother asked for you to leave King’s Landing” Kore said.

“He said he wanted me to leave with my wife and children at once. I have chosen to take Dragonstone as our new home.” Daemon said “He also said he will name a new heir.”

“You're his heir” Kore said. “Not anymore” Daemon said slightly annoyed “He will name Rhaenyra his heir.” 

“Your brother’s punishing you for your hurtful words” Kore said as she walked up behind him and grasped one of his hands “Imagine if we had lost our baby and someone gave them a name such as the one you have given.”

“I would never let that happen” He responded. “My point exactly” Kore said before sighing “I shall tell the children to pack up while you do so here.”

“Why did you not confront him about where he was?” Willow whispered as the two left the shared room “I haven’t the slightest clue what you mean” Kore lied. 

On their way to Dragonstone Daemon and Kore took off on Caraxes. While Vaegon, Aramina, and Willow sailed their way. With Vaegon’s bronze dragon Atmus flying next to them.

Chapter Text

**Dragonstone- Five months later**
As always the gods toss a coin to the newborn Targaryen’s and see where it lands, making them good or mad.

The third born of Daemon and Kore was given the name Rhaegon. The male baby had the hair of his mother and the eyes of a Targaryen. Similar to his older sister, Aramina, his egg did not hatch.
Daemon then made a promise that he would soon get his son a dragon egg and this time it will hatch.

“How has your dragon been?” Kore asked Vaegon. Vaegon looked away from Atmus and up at his mother. “He has been fine. We’ve been bonding well from what the dragon keepers say” Vaegon said.

“Do you think he will grow to be the size of Dreamfyre?” Kore asked. “I hope so!” He exclaimed. “Do you think Aramina could ride with me when he gets larger?” Vaegon asked.

Kore hummed before answering “That depends on your sister. You know how she feels about dragons.” “She will grow out of it! I know she will. We are Targaryen’s, we bond with dragons, we do not need to hate them” Vaegon said.

Kore smiled as she kissed the top of Vaegon’s head. “Princess” A gold cloak said. “Yes is everything alright?” Kore asked. “Ser Otto Hightower has come with him is Ser Harrold Westerling and a few knights following him” He said.

“What? Take me to my husband” Kore said “Vaegon follow me.”

**Dragonstone- Castle Entryway**
“Why is Otto here” Kore asked Daemon, who held a dragon egg in his hands. “Daemon… don’t tell me you stole that egg. You said-“ Kore said.

“I’ll take care of it. Vaegon, go with your siblings” Daemons said walking outside. “If there won’t be a problem then I shall go with you” Kore said following him.

“Stay with the children” Kore ordered Willow. “Of course” Willow responded.

“You don’t need to come” Daemon said. “You're hiding something from me aren’t you” Kore said as they approached Otto and his men.

“Welcome to Dragonstone Otto” Daemon greeted.

“Your occupation of this island is at an end. You are to relinquish the dragon's egg, disband your army, and leave Dragonstone by order of his grace King Viserys” Otto announced “Your wife and children may stay in King’s Landing if that is what they wish. But you are not welcome.”

“Where is the king?” Daemon asked “I don’t see him.” “His grace would never lower himself to entertain such a mummer’s farce” Otto replied.

Daemon turned his head to Ser Criston.
“Ser Crispin, wasn’t it?” Daemon asked the knight. “Ser Criston Cole, my Prince” Ser Criston replied “Ah yes apologies. I couldn’t recall” Daemon said. “Perhaps my Prince recalls when I knocked him off his horse” Ser Criston remarked.

Kore held in a laugh as Daemon chuckled “Very good.”
“This is a truly pathetic show, Daemon” Otto said “Are you truly so desperate for the King’s attention that you resorted to skulking about like a common cutpurse?”

“I’m simply keeping with the tradition of my house, the same as my brother did for his heir” Daemon said. “Is that why you stole the same egg that was picked out for the Prince?” Otto asked.
“What?” Kore asked as she slightly stepped forward.

“It seems as though your husband has forgotten to mention that the dragon egg he holds in his hand is the same one chosen for the late Prince Baelon” Otto said.

Kore stood stunned for a moment “Thank you for this information, Ser Hightower. You may continue this conversation, without me.” Kore said as she walked back towards the castle not bothering to look at her husband.

“Kore!” Daemon yelled “No! Please continue!” Kore yelled back.

Kore entered the palace and went straight to her children. “Take me to the Prince and Princess” Kore ordered a guard.

“Princess, did you get sent back?” Willow asked as Kore appeared from the hallway.

Kore sighed “No, I will explain later. I wish to hold Rhaegon right now.”

Later after the dispute was fixed Daemon found Kore sitting down with Rhaegon in her arms.
“That is what you hid from me. I should have known, with how sneaky you were with your words” Kore rambled “Did you ever consider that stealing that egg would also put a target on my back as well? I want our child to have a dragon. I do. But if that means stealing it from a dead baby I do not want it.”

“And not only did you put you and your men’s lives at risk, but me and your children as well” Kore said.
“Kore” Daemon said, grabbing one of her hands. “I worked it out and you know that I would never let anything happen to any of you” Daemon said.

“You keep promising that! But how can I believe you? How can I trust you to keep your word?” Kore said.
“You can trust me by going back to King’s Landing while I help Lord Corlys in the Stepstones.” Daemon said. “What?” Kore laughed.

“He’s called for me and I believe that is the reason why, so you will leave” Daemon said as he sat down next to her. “I know Otto said that Viserys told him that we were welcome to stay but-“ Kore said.

“Kore. You are right, keeping you and our children safe should be my first duty” Daemon said, moving to cup her face.
“Let our children go with Willow and let me go with you” Kore begged “I’ve never seen you hold a sword” Daemon said. “Daemon I can fight” Kore said.
Daemon looked away from her and bushed at Rhaegons hair “This isn’t debatable.”

“You don’t believe I can fight, do you?” Kore asked “No, I don’t wish for you to get hurt. I would be blamed” Daemon argued. Kore scoffed.

They sat in silence for what seemed to be hours but it was only a few minutes.

Rhaegon reached for Daemon and Kore asked in a whisper “How long will we be separated?” “War is unpredictable” Daemon said, taking Rhaegon from her.

“I’ll tell them. You don’t need to worry.” Daemon said, placing a kiss on her cheek.

Chapter Text

**King’s Landing- Three Years Later**

“Aramina!” Kore yelled “Put your brother down!” Aramina whipped her head around as she held Rhaegon by his feet. 

“But he yanked my hair” Aramina complained. “He is a child. He doesn’t realize what he does” Kore said, taking Rhaegon. “So he has a thick head” Aramina said “Thick head!” Rhaegon laughed. Aramina glared at Rhaegon and mouthed to him ‘I know you can understand.’ 

“Why aren’t you dressed? Where is your handmaiden?” Kore asked. “Why must I dress so nicely? Today is like any other” Aramina complained.

“No, today is Prince Aegon’s second name day” Kore said, walking Aramina to her room. “Your brother is waiting at our carriage. Now go get dressed” Kore said. “Could I wear the blue dress so we can match mother?” Aramina asked. “Of course you can. Wear whatever you wish as long as it’s nice” Kore replied.

The carriage ride to the Kingswood was thankfully quiet. Aramina played with the strings on her dress, Vaegon braided Aramina’s hair, Kore held Rhaegon in her lap, and Willow looked out the carriage window. 

“Do you think I could be allowed to hunt on my own mother?” Vaegon asked. “If you promise to stay in the area and bring a knight with you, then yes” Kore said.

“Can I go with him?” Aramina asked excitedly. “Why don’t you make friends instead?” Kore suggested “I’m sure having a playmate would be nice.”

“Vaegon is my playmate” Aramina said. “Only because there’s no one else our age” Vaegon said as he finished his fifth braid.

“Well, your brother won’t immediately leave. You must wait for the King to arrive first” Kore said “So you can stay with him until then.”

Once everyone was at the Kingswood Vaegon ran off with a knight rushing to catch up. 

“Don’t look too upset” Kore said to Aramina “I will allow you to hunt one day. Just not today. Now go off and make some friends.”

Kore kissed the top of Aramina’s head and went up to a handmaiden and handed off Rhaegon “Please put Rhaegon with his toys.” 

“Wouldn’t you like to sit with the other ladies, Princess?” Willow asked from behind. “No I wish to walk and greet those from other houses” Kore said, walking out of the tent.

“May I suggest strengthening our allegiance with marriage.” Willow said. “That was the idea” Kore smiled “Although I do hate the thought of putting my children out for bait as my father did with me.” 

Willow uncomfortably looked around before saying “I wasn’t just talking about your children.” 

An uncomfortable silence took over the two as they walked around. At least the Kingswood was a beautiful distraction. The crisp air and the faint smell of the trees that hid behind the smokey smell was enjoyable.

Kore decided to break the silence after a short while with a question “Would you happen to know who he is?” Kore pointed to a brown-haired man.

“Ser Harwin Strong” Willow said “Son of the Master of Laws.” “Ah yes! I remember now” Kore said as they approached him.

“Princess Kore it is a pleasure to meet you as it is to meet your sworn protector” He said bowing. “A pleasure to meet you as well Ser Strong” Kore said.

“Breakbones. A lovely title” She playfully said. “You know of me, I am honored” Ser Harwin said smirking.

“I hope your time in Westeros has been treating you well” Ser Harwin said. “It has. Although I have never left the Crownlands” Kore said “Now then do not let me distract you from your work. I will leave you be.”

“If you don't mind before you leave, could you help light the pit?” Ser Harwin asked. “Oh? Can’t you light it yourself?” Kore asked “Or do you need me to lend my party trick to you?” 

“I apologize if I offended you. If you can’t do it then I can go-“ Ser Harwin said with slight amusement in his voice. “No, I can” Kore huffed “Allow me.”

“Princess” Willow warned “Mind where you aim.”

Kore waved Willow off as she walked in front of the fire pit and breathed in deeply. A small crowd formed around her, the lords and ladies waited in anticipation. It would be the first time they had ever seen a Dragonborn use their magic. 

Her lungs expanded and her chest seemed to catch on fire. Kore’s pupils shrank into slits, similar to a dragons. She then let out a fiery scream and lit the pit. The crowd around her erupted into applause as Kore turned to Willow “There, see I didn’t even burn the ground this time!” 

“Thank you Princess” Ser Harwin said. “No thank you Ser Strong” Kore said “I hadn’t used my gift in a while, this was a good excuse to use it.”

“I do hope we meet again” Ser Harwin said. “As do I” Kore replies as she leaves.

As Kore and Willow walked off Kore met with different lords and ladies from around Westeros. 

She only stopped because she noticed Rhaenyra. She seemed to be in an uncomfortable situation with a Lannister. 

So like any good person, Kore interrupted their conversation.

“My lord” Kore said, giving a fake smile “I do hope I’m not interrupting.”

“Princess!” Jason Lannister said surprised. “Of course not, I was just conversing with Lord Lannister” Rhaenyra said, looking relieved. “Well then I hope you don’t mind my lord if I steal the Princess” Kore said.

“Yes of course” Lord Lannister said stepping away. “Thank you for the wine” Rhaenyra said as she handed the lord his cup back.

Kore linked her arm with Rhaenyra and walked off.

“Lannister’s” Kore mumbled “You know I was in a similar situation with his brother.” “Really?” Rhaenyra asked.

“Yes. Luckily Willow is always near. She can fend off any man that comes my way” Kore said. Kore looked at Willow and winked at her. 

“I saw your… scream? From afar” Rhaenyra said. “It truly is like a dragon.” She complimented. “Thank you” Kore said “A blessing my family was given is now being used as a trick for those around us.”

“At least it is used in that way, then the way it was used originally” Rhaenyra said. Kore hummed in response. 

“I plan on going back to the tent” Rhaenyra said, stopping. “Do you plan on following?” She asked. “Yes, I would like to rest my feet” Kore replied.

As the three arrived Rhaenyra went straight to her father while Kore went to sit with Alicent.

“Princess Kore!” Alicent happily said as relief filled her face. Kore smiled and sat next to her “Have I missed any important gossip?” Kore asked. “Lady-“ Alicent started to say.

“And I have tried often to discuss it with you. But you refuse me at every turn!” King Viserys loudly said. “That is because I do not wish to get married” Rhaenyra argued. “Even I do not exist above tradition and duty, Rhaenyra!” Viserys yelled. 

‘What is duty?’ Kore thought ‘Marriage seems to be the only duty for women. A sad observation but it is true. I wish for the Princess to be happy in her future marriage unlike many others.’

Kore snapped out of her thoughts as she heard a baby cry. “Is it my son or Aegon?” Kore wondered out loud getting up. “It could be either” Alicent said “Let the maids handle… it.” Alicent tried to get Kore to stay with her but Kore wished to take care of the crying child.

“Allow me” Kore said, taking the crying Aegon from a maid “So you are the one making a fuss little Prince.” Kore started bouncing Aegon in her arms and said “You know you should not be making one, it is a happy day for you.”

Aegon looked up at her and started babbling. “Yes, a happy one indeed” Kore said. 

“Put Aegon and Rhaegon together” Kore ordered “The two need to see someone that isn’t older than themselves.” Kore placed Aegon down and watched as the two boys got along.

As Kore sat back down Alicent spoke “The two of them shall be great friends as they grow older. I can see it now.” “I hope so. It would be good for both of them to have at least one” Kore said “I know how lonely it is to only be around your family and no one else.” 

Kore’s eyes fell on a man with a cane and her eyes filled with recognition. “Ser Larys Strong” Kore greeted. “Princess Kore” He greeted back.

“I met with your brother when I walked out a great man he is” Kore said. “He is indeed” Ser Larys agreed.

After listening to the Ladies talk for what seemed like forever Alicent turned to Kore and quietly asked “I had been meaning to ask you but I did not wish for it to seem rude. Why aren't you with your husband?”

“I had wondered if it was because of the treaty but then I realized that your husband would not care.” She said. “It is because he has no faith in me” Kore scoffed “I can fight. I have trained with weapons before. I even breathe fire.”

“But can you defend yourself, Princess?” Alicent asked before quickly apologizing “I apologize that was-“ “No. You are right to question me there. But isn’t that why armor was created” Kore said. 

“Why do you wish to fight so badly?” Alicent asked. “I never experienced a true fight before and I’ve trained most of my life to be prepared for at least one” Kore explained. “I wish to do something with my life and not waste my abilities.” She said.

“I wish I could have such ambitions” Alicent said, placing a hand on top of Kore’s. “If you do and you require a Dragonborn I’m the one you need” Kore said and Alicent smiled.

As night crept up Vaegon and his knight were deep into the woods. The Prince has been tracking a baby deer and stayed close on its trail. 

“We should head back young Prince” The Knight said “The night can be dangerous.” “Then it will be good practice for the future” Vaegon said, brushing the knight off. 

A branch snapped and the two turned around. The knight unsheathed his sword and covered the Prince. 

“Brother?” A young voice asked. “Aramina?” Vaegon asked, his eyes widening “What are you doing out here!” He worriedly said and Aramina revealed herself.

“I followed you” Aramina replied. “Princess you shouldn’t be here” The knight said “Allow me to take you both back.”

“Can’t she stay?” Vaegon pleaded. “You don’t have to tell our mother” He said. “I apologize my Prince but your mother ordered for your sister's safety” The knight said. 

The siblings groaned in disappointment and held each other’s hand as they walked back.

As night turned to day the end of Aegon’s second name day finished. Kore handed off Aegon to a maid as the King got into his carriage and took Rhaegon into her arms. 

“There you two are” Kore said as Vaegon and Aramina arrived at the carriage.

“It’s time to leave.” She said. “Do we have to leave mother? Can’t we stay a little longer” Vaegon pleaded.

“No but you will be able to hunt again one day and perhaps with your sister as well” Kore said “Now let us leave this place.”

Chapter Text

**King’s Landing- Two ½ Months Later**

“Princess” Willow said as she approached Kore who looked up from Rhaegon. “Your husband is back, his dragon was seen flying” Willow said. 

Kore immediately got up. “Truly?” She asked “He is back?”

“Yes, Princess. The King is also calling all lords and ladies to the throne room” Willow said. Kore left with Rhaegon still in her arms. 

At the throne room, Kore stood in the front with her children by her side, Rhaegon in her arms, and Willow behind her. 

Everyone turned as Daemon approached. As he approached the throne he threw what was his enemy's weapon and said “Add it to the chair.” Kore paid no attention to the rest of his words and just observed his actions. As he spoke he looked over to Kore and then to Rhaegon.

Daemon knelt for his brother, the King, and gave Viserys what he won, his crown and the Stepstones. Viserys then walked up to Daemon and took his crown. After a suspenseful amount of time, Viserys spoke “Rise.” When Daemon did, the brothers hugged one another and left the throne room to talk. Daemon gave a quick look at Kore and turned back to his brother.

A celebration was quickly planned for Daemon's success. Before it was all set up Daemon finally went to see his wife and children. 

Once Daemon entered Kore’s room Aramina jumped into his arms and he held her back tightly. “Look at the three of you” Daemon said “We missed you” Vaegon said. “He whined like a baby” Aramina smirked. “I did not!” Vaegon argued. 

Daemon gave a quick hug to Vaegon as he noticed Rhaegon struggling in Kore’s arms. 

He walked in front of her as he let go of Aramina. “Look at how he’s grown” Daemon mumbled as he took Rhaegon from Kore. “He will be four soon” Kore said.

“Kepa ” Rhaegon said as he looked at Daemon. “Yes Rhaegon, very good!” Daemon complimented.

‘A miracle he knows who his father is’ Kore thought. 

Daemon noticed the look Kore held on her face and sent all three children off.

“Quit pushing me” Aramina said as they left the room. “Quit telling lies and I will think about it” Vaegon said back.

“I thought you would be happier to see me” Daemon said. “You left me alone for three years and without any word, you come back” Kore said “You can’t expect me to feel happy.”

“You know why I left” Daemon said. “For your own gain” Kore stated “I know what you want Daemon. I know you.”

“Do you?” Daemon challenged. Kore let out a slight scoff and turned away from him. 

Daemon let out a sigh and laid his forehead on Kore’s. “I never thought that after three years our first conversation would be like this” Kore uttered “I’ve missed you.” 

“Allow me to make up for our lost time?” Daemon suggested “I promise to give you my full attention.” Kore wrapped her arms around his neck and looked up at him. “That sounds tempting” She said.

While Kore pulled him in for a kiss. Daemon’s arms went to her back and undid the back of her dress. The couple quickly undressed and laid down on the bed. Daemon gripped Kore by her waist and kissed down her neck. 

“I want you to hold me close” Kore whispered “Do you understand?” She asked.

“I understand very well” Daemon said as he kissed her lips. “Good. Now make up for our lost time” Kore said as she wrapped her legs around his waist. 

**King's Landing- At the Party**

“There you are!” Viserys said with a laugh as Kore and Dameon walked to the small outside party. “I see the two of you have finally been reunited” He said.

“We have and he has a lot to make up” Kore said, hooking her arm with Daemon’s. “It is good to see you both so happy. I shall hope the two of you never part for this long again” Viserys said. 

“I hope so as well. Three years of being away from my family has left me feeling lonely. I have never been happier to be back.” Daemon said.

Aramina and Vaegon dragged their little brother with them as they snuck food away from the tables. “So we take the food, give it to the kids in flea bottom, then what?” Vaegon asked as he snatched a few candied plums.

“Well, I overheard that if you give the children what they want, they will tell you what goes on in King’s Landing” Aramina said as the plums were put into her dress pockets “So I thought. What if they could tell us, then we would know everything they do.” 

Rhaegon looked between his siblings, confused. Vaegon looked down at Rhaegon in agreement. 

“Why would we need to know what goes on in places like flea bottom?” Vaegon asked. “Why wouldn’t we” Aramina countered.

“You are a strange girl of eight” Vaegon stated. “You are only two moons older” Aramina huffed.

“What are you three doing?” Kore asked from the other side of the table. Rhaegon excitedly ran over to Kore and hugged her leg. ‘Good distraction’ Aramina thought as she rushed off leaving Vaegon behind. 

“Aramina!” Kore yelled as her daughter ran off. Vaegon gave a betrayed look before turning to Kore. “Do not worry mother, I will follow her” He said, running off after his sister. 

Kore stood stunned and confused as she slowly looked down at her little boy clinging to her leg. “You won’t run off will you?” Kore asked. Rhaegon shook his head and held out one of his hands. Kore grabbed a honey cake and handed it over to Rhaegon. She looked up and spotted Ser Harwin passing by the castle door. 

Feeling glee rise in her, she looked to Rhaegon. “Go with your father. He should get to know you just as you should him.” Kore said, kissing his cheek. 

“Ser Harwin” Kore smiled as she caught up to him. “Princess” Ser Harwin said as he turned around and slightly bowed.

“It is a pleasure to see you again” Kore said “I must admit I had wished to see you again after our last conversation.”

“As have I, Princess” Ser Harwin said “I have heard that you and my brother have been speaking.” 

“He talks highly of you, you know” Kore said “He is lucky to have you as a brother. An awful thing children can become. Bullying him all because of his foot.”

“I did what I could” Ser Harwin said. “I wonder if they called you Little Breakbones as a child” Kore joked. Ser Harwin let out a small chuckle. 

“Well don’t let me keep you from your work” Kore said “I hope we could have more conversations in the future Princess” Ser Harwin said. “As do I” Kore said.

By the end of the party and the end of the day, Kore had approached the Queen’s room. From the room came loud crying. 

A maid opened the door and announced Kore’s entrance. “Kore I wasn’t expecting you” Alicent said as she got up from a sofa, in her arms was Princess Helaena. “I had heard the child’s cries from the halls” Kore said as she walked in front of Alicent.

“She cries so often. I apologize if it bothers you” Alicent said. “There is nothing to apologize for” Kore said “Allow me to take some stress off of you and let me take care of her.” “I couldn’t” Alicent said. 

“I hope this doesn't offend you but every time you hold your children I only see someone who thinks of it as an obligation” Kore said “Let me help you. I can help.”

Alicent contemplated for a while before handing Helaena over to Kore. Kore happily looked at the baby and carefully moved her arms so she would be cradling Helaena. 

“She is so tiny” Kore said as she gently held one of Helaena’s hands “Poor thing I wonder what bothers her so.”

“I wish I knew, even Aegon never cried that much” Alicent said. “I wish I knew how to truly…” Alicent let out a quiet yawn and laid her head on the sofa she sat on. “Nevermind.”

About two hours later Kore had left Helaena in a maid’s hands. Alicent had fallen asleep through the hours and awoke only after her father had come to see her. Which made Kore leave in response.

“Where?” Kore wondered aloud. She looked around her and Daemon’s shared room and saw no trace of her husband. Kore walked out the door and looked to Willow “You haven’t seen my husband have you?” She asked.

“No Princess, I have only been around you and Aramina for a short while” Willow replied. 

Kore was used to the room looking empty, it had been that way for three years. But her husband was back home. She didn’t expect Daemon to be where she would like him every time of day. She understood he was his own person. Kore had only hoped that for tonight at least he would have done so.

The next morning Kore awoke to her bedroom door closing somewhat loudly. 

“Daemon? Where were you last night?” Kore asked “Drunk” Daemon curtly responded as he threw himself on their bed. 

“You look horrible” Kore said as she passed a hand through his hair. Daemon hummed. 

“I wish to take you and the children to Essos” He said. “What?” Kore asked. “Braavos or Pentos you choose” Daemon said “Anywhere but Westeros.”

“What has brought this up?” Kore suspiciously asked. “I promised to make up for our lost time. That goes for our children as well.” Daemon replied “I thought you might enjoy your time outside of this place and see new land.” 

Kore was she knew she couldn’t pass up the opportunity. No Dragonborn had stepped foot in Essos in years, due to the fear from the people in Essos. 

“You offer an opportunity of a lifetime husband” Kore said as she placed a kiss on his cheek. “One that you cannot pass up” Daemon said. 

“Braavos sounds wonderful” Kore said. “Good” Daemon said as he got up. “You go tell the children. I’m sure they would love to hear this from you” Kore said.

As Daemon led the shared room Kore called in Willow.

“You will be seeing a friend of mine” Kore said “The one that whispers secrets?” Willow asked. Kore nodded.

“Aren’t they in Braavos?” Willow asked “Do not act as if you didn’t overhear our conversation” Kore said.

A knock was heard and Willow went to open the door.

“For the Princess” A maid said as she quickly handed Willow a letter and rushed off. “Who is it from?” Willow asked as she handed over the letter.

“Take a look at the seal” Kore said, showing it to Willow.

The seal on the letter was the symbol of the Hightowers. As Kore read the letter her face dropped and filled with sorrow. Kore walked over to one of her lit candles and set the note aflame.

“I won't believe it. Not till I see it” Kore whispered. Although it didn’t seem as if she believed her own words.

“Let’s leave” Kore said “But you and I will leave my children with their father after a month or so. So I could discuss these accusations with Hightower.”

Chapter Text

Around two months later and by the time Rhaenyra and Laenor were to be wed, Kore as well as her family were already back in King’s Landing. Well, all except her husband. 

Daemon said he would arrive at a later time. Kore speculated to make a grand entrance.

“A letter came from Summerset” Willow said.

Kore was getting dressed for the wedding with the help of two maids. 

“Oh? From who?” Kore asked. Willow handed over the opened letter and said “The Queen, your mother.” The letter was mainly filled with words of hope from Queen Aurora to see her daughter again.

Kore let out a sorrowful sigh “I miss her. Do you miss your mother?” “Of course” Willow said “She was my lifeline before we left.”

As the maids were out of hearing distance Willow walked up close to Kore. 

“Kore I have a question” Willow said “Will your husband sit on the throne?” 

“Our throne? I honestly do not know” Kore said “But do not be so worried cousin. I will figure everything out.” Kore gave Willow a smile and although not satisfied with the answer Willow gave one back.

Kore stopped a maid as they tried to put on a leather belt. 

“Not that one, it won't look right” Kore said “Could you imagine how dreadful that type of belt will look on this dress.” “You stress too much for a wedding” Willow said. Willow moved strands of Kore’s hair out of her face. 

Kore wore an orange dornish dress and rubies as her jewelry. Both were gifted from the Prince Qoren Martell of Dorne.

“There you two are” Kore said as she and Willow walked to the wedding hall. 

Aramina wore a red dress that matched her brother's attire. Her hair was also put into a braid but it seemed to already fall apart. “Your hair is a mess” Kore said as she brushed Aramina’s hair down. “I did say I would be better kept if it were short mother” Aramina said. 

Vaegon grabbed Aramina’s hand and walked behind their mother, Willow following behind. 

“House Dragonborn! With them the Princess Kore The Jewel of Summerset, Prince Vaegon the Prince of Summerset, Princess Aramina the Princess of Summerset, and sworn shield Willow the Golden Archer!” Ser Westerling announced. 

The lords and ladies that were already inside clapped as they walked up to the King and Princess Rhaenyra.

“You look gorgeous Rhaenyra” Kore complimented. “Thank you Princess and I must say that I adore your dress” Rhaenyra said “I do favor the Dornish” Kore said. 

“The two of them have been raised wonderfully. Look at the two of you!” Viserys said as Vaegon and Aramina stood next to their mother. Aramina brightly smiled. “Thank you uncle” Vaegon said.

Kore sat to the right of Lyonel Strong with Vaegon and Aramina to her right. 

More and more great houses arrived when finally the Velaryons entered.

“Is that Laena?” Aramina wondered. Vaegons eye’s widened and whispered to his sister “I remember her being shorter.”

As everyone began to sit down Daemon made his grand entrance. 

Kore’s heart skipped a beat as she thought ‘There he is.’

A chair was called as he approached the main table and sat near Aramina. “My wife, children” He greeted “Husband” Kore said. 

“Be welcome, as we join together in celebration” King Viserys said “Tonight is only the beginning. We honor the crown's oldest and fiercest ally, House Velaryon. Reaching back to the days of Old Valyria and the Age of Dragons… and Dragonborn’s. With House Targaryen and-“ The King stopped and everyone turned to look where he did. 

Queen Alicent was at the door waiting and on her, she wore a green dress. Everyone stood up as she walked next to the King. It was obvious to the table that there was some tension between Alicent and Rhaenyra. ‘I was aware that they finally made up’ Kore thought ‘Perhaps I was wrong.’

After Viserys interruption he continued “With House Targaryen and House Velaryon united, I hope to herald in a second Age of Dragons in Westeros as we have with our old enemies now new… allies the Dragonborn’s.”

Kore nodded to Viserys as he looked at her and he continued.

“And after tonight’s small affair. Seven days of tournament and feasting. And at the end of it all, a royal wedding between my daughter, my heir, your future Queen and Ser Laenor Velaryon the heir to Driftmark.”

From there the festivities began, starting with Rhaenyra and Laenor dancing and then everyone else joining. 

Kore turned her head and noticed Daemon continuously watching Rhaenyra and Kore’s mood soured. “Don’t mind me, I wish to dance” Kore whispered to her children as she got up.

As Kore walked to Daemon she placed a hand on top of his. “Do you wish to dance husband?” Kore asked “Not at the moment” Daemon said kissing the hand she placed on his. “Then I shall find someone to dance with” Kore said leaving. 

Kore walked to a far corner of the floor when she was approached by Jason Lannister. “Would you care to dance Princess?” he asked “Of course, my lord” Kore said as she took his hand and they began to dance. 

“I know your son will be at that age soon and if you are in any need of a betrothal in the future House Lannister will always be open to one” Lord Lannister said. ‘Cutting right to it aren’t you’ Kore thought. “I shall keep it in mind” Kore said, giving an annoyed smile.

As they continued to dance, Ser Harwin greeted Kore as he cut in. “Ser Hawrin, always a pleasure to see you” Kore said. “I hope you don’t mind Princess, my dancing partner was just taken” He said. 

Kore and Ser Harwin quickly started talking with the occasional joke. As Kore let out a laugh. She then looked beside her and what she saw stunned her with sorrow. 

Her husband was kissing the bride.

But before she could truly process it, screams erupted in the hall. Everyone began to crowd around and push one another. Ser Harwin quickly moved Kore out of the way and went back into the crowd. 

Kore rushed over to her children’s side and worriedly asked Alicent “What is happening?!” “I am not sure” She said.

As the crowd seemed to calm down and focus on one person Kore looked over the Willow “Take the children to their rooms” Kore said. “I believe that is Ser Criston” Kore said as she got a better view. 

As Ser Criston laid his final hits on the dead man the chaos finally stopped. 

“Princess I should not be bringing this up right now but did you see…it” Alicent said. “I did” Kore said. Kore looked around the room for her husband but he could not be found. “I need to find him” Kore simply said as she walked away and out of the room. 

She knew the few places he would be. Their room, his room, or he could be on his way down to Flea Bottom. 

But before she could even reach the room she laid her head on a nearby wall and allowed herself to fall. Kore began to lightly sob as all her bottled feelings were let out. 

‘Have I not given him enough? Is this not enough? Is there something so wrong with me?’ Kore thought. 

After a moment she began to bring herself back up and wipe away her tears. 

‘No, I know what it is. That throne. That’s all it has ever been. I need to stay strong. I have to’ She thought.

“Daemon” Kore said as she entered their shared room. “Kore” Daemon said as he turned to her “I know you won’t wish to leave but-“

“You cannot keep dragging me and the children with you. Especially not after what you did” Kore said “I’ve been blind… I’ve been turning a blind eye. I did not want to believe Ser Otto at first. I wanted to trust you. But now...”

Kore took in a long breath and turned her head away.

“I’m still human, you know” Kore somberly said “I might breathe fire and come from another land but I still have feelings similar to everyone else.”

“We can talk about this later. We can figure all of this out later. But right now we should leave as a family” Daemon said, placing his hands on her shoulders.

“To where!” Kore cried “Across the Narrow Sea once again? To Pentos or Volantis?” “If that is where we choose to go then yes!” Daemon said.

“I won't be going with you! You can go alone and if the children wish to be with you or visit then they will go without me.” Kore stated.  “You would split our family over this” Daemon said “I am still married to you. We are still one.”

“Yes we are still married which is what upsets me the most. Twelve years and yet you have given it up to get what you want.” Kore said. “I just wish you could see what was in front of you.”

Kore placed a hand on her stomach. 

“You're not” Daemon said “I am and you haven’t even seen it” Kore said “I’m starting to show and you would think you would have noticed something different about your own wife.” 

“And I have the people I need that can help me while their father is away” Kore said “So you can leave and travel the world but I will do what I need to.”

The two stood in silence for minutes. Daemon’s hands fell from Kore’s shoulders as he pulled away. “Perhaps one day we could have the marriage we did before” He said. “Yes we can hope… but as of right now I wish to be separated” Kore said.

Kore kissed his cheek as a final goodbye and left their room to her own separate one.

“Princess are you in there?” Willow questioned as she approached Kore’s room. “Come in” Kore said. “I could not find you and had gotten worried” Willow said entering. 

Willow’s eye’s widened slightly as she saw Kore hunched over a sofa. Her hair was a mess and she seemed to have rubbed her eyes raw. 

“Kore!” Willow said rushing over to her “What happened?”

“I thought I could trust him” Kore whispered “I wanted to believe in him so badly. But he had to kiss her right where I could see him.”

“Willow, to answer your question. You don’t need to worry about my husband sitting on the throne. I will never allow a Targaryen to take our land.” Kore said.

Willow held Kore in her arms tightly “Give me the word and I will cut him down for you. I will burn his entire house down to never see you like this again.”

Kore shook her head as she pulled away. “Please go tell the children they can leave with their father if they choose” Kore said.

Willow nodded and walked to collect the children.

“Aunt Willow” Aramina cried “Why did father leave without us?” “He left?” Willow asked. “Yes” Vaegon sniffled “And he said we couldn’t come with him if mother wouldn’t.”

“Your mother told me that she allowed you to leave with him if you wished” Willow said. “But why won’t she come with? Did something happen?” Vaegon asked.

Willow kneeled in front of Aramina and Vaegon “When I was a child my mother was betrayed by my father… He loved another woman and gave her a child. So-” Willow said. 

“Did father do that!” Vaegon said shocked. “No! Not exactly” Willow said “What I mean to say is your father won’t be around your mother for however long she decides. But you are allowed to go with or visit him if you ask.” 

“But why?” Aramina asked in a whisper. “When you are older you will understand” Willow said “Go comfort your mother. She needs it, alright?”

Chapter Text

Almost three years had passed since the wedding and Daemon’s departure.

Kore gave birth to a girl who was a Dragonborn. Her scales grew on the right side of her chest with a creamy color. 

The name given to the girl is Aenara and she was born with both the hair and eyes of her mother.

Aenara was given an already hatched male white dragon that was the age of three now six. The dragon seemed to willingly approach the small baby as Kore searched for a dragon. The name was yet to be determined until Aenara was older.

The little dragon was lucky, Vaegon’s dragon Atmus seemed to be attached to him. 

Right now Vaegon and the two dragons flew above King’s Landing. Aenara’s dragon followed quickly behind and gained more speed. The white dragon eventually shot past Atmus and dived back down.

But Vaegon wished to touch the clouds and feel the coldness on his body.

“Higher Atmus!” Vaegon commanded.

If he could choose to be anywhere at all times, it would be above the clouds. He would have no duties, no worries, and he could bring Aramina with him.

While the dragons and Vaegon were up in the clouds, Aramina and Rhaegon stayed on the grounds of the Dragonpit. 

Both refused to attach themselves to a dragon. 

“I can understand my own reasons for not wanting a dragon but you, why?” Aramina asked her brother. “I don’t really want one” Rhaegon said, kicking sand beneath his feet. Aramina hummed “We will see, perhaps in a few years I will be the only one without a dragon.”

“Would… would father want me to bond with one?” Rhaegon asked. Aramina bit her lip and pat his back “I believe he would. But worry about anything else alright? When we see him you can ask.” Rhaegon frowned. ‘If we ever see him again’ he thought.

Rhaegon looked at the sky and saw Vaegon appear from the clouds.

“Do you think Aegon will bond with one?” Rhaegon asked. “He is the son of the King” Aramina said in a mocking voice “Of course he will and he will gain the best dragon in the kingdom!” Rhaegon let out a laugh “I hope Aenara’s will become the best.”

Aramina's head whipped around as she heard a loud roar.

“It might become the fastest dragon, look!” Aramina exclaimed. She grabbed Rhaegon and pulled him away from the area.

The white dragon was like a meteor about to crash onto the ground. His claws clung to the ground as he landed and ripped apart a piece of the land. 

The small dragon ended up falling on its face with a small cry. 

Shortly after Atmus landed Vaegon quickly dismounted his dragon. 

“Is he alright?” Vaegon asked one of the dragonkeepers as he patted Atmus. “It will be fine brother, look at him” Aramina said. Vaegon looked at the smaller dragon who quickly rushed over to Atmus. 

Rhaegon let out a cough as he inhaled sand. “We should go clean up” Vaegon said and extended his arm “Shall we?”

Aramina smiled and hooked her arm with his.

**King’s Landing Castle- With Kore**

“They are always so adorable when they are little like this. It's too bad they do not stay that way forever” Kore said to Alicent who held Aemond in her arms “They can grow up to be… something else.”

“Yes I heard that your Rhaegon has been making quite the disturbance with his new dagger” Alicent said.

Kore could still remember the day Rhaegon opened that gift. His eyes shone with nothing but trouble. Only minutes later a servant ran from Rhaegon after he aimed it at them.

“A gift from his father that I should have taken away” Kore sighed.

Daemon had sent very few notes to Kore and gifts on his children's name days. But besides that, he was quiet not a word sent to anyone else. 

Vaegon and Aramina were the most upset about it but they still had the choice of visiting him. And they did, twice. But even then to the children, it never felt right. How could it? Their family was torn, all they ever knew was broken. 

“How has it been?” Kore asked as she gestured to Alicent’s stomach. “Easy for now, but once it is time the pain will grow” Alicent said. “Aenara was the easiest to carry. I envy yours. Although painful, it has been less so than any of mine” Kore said.

“How is your little one doing?” Alicent asked “I hear that she is just as quiet as Helaena is nowadays.” “She is doing alright. Believe it or not, Rhaegon loves to talk to her and she talks right back” Kore said with a loving smile. 

“I hope my children will have the relationship your children do in the future” Alicent said. Kore let out a laugh “Then they shall be constantly joyed and annoyed towards each other.”

“I should get going. I promised Viserys more insight on Old Valyria” Kore said as she got up. “Let us talk again soon” Alicent said “I do love our talks.” “As do I” Kore replied.

Kore went over to Alicent and gave her a side hug. Kore gave Aemond a small squeeze on his hands. “See you soon little Prince” She said to him.

“I hadn’t realized your womanly duties consisted of checking in on every lord and lady in the castle” Willow jested as the two walked.

“I cannot help it, dear cousin. I am a glutton for gossip” Kore said. “Although I do hear that you and Ser Criston gossip quite a bit. About what? Even I do not know” Kore said. 

“All gossip comes from Ser Criston and what comes out is all about a certain Princess in the castle” Willow confessed.

“He sounds… obsessed” Kore said. “You have no idea how right you are” Willow mumbled.

“King Viserys” Kore said as she entered the room. “Princess Kore, how wonderful it is to see you today!” Viserys said as they hugged.

“How are you?” Kore asked as they pulled away. “I am doing well. Come sit down” He said and turned to Willow “Why don’t you stay as well? You are family as well.” “I apologize my lord, but it would not be proper of me” Willow said.

Kore covered her mouth and snickered, making Willow purse her lips.

“A shame but you have your own reasons” Viserys said with a slight smile.

Willow nodded her head and left the room.

“Old Valyria a wondrous place” Kore said as she sat next to the sculptures “I truly do admire your work. Your mind is the reason it has come to life.” “As will Summerset. With our houses' knowledge, we could recreate this old land, together” Viserys said.

Kore smiled at his words and wished in her mind for them to come true.

“Could you imagine if we could speak to dragons. The stories they could have told us.” Kore said. “Yes, it would have been wonderful to hear what Balerion would tell” Viserys said. “Now tell me, what did your ancestors write about?” Viserys asked.

“To start, my ancestor Aster The Witch lived during the fall of Old Valyria. It was said that she was one of the causes of the fall” Kore said “They say she used blood magic.” 

“A believable story, do you think of it as fact?” Viserys asked.

Kore shrugged “Who knows? Even after our treaty a good number of my family still dislike those of Valyrian blood.”

“As for what was written about Old Valyria the most ‘recent’ writings were in her own journal, sadly most pages were ripped out” Kore said. 

She looked at the model and imagined her words coming to life. Viserys did the same as she began to talk.

“She wrote about the distant towers that touched the sky, how only the dragon riders could be the ones to reach the top. Each structure had some type of dragon statue built into it. The roads filled and connected with lava. It all looked sacred and ahead of its time.” Kore said.

“Did she really write that?” Viserys asked. “Hard to believe that a cause of Valyria’s fall would write such words” Kore said with a smile. Viserys let out a small laugh “It does seem strange.”

The King and the Princess listened to each other talk about old stories. 

Viserys talked about Balerion and Kore talked about her family.

It wasn’t till the hand walked in that they decided to part ways for that day.

“Have you heard from the children?” Kore asked Willow. “Yes, Rhaegon passed by. He was looking for Aegon” Willow replied. “Oh? We should go find…” Kore trailed off as she spotted Rhaenyra.

The two Princesses hadn’t talked since the wedding. It wasn’t that the two hated or disliked each other. They just never got around to talking about what had happened.

Kore avoided any interaction with Rhaenyra. Quickly passing by her once she saw her figure. While in the back of Rhaenyra’s mind she wished to talk to Kore. She decided against it after catching onto Kore’s ‘cold shoulder.’

“Princess” Rhaenyra greeted with a smile. She stopped in front of Kore. “Princess Rhaenyra” Kore greeted her back without stopping. “I wish to speak with you… alone. If you don’t mind” Rhaenyra said.

Kore turned on her heels and stopped to face Rhaenyra. Kore nodded to Willow who got the message and went out of hearing distance.

“It has been years since we have truly spoken. I had wished to, many times…” Rhaenyra said “I never apologized and I wanted to do it now.”

“Don’t. Please don’t” Kore begged. Kore rubbed the corners of her eyes and turned away.

“No, I need to. He is the father of your children” Rhaenyra said as she walked closer to Kore. She grabbed Kore’s hands and they both made eye contact.

Kore looked at the young Princess and found no trace of falseness. She sighed as she recognized the young face, a child who did not know any better.

“You were a child. You still are” Kore softly said “I was upset. Very upset. I still am, but towards Daemon.”

“I hope we can still have the relationship we had before” Rhaenyra said.

They both smiled with Kore laughing softly.

“That sounds wonderful and hopefully we could be closer” Kore said.

Now that all seemed to be well Rhaenyra steered their conversation with a question. “Did you hear of Laena’s wedding to a sea lord from Braavos?” She asked.

“Ah yes the Braavosi man” Kore said. “You know I know a man from there. He hears and sees many things. How the tides tell him stories or how the fish whisper in the night” Kore said “How about I tell you some of the most interesting tales he has told me.”

“That sounds wonderful!” Rhaenyra said “Why not tonight? We could dine together.” “Perfect. We will speak then” Kore said as she began to leave “I cannot wait.”

As Kore made her way to the end of the hall she saw a small figure run by her.

“Aegon there you are!” Kore said. Aegon turned around and ran up to Kore. He then put his arms up and went on his top toes. “Hold me” The Little Prince demanded.

“Giving out orders to me now? Well alright” Kore said as she picked him up “But only because you are adorable.”

Kore pinched his nose and Aegon scrunched it up in an attempt to stop her.

“You know Rhaegon was looking for you” Kore said. “Where?” Aegon asked as he looked up at Kore. “Well he is somewhere” Kore mumbled.

“How about the two of us and my cousin Willow go and find him? Then the two of you could play together as long as you wish.” She suggested.

“I’m so sorry Princess! Allow me to take him off your hands” A maid nervously said. She was panting heavily as she finally found the Prince. 

“No!” Aegon yelled. He wrapped his arms around Kore’s neck and held on tightly.

“Calm down little Prince, you will stay with me” Kore said.

“Did you really lose a small child or rather the Prince?” Kore asked the maid in a joking manner. “Be lucky it was only me and not his mother. Imagine what could have happened” Kore said.

**King’s Landing Castle- With Kore’s Children**

Rhaegon pulled Aenara by her arm in an attempt to get her to stand up.

“Be careful with her” Aramina said, taking Aenara from him.

Aenara lightly hit Aramina’s chest and tried to pry herself away from the older Princess.

“But she’s my sister!” Rhaegon complained “I want to hold her!”

Aramina smacked her lips and stared him down. Rhaegon didn’t break eye contact and glared at her. It wasn’t until a maid walked in that the children's heads finally turned away. 

The maid’s eyes locked with Aramina’s and she quickly left the room. The fear on the maid's face was as obvious as it always was.

Aramina thinned her lips and frowned in response.

They all seemed to curse her. Aramina could not understand why. She had heard her grandmother had different colored eyes. Could it be because of the way her Targaryen eye stands out compared to the plain brown one? She has wondered most days what could be wrong with her.

“Why do they run from you?” Rhaegon asked. “They think my eyes are evil” Aramina said, widening her eyes with her fingers “That I might be cursed by the Gods.”

Vaegon laughed as he walked in “They must be from the north because of all the superstition.”

Aramina pushed her brother playfully “Don’t make fun of the northerners. They are nobler than the lower class men and women.”

“Be nice… and allow Rhaegon to take our sister” Vaegon said as he ruffled Aenara’s hair “I wish to spend time with you alone.”

Aramina’s eye seemed to light up at that and she gave the younger Princess to Rhaegon.

Rhaegon giggled and hugged Aenara who cried happily in response.

Aramina hooked her arm with Vaegon and they walked not too far from the room.

“I see the way you look at Atmus you know” Vaegon said. “Do you?” Aramina questioned. “If you wish to ride with me all you need to do is ask sister” Vaegon said. He smiled at her and had hope in his eyes. “I believe you are mistaken there brother” Aramina scoffed.

“Then do you wish for your own?” Vaegon wondered as he tilt his head. “I will never have one no matter what anyone keeps telling me” Aramina frustratingly said “Either they refuse to bond with me or they fear me. I have… we have mixed blood.”

“You are only one and ten. You have plenty of time, we are young” Vaegon said “I’m sure you will.” “Hope seems to be the only emotion we always need in our family” Aramina mumbled.

Vaegon sighed and tightly held onto his sister's arm.

**King’s Landing Castle- With Kore**

By the end of the week it seemed Kore and Rhaenyra did get the relationship they hoped for. The entire week, they had dinner with each other. With Vaegon even joining in once.

They had gained a close bond with each other that would hopefully never break.

Now it was the middle of the day and Rhaegon was missing from his activities once again. Frustrated with her second son, Kore walked into Aenara’s nursery. 

“Rhaegon what are you doing?” Kore asked.

At that moment Rhaegon froze as he was caught. He held his dagger in his hand and in the other was a dead bird. 

“…Nothing mother” He said guiltily. Although his face told the opposite of what he actually felt. His eyes held a smile as did the corners of his lips.

“Where is your brother and little sister?” Kore asked as she scanned the room. Her eye’s stopped once she saw her little girl’s legs from under her crib. Kore picked her up and walked in front of Rhaegon. He was still distracted by the bird and had begun to pet its wings.

“Rhaegon! Stop that!” Kore demanded. “It flew into the room and she wanted it!” Rhaegon whined. “Your sister wanted a dead bird? Did she tell you that?” Kore questioned.

She grabbed Rhaegon’s arm and called in a maid to clean him and the small mess.

“Mother” Vaegon said from behind her “What happ-“ “Vaegon where were you?” Kore questioned “I was told you would be watching them.”

Kore was visibly upset and Vaegon could see it plain as day. He stayed quiet and looked over to Aramina who walked up beside him. 

“You will be four and ten soon. I expect you to hold responsibility for what you do” Kore said as she cupped his chin. “Don’t leave their sight again and if you do the least you could do is call in someone” She said.

Kore let him go and sighed before handing over two opened letters. “They arrived earlier for you and your sister” She said.

“Who is it from?” Vaegon asked as he took the letter. “Your father” Kore simply said. “Oh” He said as he looked over the letter.

Aramina frowned and looked up at her mother. “Why just us?” She asked.

Kore looked at Aramina with sadness and knelt down.

“I know you don’t understand and that’s alright. I want you all to have both parents in your life and this is one of the ways best for us all” Kore said as she cupped her daughter's face. 

“Go see him my little Dragonborn” Kore said “I will not hold any of you back. Do whatever you wish.”

Only a few days later the ship that carried the Prince and Princess landed on the docks and the salty air overwhelmed both of their senses. 

Atmus flew overhead and carried on flying as both Aramina and Vaegon stepped off.

As they spotted a familiar figure they immediately ran over to him.

“Father!” Aramina cried as she hugged him. “We missed you!” Vaegon cried as he did the same.

“And I have missed you both greatly” Daemon said. He held his children for a moment before kneeling down.

“The rest of the year is for just us three.”

Chapter Text

It had been about four years since both Vaegon and Aramina had last seen their father.

But it was even longer for the younger siblings. Aenara hadn’t even seen her father. But she did gain a father figure, one who gave her safety and attention, Ser Harwin Strong. 

She had clung to his leg when she first encountered Atmus as he flew above the castle. From then on she would secretly stand by his side and talk to him.

“What have you found sweetness?” Kore asked Aenara.

The young Dragonborn had captured an insect in her hand and was peering into her palms. 

“A blue butterfly. It reminds me of Helaena. Do you think she would like it?” Aenara asked as she put out her palms to show her mother the insect. “I know she favors bugs such as beetles, but I like to think butterfly's are a beautiful species” She said.

Kore looked at her daughter and wondered how she could give birth to such a kind child. She was nothing like her siblings. 

“I’m sure she would appreciate it” Kore said. She tucked back a piece of Aenara’s hair and kissed her forehead. 

“Why don’t you see your dragon later. I hear the keepers talk about how he tries to leave the dragonpit to find you” Kore said. Aenara smiled and looked up at her mother. “Do you think White Star would allow another rider on him one day?” She asked.

Aenara and her dragon had grown to have the closest of bonds one can have. One without the other could potentially cause havoc.

The same could be said for Aenara and Helaena’s relationship. It was rare to see the two without the other.

“Grow your relationship and give him reassurance. Then you could try. But from what I hear they do not like to carry other riders besides their own” Kore said.

Aenara gave her mother one last smile, and the two walked off to find Helaena.

**King’s Landing Castle- With Vaegon and Rhaegon**

Rhaegon ran up and pushed his shield against Vaegon’s. 

Rhaegon’s legs began to get pushed back as Vaegon’s seven and ten year old body was bigger and stronger than the boy of just ten. 

The younger brother quickly lost balance and fell over as his feet twisted. He breathed in deeply and stayed down, exhausted. 

Rhaegon wished to be lazy and stay on the ground where his brother could not bother him anymore.

It wasn’t to say he didn’t care for Vaegon. It was just his brother could be persistent, too persistent. Especially when it came to training.

“You give up too easily brother” Vaegon said “Keep training with me. Maybe then your small arms will grow muscle.”

Rhaegon huffed in annoyance and bashed the side of his shield at one of Vaegon’s leg. Vaegon bent over and clutched his leg in pain. “Rhaegon that was foul!” He said in a strained voice.

“Anything is fair in battle” Rhaegon taunted as he stood up.

Vaegon grabbed Rhaegon’s shield from his hands and threw it away from the two. The elder brother then pushed the younger brother back down and held him there.

“Get off me, you heavy oaf!” Rhaegon yelled. 

“I thought anything was fair” Vaegon grinned. 

Vaegon smacked Rhaegon’s hands away from his face and pushed his brother's face into the ground.

“Quit bullying our brother!” Aramin yelled. Vaegon turned towards the voice which quickly allowed Rhaegon to smack his brother.

Aramina let out a loud laugh “Very good Rhaegon!”

Vaegon let out a yelp as he was suddenly tackled from behind.

“Aegon help! He’s crushing me” Rhaegon said as he hit Vaegon’s side. “Quit hitting me!” Vaegon complained as he shifted to the side. 

Aegon grabbed onto his friend's arm and pulled him up and away from Vaegon who stood up flustered.

“Hah! You’ve allowed yourself to be defeated by children!” Aegon laughed.

Feeling slightly embarrassed Vaegon quickly grabbed his wooden weapon and shield and placed them back before leaving the area.

Aramina who felt amused, chased after Vaegon with a large grin on her face. 

“Brother!” Aramina laughed “Don’t look so flustered! I am sure there have been many knights that have been bested by little children!”

Rhaegon turned to smile at Aegon who smirked at him. 

The two could be mistaken for brothers if you ignored their hair difference. They were closer than Aegon was to Aemond or Rhaegon was to Vaegon. 

They ate together, caused mayhem around the castle, and spent hours on end in each other’s rooms. They were the perfect match since birth.

“Do you wish to practice together?” Rhaegon asked. 

“I would rather stick my head in a stack of needles than practice right now” Aegon replied. “Good because I would have denied you if you had said yes” Rhaegon confessed. 

“Want to find something non-boring to do?” Aegon asked. 

Rhaegon smirked at Aegon whose smirk had never faltered.

Chaos ensued as both Prince’s ran down the halls. 

They pushed servants and maids out of their way and after swiftly turning multiple corners they almost bumped into numerous guards.

“Brother?” Aenara wondered. 

Rhaegon ran into Aegon as he looked over to his sister who stood in front of an open door. Her eyes looked wide at her brother's panting face. 

“Aenara” Rhaegon smiled as he ran up to hug her.

“Mother promised to stay and spend some time with us today” Aenara said as she looked at him. “Would the both of you like to stay?” She asked.

Rhaegon looked at Aegon and quickly pushed him inside the room. Aegon turned around and pushed Rhaegon right back in a playful way.

The room held Kore, Willow, Jacaerys, Helaena, Aenara, and Aemond.

Willow laid next to the door they came through.

Jacaerys was admiring the butterfly Aenara had gifted Princess Helaena and the two girls admired with him.

Rhaegon turned his head to look at his mother who had Aemond sat next to her. He seemed to be reading along with a book Kore held in her hands.

“You know I have just noticed. Your brother is very…” Rhaegon whispered. “Weird, boring, annoying?” Aegon stated.

“Quiet is the word I was thinking of” Rhaegon said. “Just quiet? Have you noticed how much time he spends with your mother?” Aegon asked.

Rhaegon scrunched up his nose “I notice and I don’t like it.” 

Aegon snickered and sat down on the other side of Kore with Rhaegon sitting next to him.

Anyone could see that Aemond spent enough time with Kore to be mistaken for either her son, or a boy who had a childhood crush on the Princess.

“Can you tell us about Summerset or your family? We know nothing about them” Jacaerys suddenly asked.

“Shall I be your storyteller?” Kore laughed. “Yes” Aemond said before quickly taking back his word “Only if you want to.”

Kore hummed at Aemond and smiled. She closed her book and said “Alright but all of you…” Kore turned her head to look directly at Rhaegon and Aegon “All of you must behave.”

“We promise mother” Rhaegon said as he put an arm around Aegon’s shoulder.

“Tell us the story of Brightsword!” Prince Aegon pleaded. “The sword or my aunt?” Kore questioned. 

“Both!” Aegon and Rhaegon excitedly said.

“Well alright, let’s start from the beginning” Kore said.

The children gathered around with Aemond on her left, Aegon and Rhaegon on her right, and Jace, Helaena, and Aenara sitting across from her.

“During the age of Briar the Kind and around the time of Old Valyria’s fall, a ceremony was held at Hearth Hall for the Goddess of Day, Hemera. Gifts were brought and thrown into the fiery pit that stayed forever lit in the center of the hall. Gold, silver, gems, even at some point a baby's corpse.” Kore said.

“Was it alive?” Aegon asked. 

“The baby was already dead, it died in the dead of night from abandoment” Kore said. 

“That’s awful” Helaena whispered. Aenara nodded at her.

Aemond shifted closer to Kore and Aenara placed her hand with Helaena’s.

“It was. But they believed that if they sacrificed the corpse on that day perhaps the soul would find peace. And so one night had passed since the ceremony, when suddenly a loud crack could be heard from the fire. The noise repeated itself for almost an hour. The maidens and priestesses that occupied the hall went to check during that time. What they found was a golden sword in the middle of the flames. Although the hilt seemed to be the only part that wasn’t golden. Instead, it was a charcoal color. The Dragonborn’s who stayed overnight ordered the sword to be brought to them. But as the sword was taken out of the flames they all noticed how the flames never died down. Even as water was poured onto it, it stayed lit. A priestess offered to pick it up but as she did the hilt suddenly caught fire and almost burnt their hand to the bone” Kore said.

“Blacksmith’s throughout Summerset were ordered to create a sheath that could take care of the unstable sword. And so after weeks of trying, finally one was created. It would stay in its sheath for many years until one day a Dragonborn took it” Kore said.

“Wait. I don’t understand” Aegon said, confused. “How did the sword… create itself?” Jacaerys asked.

Kore looked to Willow who helped her answer. “Well, the priestesses claimed it was a gift from Hemera herself. But others said the corpse's sacrifice was another form of blood magic” She said.

“Now onto my aunt The Brightsword. Not only is she a Dragonborn but she is the wielder of the most powerful weapon in Summerset. When She was around the age of five and ten she broke into the vault that held the weapon. Our family claims she heard voices that lead her to the sword but my uncle Luke mentioned a prediction he had” Kore said.

“The weilder of fire will kill the witch” Helaena whispered. Aenara turned to her as everyone else continued to listen to the story.

“It was uncertain how she was able to wield the sword but thanks to it as she grew, she easily towered over many men and defeated her foes with ease. It looked simple to her, bringing down the strongest men, the strongest women, and even a dragon. Juliet never wanted to become a lady who waited hand and foot for her husband or even a Dragonborn that never used her power. She wanted to become the best, the strongest. And so later in her life, the previous King of Summerset granted her power over our army and she put great use into it. She used a part of that army to help corner what we call a rogue dragon. All she needed from her army was to make it land, then she would kill it. As Brightsword cut through one of the cornered dragon's feet it tried to fly off but it simply crashed into nearby houses, bleeding out. The dragon lit fire to everyone in its way and almost burned Juliet with them. But she was fast and she knew how to strategize even at the last second. Juliet slid under the dragon's jaws and aimed Brightsword up. The sword's fire burst and almost consumed Juliet as she tore through the dragon's stomach, melting all skin and bone...” Kore paused and looked around her. 

All the children seemed to have become drowsy. 

“Oh! I hope I did not bore you all” She said.

Aenara squeezed Helaena’s hand as she pleaded “No keep talking!”

“My head hurts” Aegon whined as he laid his head on Kore. “I’m surprised that your big head can’t take my mother's storytelling” Rhaegon chuckled.

In response, Aegon hit Rhaegon’s shoulder hard. 

“Why don’t we stop where we are and continue later today or tomorrow?” Kore suggested. 

“But we need to know more!” Aegon pleaded. “What happened next?” Jacaerys asked “Did she take its soul?”

“You will have to find out later. I am sure that all of you are missing some type of activity” Kore said.

“Do you need help, Princess?” Ser Harwin offered as he stood at the doorway “I can take Princess Aenara.”

“That would be wonderful Ser Harwin” Kore smiled. 

Aenara let go of Helaena’s hand and ran up to Ser Harwin. 

“Come Aemond, let me walk you and your sister” Kore beckoned. “And you two go back outside and take Jacaerys with you” She said to her son and Aegon.

“Now where are you supposed to be Princess?” See Harwin asked. 

“With a seamstress. Mother said I needed more clothing because I'm starting to grow taller” Aenara said.

Aenara tugged at Ser Harwin’s hand as they approached her room.

“Ser Harwin” Aenara said. “Could we stay here just for a little while?” She asked. 

“I do not wish for you to leave yet” She said.

Ser Harwin smiled at her and held her hand. “Just for a little while Princess” He replied. 

Chapter Text

**King’s Landing Castle- Two Years Later**

Vaegon was nine and ten now and every day he walked on glass shards. He knew someday he would have to perform the duty of marriage and leave his family, as his mother did.

Vaegon wished it could have been any day but today. 

Kore had sat him down in the garden where she began explaining the different ways marriages could end up. After a long talk, she finally brought up his own future marriage.

“You will be betrothed to Lady Cornelia of house Lannister” Kore explained to her son. “Lannister” Vaegon repeated. He stared at his mother with worry and uncertainty as she spoke.

Vaegon never liked the Lannister’s. He hated the way they kissed down on people’s shoes to somewhat gain power. They were manipulative and greedy.

“I hope to combine our houses and gain a sort of alliance with them” Kore said.

It took a while to convince herself but Kore knew if she did not marry off her son others would try and mess with her mind. 

It was not like Kore’s father had any care for her son so it would not matter. Even if Vaegon is the eldest son, he held Targaryen blood. Vaegon would never be a Dragonborn in his eyes.

“Would I have to live on Casterly Rock?” Vaegon asked “Would I have to leave home?”

“For a time but you can always come back” Kore replied.

“I don’t wish to leave you or our family mother” Vaegon said.

“My son, please do not fight me on this” Kore said. She held his arms and rubbed them gently.

“Our family has been torn enough” Vaegon stated. His breath shuddered and he turned his head away from his mother. 

“I know how much effort you have put into this family, to keep us all together. So let us stay that way just for a little while longer” He begged.

“I know what this is like. To be torn from a family and placed into another for the sake of blood and power” Kore said as she moved her hands to hold his face.

“You are my golden boy, my firstborn. You will be helping great houses. And unlike me, whenever you get sick and tired of Casterly Rock you can come back home, alone if you wish. Just do your duty first.” She said.

Vaegon bit his lip hard and held back his saddened emotions. “I love you mother... I will do this for us” He said.

Kore gave him a smile and kissed his forehead “I love you, my son.”

Down below the Dragonpit the youngest Dragonborn and Helaena walked around the sandy floor.

Aenara looked at Helaena who was playing with a bracelet. It was made of silver and was decorated with white and blue gems.

“I thought you might like it” Helaena said “It matches my own.”

“It’s gorgeous Helaena” Aenara happily said “I will never take it off!”

Helaena clipped the bracelet to Aenara’s wrist and caressed the gems. “Two dragons, blood intertwining. Fate pulling them together and apart” She said.

Aenara looked at her friend and hung onto every word she spoke. She always admired her friends' words. It was like poetry.

“Where is your dragon?” Helaena asked.

“Hmm? Oh yes, I had almost forgotten!” Aenara said. 

“White Star, come!” She yelled. The young dragon let out a cry and rushed over to his rider. 

“It was scary at first but it felt so real. It was as if I was a dragon myself” Aenara explained to her friend. Helaena hummed in response.

Aenara walked up to her dragon and began to undo his saddle. White Star moved away from her and pushed his head against her arm. 

“What are you doing?” Daeron asked as he approached the two Princesses.

“I am trying to take off his saddle” Aenara replied. She ran to the other side of her dragon, trying to catch him off guard.

Daeron looked at Aenara with raised eyebrows. 

“It will be fine, it worked in my dream” Aenara said. “What worked?” Daeron asked. 

“Flying without a saddle of course” Aenara replied.

Daeron shifted on his feet “But are your dreams not… scary.”

“They usually are, why?” Aenara asked. “What if your dream was wrong and instead it was a warning” Daeron worriedly said.

Daeron’s face grew red as Aenara suddenly hugged him. “You worry for me too much Daeron” Aenara said with a large smile.

She pulled away and laughed at his red face.

“Do not run off! We must try!” She yelled as White Star walked off.

Daeron watched as Aenara and his sister walked off, following the white dragon. “I have too when know one else does” He whispered.

Back at the castle near the training grounds, Aramina was crouched down. She had spotted a flock of birds perched on a branch.

Her ears concentrated on each chirp and her body stayed still. She focused on holding her breath and tried to aim her mouth at the birds. 

Aramina’s eyebrows furrowed as she couldn’t tell where her fire would go.

“Breath Dragonborn” Willow said from behind. 

Aramina choked on her own breath and turned around. “I don’t need help” Aramina said.

“Of course you do Princess” Willow said as she crouched next to Aramina.

“Your other senses work almost perfectly but it is your eyes and uncertainty that seems to betray you” Willow said “Try starting out by taking in as much air as you can hold and then immediately release it.”

Willow tilted her head at the birds and said “With me now.”

She held Aramina’s shoulders and they both breathed in and out before taking in a large breath. Willow squeezed Aramina’s shoulders and they both burned the air with their voices. 

You could see the difference between the experienced Dragonborn compared to the inexperienced one. 

Willow’s was thinner and hit the birds almost immediately. Aramina’s fire was chaotic and not only hit the birds but burned down the tree they sat on. 

“Good good!” Willow complimented.

Aramina massaged her throat. “My throat feels strange” Aramina stated.

“It will last for the first few times, at least that way I know you haven’t been using it too often” Willow said. 

“Now the next step to take would be aiming. Your mother needed extra practice on that.” She said “I believe you will as well.”

**King’s Landing Castle- The next day with Kore**

“Where is the little dragon?” Kore asked as she slowly walked towards a table.

A quiet giggle could be heard from under. “Is he here?“ Kore wondered as she looked under the table.

A little Lucerys giggled as Kore took him into her arms.

“There you are my sweet dragon!” She happily said. Kore laid her forehead on Lucerys and touched noses with him.

“Have you had your fun?” She asked.

Lucerys nodded and hugged Kore. “Would you like to play again?” She asked.

“Yes! Again again!” He replied.

Kore chuckled at the small Prince. “Alright, just a little bit longer” She said.

Kore’s head turned as Aenara walked into the room looking upset. “Aenara? What bothers you sweetness?” Kore worriedly asked.

“I overheard Aegon say to Rhaegon that our father didn’t love us enough to stay” Aenara sniffled “And then Rhaegon just laughed. He said he is reminded of the time father took Vaegon and Aramina and left him. Is it true mother? Does he not love us?”

Kore placed Lucerys down and kneeled in front of Aenara.

“Do not listen to what your brother says. You will meet him one day and he will love you as I do.” Kore gave a small smile to her daughter. 

“You have Ser Harwin anyways. He takes care of you, he is there when you need him” Kore said.

Aenara wiped her eyes. “I know mother. I hope he stays with us forever” She said.

“Find Jacaerys, and spend some time with him, he is always kind to you” Kore said “I will be around if you need me.”

Aenara nodded and hugged her mother. As she let go Lucerys walked up to Aeanra and hugged her.

With Aramina she was told about what Rhaegon and Aegon had talked about from one of her whisperers. And how upset that made her young sister. So she decided to pay a quick visit to his room.

“Rhaegon” She said as she walked into his bedroom. Aramina quickly closed the door behind her as she saw what he was doing.

“What is it you need?” Rhaegon said flustered.

“Try minding your mouth when you are with Aegon. Anyone could be listening” Aramina bluntly said “Especially our sister who always seems to find you.”

Aramina looked around Rhaegon’s room and saw multiple cups on the floor, barely a drop of wine was left in them. Most would be from Aegon but the others were from her brother.

Aramina felt shame as her little brother began to drink at such a young age. It wouldn’t have mattered if it was just Prince Aegon but this was her brother.

“And clean your room, it's a mess” She commented.

“You're one to talk about messes” Rhaegon whispered. “What was that?” Aramina asked, stepping forward.

“Nothing dear sister. Nothing at all” Rhaegon sarcastically said.

“Just shut your mouth and clean up” Aramina said, rolling her eyes.

Once she left the room Rhaegon turned to look at the mess and let out a loud sigh. 

**King’s Landing Castle- Training Grounds**

Rhaenyra smiled as she saw Aenara and Jacaerys looking at the weapons together. Aenara picked out a sword and almost dropped it due to its heavyweight. 

“Help please” She said to Jacaerys. He quickly helped Aenara out by grabbing her hands and picking the sword back up.

“We should aim this at Aegon and my brother” Aeanra suggested. She thrust the sword slightly at them.

“Do you think we could take them down?” Jacaerys asked, allowing his arms to follow hers.

Aenara looked at the two boys who were distracted by Ser Criston. “Yes” She replied.

“They all love spending time with each other” Rhaenyra said.

“Yes we are lucky that they get along so well” Kore said “It must be because we treat them as if they were siblings. Although Vaegon sees you as his sister instead. I think he admires you.”

Rhaenyra had a loving look in her eye.

“And Lucerys loves you, truly” Rhaenyra responded.

“That’s good. I will always want to be in his life” Kore said.

Rhaenyra placed a hand on Kore’s “The both of us. We always will, we are his mothers.”

As the sun fell and night began, Kore walked to her chambers alone. She had sent Willow off to watch over Aramina again. As she walked into her room someone tugged at her dress.

Kore turned around and saw Prince Aemond. She looked concerned at his sullen look.

“Could I spend some time with you?” He asked, his hand still clung to her dress.

“Why not Aenara or Jacaerys?” Kore asked. “Wouldn’t you like to see someone around your age instead?”

“No… No one likes me, I’m alone” Aemond mumbled “And it’s all because I don’t have a dragon.” 

“Don’t say that your sister and Aenara like you. And not like it matters but Rhaegon doesn’t have one” Kore said, holding Aemond’s face.

“But he’s not like me. He has your family's blood” Aemond said.

“Aemond, look at me. Dragon or not you and your own bloodline will become greater than the past ones” Kore said.

Aemond looked up at Kore. He seemed to be contemplating his next words very carefully.

“Could I marry you one day?” Prince Aemond suddenly asked. 

Kore held in an awkward laugh as she answered “You are far too young for me, little Prince. Not to mention I am already married to your uncle.”

“He’s not here” Aemond said “Our bloodline-“

“A letter came for you” Willow said as she approached the room.

‘Thank whichever god that has blessed me with avoiding this conversation’ Kore thought.

“Little Prince it is late. You should go to your room. We can talk later” Kore said. She held Aemond’s shoulders and quickly guided him towards his own room.

As she and her cousin both went into her room Kore opened the letter and quickly skimmed through it.

“Daemon wishes to meet with me. Alone” She said.

“Now?” Willow asked somewhat surprised “Will you go?”

‘He is waiting near King’s Gate. I suppose he convinced the gold cloaks to keep quiet about his return’ Kore thought.

Kore contemplated for a moment. It had been almost eight years. Eight very long years. 

It was tiring, staying mad for so long. But he was still her husband. He still has a part of her heart even after what he did. 

Love is a complicated feeling.

“I shall go but you must stay by the gate for me” Kore said. 

“I would never let you go alone, even if you didn't ask” Willow said. 

Willow wouldn’t tell Kore not to go out loud, she couldn’t. Her cousin, her sister, the person she has promised to protect. Willow had hated Daemon ever since the wedding, possibly even before then. He was a Targaryen, she hadn’t forgotten that. He would always be an enemy in her eyes.

But Willow saw hope in Kore’s eyes and she couldn’t bear to take this away. This would be the one strength she did not have.

So Willow snuck clothing that those in Flea Bottom would wear into Kore’s bedroom. They quickly got dressed then snuck out of the castle and out to the corner of King’s Landing. 

As they eventually split off from each other, Kore made her way to Blackwater. 

The calm sea was moving softly and there was a faint noise of the boats rocking.

Kore followed the vacant road until a cloaked man walked up next to her. As she turned her head her eyes widened slightly. “Daemon!” Kore said. 

Kore went in for an embrace and Daemon quickly held her back. It felt nice and loving. Something that both sides had missed.

“How have you been?” Daemon asked.

“I have been alright” She replied as she let go of him “As have the children.”

“How is she, Aenara?” Daemon asked.

Kore smiled lovingly. “Anyone would be lucky to have a daughter like her” She said “She talks about wanting to meet with you quite often.”

Daemon smiled as he grabbed Kore’s face and laid his forehead on hers. 

“You must have cursed me with some type of blood magic husband” Kore said.

“Oh? Why is that?” Daemon asked.

“Because for some reason you still have a part of my heart” Kore said.

“Has a lover taken the other part of your heart as well? You know I wouldn’t put it against you if you had taken one” He asked with a smirk.

Kore’s heart jumped as she looked at Daemon slightly baffled. “Shut up” She said. 

“But do you feel the same as I?” Kore asked. She pulled her head away from him as she finished her question.

Whether it was noticeable or not Daemon stiffened for a second before he answered. “I love my family and that includes you” He said.

‘Just me?’ Kore thought. Instead of asking she just gave a smile to him. She didn’t wish to ruin the moment with that question.

Daemon then put his lips on Kore and they both kissed under the moonlight.

“This way” Daemon said as he pulled away from their kiss. 

The couple made their way further away from King’s Landing and arrived to where the sleeping Caraxes laid.

“I have missed you. Every part of you” Daemon said. Daemon bunched up her dress as he began to kiss at her neck. 

As he slid one hand up between her legs, Kore stopped him.

“In front of the dragon? Really?” Kore said in a judging tone.

“Caraxes is asleep. Better a dragon than other men” Daemon said as he mumbled the last part.

“Come back with me and stay” Kore said as she allowed Daemon to continue.

Daemon brushed his hand against her scales. “Let’s stay here together instead” He replied.

Kore thinned her lips for a moment before she grabbed the back of Daemon’s head and kissed him. 

“Alright” Kore said.

Chapter Text

Daemon had Kore laid down on the ground with himself on top. 

They laid on their clothing like blankets to make themselves more comfortable.

Daemon kissed down Kore’s neck and used one hand to brush her scales and the other hand to thrust three of his fingers into her cunt.  Being touched for what seemed like the first time again. Kore moaned at the overwhelming feeling. 

“Are you being gentle with me, husband?” Kore asked, her face flushed. 

Daemon curled his fingers and thrust them forward harshly, his thumb brushing over her clit a few times. Kore felt sparks as it happened. Her hips jolted, her nails raked Daemon's back, and her eyes fluttered shut.

“Do you not wish for me to pleasure you first?” Daemon asked with a smirk.  His eyes pulled away from her face and began to roam around her body, taking in every detail of her body.

Kore grabbed the back of Daemon's head bringing him in for a loving kiss. “What I want is for you to fuck me till I forget how long we have been separated” Kore said as she separated from their kiss.

“If that is what my wife wishes” Daemon said.

“It is what we both wish” Kore said. 

Daemons grabbed Kore’s legs and placed them around his waist, bringing her closer to him. He then lined his cock to her entrance and slowly pushed in. 

He then slowly slid out from her so only the tip was left in he then thrust back all the way in with one quick move. Kore moaned Daemon’s name in a continuous chant. 

“My dear wife my name on your lips sounds like a prayer” Daemon said.

Kore clung to him with her nails scratching at his back. “I- I cannot help it when you-” Kore paused to let out a loud moan. “Do that” She breathed.

Daemon kept at a fast pace, making sure to keep Kore’s legs locked around him with his hands.

He spilled words of affirmation from his lips while Kore’s lips spilled pleas of want and need. She lifted her waist slightly and began to circle her hips. Wanting to feel more of him in her. 

The two lovers kept their eyes on each other as sweat and body heat fell from them both.  Both felt pure ecstasy as they neared their high.

Daemon's thrusts became more erratic and he moved Kore’s legs so they laid on his shoulders. Kore laid a hand on his stomach to keep control of their movements. 

“With me” Daemon grunted “With me.”

Kore but her lip as the pressure in below her stomach felt close to relief.  Her walls squeezed tightly around Daemon as he gave Kore his last few thrusts. 

They stayed still for a minute, catching their breath before Daemon laid himself next to Kore. Kore turned her body so she could lay her head on Daemon’s chest with a smile.

“I almost wish we would get married once more” Kore said.

Kore heard Daemon’s chuckle from his chest “To have this blissful feeling every day like it was before” He said “I am not opposed to the idea.”

Kore smiled and moved up to give Daemon one more kiss on his chin.

Chapter Text

**King’s Landing Castle- Two Years Later**

It was a chaotic morning. The youngest Dragonborn had run into her mother’s room, dragging Aramina along with her.

“Has Princess Rhaenyra given birth?” Aenara asked, jumping on her heels as she did.

“I believe she has young Dragonborn” Willow replied from behind her. Aenara’s eyes seemed to brighten slightly. She had been hoping to get another playmate in this lonely castle.

“How wonderful” Kore said. She walked from behind a room divider and grabbed her jewelry from a maid.

Aramina rubbed her hands uncomfortably and stood up from where she sat.  “If that’s all I was brought here for then I shall leave” Aramina said. 

Aenara began to speak but closed her mouth when her mother spoke.

“Where are you off to?” Kore asked suspiciously.

“The… gardens” Aramina said, her voice unsure of itself.

Kore stared at Aramina with a raised eyebrow but then looked to those who weren’t related to them. “Take Willow with you at least” She said.

“Trading me off to Aramina again already?” Willow asked as she clutched her chest pretending to be hurt “You must be getting bored of me.”

Kore rolled her eyes with a light laugh. “Your hilarious cousin” She sarcastically said “I could never get rid of you. I should know I have tried.”

Aramina chuckled as Willow’s face turned to one of actual offense.

Kore turned her head to Aenara and smiled. “Go see the baby if Rhaenyra will allow you to” She said.

Aenara happily stood up and quickly walked over to where the newborn was.

As she approached the room she watched as Jacaerys and Lucerys were walked out of the room by their father. Lucerys turned his head to her and happily waved. Aenara waved right back with the same energy.

Aenara peeked through the slightly open door and jumped when Rhaenyra looked at her. “Aenara you can come in” Rhaenyra said.

Ser Harwin looked down at the Princess as she stood by his side. “Princess Aenara” Ser Harwin greeted with a smile. “Ser Harwin” Aenara happily greeted back. She turned her head up to see the sleeping baby in his arms. 

“Have you come to meet the baby?” Rhaenyra asked from where she sat.

Aenara shifted on her feet as she noticed how exhausted the elder Princess looked. “If that is alright with you” Aenara said “I promise to be quick.”

“Of course you can” Rhaenyra said with a gentle smile.

Ser Harwin kneeled down and moved a piece of Aenara’s hair from her face. He moved his arms so Joffery could be in full view for the young Princess.

Aenara looked at the baby’s face in awe. She lightly grabbed at Joffery’s hand and giggled as he closed his hand around it. “What is his name?” She asked.

“Joffrey” Rhaenyra replied “His father named him.”

“I can tell” Aenara said. ‘He has the most normal name in our family’ She thought. Aenara wondered how anyone could look so small and yet they could grow up to be as big as Ser Harwin was.

“I believe the Princess needs rest” Ser Harwin whispered to Aenara. “Allow me to walk you?” He asked.

Aenara nodded and walked over to Rhaenyra, giving her a quick hug before walking to the door.

“Are you already leaving?” Rhaenyra asked with some disappointment in her voice.

“I will be taking the Princess to wherever her duties might need to be” He said to Rhaenyra.

“Yes, of course” She replied.

“Have as much fun as you can” Rhaenyra said to Aenara.  “I will try” Aenara replied.  

The adults shared a quick look before Joffrey was handed over to Rhaenyra. Ser Harwin reached out his hand for Aenara to grab.

“How has your dragon been?” He asked as they left the room.

Aenara's face brightened at the mention of her dragon. She squeezed Ser Harwin’s hand and happily replied “Very well!”  “Although he avoids me whenever I wish to take off his saddle. Then the keepers find me and take me away. But I keep promising it will work” She explained.

The keepers had found Aenara over twenty times during the past few months.  It was a hassle to find the Princess, try their best to drag her out of the sandy place, and bring her back to the castle. 

Sometimes even though Whtie Star didn’t like the idea of having his saddle taken off, he would growl at the keepers for trying to touch Aenara.

“Have you been having the same dream again Princess?” See Harwin curiously asked.

“Yes. It gets annoying sometimes but they can become helpful” Aenara said.

“Well if you do happen to one day ride your dragon with no saddle I hope I can be there to see you succeed” Ser Harwin said.

“I hope so as well” Aenara said in agreement.

**King’s Landing Castle- With Kore**

By the time the Princes who were at the Dragonpit arrived back at the castle, Kore had been told that Rhaegon had in fact missed that lesson. She was upset with her son and the fact she was told after and not before, so she had Rhaegon brought to her room immediately.

“Why didn’t you go to the Dragonpit?” Kore asked him.

“I didn’t want to” He shrugged.

“You should have gone. It’s good for you” Kore said.

Rhaegon walked over to a table and went over to pour a drink. “It’s useless to me” Rhaegon said.

Kore opened and closed her mouth once or twice before letting out a loud breath.

“Learning about dragons is useless?” Kore questioned. She placed her hand on top of his drink forcing him to look at her.

Rhaegon paused for a minute, refusing to make eye contact with his mother. As if she had been cursed to turn anyone to stone with one simple glance at her eyes. “Well, Aramina never had to gain a dragon. Why should I even learn about them” Rhaegon argued.

“Your sister is a Dragonborn. She can make that choice!” Kore argued back.

Rhaegon only stared at his mother for what felt like minutes to him but were only seconds. “Am I not one as well?” He asked with such a genuine tone.

Kore huffed and rubbed her eyes in frustration. ‘I can’t believe he would ask a question such as that’ She thought ‘My son, questioning his own blood for the sake of this argument.”

“Rhaegon. You know what I mean. A female Dragonborn, a soul stealer” Kore said. 

Kore went to grab Rhaegon’s arms but placed them by her side instead. “To learn about dragons, to even be able to be near one. It is a great privilege that others do not have” She said.

“If it’s such a great privilege, why hasn’t father pushed me to gain one?” Rhaegon asked with disdain.

“Rhaegon-“ Kore started.

“I know you said father would come around but that was a while ago. Even though I know you have seen him recently.” Rhaegon said.  He paused to grab his goblet and quickly downed his wine before his mother could complain. 

And Kore watched on with sympathetic and regretful eyes. 

“I… I don’t want to learn because of him” He said sincerely. He placed down his goblet and stared at the pitcher.

“I know how you feel about him. I know that you figured out what he has done” Kore said.

“Then why did you give him another chance after he refuses to even meet Aenara?” Rhaegon questioned. 

“He doesn’t refuse to meet her. If he suddenly comes into her life when she has another whom she sees as her father it will confuse her” Kore explained. “You know I want to see all of us happy” She said.

“I do but staying with a man who happens to be my father isn’t the best choice for us” Rhaegon said.

Kore opened her mouth to speak but a knock was heard.

Kore went to open the door and it was Alicent on the others side.  “Alicent! A lovely surprise” Kore said, relief in her voice.

Kore turned to Rhaegon and said “We shall talk later.”

Rhaegon reluctantly began to leave as his mother placed a hand on his cheek and sent him off.  “Ser Criston” Rhaegon said as he passed by him.

“My Prince” Ser Criston said as he nodded to Rhaegon “Hopefully I shall finally see you in the training grounds.” Rhaegon rolled his eyes and waved him off in response.

“Rhaenyra’s boys are nothing but trouble” Alicent said as Ser Criston closed behind her. Alicent’s face was annoyed and her tone was bitter.

‘Here we go again’ Kore thought.

“Oh? What happened?” She asked. Kore pulled out a chair for Alicent before sitting down herself. 

“They’ve made a joke of Aemond. They ridiculed him for having no dragon” Alicent said as she sat down “And Viserys does nothing about them.”

“Maybe he is favoring them over your own children” Kore uttered under her breath. 

“I do wonder about it sometimes. But they are his blood. I’m sure if it ever came down to it he will choose his children” Alicent said hearing her.

“I was only wondering aloud. I have never truly seen it with my own eyes, Viserys giving them his time as a father” Kore said “But I’m sure you're right.” She placed a hand on Alicents and Alicent smiled at Kore.

Throughout the years it was apparent to everyone around them that the two had grown very close. Kore saw Alicent as the sister she never had. While Alicent saw Kore as a sort of mother figure. Kore had helped Alicent through all her pregnancies, helped take care of her children, and gave her rest and comfort. They had a good and pure relationship.

“Is Aemond alright?” Kore asked.

“I know he would feel much better if he saw you. He trusts you almost as much as he does myself” Alicent said.  She squeezed Kore’s hand before asking “Could you visit him later for me?”

“I will” Kore immediately said “And even if I do not seek him out myself he is bound to find me.”

“But for now I shall go meet the newborn I have yet to meet” Kore said with a smile “I hear he is a darling.”  Both women stood up and Kore placed a kiss on Alicent’s cheek. 

As the two parted Kore quickly walked to Rhaenyra’s chambers where not only she and her newborn were but her two other children as well.

“Rhaenyra” Kore said as she walked up to her.

“Kore!” Rhaenyra happily said.

Kore looked at the small baby in Rhaenyra’s arms and smiled. “This must be Joffery” She excitedly said. 

“Would you like to hold him?” Rhaenyra asked. 

“I would very much like that” Kore said.

Rhaenyra handed him over into Kore’s arms.  “What an adorable babe” Kore said, taking the baby.

Lucerys ran up to Kore and hugged her. “Can you believe I’m also a big brother now!” He said, jumping on his feet.

“And a good big brother you will be just as Jace is” Kore said, looking at the older Prince.

Jacaerys grabbed at one of Kore’s sleeves and tugged lightly.  “We picked out his dragon egg. Would you like to see it?” He asked. 

Rhaenyra smiled at her children trying to grab Kore’s attention. 

Not waiting to upset Joffery with the commotion, Kore reluctantly handed him back to Rhaenyra.

Kneeling down to peer into the heating chamber, Kore looked inside it in awe. ‘It shall always amaze me how they look’ She thought. “You have picked out a fine egg for your brother little ones” She said. Kore then her head to look at Rhaenyra who kept her eyes on Joffrey.

“Now why were you making fun of your uncle in the Dragonpit?” She asked in a hushed tone.

The boy's eyes widened at the question.  “We just followed along with what Aegon told us to do” Jacaerys replied.  Lucerys nodded at him. “We were having fun” He said.

“Aemond didn’t” Kore said “Be kinder to him. And stop listening to Aegon all the time. I hear from Rhaegon and Aenara how bad his ideas are.”

Kore then gave Lucerys a kiss on his head and then gave one to Jacaerys.

**King’s Landing Castle- With Rhaegon**

After walking out of his mothers room, Rhaegon approached Aegon’s. He knocked on Aegon’s door and asked “Are you decent?”

A loud noise could be heard from inside the room. Aegon fumbled and tripped over his pants as he put them on. “I am now!” Aegon replied.

Rhaegon entered the room and looked around at the mess. ‘It looks worse than my own’ He commented in his mind.

Aegon sat on his bed half dressed and with tangled hair. “You look awful” Rhaegon commented.

“As do you” Aegon said with a smile.

Rhaegon smiled back at Aegon as he sat next to him so their backs touched.

“Where were you?” Aegon asked. He hadn’t seen his friend arrive at the Dragonpit with him and felt disappointed Rhaegon didn’t get to be a part of his prank.

“I was talking to my mother, she got upset with me again” Rhaegon replied.

“My mother got mad at me as well for messing with Aemond” Aegon said.

“What did you do to him this time?” Rhaegon asked.

“It was funny. We put wings on a pig and gave it to him as his very own dragon” Aegon said with a smirk. Rhaegon chuckled at that “Perhaps I should have gone today to see that.”

“You should have” Aegon said. He then laid his head on Rhaegon’s shoulders and uncomfortably shifted. “Then my mother went on and said that Rhaenyra is basically a threat to me” He said.

“She sounds paranoid” Rhaegon said “…At least your mother is attractive.” Aegon turned his body around and quickly hit Rhaegon’s shoulder “Don't say that about my mother!”

Rhaegon punched Aegon back just as hard. “You say that about my older sister all the time!” He argued. 

“So?” Aegon asked. His face held the same smirk he always had on.

“Calling my sister attractive is weird” Rhaegon said with disgust.

“No, it’s not. Your sister is practically an adult” Aegon said, rolling his eyes.

“And your mother is what? Thirty?” Rhaegon asked in a taunting tone. Aegon smacked his lips and gave one last shove to Rhaegon. 

**King’s Landing Castle- With Aenara**

Aenara and Helaena sat in silence. They were in Helaena’s chambers admiring her collection of bugs. 

Aenara held a green beetle in her hands, allowing Helaena to touch its abdomen with both hands. If it were alive Aenara would constantly complain to herself but she would still hold it for her dear friend.

“Do you like the way it feels?” Aenara asked, her head tilting slightly. 

“Yes, this one has a softer shell for its wings” Helaena replied. Her fingers gently brushed over Aenara’s palms as she grabbed the beetle from her. “It is able to lift itself up into the air when on its own” Helaena whispered.

“Do you like how they all feel?” Aenara asked. “A spider has fur” She said, shivering at the thought of a spider being too close to her. It’s eight black eyes, those sharp teeth that could poison you, she could imagine the way one would crawl up her leg.

“And a dragon has scales” Helaena said, turning her head to look at Aenara, making her friend snap out of her thoughts “I like all of them. They are unique.”

Helaena laid her hand on top of where Aenara’s scales were.  “You do not think it’s… weird?” Aenara asked.

Helaena used the tip of her nails to trace the separation of each scale. “It is a warm comforting feeling” Helaena said “There is nothing weird about it.”

Both Princesses stayed close together in that warm feeling for minutes. Aenara had closed her eyes and allowed herself to cherish the feeling.

When Helaena pulled her hands away from the warm feeling it lingered on the tips of her fingers for a moment.

“Your voice gives me that same feeling” Aenara whispered.

**King’s Landing Training Grounds**

By the large door that led to the grounds Kore had finally caught a glimpse of Aemond.  Although he held the same expression most of the time when either alone or with anyone, Kore could see a difference.  A mother knew when a child seemed off.

“Prince Aemond!” She said, grabbing his attention. 

“Princess Kore” He greeted with happy eyes.

Kore put her hands on his shoulder and kneeled down. “How are you doing?” She asked, concern in her voice.  Aemond didn’t answer her, instead, he wrapped his arms around her.

Kore quickly hugged him back in response. “Remember what I told you” She whispered into his ear “And never let them get to you or bring you down.”

“I know” Aemond replied, his voice muffled from having his face laid on her neck. Kore pulled away from him with a smile “Good. Now have as good of a time as you can out there.”

All Princes settled in on their training with Rhaegon keeping his eyes on Lucerys. ‘We could become copies of each other in the far future’ He thought.

Aegon walked up to Rhaegon and shouldered him before looking in the direction of two maids. Rhaegon rolled his eyes with a smirk.

“My Prince’s please pay attention” Ser Criston said.

“I’ve won my first bout, Ser Criston. My opponent sue’s for mercy” Aegon said, as he turned to him.

“To see you win any fight would be the day pigs fly” Rhaegon mumbled. Aegon bit his tongue and snorted at the comment. It may have been a playful insult to him but Aegon knew it was also a jab at his brother.

“You’ll have a new opponent then, my Lord of the Straw” Ser Criston said “Let’s see if you can touch me. You and your brother.”

“Good luck” Rhaegon said, patting Aegon on the back.  Rhaegon watched on as Ser Criston took down both Prince’s with ease. It wasn’t till Ser Criston whacked Aegon with his sword that Rhaegon let out a loud laugh, which seemed to make Jace and Luke laugh along with him.

“Weapons up, boys” Ser Harwin said to the three sidelined Prince’s “Give you enemies no quarter.” A look was shared between both knights before Ser Harwin spoke again “It seems the youngest boys as well as Prince Rhaegon could do better with a bit of your attention, Ser Criston.”

All Prince’s stood next to each other awaiting their next instruction as the two experienced fighters talked. 

“You question my method of instruction, ser?” Ser Criston questioned.

“I merely suggest that method be applied to all your pupils. No matter how little they might show up” Ser Harwin replied. 

Ser Harwin sent Rhaegon a look, who in response simply looked away from the lord commander. It felt like a father was being let down by his son and Rhaegon hated that feeling with all the bitterness in his heart. 

To get a better feeling back Rhaegon decided to lay an arm on Aemond’s shoulder. Aemond tried to shrug him off but Rhaegon stayed put, obviously wanting to annoy the younger Prince.

“Very well” Ser Criston said. “Jacaerys, come here” He said with hostility.

Ser Criston walked up to Jacaerys and harshly grabbed him by the chest plate “You spar with Aegon.”  Rhaegon looked at Ser Criston with disdain as he manhandled the younger Prince.

“Eldest son against eldest son” Ser Criston said.

Rhaegon pulled his arm away from Aemond and walked to Lucerys. If he couldn’t save Jacaerys from Ser Criston’s wrath perhaps he could give Lucerys a little bit of good attention. Lucerys pointed his wooden sword at Rhaegon as he walked up to him with a smile. “I would like to fight you one-day” Lucerys said.

“Once you grow older then perhaps I will allow you to fight me” Rhaegon said, looking down at the young Prince. “But you are too small and weak right now. I could push you to the ground with one finger” Rhaegon said with a smirk. 

They both turned their head to Aegon who, with help from Ser Criston, beat Jacaerys to the ground.

“Stay on the attack!” Ser Criston yelled to Aegon.  Aegon continuously hit Jacaerys with the wooden sword till Ser Harwin grabbed Aegon. “Enough!” He yelled.

“You dare put your hands on me!” Aegon yelled.

“Calm yourself Aegon” Rhaegon said as he walked up to his friend “You look so upset. Like you are about to burst a vein from your big head.” Aegon spun around and swung his sword at Rhaegon who quickly blocked him.

“Enough you two” Ser Criston strictly said.

The two Princes stopped and laid down their weapons.

Rhaegon gave a look to Aegon as if he was asking ‘Are you better now?’ Aegon nodded in response and gave a curt smile.

“You forget yourself, Strong. That is the Prince” Ser Criston said to Ser Harwin.

“This is what you teach, Cole? Cruelty to the weaker opponent?” Ser Harwin asked as he began to clean up the wooden swords left on the ground.

“Your interest in the princeling’s trading is quite unusual, Commander. Most men would only have that kind of devotion toward a cousin” Ser Criston said.

“Oh no” Rhaegon whispered to himself as he looked between the older men.

“Or a brother… or a son” Ser Criston finally said.

Rhaegon stepped back in shock as Ser Harwin spun around and punched Ser Criston to the ground.  He grabbed Jacaerys and Lucerys behind him as he could only watch as Ser Harwin beat Ser Criston bloody.

“Say it again!” Ser Harwin yelled as guards grabbed him off of the knight.

“You two should go” Rhaegon said to the young Prince’s.  They looked up at him with concern and worry. “Now” Rhaegon firmly said. Jacaerys nodded at him and ran off with Lucerys trailing behind him.

“I guess training is over now” Aegon commented. Rhaegon turned to give him a strained smile as he bit his tongue.

Rhaegon gave one last look to the tense scene before allowing Aegon to put his arm around his shoulder and leading him back inside the castle.

Aegon kept chuckling to himself and commenting on what had happened. “The Commander of the city watch beating the crap out of Ser Corston Cole for his bastard s-” Aegon said before Rhaegon shoved Aegon against a wall with his arm against his neck. “You know how much my sister cares about him. Don’t be a cunt right now or else I will shove a goblet so far up-”

Aegon covered his ears and interrupted him “I get it! You act so defensive when it comes to her… and the commander.”

Rhaegon pulled off of him and Aegon let out a cough “I think what you need right now is to relax and come drink with me.”

“And perhaps this time you and I could both find a maid to lay with” Aegon suggested.

Rhaegon sighed with a shake of his head. He knew he would have to drag Aegon by the ear again to keep his unwanted hands to himself. But at least drinking himself stupid could help him forget about what had happened.

**King’s Landing- With Kore**

A council meeting was called in the afternoon. It would be the fifth one Kore would be attending.  It was Alicent who had suggested it to Viserys first then Rhaenyra silently agreed which led to his own agreement. Kore would normally sit by Alicent’s side, her own plate and stone being made of a golden color.  Although Kore did have a slight protest about the color she convinced herself by thinking ‘If I do not and physically cannot wear it I am not able to raise any false suspicion of war.’

This time Kore took a seat next to Rhaenyra, she heard whispers in the hall talking about Ser Harwin and she had to ask Rhaenyra what happened. “It’s best you hear it from him” Rhaenyra whispered to Kore when asked.

Now fully nervous, Kore grabbed the golden sphere and tried to calm herself by focusing on the cold feeling.

“And where I wonder, is our Prince Daemon?” Lord Wylde said, catching the attention of Kore “Or I suppose I should call him King, as he styled himself when he won a battle there… once.” Kore slowly turned her head and gave the lord a look, which seemed to shut him up quickly.

“That was a decade ago and he has since led the region undefended” Alicent said.

“We have left it undefended” Rhaenyra corrected. “There should’ve been fortifications built, watchtowers, a fleet of ships, a garrison of soldiers sent to hold our ground.”

“We cannot afford it” Alicent said “Our coffers are great, but not infinite.”

“I could afford it” Kore said, trying to lighten the argument “I’m sure if I gave the word to one of my aunts in Summerset they could bring over a vast amount of gold.”

“That is if they would ever do a favor for a Targaryen” Ser Tyland mumbled. Kore agreed in silence at his words, remembering how hostile Brightsword had become when the King announced her betrothal to Daemon.

“A good investment but I am sure we would owe your family something back in return” Lord Beesbury said.

“In any case, we must consider the cost to our subjects” Alicent said.

“The cost of war is greater” Rhaenyra said with sternness in her voice “But we have been lax and the old monster now lifts its head.” Rhaenyra and Alicent stared at each other before Alicent spoke “Let us be finished.”

Before anyone could leave Rhaenyra stopped the council. “Wait” She said “I wish to speak.”

Both Rhaenyra and Alicent stayed standing as the rest sat down. 

“I have felt the strife between our families of late, my Queen. And for any offense given by mine, I apologize. But we are one house. And long before that we were friends” Rhaenyra said “My son Jacaerys will inherit the Iron Throne after me. I propose we betroth him to your daughter, Helaena. Ally ourselves, once and for all. Let them rule together.”

“It sounds like a good match” Kore said to Alicent.

“Yes, a most judicious proposition” Viserys said in agreement.

“Additionally, if Syrax brings forth another clutch of eggs, your son Aemond will have his choice of them. A symbol of our goodwill” Rhaenyra said.

Kore looked at Rhaenyra feeling relief. She knew how much it would mean to Aemond if he got one, but she could only hope for an agreement that might never happen.

There was silence before Alicent signaled down to Rhaenyra’s chest. “Rhaenyra” Alicent said.

“Oh, Seven Hells” Rhaenyra said, covering her chest.

“My dear. A dragon's egg is a handsome gift” Viserys said.

“The King and I thank you for your offer and we will consider it duly. You must rest now, husband” Alicent said.

As the council members slowly left the room only Rhaenyra and Kore stayed seated.

“That was embarrassing” Rhaenyra said with a small chuckle.

“There is nothing to be embarrassed of. It’s quite natural Princess” Kore said, taking Rhaenyra’s hand “I’m sure it was used as a way to reject your generous proposal.”

“A strange rejection” Rhaenyra said.

“If you think that is strange you should’ve heard what Aramina said to her last betrothal” Kore said. She laughed as she remembered the words used that day. “Now I do believe I have an important discussion due with Ser Harwin” Kore said. “Right?” She wondered to Rhaenyra.

“Yes, you should talk to him as soon as you are able to.” Rhaenyra answered. Kore kissed Rhaenyra’s knuckles and left the council room.

She had Ser Harwin summoned to her chambers, nervously awaiting his arrival. When he did arrive she quickly held his arms fearing to let him go.

“Ser Harwin” Kore said, worry in her voice “What has happened?” She asked. “Rhaenyra says to hear it from you but I don't even know what she speaks of” She admitted.

“I will be leaving for Harrenhal” Ser Harwin said.

“What? Why?” Kore frantically questioned.

“Ser Criston Cole questioned why I was being protective over the Princes” Ser Harwin explained “And when he brought up me being their father I brought him to the ground to make him regret ever speaking.”

“And? You defended them. You did nothing wrong. This is no excuse to be let go of your position” Kore said.

“My father retired from his position as hand and will be coming with me. It was he who has made this decision” Ser Harwin said.

After a moment of hesitation, Kore cupped his cheek and kissed the side of his mouth gently. “I will never forget you and how much you have cared for us” She said.

“Now go see Aenara. I won’t be able to tell her myself” Kore said.

“I hope to see you again in the future Princess” Ser Harwin said. 

“As do I” Kore said, giving him her final goodbye.

**King’s Landing Castle- With Aenara**

Rhaegon hugged his sister as he came into her room giggling to himself.  His back was soaked in wine and glass shards.

“What happened?” Aenara asked with worry “Did someone stab you? Or did you accidentally stab yourself again?”

Rhaegon laughed “I broke a bottle on the floor and slipped on it!” Aenara let out a breath of relief and took to take off her brother’s buttoned shirt. 

“You left one of your cleaner shirts here a few days ago” She said as she walked over to her dresser.

Rhaegon tripped over his feet and collapsed on her bed, almost immediately passing out. “Rhaegon! You can’t stay here!” Aenara whined. She chucked his shirt at his face and began to smack at his chest. “Get up and out of my room” Aenara complained. She grabbed his arms and tried her best to pull him up but could barely lift his chest up.

Aenara paused her struggle as someone knocked on her door. 

She rushed to the door and opened it so only she would show. That is till she jumped into the arms of who it was.  “I missed you. I hadn’t seen you at all today” Aenara said to Ser Harwin who held her back tightly.

“Do you mind speaking, Princess?” Ser Harwin asked, he turned his head to the passed-out Rhaegon “We could speak out here if the Prince needs rest.”

“No, we can talk in my room. Rhaegon passed out. I think he drank with Aegon again” Aenara said, leading Ser Harwin by his arm.

Ser Harwin kneeled beside Aenara as they walked into her room.  He laid a hand on her cheek as he spoke “I want you to know before I say anything that I will always be with you.”

At that Aenara’s stomach suddenly felt queasy. She shifted on her feet and looked at him with worry. Ser Harwin struggled to speak at first. He didn’t want Aenara to cry because of him. 

“I will be leaving the palace” Ser Harwin slowly said.

Aenara’s eyes filled with tears. Her face turned to one of distress as her breath shortened. “Leaving? Where are you going?” Aenara asked.

Ser Harwin moved to cup her face. “Away Princess back to my home in Harrenhal” He said “I did something that in the eyes of others was wrong. Your brother will be able to explain it to you once he awakens.”

“Please don’t leave!” Aenara sobbed. She wrapped her arms around his neck and put her head on his shoulder “Take me with you!”

“I cannot do that Princess. But we will meet again” Ser Harwin said.  He laid a kiss on top of Aenara’s head and looked into her eyes “I promise.”

Ser Harwin stood up and said his final words “Goodbye Aenara. I will miss you.”

“Goodbye” Aenara tearfully said “I will miss you much more.” She watched him leave her room and allowed her tears to fall.

It felt as if she had lost her father, a similar feeling to how her siblings felt when their father first left them.

Aenara dragged her feet as she laid by her brother and quietly sobbed on his chest.

And that night the young Dragonborn dreamt of a castle being swarmed by fireflies. Its banner’s falling onto multiple of the same ones, almost as if the castle fell to itself.

Inside that castle, she heard screams. A man’s screams. 

The screams of her father.

Chapter Text

Laena Velaryon had passed away due to both childbirth and Dragonfire. A funeral would be held on Driftmark and all would attend.

Aenara had sobbed into her brother's arms continuously, and Rhaegon allowed her each time. Not because of Lady Laena but because of Ser Harwin. Harrenhal had been set ablaze while he and his father were inside. 

There were two funerals but she could only attend one. Kore tried to ease her sorrow by allowing Aenara to visit his grave the day they arrived back from Driftmark. But Aenara could only weep for her father figure and blame herself the entire time.

“I dreamt of fire” Aenara said to her brother “I wish I told someone sooner.”

“Don’t blame yourself” Rhaegon mumbled, rubbing her back “Whoever did this is to blame.” “White Star shall keep you company on your way to Driftmark” He said “And if you take to the skies and find yourself at Harrenhal I would not tell on you” He whispered.

Aenara shook her head “No I would need you with me. I cannot do this alone.”

“I will always be with you when you need it” Rhaegon said.

On the Blackwater the royal ship left the docks, above four dragons flew over. White Star happily soared next to Dreamfyre allowing the two Princesses to be near each other. Aenara leaned back and pulled on her dragon's reins to the side. The dragon slowly moved up before twirling around Dreamfyre. 

Aenara laughed as she looked at Helaena upside down for that quick moment. “You will never fall off him!” Helaena expressed.

“Could I ride with Aenara one day?” Lucerys asked from the ship. The young Prince had held onto Rhaegon’s hand the entire way. Rhaegon wondered if he had overheard what had happened to Ser Harwin. But the young Prince seemed to have no clue that Ser Harwin was his birth father.

“You can ride your own dragon once you are older. We wouldn’t want to see you fall off. Dragons don’t seem to like it when another rider gets on them” Rhaegon said to him. 

As the boat rocked slowly against the calm sea the dragons got further from everyone’s line of sight. Kore leaned on the rails of the boat with a hand laying on top of Willow’s. She turned her head to the side after hearing footsteps approach her. 

“Ser Otto” Kore greeted. “I see you are Hand of the King once again” She commented with a slight edge to her tone.

“A pleasure to be in your presence again Princess” Otto said with a slight bow and turned to Willow “My Lady.” Willow nodded at him, her eyebrow twitching at the title.

“I hear Daeron has been doing well. He writes to Aenara rather often” Kore said.

“He has and speaking of your children I must admit that at times I wonder” Otto said. “Scary” Kore mumbled. 

“Why don’t your children have their own personal guard? Why send your own?” Otto asked. “Are you curious about my secrets and personal business Ser?” Kore asked in amusement.

“If my question offends you-“ Otto said. “It doesn't” Kore interrupted.

Kore looked at Otto for a moment before saying “I suppose it is I can only trust my family to care for my children.”

“It would make sense for you to not trust them. You never know who might see your family as a threat” Otto said. He looked to Rhaegon and Aramina for a moment before excusing himself.

Kore watched Otto’s back till he disappeared into the ship “We should stay clear of him. Even if he gives out information” Willow said, leaning her back onto the rails.

“Better him than Lord Larys” Kore said. Kore looked around the deck and leaned onto Willow’s shoulder. “Although I heard from Alicent he is a great source for information” She whispered.

“Really? She speaks to him?” Willow asked, intrigued. Kore nodded “In private when the sun sets he visits her.”

“I talked to Aramina about her own whisperer’s. I want them to keep an eye on him. He has lost both father and brother and yet look at the way he walks” Kore said “He’s too proud.”

“You think he had something to do with their murder” Willow stated. Kore hummed before answering. “Keep this between us” She said. “Of course” Willow said with a nod.

On the other side of the boat Aramina and Rhaegon conversed. Aramina bounced on her feet and excitedly looked around the sea.

“What has you so excited sister?” Rhaegon asked.

“We will see our father” Aramina happily said.

Rhaegon but his tongue before touching the dagger at his side. “Does it truly excite you that much?” He asked.

“Of course it does. I have missed him” Aramina said.

“You saw him four moons ago” Rhaegon voiced “And mother saw him five moons ago. Without us. And more importantly without Aenara.” Aramina clicked her tongue “Quit with the attitude brother, it's unappealing.”

“Fine. I’ll stay quiet” Rhaegon said, putting his hands up.

Aramina and Rhaegon. Unlike their usual sibling pair, they seemed to always fight one way or another. Aramina had even been the one who labeled her brother as The Drunken Prince. Rhaegon would not complain, it was true. But in return, he labeled Aramina Flea Bottom’s Secret Keeper, which wasn’t horrible but now those who knew of her title would become more wary around her.

A few minutes of silence passed. All you could hear would be the distant noise of people talking, seagulls crying in the air, and the boat rocking on the vast sea. Rhaegon opened his mouth again after fiddling with the dagger now in his hands. “So… do you think Prince Aemond will ever have a dragon of his own?” He asked. 

Aramina let out an annoyed sigh and walked away from her brother.

A loud roar was heard and as Aramina turned her head up she breathed out “Brother.” Atmus flew overhead as the boat neared its destination. The bronze dragon had grown to be the size of their father’s dragon Caraxes. 

Once the ship was tied to the docks Aramina smiled widely and rushed to Vaegon, hugging him tightly once she came into contact with him. Vaegon picked up his sister and spun her around. “I had such a wretched feeling form in the pit of my stomach when you left me” Aramina confessed. 

“Do not worry anymore I plan on staying near you” Vaegon said, gently putting her back on the ground.

“Are you done with her?” Aramina asked.

Vaegon hesitantly nodded. “But I do feel as if I should explain to you what happened while I was living in Casterly Rock” Vaegon said “We had consummated once or twice but it seemed that she never fell pregnant.” Aramina’s eyes widened slightly at that “Oh” was all she said. 

“I…” Vaegon coughed as he saw his two younger siblings in the distance. “I gave her moon tea each time” He quickly whispered. “Does anyone else know about this?” Aramina questioned.

“Of course not! Just you” Vaegon said. Aramina grabbed her brothers hands and smiled “Well at least you are with your family now. But you must promise to never leave me again. I hate being far from you.”

“I promise” Vaegon said.

“Can you promise to ride with me back home?” Aenara asked. Vaegon turned around and hugged his two other siblings.

“I would love nothing more than to fly next to my little sister” Vaegon replied “As would Atmus.”

As the funeral began, Kore with Willow stood by Daemon, their children in front of them. 

Rhaegon looked at his father with thinned lips. “If you can’t tell that would be our father” He whispered as he put an arm around Aenara’s shoulders. “I can remember his face from across the sea if needed.” Aenara stared at him in awe and shock. ‘My real father is right here in front of me’ She thought ‘Perhaps if I talk to him my sorrow could disappear.”

Ser Vaemond began to give his speech as Laena’s coffin was presented to the ocean. “As she sets to sea for her final voyage, the Lady Laena leaves two true-born daughters on the shore. Though their mother will not return from her voyage, they will all remain bound together in blood” Ser Vaemond turned his head to Rhaenyra’s sons as he finished his speech “ Salt courses through Velaryon blood. Ours runs thick. Ours runs true. And ours must never thin.”

Daemon found the Lord's words amusing and began to chuckle. Kore gave him a subtle side glare as well as a nudge at his arm.

Then with that, her coffin was pulled into the salty sea where it sank.

As the mourning family departed to the balcony of the castle everyone began to split into smaller groups. Before Aramina and Vaegon wandered the beach alone to speak more of the male’s marriage they each gave their father a quick hug. 

“I feel so much joy knowing our son is with his sister again” Kore said. 

“I feel joy knowing that you and my children are safe and happy” Daemon said, wrapping an arm around her waist.

Aenara greeted the somber twins with a sincere smile as she approached them. “I am sorry to hear about your mother, I hope she finds peace” She said. “Thank you” Baela whispered.

“He’s looking at you” Rhaegon said, placing a hand on her back. Aenara turned her head and Daemon as well as her mother were looking at her. Kore waved the siblings over and reluctantly Rhaegon grabbed Aenara’s hand and walked her over.

“Aenara. Rhaegon” Daemon said. He knelt down to face Aenara “You look just like your mother.”

“And you look like Vaegon” Aenara said. Daemon chuckled “Yes I do.”

“You must be seven now, correct?” Daemon asked.

Aenara’s smile faltered slightly as she answered “I’m actually… eleven.”

An awkward tension filled the air. 

‘So much for first impressions’ Rhaegon thought. Aenara looked away from Daemon and Rhaegon scoffed at him before walking away.

“He takes after you” Kore said. She placed a hand on Daemon's arm before following Rhaegon. 

Daemon gave Aenara a small smile before sending her off, wanting her to feel less awkward. “We can talk later if you want” He said. Aenara nodded and walked away from him.

“Go follow Aenara for right now” Kore said to Willow “I have a feeling Rhaegon will only speak freely if it's just the two of us.”

“Yes Princess” Willow said.

“Rhaegon” Kore said. Rhaegon looked around at all the people “They shouldn’t be here.”

“Who shouldn't be here?” Kore asked. “You know who” Rhaegon frustratingly said “Princess Rhaenyra’s sons.”

“Don't say such things out loud” Kore whispered. She grabbed Rhaegon’s arm and pulled him away from everyone’s hearing ears and watchful eyes. “It’s true! And we shouldn’t be here either” Rhaegon said.

“And why is that? Why shouldn’t we be here? Are we all not family by some type of bond?” Kore questioned. 

“We should be at Harrenhal. Even Jacaerys agrees” Rhaegon said.

Kore struggled to keep her composure for a second, memories of her and Ser Harwin flooded her mind. ‘So this is what has also been keeping him on edge’ Kore thought.

“Even though my eyes might be the Targaryen color. I would like to believe that I look similar to someone who could have been a better father figure” He said “Like he was to Aenara.”

“I know you dislike your father but all I will ask from you is to not show your hostility around him” Kore said. 

Rhaegon made a noise of displeasure. Kore gently grabbed Rhaegon’s chin and lifted his head up “But I am positive Ser Harwin would have been a great father if you had let him.”

“He would have but sadly wasn’t my birth-given father, not like he is for Luke” He said. Rhaegon turned his head to Lucerys “I may not like how complicated our family is but I do consider him my blood brother like Vaegon is.”

Kore looked to Lucerys before noticing Rhaenyra staring at Daemon and she frowned. If Rhaegon noticed as well for once he did not speak out. Kore put an arm around Rhaegon’s shoulder before kissing the top of his head “The Little Dragon might need some comfort. As might the Velaryon’s go speak words of comfort when you can.”

Rhaegon nodded and looked around the balcony till his eyes found Aegon downing a goblet. ‘That seems like a better way to spend my time’ He thought. With Aenara she had approached Helaena and put her hand with her friends, their bracelets shining next to each other. “Did you meet uncle Daemon?” Helaena asked. 

“He didn't even know my age” Aenara mumbled. Aenara felt dejected at the fact the person whom the two eldest siblings talked so highly of didn't even know one of her most basic facts. But even then at the same time she felt relief. 

Helaena squeezed her hand and they looked at each other. “You will find happiness in another soon” Helaena said.

“Do you mean besides yourself?” Aenara asked. Helaena smiled “Yes besides myself.”

Back on the other side Lucerys held onto Kore’s dress with a dejected look. She caught the young Prince in her arms after he began to walk away from Lord Corlys. “Do not look so sad, little dragon. Think of it as her going away only for a little while before you get to see her again” She said.

“I do not wish for you to ever leave me as aunt Laena has” Lucerys uttered “I would become as mournful as my father is.”

A feeling of heartache took Kore and she held Lucerys tightly. “I will never leave you. Even when we are apart I will be with you” She said.

“I love you” Kore whispered.

Heads turned to the King as he slowly walked off to rest. “I’m going to bed Aemma” King Viserys announced to Alicent.

Rhaegon sucked in a breath trying his best to hold in his laugh, after failing he instead turned around to let out a quiet snicker. 

Aegon nudged Rhaegon’s shoulder before leaning in “First to black out wins” he challenged.

“You’re on” Rhaegon said, quickly downing his wine.

Night soon fell and soon Kore stood in front of the now-drunken Aegon and passed out Rhaegon. She tenderly grabbed Aegon’s arms and stood him up. “Mother?” He asked, grabbing onto Kore’s shoulders for support.

Kore smiled “No. Just me little Prince.”

“I’m not so little anymore” Aegon said. Kore hummed “You always will be in my eyes or until you grow taller than me.”

“I can take Prince Aegon off your hands” Otto said from behind.

“I have a fine hold on Aegon but if you could help me with Rhaegon that would be greatly appreciated” She said. “I do have to ask. Have you seen my husband recently?” Kore asked.

“I apologize Princess I have not. Although I did see Princess Rhaenyra follow him after he disappeared” Otto replied.

Kore nodded “I see.” She would not show her emotions, and neither would she think bad of him right now. She only prayed they would talk and do nothing more. She turned and began to walk once more, Aegon holding her wrist.

Otto turned to look at the Drunken Prince and sighed before hauling him up.

As Kore walked with Aegon swaying next to her she beckoned to Aemond who stood alone “Aemond it’s time to come inside now.”

“I will. I just wish to spend more time outside. Only for a moment longer” Aemond replied.

Kore hesitated for a moment before Aegon began to stumble on his own to the castle.

“Do not wander off” Kore said to Aemond as she quickly followed Aegon.

As almost all on Driftmark drifted off to sleep, Princess Aenara suddenly woke up after hearing a loud rumbling that shook the air itself. She ran to a window and looked out of it. What she saw was a large shadow in the clouds gliding around the air.

Quietly sneaking out of her room she fiddled with her bracelet before deciding to sneak her way outside. Once her feet left the castle grounds she was met with a large gust of wind. The large shadow had revealed itself to be Vhagar. The large dragon flew down to the balcony and Aenara quickly followed her. 

As the she-dragon dropped to the floor her rider eventually got off of her. “Aemond!” Aenara yelled in surprise. She rushed down the steps she stood upon and gripped his shoulders with a large grin.

“Cousin?” Aemond said, startled at her overjoyed reaction toward him.

“Did you claim Vhagar?” She happily questioned.

Aemond’s face and demeanor changed to one of pride. “I have. Did you see me fly?” He asked.

“I did! It’s so wonderful to see you have a dragon of your own. Now you can fly with me and Helaena” Aenara said. “We should go tell our mothers, they will be very proud” She said. Aenara grabbed Aemond’s hand and they both began to walk their way into the castle. 

It was only until they were approached by the twins as well as Rhaenyra’s sons that they stopped.

“It’s him” Baela said.

“It’s me” Aemond said.

Aenara looked to Jacaerys and Lucerys who wanted to approach her and take her to their side. 

“Vhagar is my mother’s dragon” Baela said

“Your mother’s dead” Aemond said “And Vhagar has a new rider now.”

Aenara turned her head to Aemond in shock. He was different; he was no longer the quiet boy whom the boys would tease at.

“She was mine to claim” Rhaena argued. “Then you should’ve claimed her!” Aemond said “Maybe your cousins can find you a pig to ride. It would suit you.”

With that Rhaena ran up to Aemond and when he threw her to the ground Baela punched him. He quickly punched back in response . “Come at me again and I’ll feed you to my dragon!” Aemond declared.

Jacaerys and Lucerys tried to hit him but Aemond had them on the ground in a second. 

Jacaerys quickly got up and pushed Aemond to the ground and the four began to punch him all at once. Aenara not knowing what to do grabbed Jacaerys arm to stop him but ended up getting his shoulder to hit her face.

Jacaerys quickly turned around to apologize “Aenara I-“ but he was interrupted by Aemond who punched him in the face. It then allowed Aemond to kick the twins off of him and grab Lucerys by the neck in one hand and with his other hand, he grabbed a rock.

“You will die screaming in flames just as your father did!” Aemond threatened, he now held the rock above his head. “Bastards” He said. Aenara had stood aside, panic and worry were now her only senses. She had wanted to help Aemond but not like this. “Aemond. Let him go” She said. But she was ignored.

“My fathers still alive” Lucerys cried.

Aemond put his arm down and looked at Jacaerys “He doesn’t know, does he, Lord Strong?” Jacaerys pulled out a hidden blade from his arm and went to attack Aemond. “Put that down!” Aenara yelled. Baela held her and Rhaena back as they both tried to run to one of the Princes. 

Aemond hit Jacaerys with the rock and the blade flew from his hand. As Aemond focused on Jacaerys, Lucerys quickly grabbed the blade allowing his brother to throw sand at Aemond’s face. Lucerys then slashed at Aemond’s left eye making the older Prince fall to the ground, screaming.

“By the gods!” A voice said in shock and horror. 

“Mother!” Aenara cried.

It seemed that in a similar way to her daughter, Kore walked out of her room after hearing Vhagar take off, and decided to head down to the castle's lower floors. She had heard screaming and ran to the source, that was when she saw the children. The first child Kore quickly ran to was Aenara who was now holding Lucerys. “What has happened here?” Kore frantically asked as she inspected his face.

Suddenly Kore’s eyes met Aemond’s body. The boy was on the ground bleeding from his left eye. “Aemond!” Kore yelled as she moved towards him. Kore quickly tore off a part of her dress to cover his eye. Aemond clung onto Kore’s dress as four guards quickly barged into the room, Ser Westerling being one of them. “Gods be good” He said.

“I have the Prince! Call a maester at once!” She ordered.

All were quickly brought into the castle's main room where a maester made quick work of sewing Aemond’s eye shut. The entire time the Prince held onto Kore’s hand as she cleaned the opposite side of his bloody face.

One by one the rest of the children and adults entered the room with horror on most of their faces as they saw Prince Aemond.

Rhaegon walked to Aegon and asked in a whisper “Who did that?”

“I have no idea” Aegon replied, his face one of slight disgust and curiosity.

Rhaegon’s head turned to Aenara who held Helaena’s hand. He quickly ran over to her to inspect her face. “Who did this?” He asked, somewhat pissed. Willow escorted the two elder siblings whose eyes widened at Aemond's appearance. They then quickly went to their younger sister, curious to hear who had hit her and what had happened as well.

Aenara’s eyes moved to Jacaerys who held his brother tightly. Rhaegon silently seethed at him as he held onto Aenara.

“I protected Aenara” Aemond whispered to Kore. She gave him a strained smile in response.

When Alicent walked in she looked as if she would faint on the spot. She knelt down and put her hand on top of her sons and Kore put her free hand on Alicent’s back to comfort her.

“How could you allow this to happen?” Viserys asked. “I will have answers” He said. As the King argued and reprimanded the guards Alicent asked “It will heal, will it not maester?”

“The flesh will heal” The maester replied “But the eye is lost, Your Grace.”

“Where were you?” Alicent questioned Aegon. 

“Me?” He asked.

Alicent slapped Aegon and he asked “What was that for?” “That was nothing compared to the abuse your brother suffered while you were drowning in your cups, you fool” Alicent angrily said.

“Blame the guards. Not one but six children were able to run off. While they dozed off” Kore said.

“What is the meaning of this?” Lord Corlys asked as he and Princess Rhaenys quickly rushed to their grandchildren. 

“Jace?” Rhaenyra asked as she bragged into the room, Daemon trailing behind her. Kore noticed a difference in Rhaenyra’s appearance and looked to Daemon who only looked at Rhaenyra.

Rhaenyra kneeled to Lucerys and turned to her father “Who did this?” She asked.

“They attacked me!” Aemond yelled.

“He attacked Baela!” Jacaerys yelled back.

“You attacked my sister!” Rhaegon argued. Aenara uncomfortably moved away from him as the young Prince’s and Princesses began to yell at each other. Aenara tried to speak up and say it was an accident but everyone yelled over her.

“He stole my mother’s dragon! Vhagar was mine to claim!” Rhaena yelled.

“But you can’t ‘claim’ dragons” Vaegon said as gently as he could “If that were true Aramina and Rhaegon would have their own.” Rhaegon rolled his eyes and shifted his eyes to Lucerys, his heart pinched at his bloodied face. 

“Silence!” Viserys yelled. “Aemond. I will have the truth of what happened. Now.”

Kore gently rubbed the boys back as he was questioned before moving over to Aenara.

“What else is there to hear?” Alicent asked. “Your son has been maimed. Princess Kore has her daughter's nose bleeding. Her son is responsible” She said looking at Rhaenyra. “It was a regrettable accident” Rhaenyra said, looking mainly at Kore. 

“Accident” Alicent questioned “The Prince Lucerys brought a blade to the ambush. He meant to kill my son.” 

“It was my sons who were attacked and forced to defend themselves. Vile insults were levied against them” Rhaenyra said.

“What insults?” Viserys asked. “The legitimacy of my sons birth was put loudly into question” Rhaenyra replied.

“He called us bastards” Jacaerys said.

Kore looked down at Aenara who nodded slightly in agreement.

“My sons are in line to inherit the Iron Throne, Your Grace” Rhaenyra said “This is the high test of treasons. Prince Aemond must be sharply questioned so we might learn where he heard such slanders.”

Aemond turned to look at his half sister while Kore laughed in disbelief “Sharply questioned?” “I believe his eye is enough. Reprimand him for hearing gossip but do not question the Prince in such a way” She said.

Aemond’s face turned into a smug one as Kore chose to take his side over Lucerys. A decision Kore did not mean to take but she would not see a child harmed any further.

Kore looked at Daemon once again in hopes he would say anything at all. Something that would bring her to the right possible direction of this mess. But he did nothing. Even Aenara looked at Daemon hoping he would approach her or one of her siblings but he stood still, watching.

Viserys leaned to Aemond and asked “You tell me, boy. Where did you hear this lie?”

“Where is Ser Laenor. I wonder? The boy's father?” Alicent asked. “Perhaps he might have something to say in the matter” She said.

“Yes. Where is Ser Laenor?” Viserys asked.

“I do not know, Your Grace. I could not find sleep. I had gone out to walk” Rhaenyra said. Kore turned her head away and put her head behind Willow’s shoulder for a moment to calm herself down. ‘This isn’t the time to act like this’ She thought ‘I must calm down.’

“Aemond. Look at me. Your king demands an answer” Viserys said. “Who spoke these lies to you?” He asked.

“It was Aegon” Aemond replied after some time.

“Me?” Aegon said, confused.

“And you, boy. Where did you hear such calumnies?” Viserys asked. “Aegon! Tell me the truth of it!” He yelled. “We know, father” Aegon said “Everyone knows. Just look at them.”

“This interminable infighting must cease! All of you! We are family!” Viserys yelled. “Now make your apologies and show good will to one another” He said “Your father, your grandfather, your King demands it!”

“That is insufficient” Alicent said “Aemond has been damaged permanently, my King. ‘Good will’ cannot make him whole.”

“I know Alicent, but I cannot restore his eye” Viserys said. “No, because it’s been taken” Alicent said.

“What would you have me do?” Viserys questioned. “There is a debit to be paid. I shall have one of her son's eyes in return” Alicent said “He is your son, Viserys. Your blood.”

“I didn’t realize that begging a horrible father ran in the family” Rhaegon mumbled. Kore moved her hand to cover Rhaegon’s mouth, hoping no one had heard him. 

“Ser Cristion, bring me the eye of Lucerys Velaryon” Alicent ordered. 

“Willow protect Lucerys” Kore quickly ordered. Alicent turned to Kore hurt. “I won’t have you hurt him” Kore said “One child is more than enough.”

Willow quickly moved in front of Lucerys and Rhaenyra looked at her in thanks. 

“Alicent. This matter is finished” Viserys said. “Do you understand?” He asked. Alicent did not answer and he walked away from her. “And let it be known. Anyone whose tongue dares to question the birth of Princess Rhaenyra’s sons, should have it removed” He said.

As Viserys began to leave, vengeful, Alicent grabbed the dagger Viserys held in his waist and charged at Rhaenyra and her sons.

“Get back” Kore said to the children. Rhaegon grabbed Aegon and their sisters, bringing them behind the elder siblings. 

“They're all mad” Aramina mumbled.

Kore quickly moved up front and looked at Alicent and Rhaenyra struggling to hold off the other. 

It wasn’t till Alicent sliced through Rhaenyra’s arm that the dagger was dropped. 

“Do not mourn me, Mother!” Aemond said “It was a fair exchange. I may have lost an eye but I gained a dragon.”

Three sides stood center that night. Daemon went to Rhaenyra’s side, Aemond hugged his mother who looked as if she wasn’t there at the moment, and then Kore with Willow who moved to stand beside her. Frustrated tears feel from Kore's face as the sides were chosen.

This would be the night the family was truly split and no one could undo it.

Chapter Text

It was the next morning. Kore had her children quickly pack up, they would be leaving with the King and Alicent. 

“I hurt Aenara. She grabbed me and my elbow hit her face” Jacaerys said. 

Kore had come to check up on him and Lucerys. Hoping to give comfort to the boys for last night. “That was an accident. I can forgive that” Kore said. 

“Are you mad at me for hurting Aemond?” Lucerys asked. 

“No my love!” Kore said “I didn’t just take Aemond’s side, you know that I took yours as well.” She pulled him in for a hug “I understand why you did it. You were protecting your family and you were so brave in doing so.” She turned to Jacaerys and cupped his face “Both of you were.”

“Do you have to leave?” Lucerys asked. Kore sadly nodded “But I promise to see you soon.”

“Tomorrow?” He asked.

Kore chuckled “As much as I would love to not that soon.” “Now go with your mother” She said.

“Will you not see her?” Jacaerys asked. “No. I have something very important to take care of” Kore said. She gave a final kiss on both Prince’s heads and left.

Hesitantly Kore walked back into the chambers she stayed in. Inside was Daemon waiting for her. “You plan on going back with them?” Daemon asked.

“Obviously” She said.

Daemon tried to walk up and hold Kore’s shoulder but she placed a hand on his chest, stopping him. “It doesn’t have to be this way. We can love each other as The Conqueror did. The three of us-” Daemon said.

“I am supposed to be your wife! Your only wife!” Kore yelled. She rubbed her eyes, frustrated. “You only wish to marry her because it would make you king” Kore said “You never cared about us and you never will care for them. All that you do is for yourself.”

“You know that is not true, I care about us! Our children!” Daemon yelled at her. He walked up to her till they were face to face.

“You never checked on your daughter. Not last night, not this morning” Kore said “Don’t lie to me and say that you care about our children when you-”

“I have never lied to you” Daemon angrily said “Every word I have ever spoken to you was out of love.” Kore looked at him hurt. “You don’t know how badly I wish to believe your words. To believe you love me the way I have loved you” She said. 

“But now is the time to make your choice, to prove your words. You either love your first wife and your children or you love another” Kore said “I have already given you one too many chances myself.” She contemplated giving him one last kiss but decided to walk away from him.

“Kore don’t walk away from me!” Daemon yelled.

Kore clutched where her fast-beating heart was and continued to walk her way to Alicent.

The Queen immediately began to question Kore on the night before once Kore was allowed inside her chambers. “Why didn’t you side with me?” Alicent questioned. “You are my friend, my sister” She said.

Kore grabbed Alicent’s hands and looked into her eyes “Alicent. You know why. I already told you my reasons.” Alicent nodded and let out a long breath “I’m sorry. How is Aenara?”

“Not a scratch on her. It was as if she wasn’t hit at all” Kore replied. “Good” Alicent said “Aemond needs time of course but he will be riding on Vhagar once we set sail.”

Kore looked baffled at her words and struggled to comment on it. “So soon?” She questioned.

“Yes, he insists that the pain won’t keep him from riding” Alicent said. Alicent paused for a moment. Contemplating to herself if she should make a commitment to her thoughts. “Kore I have something important to ask you… when we are home” She said.

“And I have an issue I need to let out” Kore said before sighing “There is much to discuss.”

Alicent furrowed her brows and asked “What’s happened now?”

“I will explain once we arrive at the castle” Kore said. “Of course. Now don’t let me keep you from saying your goodbyes” Alicent said.

Kore pulled Alicent in for a hug and squeezed her slightly. She left the room and made her way outside where the large dragons stood.

“There you are” Willow said with a smile “You’ve been avoiding me.”

“Only because I do not wish to hear you say I told you so” Kore said, trying to brighten her mood by joking.

Willow squeezed Kore’s shoulder. ‘That cunt of a Prince was obvious, just as before. I’m sure the lords and ladies noticed it as well” Willow thought.

“You’ve had him all day yesterday” Aenara complained.

“And? I want him with me” Aramina said, annoyed. 

“What's going on?” Kore asked.

“I wish to stay longer with Vaegon here. I know father won’t be coming with us and I hope to stay with him longer” Armaina explained.

“I want Vaegon to ride next to me. He promised” Aenara said.

“I did but Aramina will need a quick ride back home… and I wish to spend more time with father as well” Vaegon said.

‘Are they so blind to family affairs?’ Rhaegon thought as he walked beside his mother ‘Aramina’s been secretly conspiring with those in Flea Bottom and Vaegon studies to his heart's content. I thought they were supposed to be smarter than me.'

After a great amount of hesitation. Kore decided that if they were to realize who their father was, she would make sure it wouldn't be from him and not her. “Do what you want” Kore said to Aramina. “Aenara go fly off with Helaena, she's always there for you” She said. Aenara looked dejected but she nodded and ran off.

Rhaegon watched as his siblings split before asking “Did you confront our father?”

“It’s nothing you need to worry yourself over” Kore said.

“Mother you should tell us. Aramina and Vaegon believe he will not be coming home for another reason but I know. I know that can’t be it” He said. Kore turned around to face him but her eyes caught Vhagar looking at her from afar. Vhagar looked at Kore and it seemed the dragon recognized her. Or rather the dragon thought Kore was one of her ancestors. 

“Gods that thing is creepy” Willow mumbled. Kore let out a snort. “Don’t jest about her, that's what you will look like one day” Rhaegon said. Willow's head whipped towards Rhaegon with her mouth open as he let out a chuckle. “Rhaegon!” Kore scolded. She looked at him seriously for a moment before letting out a laugh “That was good! You are my son!”

Willow smiled, she felt successful knowing she could turn the mood from sour to sweet. All she wanted from her cousin as of now was to see her smile.

“Rider of Vhagar!” Kore said to Aemond who had begun to climb Vhagar’s ropes “Are you sure you can ride her so soon?” She asked.

“He won’t stop now! I said I could beat Vhagar in a race!” Aenara yelled from her dragon.

“White Star is fast” Rhaegon said, looking at the smaller dragon.

“He might be but I know that Vhagar is faster” Aemond said. 

“That old hag is not!” Aegon yelled. Aemond stared at Aegon before continuing his climb. “Do not worry about me. Just know I will be home before everyone else” He said to Kore.

“I’m sure you will” She said with a smile.

Once Aemond couldn't hear them anymore Kore leaned to Willow and whispered “Thirty on White Star.” “Fifty on Vhagar” Willow said.

As everyone set sail and the dragon flew off the elder siblings spoke to their father.

Daemon placed a hand on Aramina’s cheek and gave her a pleased look. “I’m so happy that you decided to stay here with us” He said.

“Only until we get bored of each other” Vaegon said.

“Or until I want to pull your hair out” Aramina said to Vaegon.

“That as well” Vaegon agreed with a smile.

Daemon looked as if he wanted to ask his eldest children a question but pushed it aside. Instead, he invited them both to ride around Driftmark on their dragons. Aramina rode with her father while Vaegon rode on his dragon. Almost similar to Atmus and White Stars relationship. Atmus had a close bond with Caraxes. It would make sense due to the fact they look similar and are both protective of their rider.

Once the day was done and over in the middle of the night screams of anguish could be heard throughout the castle. 

“Ser Laenor was murdered!” Vaegon said as he burst into Aramina’s room.

“Are you serious?” She asked as she quickly got up from her bed.

“Stay here. I will stay in your room” Vaegon said, locking the door behind him.

“Keeping me safe brother?” Aramina asked.

“Always” He said softly. He sat on her bed and stayed on watch throughout the night, not allowing himself to get a blink of rest.

It wasn’t till the next foggy morning when Vaegon decided to give Princess Rhaenys his condolences.

“I’m so sorry. I wouldn’t want to know how my mother would react to my death and I don’t wish it upon any mother” Vaegon said to Rhaenys “No child should pass before their parents.”

“Thank you” She said. Vaegon hesitantly moved closer to her and gave her a quick hug.

“…How are you so different from your father” She wondered aloud. Vaegon looked at her in question. She gave him a tight smile before answering “Unlike your father you are… compassionate.”

“I’m sure my father is… in his own way but perhaps I get it from my mother” Vaegon said “I hear that sons always get their best traits from their mother.” Rhaenys put her hand in his and squeezed it, her eyes blinking away tears.

As Vaegon left Rhaenys chambers he looked around for his father or anyone. But the place was empty of any family members, all but the elder Velaryons at least.

“Where did they go?” Vaegon wondered.

“Brother! I’m going to go walk” Aramina said from across the hall.

“Alright!” He said “I believe everyone else is out as well.”

“Oh? Hopefully I can find them then” She replied.

The Princess would wander far and wonder ‘where did everyone go?’ The answer would be secretly attending a Valyrian marriage.

The marriage of Daemon and Rhaenyra was held far away from the castle on the island of Driftmark. All children but the two oldest children were there to see it. At least to their knowledge.

What wasn’t known was that a daughter would be witness to the betrayal of her father. Although from afar it was obvious who was the center of it all.

Aramina knew her father had done questionable acts but to see this heartbreaking one, right in front of her. It was heartbreaking.

Chapter Text

Atmus had left Driftmark almost immediately when Aramina begged Vaegon to leave without a goodbye. She was quiet the entire way to King’s Landing. Her mind jumbled through every thought and memory of her and her father.

Aramina didn’t even know what emotion to settle on. Heartbreak? Confusion? Anger? Bitterness? All seemed reasonable in her mind. But nothing felt right. It would never feel right again. 

Vaegon seemed to notice right away how his sister was acting. He tried to get her to speak but she was giving him no attention. It was only till they landed at the Dragonpit when Aramina finally spoke up “Stay here I will be back.”

“Where do you want to go?” Vaegon asked. 

“I’ll tell you later” She said as she dismounted from Atmus. Vaegon watched her go and laid his hand on Atmus “I think something bad happened ” He said to the dragon who let out a huff in response. 

When Aramina was alone in the halls of the castle she let out a quiet sob. Aramina had wished to believe in her father. She wished to believe that he and her mother did makeup. But it was a lie, she realized that now. Her mother wasn’t enough… she wasn’t enough.

“Princess?” Willow questioned from outside of Kore’s room. She rushed over to Aramina’s side and checked on her. “Are you alright? Are you sick?” She questioned.

“No. I need to speak with my mother” Aramina said. “Is she alone?” She asked.

“Queen Alicent is with her. Is it alright if she hears your news?” Willow asked. Aramina nodded her head “She can hear this. I’m sure it won’t be long till the news spreads so it won’t matter.”

“Aramina!” Kore said surprised as her daughter entered the room “You’re back so soon!” She curiously walked over and held her daughter's hands. “Mother, there's something you must know” Aramina said.

“What has happened?” Kore asked.  

“I saw father and Princess Rhaenyra marry the old Valyrian way” Aramina struggled to say. Alicent’s eyes widened as did Willow’s.

“He did?” Kore asked in a hushed tone more to herself than her daughter. Her body felt numb, she didn’t know why. This was what she expected to happen. Alicent looked at Kore who was in another world at the moment, then she looked to where Aramina stood “Was there anything else?” Alicent asked “Anything you might need?”

“I just need some time to myself” Armaina said.

Kore moved to hug Aramina tightly “My daughter I’m so sorry you had to see that. Take all the time that you need.” Aramina nodded and pulled away from her mother “Vaegon doesn’t know. I want to be the one to tell him.” 

With that she made her way back to the Dragonpit, her emotions calmed for now.

“Kore” Willow worriedly said. Kore sat down next to Alicent and tears began to fall “I know it is stupid of me to cry. But it hurts to know it has finally happened… Still, I should have known better." Kore shook her head to try and stop her tears “And Rhaenyra. I can’t believe I forgave her and gave her another chance. Never again will I put my trust in her.”

Alicent moved to hug Kore “You know I’m here for you and your family if you ever need me. Anything you ask for will be yours.”

“I just need to take time for myself as Aramina does” Kore said.

Kore took in a few breaths allowing herself to keep her composure. “Before Armaina came in you wanted to tell me something important” She said “I would like to hear it before we part ways.”

“If you are willing to accept. I propose Daeron and Aenara to be betrothed. Your youngest with mine” Alicent said. Kore blinked surprised, a betrothal was the last thing she expected to hear. “I will need time to think on this but know an acceptance is more than likely your answer” Kore said.

“Yes, take all the time you need” Alicent said.

A quiet knock was heard and Willow moved to answer the door. She was handed a letter, the seal being the color gold. 

“A letter from Summerset” Willow said. Kore signaled for her to open it and waited in suspense. Willow stood stunned at the words written. She looked up from the letter and struggled to open her mouth.

“Willow?” Kore worriedly asked “What does it say?” Kore walked over to Willow who brought her in for a hug.

“The…The Qu-“ Willow tried to say but choked on her words. Her eyes became teary as she finally said “Your mother. She passed away.”

Kore’s heart seemed to burst and she let out a sob. She clung to Willow as her world collapsed around her. 

“I’m so sorry” Alicent said to both Dragonborn's, not knowing what else to say. 

“What happened?” Kore asked “Does it say. Did she suffer?”

“There was a sickness. It spread to over a thousand people including her, our cousin Arthur, and my mother Ansley. The two of them survived but the Queen did not” Willow said. She held Kore and cried with her. Although Queen Aurora wasn’t her mother she was the kindest of Queen’s and she was still family. 

“We are to return as soon as we read this letter. She will be buried the day we arrive back home” Willow said as she finished reading the letter.

“Would you be able to tell the King about this? We have to tell the children” Willow asked Alicent. 

“I will right away” Alicent replied. She put a hand on Kore’s shoulder and looked up at Willow in worry. “Don’t worry” Willow mouthed.

As Alicent left the room Kore began to sob hysterically. 

“Maybe this is karma. It’s all coming back at me for believing in false lies and marrying into a Valyrian family. The gods are punishing me in such a cruel way. I might deserve it but not like this. Not this way” Kore said, her voice cracking.

“Don’t say that” Willow said, holding Kore’s face. “It’s true our family has been cursed since the beginning. Now it’s my turn” Kore said. 

“Cousin, I need you to calm down. I know you're hurting” Willow said “But you can’t be seen like this not by lords or ladies and not by your children. They need to know and we need to leave soon.”

Kore looked up at Willow with tear-stained eyes. “I know” She said in a hushed tone “I can only hope Aramina and Vaegon come back soon so we can be done with this.”

With Aramina she had stumbled upon a large cave on Dragonstone. It was large, large enough to be a dragon's cave. You could feel nothing but fear once you took notice of it. On the inside the air was dry and somehow there was a thick tension. 

Aramina’s heart raced in fear as a cold sweat took over her body. And her breathing was erratic and shallow. Turns out it was a dragon's cave and not the one she was hoping for.

The wild Cannibal laid in front of her, watching her every move with its menacing green eyes.

Fear overtook her body when she finally noticed. He was a monster, more frightening than Vhagar and even Vermithor. For all her strength and attitude this wasn’t a feat of hers. ‘I can’t do this. This dragon is nothing but a monster” She thought.

The Cannibal arose from his resting place and growled at the Dragonborn. Aramina opened and closed her mouth continuously before struggling to say “Iykirī .” She repeated it over and over till she had one foot out of the cave. The Princess then spun around and ran as fast as she could back to her brother.

The Cannibal roared loudly in the distance but did not follow.

“Take me home” Aramina said as she climbed Atmus. “What happened?” Vaegon asked, grabbing her arm.

“I did not work. Now take me home. We should leave before anyone catches us” Aramina said.

“Aramina. Tell me everything. I need to know what bothers you so badly” Vaegon seriously said.

“I want to tell you but I also want to be home when I do” Aramina said “Now can we leave?” Vaegon felt like keeping his ground but he also didn’t want to see Aramina frustrated with him. So he climbed Atmus and set off.

As the two arrived back home hours later they noticed a royal ship being packed with familiar suitcases.

They walked into their mother’s chambers bewildered at what they were seeing. “Mother, what's going on? Why are the maids emptying our rooms?” Vaegon asked.

“I was hoping you would be back soon” Kore said with slight relief. She motioned for Vaegon and Armaina to sit and wait for their younger siblings. “As you’ve noticed we will be leaving soon. Very soon… My mother has passed” Kore said “And so my family calls for us to see her burial.”

All four siblings stood and hugged their mother. “You would have loved her” Kore said, cupping Aenara’s cheek with one hand. “In some ways, you all look like her” She said. Aenara smiled and leaned into his mother’s touch

“When will we return?” Rhaegon curiously asked. “I’m not sure” Kore said “But it’s best if you all come say your goodbyes.”

Willow escorted the siblings downstairs as Kore gave a final look at her room.

“Princess Kore” Aemond said from behind. Kore jumped and spun around “Prince Aemond.”

“Before you go I had something made for you” Aemond said holding a box in his hands. “Oh, you didn’t need to-“ Kore started but was interrupted as he placed the box in her hands. 

“Mother insisted that I show you my thanks for everything and give it to you as a present on your name day… but you might not be back by then” Aemond said. Kore opened the box and inside was a pendent “Is this Valyrian steel?” She asked, opening up the circular part of the necklace.

“Yes, we wanted it to be made of something special” Aemond replied “But I made the design. It’s our two houses on each side. I do hope you like it.”

“It’s beautiful, thank you Aemond, and thank your mother for me later. I truly do appreciate it” Kore said and she gave him a smile. She clipped the necklace on and walked down to say her goodbyes. 

“I’m sorry to hear of your mother passing” Viserys said as Kore made her way to her family “As I’m sure Daemon is when word reaches of you leaving.”

Kore’s throat tightened and she said strained “Yes a shame he couldn’t see us sail off.”

“I hate to see you leave like this” Alicent sincerely said. “I’ll be back soon” Kore said. She kissed Alicent’s cheek and gave a hug to Viserys.

Rhaegon gave a side hug to Aegon. “Don’t miss me too much” Aegon said. “I should be the one saying that” Rhaegon said.

Aenara squeezed the life out of Helaena, both wishing to never see the other go. “I wish you could come with us” Aenara whispered to her. Helaena squeezed Aenara and whispered back “Me too.”

“Did Vaegon already say his goodbyes?” Kore asked Willow. “Yes and Aramina is already on her way to the boat” Willow replied. Kore then moved to kiss Aegon’s cheek and then Helaena’s. 

“I wish we could write to you” Aegon said. “I know Little Prince but it is a rule. I promise to see you all soon” Kore said.

Kore moved to Aemond and lifted his head to kiss his forehead “Take care of that scar while I’m gone. I want to see it healed.” Aemond nodded and with that the Dragonborn’s left to board their ship.

From above Atmus and White Star flew. White Star landed after seeing his rider and awaited Aenara’s command. Aenara quickly ran to mount White Star and took off, following Vaegon and Atmus. She didn’t want anyone to see her cry as she already missed her friend.

The rest of the family all sat in silence as the boat rocked against the waves beginning to set sail.

“You should hide it once we are home” Willow said as she pointed toward the pendant. 

“It’s quite lovely though” Kore said “And I could say Queen Alicent was the one who gifted it. They could see it as a gift from the Hightowers and not the Targaryens.”

“That could work for a few members of our family… but then there’s the issue of the treaty as well. I’m sure both parties are aware of it” Willow said. “Yes, we have to keep everyone else in the dark for now. I’m sure even Prince Daemon knows that” Kore said.

From the other side of the room, Aramina sat beside Rhaegon. “You were right to be angry at father I see that now” Aramina said. Rhaegon raised an eyebrow not expecting his sister to admit to anything. 

“What did you see?” Rhaegon asked.

“A betrayal” She bitterly said. A moment of silence passed allowing Rhaegon to wonder what Aramina saw.

“He married Princess Rhaenyra” Armaina said.

“Really? What about Ser Laenor?” Rhaegon asked.

“You haven’t heard? He was found dead in a fireplace. They say it was his male lover that killed him” Armaina said. “That sounds awful” Rhaegon said.

“Will you tell our siblings about father?” He asked. “If mother doesn’t then yes I will” Aramina replied.

“How come you're not mad at mother?” Rhaegon wondered. “What are you talking about?” Aramina asked, confused.

Rhaegon moved his head from side to side debating on what name to say. “Ser Harwin” He said and Armaina realized.

“I was at first of course I was. But she never stopped trying to make us happy” Aramina said “I have been blind to how hurt she has been and I regret that. But Ser Harwin made her happy and for that I will be grateful.”

“Me too” Rhaegon said.

Chapter Text

From above the clouds, Atmus and White Star circled the royal boat. The view from all around was blue, but if you looked just right you could see in the distance a slimmer of land.

“We will be arriving at Eternal Port shortly!” The captain announced. Making everyone relieved and happy. “Thank the gods! It felt like ages on this boat!” Rhaegon said as he stretched his legs.

“You want to know why it felt like ages to me? I’ve been stuck with you talking my ear off” Aramina said annoyed. 

Rhaegon laughed and leaned onto the boat's railings. “Do you think we will get cheers from the townsfolk?” He wondered. 

Aramina mumbled her response “I doubt it. I think they’d rather see us publicly-” before their mother and Willow walked over to see the view with them. Rhaegon tapped his fingers on the rails awkwardly before asking his mother “How true are the stories, mother? Is the castle actually made of gold?”

“No not the castle” Kore said amused “Could you imagine? The Targaryen’s would have taken it down in a matter of minutes.”

A golden hue emerged from the sky. It shined against the light blue ocean as if a second sun was rising for a new day. With the golden light, a piece of land emerged from the very sea itself, immense and beautiful.

The most prominent structure to be seen was the large castle that sat upon a large mountain. If no one knew where they were it could have been mistaken for a kingdom in the afterlife. 

“Wow, is that Summerset Castle?” Aramina asked. 

“Indeed it is” Willow said. She pointed up at a separate tower. Its golden color could almost make any person blind when the sun hit just right. “That tower alone costs more than a few million.”

“I can tell. They really take their motto seriously” Rhaegon said.

“Wait till you see the throne room” Kore said with a small smile “It shines like no other.”

The castle overlooks its city, like a star to its land, Eternal. Eternal was second best to the gorgeous castle. From afar all of it looked pristine and shiny. What connected both the castle and the city was an arched marble road.

“The stories truly don’t do any justice” Rhaegon mumbled as they all looked in awe at what was ahead of them.

As the ship sailed closer to the docks, cheers could be heard. Lords and ladies as well as common folk watched from a distance as it neared them.

Atmus and White Star then landed, making the ground shake beneath both men and women’s feet. They looked on in both awe and fear. No one had ever encountered a tame dragon on their land before. 

Vaegon and Aenara dismounted their dragons and waited for the rest of their family to arrive. 

While Atmus and White Star took off into the air once more and roamed the city. The people looked on at them, some children even running off to follow the large beasts.

Aenara nervously looked at the crowd, they looked at her as if she was an exotic animal. “Don’t look so frightened sister. I’m here” Vaegon said, putting an arm around her waist. She moved closer into his arms for comfort.

The crowd grew louder as their Princess and Lady stepped onto their land after many years. 

“They still adore you” Willow said as she waved to the crowd.

“And you” Kore said waving as well “If I remember correctly you had a few admirers here as well.” Kore turned to her eldest and youngest children. “I would’ve thought the two of you would rather see the view from the clouds” She said.

“As much as I would rather stay with the beautiful view from above, we would also like to see from below” Vaegon said. He opened his mouth to speak more but was interrupted by a voice from behind.

“How long has it been eighteen or twenty years since you have been home?” They asked. Kore moved her head to the side and gasped at the sight of her uncle Luke. 

“You look the exact same” Willow said to him in shock.

It was true, not a single gray hair or wrinkle could be seen. “Thank you, my niece. As do you” Luke said in amusement. Almost as if he knew something she did not. He walked over to Kore and brought her in for an embrace. Kore held him back tightly with tears threading to spill from her eyes. 

“How are you?” Luke sincerely asked.

“I’m trying to do as best as I can” She said with a sniffle. She let out a shaky breath before pulling away from him. Luke looked to the four children who stood awkwardly to the side.

“Your children, correct?” Luke asked, warmly smiling at them. “Yes, all four of them” Kore said.

“All of you seem both strong and gracious. Just like your mother and our family” Luke said.

“You were there for my sister when she was a baby. Right?” Vaegon asked.

“Yes I was there for you as well” Luke said before turning to look at Aramina “The first ever Dragonborn born of Valyrian blood. A feat to be proud of.” Aramina stood straight at the praise “Thank you. I am thankful to be a Dragonborn just as my mother is.”

“And to tame your own dragons how wonderful” Luke said “They may roam the skies for now but it would be best later on to keep them near the castle.”

Aenara smiled at him “I could introduce you to my dragon if you would like.” Luke looked down at the youngest sibling “I would be very grateful to you. But only if your mother sees it as safe. I do not wish for a dragon's jaws to be my last sight”

Rhaegon listened as his siblings got praised for their achievements and felt left out knowing he had none of his own. 

Aenara looked over, noticing her brother's discomfort and took his hand in hers.

“Where is the King?” Kore asked. “I can understand why our family might not be here. They must have a number of preparations to take care of. But I would have presumed he would have been here to see us” She said.

“I apologize but he has been locked in his chambers. He refuses to see anyone as of right now” Luke said. Kore nodded, feeling relief and disappointment in her stomach.

“And I do apologize for the empty welcome. It is true that they all are getting prepared” Luke said to the children.

They nodded in understanding before Vaegon stated “You're the King's brother.”

“I am and yet everyone seems to ignore that fact” Luke said.

“That must be because you are nothing like him” Kore said. 

“You're too kind, unlike him, uncle” Willow commented “It is why the people favor you.”

“You mustn’t say such things out loud” Luke said, shushing her. 

“Are these your children, cousin!” A voice yelled as someone stumbled out of a carriage. All heads turned to the voice and Willow's face turned to one of utter happiness. As she ran over to him Kore leaned over to her children “That is Reginald. Willow’s half-brother.”

“The one from the second marriage?” Rhaegon asked.

“He’s Brightsword’s son!” Aramina said in shock. 

Unlike the stories of his mother, he was the opposite of her. Almost no muscle or strength was obvious on his body, some even go as far as to call him dainty. He also seemed to always have a smile on his face which could make the whole room brighten up. 

“Sister” Reginald breathed. He wrapped his arm around Willow and hugged her tightly. Willow held her brother back just as tight. “Reg” She whispered “I have missed you so.”

“My sister who made our lives shine together. No other member of our family has made my life as happy as you had and still do” Reginald said.

“You're going to make me cry, don't be too sentimental with me” Willow said. She leaned down to his ear and whispered “What of my mother?” 

“Just as the note said she is not well. Not to say she was before the sickness but she is much worse. I fear what’s to come” Reginald whispered back. He quickly put a smile on and ran over to Kore who chuckled at him “Look at you! How you have changed.”

“And you as well. Older but not wiser” Kore said. Reginald laughed at her words. “How I’ve missed our banter’s and playful fights. Everyone else is so boring” He said.

“Let us talk more without so many eyes watching us” Luke said, outstretching his arm to the carriages. 

They all gave one last wave and smile to the crowd before entering their carriages.

“Bless every single person that has come here to witness the return of our Jewel and Golden Archer return him!” Luke said to the crowd. They all yelled praises and thanks to him in return. Some were even crying on their knees begging for a blessing.

“I’m in shock. He holds so much power over the people” Vaegon said to Aramina.

“He is the head of Hearth Hall. It only makes sense” She said “Being a religious head can get you anywhere.”

“They're all fanatics from what I’ve read” Rhaegon mumbled.

“Worse than the Faith of the Seven?” Aenara questioned. Rhaegon shrugged “It could be debated.”

“Are you alright?” Kore worriedly asked Willow as they entered their carriage.

“I’m fine, just overwhelmed is all” Willow answered.

“Yes it’s been so long” Kore said “I wonder what has changed.”

“Wait till you see the new tapestries” Reginald said with a suggestive tone.

The ride to the castle was a view that Kore missed. She remembered the days she ran around the large bridge. The smell of the salty sea hitting her face as the wind picked up its pace was something she missed. 

As they slowly got closer to Summerset Castle it became obvious just how large it was. From below it did tower but up close was another story. It rivaled both Casterly Rock and Harrenhal’s intense size. The castle was made of marble and stone that was painted white. 

The golden tower stood on the edge of the mountain so it could be seen by all. It was a reminder of the Dragonborn’s victories. From all around the castle bundles of different flowers surrounded the castle, some being of the poisonous type. 

Two rows of guards were posted all around the castle as its one defender, besides the large and tiring bridge. It seemed to be a bad strategy but it was effective in its own way. 

As the Dragonborn’s admired the outside view, they finally entered the castle. 

Most of the walls had no flaw or crack in them, they were kept pristine just like its neighboring city. But the tapestries they held told a different story. One noticeable tapestry was the unfinished one. Three dragons on one side and a blue color starting on the other, like ice and fire.

“I can’t remember much about this one. But the prophecy starts with either a Prince or Princess” Willow said.

“No it started with a burst of flame” Reginald argued. “A burst of flame? That sounds wrong” Willow doubted.

“Well I’m right” Reginald said.

“You're both correct” Luke said, keeping the peace between the two. “Why is it unfinished?” Vaegon asked.

“The vision was lost in the previous head of Hearth Hall's mind” Luke said “A shame I’m certain it would have told a wonderful story.”

“Look at that one” Rhaegon said, signaling for Aenara to look at a woman with a fishtail shaking hands with a woman carrying a golden banner.

“Her tits are out” Rhaegon said, chuckling. “I know you miss Aegon but please don’t talk to me as if I am him” Aenara said, scrunching up her nose.

“You're no fun sister. Just like Armaina” Rhaegon sighed, placing an arm around her shoulder. He then turned his head to his elder sister who still had a bitter look on her face.

“Who makes these?” Vaegon asked “They are beautiful.”

“Handmaidens are taken to Hearth Hall where the gods give me their vision” Luke said “And it can take more than a few days to finish these masterpieces.”

They then entered the throne room.

It was filled to the brim with real gold and golden-colored fabrics. Enemies from long ago were covered with molten gold and their statues were kept by the steps on the throne. Specifically those from Old Valyria.

There were two thrones for both a king and queen. The king's throne had scales engraved on it while the queens held more detail. Not only were their scales engraved but the story of the first Dragonborn was shown on the bottom.

There were words written on the back of the queen's throne as well.

‘Here was where the Soul Taker, Slayer of Dragon, and Queen of Summerset sat. May her children and descendants sit here as well. Long may her family reign.’

The children of Kore looked around the room in admiration while the adults admired from afar.

“Keep an eye on them” Kore said to Willow “I would like to wander on my own for right now if that is alright with you. Please help my children get settled and ready for tonight.”

Kore then parted from her family and walked down the familiar halls. She stopped after a while in front of her old bedroom door. She smiled as she walked through. ‘The memories are passing by me and making me emotional’ She thought. Her fingers brushed her old bed frame and trinkets that laid on her nightstand. Everything was clean and just the way it was before. Almost as if she never left.

She could spend days reminiscing about her childhood in this room. The days she spent under the covers as rain brushed past her window. Nights where she, Willow, and Reginald spent gossiping. Or whenever she laid sick in her bed and her mother would stay by her side.

“You're with me now. Mother” She whispered. 

“I am proud of you and the family you have” Luke whispered as he walked over and held her shoulders from behind “As would your mother. She spent her final days talking about you when you were a baby. Remembering how you looked, spoke, and acted. She loved you dearly.”

“I have the deepest regret for never visiting her” Kore said “I didn’t have to be this way. I could’ve been here before the sickness.”

“You couldn’t have known” Luke said.

“But you did. Didn’t you? You must’ve known she wouldn’t have made it” Kore accused him as she turned to face him.

“You let me leave!” Kore cried “You allowed me to marry into a horrible family with an unfaithful man! I hated King’s Landing and most of all the Targaryen’s!” She tried to push Luke away but he held her in a tight embrace.

“I recognize your frustration and anger and I am so sorry. I ask for the forgiveness that I do not deserve but plead for from you” Luke said.

Kore cried in his shoulder “You don’t need forgiveness I just need my family to be near me. I need my mother.”

Luke held Kore in his arms till both felt all was right between them. 

Hours later it would be time for the funeral. It would be held in Eternal and after her body would be put underground Hearth Hall with the rest of the dead. All wore black from inside the building to the outside. 

House Dragonborn and its loyal houses were the only ones allowed inside, while everyone else waited and prayed outside.

“I will be close by. Don’t be nervous and don’t cause a scene” Kore said, looking at Rhaegon as she said the last words. Rhaegon gave his mother an offended look as Aenara quietly laughed at him.

“Willow and I will make sure all goes well. Don’t stress over us mother” Vaegon said. Kore kissed the top of Vaegon’s head before walking to the front of the room.

“You're married right?” Reginald asked Vaegon. “I am” Vaegon answered “Why?”

“I just noticed no one else left the ship and was curious” Reginald said. “Not a fan of your marriage?” He asked. Willow quickly shushed her brother.

“Who would be? Marriage is an awful thing” Aramina mumbled to herself.

The noise around the room suddenly toned all the way down as the doors opened. 

“His majesty, first of his name, King Edmund The Merciless!” 

Kore’s figure stiffened as she looked at her father. He certainly looked older than she remembered. He had gray hairs and wrinkles. His stiff and serious face was the same, if not more hardened and cold than before. 

But he still had the structure as well as the aura of a king. 

Kore slowly curtsied in front of her father as he walked closer to her. Her body almost collapsed under the intense pressure. His eyes never looked at her as he took his place next to her and she thanked the Gods. His eyes were the last thing she wanted to look at.

Kore’s children carefully watched him. They knew their grandfather's title and how he got it. It would be best if they stayed far away from him.

The cracking of fire could be heard and all turned their heads once more. 

It was Brightsword. 

Whispers began to grow louder and louder as they talked about the great warrior. She strode into the room looking straight ahead. She looked fierce as if she was going into battle. 

Both Rhaegon and Aenara looked at her in awe while the elder siblings were slightly put off by her intensity.

Brightsword turned to look at Willow as she passed, whose eyes bored back at the warrior. “You haven’t seen her in years and yet you still despise my mother” Reginald whispered. Willow looked away from her and grabbed her brother's hand.

“I understand. Don’t mistake my tone for displeasure” Reginald said.

“My King. Princess. A pleasure to see you back home” Brightsword greeted the two with a bow.

“Brightsword” Kore greeted back “Lovely to see you after so long.”

One by one the rest of the house and its noble friends gathered into the room.

The four half Targaryen’s felt uncomfortable as more eyes and whispers were towards them. 

“Ignore them as best as you can” Willow mumbled. Vaegon nodded and moved up closer as if to shield his siblings. 

Kore greeted each member of her family with warmth. Especially the sickly-looking Lady Ansley.

“Mother” Willow said as she hugged her.

“My daughter, look at you” Lady Ansley said cupping Willow’s face with shaky hands. “Are you alright? Perhaps you should’ve stayed home. I would have come to you” Willow worriedly said.

“No, I had to be here. I needed to see you and the Princess” Lady Ansley said “Hopefully after this, we can spend our time together.”

“I would love nothing more” Willow said.

Luke waited for all to quiet down as he signaled for the Queen’s casket to be brought in. Once all did he began his speech.

“Queen Aurora she was the kindest Queen Summerset ever had. We are all grateful for the laws she helped create, the money she gave to help the poor, and much more. But now we lay her to rest with her ancestors.”

King Edmund laid a hand on his wife's casket as it laid near him. He looked down at it solemnly before slowly pulling away.

Kore then laid her head on her mother’s casket and silently whispered “I hope this won’t be goodbye forever mother. Let us find each other again.” She wiped away her tears and looked at her children. 

How she loved them and wanted to cherish them forever.

“May our Queen rest in peace and her soul find happiness in her afterlife” Luke finished.

As the sun disappeared and the moon rose the golden casket left everyone’s view and made its way to be settled into the catacombs.

Kore stood with her children as the noble houses conversed with each other.

“Our family is quite intense” Aramina said. She looked at the King who sat all alone. 

“I heard he wasn’t always like this” Kore said “So cold I mean.”

She stared at her father as she spoke “Lady Ansley told me my father would always say that she was fairer than the sun and the stars. Perhaps that is why her funeral was held at sundown.”

Chapter Text

It was a normal afternoon in Summerset Castle. The breeze kept everyone cool as it battled the sun's heat.

Kore’s children weren’t used to the country yet, since it had only been a few days, but they were having fun with the new scenery. 

Aenara favored the large garden. She would lay with the flowers with Rhaegon or her mother by her side. Vaegon and Aramina spent their time in the training grounds, with Brightsword eyeing them each time. And of course, Rhaegon loved the different types of alcohol they had.

“You didn’t tell me Lady Ansley was sick” Kore said as she watched Vaegon train with Aramina.

“You already had so much on your mind. I didn’t want to put more on you” Willow said.

“I would have let you go sooner if I knew” Kore said.

“What do you mean?” Willow asked with concern in her voice.

“Go see your mother, you need to be with her. We will be fine here”  Kore said before cringing as Vaegon hit Aramina’s side with the hilt of his sword and then used his shield to push Aramina onto the ground. 

With a frustrated breath, she began to arise and hit Vaegon’s leg. But in a moment of frustration, she grabbed the bottom of Vaegon’s shield and shoved it up to hit his nose.

“That was foul!” Rhaegon yelled from the sidelines, a cup of wine in hand.

“I cannot leave you. I know how much you are grieving and I wish to be here for you if you need me” Willow said. 

Kore turned her head to look back at Willow with a fond look.

“And you will continue to be by my side. But you need to spend time with her. Don’t make the same mistake I did with my mother” She pleaded “And it’s not like we will be far from each other. This isn’t like before, we are still in the same country. We will see each other sooner than you think.” 

Willow took Kore’s hand and squeezed it “I shall go let my mother know right away. And she will know who has allowed us our time together.”

As Willow walked away Vaegon grabbed Aramina by the waist and brought her down with him. He then put his sword to her neck as he moved to straddle her waist.

“You’ve lost your sword and if I were an enemy you would have no chance to hit me with your flames. I win” He said.

“I will beat you one day and you won’t see it coming” Aramina said with hostility.

“Until then I am the victor” Vaegon gloated. 

Kore signaled to Rhaegon and he approached her. “Is your brother aware of what happened with your father?” She asked.

Rhaegon nodded “We all know mother. Vaegon is choosing to ignore it but he knows.”

‘Must be why Aramina is so upset with him’ He thought.

‘Always wanting to keep the peace while he tries to push away his negative feelings. That sounds about right.’ Kore thought ‘Sometimes I wish he wouldn’t bottle them up.’

“I could knock a bit of sense into him if you want” Rhaegon offered. 

“It’s alright this might be good for us” Kore said. Rhaegon had a questioning look but didn’t have the opportunity to ask what his mother meant.

“Princess Kore” A female voice greeted.

“Lady Penelope” Kore greeted with a hug. She turned her head to Rhaegon and introduced her “This is the Lady of Golden Spot, sister of the Lady Ansley, and another fire-breather.”

“A pleasure to meet you” Rhaegon said before sneakily grabbing the bottle of wine that sat next to his mother.

“You remember my daughter Edith?” Lady Penelope asked.

“Of course I do! I only have two other cousins” Kore said.

“Well, she has asked me to talk to you about the throne's succession” Lady Penelope said “She said my ears are more trustworthy than her own.”

‘I see where this conversation is headed’ Kore thought. “Rhaegon, could you leave us?” She asked her son.

Rhaegon nodded “Of course, I have lots of conversing to do with the vintners in Eternal anyways.”

“Take your siblings with you. It will be good for the people to see you all” Kore said as Rhaegon walked off.

Kore turned to the kind lady who stood calmly in front of her.

“Although this might be a brief conversation I would prefer for no one to hear us talk about this” Kore said “I have already decided what is to happen. And I must apologize in advance. I would like to keep most of it to myself for now.”

“Greed has never laid its fingers on me and never will. If it’s that you are worried about then you have no need to be” Lady Penelope said.

“I am aware, Aunt Penelope. You have always been the calmest and levelheaded in our family” Kore said “All you need to know is that my decision might be in favor of your daughter.”

The Lady of Golden Spot nodded in understanding, her calm demeanor not letting her utter happiness show.

As the late-night took the skies the city of Eternal stayed up and alive. 

A large group of people chanted as Rhaegon downed his wine. Those who frequented the taverns had gained a liking to the younger brother and his seemingly carefree way of life.

“Everyone keeps staring at my eyes” Armaina mumbled. She avoided the crowded place and stood outside, her watchful eyes taking note of each person looking at her.

“They might find them as alluring as we do” Vaegon said, handing over Aramina a drink while he chose not to “It’s not every day you see someone with purple and brown eyes.”

“Don’t kiss up” Aramina said with a plain expression “It’s not a good look for you.”

Vaegon frowned. ‘I wouldn’t have to kiss up if you weren’t so upset with me’ He wanted to say. He turned his head to watch over Aenara who was admiring the docks with her mother from afar.

“You should ask one of the captains to teach you how to sail” Kore said to her youngest daughter “I’m sure he would be glad to teach you.”

Aenara’s face turned to one of pure excitement. “I could conquer the skies and sea like Lucerys will do one day!”

Kore chuckled “Yes you will and the day you do I know that you will have found your own calling that differs from your siblings.”

“Could I ask a captain right now?” Aenara pleaded. “I promise to be safe” She said.

“It's very late and I don't want you falling into the sea” Kore said “But if you take a guard with you tomorrow you can go.”

Aenara bounced on her feet excited to tell Rhaegon about her upcoming activity.

As Aenara ran off Kore turned her head to the side when she noticed a high-born man approach her.

He left Kore stunned as she took in his features. His face was handsome in a strange mysterious way. The features on his face gave off an alluring presence. Actually, his entire self gave off the same energy, it was in an odd way calming.

“Princess Kore I presume?” The man asked, his eyes holding a sense of wonder in them that was directed to her and only her.

“I am and who might you be?” Kore curiously asked.

“Roy Stark, my younger brother is Cregan Stark, Lord of Winterfell” He introduced “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, Princess.”

Kore’s eyes widened in surprise and familiarity ‘A Stark all the way down here’ She thought ‘And him out of all of them.’

Roy Stark. He was known for giving up his place as Lord of Winterfell to his brother. He wandered the North aimlessly on his own, rarely coming back home.

“The Lone Wolf of the North. What brings you all the way here?” Kore asked.

“You know of me I am honored” Roy said with a faint smirk. 

“You see, I would rather travel the world than stay cold in a palace for my entire life. And Summerset was on the list the moment I heard how beautiful it is” He said “So when the King accepted my request I was extremely grateful and left right away. You should have seen the face my brother made when he heard I would be traveling. It was hilarious.”

‘My father must have been convinced by a council member to hopefully create another alliance. There was no other possible way he would accept anyone but the Dornish on our lands’ Kore thought.

“And is it as beautiful as you’ve hoped?” She asked. “It would be a shame if it wasn’t.”

Roy took one of Kore’s hands and kissed her knuckles. “Much more than that” He said, looking down into her eyes the entire time.

Kore pulled her hand away, unsure of that familiar feeling rising in her chest. Even her scales burned at his lingering touch. She took in a shaky breath before she spoke “Well I do hope the weather agrees with you. I must be heading back to the castle now. But I do hope we meet again very soon. I would love to hear your tales from the north.”

“And I would love to tell you about them” He said. He extended his arm to her and asked “Allow me to walk you to your carriage?” 

Kore gently put her arm with his “How kind of you to offer.”

“Only for the Jewel of Summerset” Roy said in a playful manner.

As the two strolled through the city, towards the unoccupied carriage, whispers emerged from the citizens who passed by. 

“Who is that?”

“Has the Princess taken a lover?”

“But he has only just arrived”

“They must have been with each other when she was in Westeros”

“Rumors spread quickly” Roy said, listening in to what everyone was saying.

“It always does” Kore said “They see a glimpse of something and take it to a great extent.”

Roy took Kore’s hand, leading her up the carriage stairs. She turned back at him as he asked her “How’s tomorrow sound? I’m sure the day will be filled with clear skies.”

Kore gave him a smile “How forward of you. You must allow me to think on it. I do have other duties, you know.”

“Of course Princess. The offer will forever stand” He said.

As Kore rode home she touched her pendant. Even though it was gifted by Alicent and Aemond it reminded her of Daemon. His house.

Would being seen with Roy Stark be considered unfaithful?

Sure she wasn’t sleeping with him, she didn’t even know him, they had just met. But rumors and gossip had already begun. That was something that couldn’t be avoided.

And although the citizens did not know what happened she did, and her children did. It seems only fair that she could find some happiness that didn’t involve family or politics.

Unlike him.

That wouldn’t make her as bad as him. Would it?

This was the same situation as it was with Ser Harwin, right?

Over the next few days, Kore spent her time with Roy Stark, one of her children usually involving themselves in between them. They seemed unsure of the northerner and what he wanted from their mother.

Even Willow, who made an agreement to spend one week more with Kore was unsure of him. Rightfully so of course she had been the one witness to the downfall between Kore and Daemon.

Willow watched from the sides as Kore kept her own eyes on Roy. He told one of the taverns a story of the time he discovered the bones of a giant, buried underneath a mountain of snow. 

As Rhaegon drunkenly laughed at the Lone Wolf's words, a knight walked into the quiet tavern. 

The people inside paid no attention to him as he approached Princess Kore. “A meeting is to be held in the council room and you and Lady Willow are required to attend Princess” He whispered into her ear.

Disappointingly, she got up from her seat, passing a hand by Aenara’s hair.

“Our first meeting in the council room. I just know everything will go perfectly” Kore sarcastically said as all but Willow were out of hearing range.

“Brightsword will be there so you will be correct cousin” Willow said with a glare at the thought of the warrior. 

The council room. It was held in the city Eternal since only Dragonborn’s were the only house allowed inside the castle walls. 

Why didn’t the King change the old rule?

It was a great way to show the people that the powerful family wouldn’t hide behind their walls and cared for the people they ruled over.

The room itself was as simple as the one back in King's Landing. 

The two defining features that made it stand out was a round golden table set in the center and the statues given to each member. They were carved into the symbol of their respective house.

This council meeting was all Dragonborn symbols.

Those who attended were King Edmund, Brightsword, Lord Reginald, Lord Issac, Lady Penelope, Lady Edith, and Lord Arthur.

As Kore and Willow walked into the room all but the King were currently sitting in the council room.

“You use that sword with hostility and defiance Juliet” Lord Arthur said as the fiery sword made a loud crackle sound.

Brightsword paid to mind the use of her name but did to the mention of her sword. A tense feeling overwhelmed everyone as the warrior spoke.

“My sword will be wielded however I wish for it to be wielded. For good or for worse” She said, straightening her posture “The same goes for my castle. Don’t tell me how to control what is mine. The people don’t so you don’t either.”

Lord Arthur tried to argue before he was interrupted “The people are the ones who make us powerful so maybe they should. The torturing of-” 

“Power is what makes us powerful. Not democracy and certainly not the people of the streets” Brightsword stated.

“There were four now six of us who breathe fire. And just how many Dragonborn’s would it take to kill that giant dragon?” She wondered.

“Vhagar?” Kore questioned, sitting down across from the warrior with Willow beside herself and Reginald. “Three, maybe two I would guess” She said “I would say yourself, Willow, and either myself or Aramina. But if we had the upper hand then just the two of you.”

‘I would have said Lady Penelope instead of Aramina but I have never seen her use her power let alone fight’ Kore thought.

“You see. Not five or ten, two or three to take down that monstrous beast” Brightsword said “And the torturing of who I deem guilty is for the good of the country.”

“The good of the country?” Lady Edith sharply questioned.

“Is that Valyrian steel?” Reginald asked Kore. He mentally let out a sigh as his mother became interested in his conversation.

“You could melt it down and make something useful out of it” Reginald suggested.

“I could. But I won’t” Kore said, thinning her lips. She disliked the attention being brought to her “It means too much to the Prince and Queen who gifted it to me.”

“Don't tell me you care for them” Lord Issac said “I suspected you would but not to the point where you would make keepsakes with them.”

Kore felt herself shrink in her seat “I am not fond of all of them.”

“Your husband must be one. You never speak of him” Lord Issac said.

Almost everyone nodded in agreement. Not only did she not utter his name but neither did her children. It was as if he didn’t even exist.

“You would be correct there” Kore said. She tried her best to not sound so gutted by agreeing but almost choked on her words in the process.

“How is your husband?” Lady Edith asked.

“Why are you so interested in knowing about her relationship?” Willow asked, sounding frustrated at everyone’s pestering towards Kore’s obvious uncomfortable body language.

“Curiosity” Lady Edith replied with a shrug.

The tense sensation was brought back as everyone turned their heads and stood as the King entered the room. “Your bickering will cease” King Edmund ordered with a slight boom in his voice. 

As the King sat down everyone else did and the meeting finally began. 

Kore listened in on the painfully long conversations while she kept her eyes on her carved symbol, tracing the edges with her fingernails.

“Wardens Castle was and still is corroding” 

“Golden Spot has spent the least because you only have your eyes on your daughter”

“The two dragons have been causing tremors. Especially Prince Vaegon’s. It’s caused one shopkeeper to lose a pet of his home”

“Hollows Land is finally boasting its fertile land again… No thanks to Brightsword”

“It is not my fault. Pirates seem to love that place”

“Roy Stark of Winterfell. I was surprised to hear of his arrival; we weren't notified” Lady Edith said, slightly disappointed “But I suspect he was allowed in for a good reason.”

Kore looked up at the mention of the Lone Wolf.

“We are to build an alliance with more houses from Westeros” King Edmund said before he turned his head to his daughter. She jumped slightly as his eyes looked straight at her. “Princess Kore has gained the favor of the Hightowers as well as the Lannister’s with the help of marriage from her firstborn son.”

Kore nodded “I have. I also have a friend in a place much farther than Westeros if we are in need of more ears.”

“Who is our Braavosi friend?” Reginald asked, leaning closer to Kore in interest.

Kore quickly denied Reginald and the rest of her family more information “My friend is a wealthy man. That is all you need to remember.” 

“And you Willow? Do you plan on making any connections in Summerset?” Lord Issac asked his daughter “I hear you will be leaving the Princesses company very soon and I would hope for a good reason.”

Brightsword raised an eyebrow at the new information. It wasn’t every day she wasn’t reported on what her family was doing.

“I will be heading off to Ocean Tower to spend time with my mother. Nothing more” Willow stated.

“Ocean Tower is on the other side of the country” Brightsword pointed out “Lady Ansley should stay here if you wish to be closer to her. I might need you to come with me to my castle one day and I would like you to be close.”

Reginald looked at his half-sister as she clenched her fists from underneath the table, trying to keep her composure and not yell. He put his hand on top of hers, somewhat calming her seething state.

“My sister needs Willow right now” Lady Penelope said in a quiet tone, trying to stop the two from fighting “I’m sure you would understand if it were your son who was sick.”

“I wasn’t asking for your opinion. And in case you’ve forgotten who saved you from ending up like the King’s other brother perhaps you should be reminded” Willow spat to Brightsword.

Brightsword, unknowingly to everyone in the room, tensed at Willow’s words. Her hand twitched to grab the burning sword that clung to her waist.

“Willow!” Lord Issac sternly said.

She paid no mind to him as she mumbled to herself “It’s not like I would go with you or father anywhere anyways.”

King Edmund, who was unamused by the argument, looked to Lady Penelope.

“The discussion of your children is another subject we should speak of. How are their betrothals coming along?” Lady Penelope asked, derailing all from the tense conversation.

“That's right. Your eldest daughter is almost twenty yet she has no husband. She’s growing up quickly. You wouldn’t want her to be too old when she marries” Lady Edith said, disproving of her cousin's choice.

“At least she wasn’t your age” Reginald mumbled.

“Aramina, as well as Rhaegon, aren’t married for reasons that are my own” Kore said before pausing for a moment.

Lord Arthur leaned closer to his wife, Lady Edith, and whispered “It would only make sense for him to not have any descendants. You see how that boy acts. The Disappointment is what the other houses are starting to call him.”

Lady Edith rolled her eyes and began to rub her forehead, hoping no one had heard him.

“…But Aenara has a betrothed. The youngest son of Queen Alicent. Daeron Targaryen” Kore said.

The whole room went dead silent. 

King Edmund looked at Kore not in surprise, not with anger, nothing was there. That alone told her everything she needed to know. 

She made the right decision.

“Another Targaryen?” Brightsword questioned with disgust.

Lady Penelope rolled her eyes at the old family feud. “A good plan for a stronger alliance” She said, defending Kore’s questionable betrothal.

“What of your eldest, what is his excuse? He is married yet has not one child” Lord Arthur asked.

“Reginald is married and yet he has no son nor daughter as well” Kore quickly countered.

Reginald put his hands up in defense “Don’t bring me into this.”

“I cannot tell you the reason Vaegon has no child for I do not know the reason myself, but I presume he has his own personal reasons” Kore said.

Kore leaned forward with an intimidating look in her eye. “Oh and if I ever hear you speak ill of Rhaegon ever again and I shall have your tongue brought before me” She threatened.

Lord Arthur looked at her amused “So hostile I was only telling the truth.”

“Perhaps I should as well then. You’ve become too comfortable with your status by involving yourself into every little matter. Almost as if you yourself were granted the same birth-given name as Brightsword” Kore said. 

She tilted her head slightly as she continued “When I look at you all I see is wasted potential for what could have been something great.”

Lady Edith clicked her tongue, not at the Princess but at her husband. She silently agreed with the Princess personally knowing how he acts.

As the lord tried to speak again the King interrupted him.

“Speak up again then I will be the one to have your tounge” King Edmund threatened. He rubbed his eyes, annoyed he had to stop another dispute.

Lord Arthur bit his tongue knowing the King would do more than what he promised.

Brightsword smirked at Kore. She looked particularly proud as she spoke “You see she knows how to hold her own. She is your daughter after all.” 

Kore looked at Willow who was just as confused as her.

“If that is all then shall we talk of the more important matter?” Lord Issac requested from the King.

King Edmund nodded at the lord.

“The crowning of Queen Regent. Which will, of course, be you Princess Kore” Lord Issac said stunning both Kore and Willow. 

“What?” Kore questioned. She thought she was losing her hearing at the out of nowhere statement.

“We know this is out of the blue but the people crave a Queen” Lady Penelope said. She looked at Kore solemnley “Your mother was the perfect Queen and we could never replace her but the people are in need of one. If we can grant that, for a time of course not forever, then perhaps we could settle their crave.”

Kore felt her mind explode. To become Queen or rather Queen Regent, was an honor but one she wanted to think about. It would mean she wouldn’t be able to go back to Westeros for years and she wouldn’t be able to write to Alicent. Kore knew her father wouldn’t allow it. 

Roy might’ve been able to send his letter but to send one back was a grueling process.

If she made the decision to go back Edith would become the next option. The better option. The lady lived here longer than herself.  

On the bright side, if she did stay it would mean she would be prepared for when she became the true Queen. And although she never truly wanted the throne, greed was a human emotion that seemed to run in the family.

Kore tapped her fingers on the table and rose from her seat “I wish to speak with my uncle about this.”

“He was the one who suggested you” King Edmund said, stopping her from leaving the room “The matter is settled. You will become Queen Regent as soon as possible and rule here however long as I wish for you too.”

The King then stood from his seat “That will be all. You are all dismissed from this meeting.”

Kore watched as her family left the room still in a state of bewilderment. She didn’t even have time to make her own conclusion on the matter. ‘Are meetings here always like this? If they are then I really have to change that in the future. I can’t imagine having to sit through arguments all the time’ She thought.

Lady Edith bowed her head at the Princess in apology for her husband's behavior before catching up with him.

Willow shrugged her father’s hand off her shoulder once it touched her. “We will talk later” He said.

She stared down Brightsword as the warrior beckoned to Reginald who reluctantly followed her. “Not if your so-called wife will be with you” Willow said, dismissing him.

Lady Penelope approached the Princess who laid her head in her hands “Your uncle is by Eternals wall if you wish to speak to him. I'm sure he will explain his reasoning to you if you ask.”

Kore gave the Lady a forced smile in thanks. “Willow. If you would tell the coachman to take us there” She requested. 

“Of course, anything to get out of here” Willow said as she quickly walked off.

With the priest of Summerset, Princess Aenara watched from afar as he conducted another sermon. The young Princess seemed to be drawn to him and his foreign religion.

As Luke finished his sermon he walked over and greeted the Princess with a smile “Princess Aenara. What brings you here again? Are you interested in our religion?”

“Just a little bit I had time thanks to the captain being on a break but I wanted to speak to you about my dreams” Aenara explained “I always hear from my mother about your foresight.”

Luke nodded at the Princess and placed a hand on her back. “Come sit with me young Dragonborn” He said, leading her into a nearby carriage.

“I do believe you are like me in some ways. I believe the Targaryen’s call what you are a dragon dreamer” Luke said as the young Princess sat beside him.

She looked up at him, amazed “I can see the future as well?”

Luke smiled at her, a tender look in his eye. She looked too much like her mother when she was young, he missed those days. “Somewhat. While I can only see glimpses of a possible occurrence, dragon dreams seem to be a premonition. But seeing as your bloodline is different they could be mixed.”

‘So if I rode White Star with no saddle then I have a slim chance of falling!’ She thought with excitement ‘I’ll prove you wrong Daeron.’

“Your dreams of the storm will come to fruition” Luke mumbled as Aenara thought of her dragon.

Once Luke snapped out of his vision he looked back down at Aenara. “On another note, your mother mentioned what happened with your father. I send my regards to you and your siblings” He regretfully said.

Although Luke expected this to happen he hoped the tides would have changed to be in favor of keeping their treaty intact.

Aenara shifted in her seat, feeling uncomfortable at the mention of her so-called father.

“Thank you but I only ever saw him as another man that my family knew. I already had a father that I loved” She said, her words tightening at the last sentence. 

The Priest of Summerset picked at his words carefully so Aenara’s feelings wouldn’t be seen as pushed aside. “If your mother could find love in another Targaryen-“

The carriage door suddenly opened wide as Kore forced her way into it.

“Uncle, why have I heard from my father that you’ve suggested that I become Queen Regent?” Kore immediately questioned.

Aenara’s face brightened at the sight of Kore “Mother!”

Kore kissed the top of Aenara’s head and moved closer to Luke who got up from his seat to grab her hands.

“It is fate for you to become Queen. The mother has shown me you wearing our golden crown” He said.

“Please give me a better reason than that. Your own reason. Not some goddesses” Kore pleaded “I want to hear you say that you yourself want me to be Queen Regent.”

Luke looked Kore in the eyes telling her his true opinion “I want you to take this opportunity. And if I could show you what I have seen you wouldn’t even be asking me.”

The Jewel of Summerset felt the ends of her mouth twitch up, feeling pleased with his words.

“Does that mean we will be here longer?” Aenara asked, confused about the entire conversation.

Kore nodded at her daughter “Don’t worry I'm sure you will be back home soon enough but for now my love we must stay here.”

Kore stood straight as she looked back at Luke “But the only way I want to be crowned will be in the throne room.”

“No need to worry, it always is” Luke said, reassuring her.

“But it must be filled with other houses, royal or not. I want people to see me” Kore requested “If we claim to care for the people then allow them to see this.”

Luke’s face gave off a hesitant look “A request your father would have to accept… but I will do what I can.”

And so as requested Luke talked to his usually uncooperative brother to heed Kore’s request. He used his familial position to try and gain the upper hand over King Edmund. As he spoke he maintained a good distance from the thrones but stayed on the steps leading to them.

“You might be the King but I am still the elder brother. I can still give you advice” Luke said, his eyes never leaving the Kings. He was as unwavering as the past.

The King seemingly glared at the Priest, ridiculing the older man with his mind.

“You mean the same brother who chose to enter a religion meant to worship us instead of doing his duty” King Edmund rebutted.

The elder brother felt no offense at his brother's aggressive words, instead, he kept his calm and explained his reasons. “My duty is with the mother and the country. My gift was meant to be used in Hearth Hall not kept inside the palace” He said.

“And may I remind you“ Luke tried to say.

“You may not remind me of anything!” King Edmund interrupted “I know where your soft-spoken words are headed and I do not wish to hear them.”

Feeling defiant Luke opened his mouth once more “If you listened to my warnings our brother would still be here and you would not have been given the title The Merciless.”

King Edmund stood from his throne. He walked forward till he was face to face with his brother.

“You would have the Bastard Marker as King?” The King accused.

“Of course not, I still believe you were the best choice” Luke said with sincerity “But to be a Kinslayer of all things is worse...”

Luke closed his eyes and sighed “The Princess is asking for one simple request and doors can stay closed after, just allow her this.”

“I will give you and my daughter this but the old rule stays and you can never bring up the Bastard Maker ever again” Kind Edmund said with a warning tone.

Luke bowed to King Edmund “I will keep this moment locked in my mind. Thank you, my King.”

Kind Edmund watched his brother leave, a vein sticking from his head. Frustration mixed with an upsetting atmosphere seemed to be his favorite emotion.

And so by the time the moon was full all preparations for the coronation were finished.

The golden throne room shimmered along with the Dragonborn’s attire. Along with the golden hue the half Dragonborn’s wore a Targaryen symbol on their person. The half Dragonborn’s stood closest to the throne with Brightsword standing beside them. In this instance, they had more power than the warrior.

“Do you plan on leaving?” Aramina mumbled to Vaegon.

“Not without you… Even if I wanted to, I have the strangest feeling we wouldn’t be allowed to without mother” Vaegon whispered to her.

“Are you crying?” Aenara asked Rhaegon, she leaned forward to take a better look at him.

“I just have some dust in my eyes” Rhaegon said as he rubbed them.

Many houses stayed on the sidelines watching in awe as The Jewel of Summerset knelt before the King and the Priest.

Kore awaited for the crown to be placed on her head as Luke grabbed the object and spoke “ Kore of House Dragonborn. First of her name. The Princess of Summerset and Jewel of Summerset will hereby be crowned as Queen Regent .”

As Kore sat beside her father a strange fire burned in her stomach as cheers erupted from the crowd.

Chapter Text

“Daemon Targaryen, 

For some strange and horrible reason I long to see your face, although I also wish to see your head cut from your shoulders. The years we spent together and the children you put aside will never change the fact that we were once husband and wife. I am constantly conflicted because of you and I hope to never see your face again.

Kore of House Dragonborn”

“Dear Lucerys Velaryon, 

Time will be cruel on us Little Dragon. My country crowns me its Queen Regent and I am unsure how long it shall last. I know you won’t read this but writing to you brings me joy. I am so proud of you and your brother and I will be forever.

Kore of House Dragonborn”

“Daemon Targaryen, 

Aenara and my uncle, Luke, have grown an unbreakable bond. One that you should’ve had with her. To see her so happy only reminds me of how much I have grown to despise you. But I have already gotten back at you so I have no need for revenge. And it is in a way you will never know.

Kore of House Dragonborn”

“Rhaenyra Targaryen, 

Over a year has passed and I still feel the sting you left behind. I wanted to trust you so badly and you tore it apart. How cruel you were to do that. As much as I want to see the children I would rather see them from afar then have my ears hear your voice.

Kore of House Dragonborn”

“Dear Alicent, 

How I wish to know how you and your children are doing. I might’ve grown to hate Targaryens but your line will be the exception. On a happier note I met a man over a year ago, Roy Stark of Winterfell. Although I refuse to accept it at this time, I fear I might have developed a special type of feeling for him.  Hopefully I can gossip with you in the future of my time here.

Kore of House Dragonborn”

“Father, 

This letter will most likely be burnt later in the day but I have to write out my feelings.  My own wife and I do not like eachother but I never had or will have the intention of taking another woman.  I would still like to visit one day but as of now Summerset is our new home. I believe this is a goodbye for a while father.

Vaegon Targaryen”

“My dear wife,

Sometimes I wonder how you are or if you ever think of me. You and I both know we never wanted this. It must be why you immediately slept with your sworn shield the day of our wedding night. But I hope we have no negative emotions towards each other. Perhaps I could even take you on Atmus one day, I’m sure your father wouldn’t mind it.

Vaegon Targaryen”

“Daemon Targaryen, 

My stomach turns at the thought of you and the day you married that Nevermind.

Aramina Targaryen”

“Aegon Targaryen, 

My mother has met a man from the North, a Stark. He’s very fun to be around. We drink together as I used to with you. Although my mother or siblings find me passed out in the castle halls or even in the taverns. Drinking without you has somehow made me worse. Mother always tells me how disappointed she is . I wish you were here so I wouldn’t have to feel so guilty. But moving away from the depressing talk. I know you would love this land. It feels so freeing over here. 

Rhaegon Targaryen”

“Helaena Targaryen, 

I miss you so Helaena. I still feel lonely without your presence near me. I hope by the time we are together again we will continue our great friendship. Throughout the year we have been here in Summerset I have become a great sailor in the words of a few captains. I can’t wait to do much more once I’m older. I have also been studying about the other houses. It has been wonderful. I hope to tell you about them one day. The same can go for my mother’s uncle, Luke, he has been a wonderful family member I could talk about all day.

Aenara Targaryen”

“Daeron Targaryen, 

I do think I officially have the fastest dragon alive. White Star has created tides larger than the largest ship here with speed alone. Aegon owes me a lot of money since he didn’t have any faith in him.

Aenara Targaryen”

“Daeron Targaryen, 

My dreams seem to be getting worse. They make me frightened even when I do not understand them. Even I do not tell mother or Rhaegon how bad they become.  I wish I could write to Helaena about this but I wouldn’t want to worry her.  Then again if I could send this letter I probably wouldn’t.

Aenara Targaryen”

“Jacaerys Velaryon,

I realized I never got you back for my nose, I’ll have to get you back soon so we can be even.  I still forgive you but being even sounds better than forgiveness.

Aenara Targaryen”

“Aegon Targaryen,

Rhaegon says I should write a letter to you. I’m not sure why though. I thought he would have asked Aramina to write one for you.  Hopefully you and Helaena are doing well together, I know how much you complained about your marriage.  Perhaps when we see each other again we could all fly together.

Aenara Targaryen”

“Aemond Targaryen, 

I still remember every moment of what happened. I may believe you had some right to claim Vhagar but you called our blood, bastards.  It would probably be best if we stayed a good distance from one another.

Aenara Targaryen”