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Baеlon Targaryen was born a small and weak child. The maesters said that the baby wouldn't last long, two days at most. But Rhaenor Targaryen refused to believe it, much less allow his death. The baby was the last thing left of their late mother, Queen Aemma Arryn. He was the only one of all their deceased siblings who did not die immediately after birth. 

The first thing the prince did was place a black colour, dragon egg from Dreamfyre's clutch into his brother's cradle. According to Uncle Daemon's books and stories, bonding with a dragon can strengthen a rider's life. The late King Jaehaerys ordered to bring a dragon for his dying daughter Princess Daenerys, but it was too late. 

"Please hatched, my brother must survive. Please."

His second step was to contact the healers from the Vale of Arryn. Aunt Amanda had brought them with her ever since mother was pregnant, but the king wouldn't let them see his wife because of his right hand's words. 

— My king, I assure you, Maester Mellos is competent. He had already delivered Queen Aemma more than once. I think it's better to trust him than strangers.

Yes, he's so good at his job that all brothers and sisters Rhaenor died in his time, and now his mother. According to his request, it was the healers who started taking care of Baelon. He kicked the Maesters out of the nursery, to put it mildly.

— You are making a mistake, my prince! I will complain to the king!

"Complain all you want, father won't see you. He doesn't take anyone into his chambers, not even me." — the prince thought, closing the doors of the nursery.

The third step was to stay close to his brother. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner were now brought to the nursery. Rhaenor didn't even go out to fly his beloved Syrax. 

"I'm sorry, Syrax, but I can't leave my brother."

He hoped his dragon would understand. The prince fell asleep in the armchair while the healers were hanging around his brother. 

And he woke up to the fact that his lightly one was shaken by the shoulders. When he opened his eyes, he saw the worried face of one of the Vale of Arryn's healers in front of him.

— Is something wrong with Baelon?

— No, my Prince, Prince Baelon is fine. It's about his egg. It's cracked.

Rhaenor rubbed his eyes with the palm of his hand, immediately got up from the chair and walked over to the cradle. Next to his brother, who was already awake, there was an egg, the top of the shell of which was cracked.

"I knew my brother would have a dragon. It looks like he'll be out soon."

The prince walked away from the cradle and strode to the door. Opening them, he gave an order to his sworn shield, Ser Westerling.

— Ser Westerling, please bring one dragon watcher. Baelon seems to have a dragon hatching. 

— As you command, my prince. 

As soon as the knight left, he returned back to the cradle. Bending down, he gently ran his fingers over his brother's head.  

— How is my brother's health? Has he gotten worse?

— No, my Prince, Prince Baelon's condition has not worsened. We give the wet nurse a special decoction that will enter the prince's body with her milk. Even if he doesn't drink much, it's enough for the broth to enter his body. 

— Good. 

The Dragon Watcher did not take long to wait. A middle-aged man entered the nursery, followed by Ser Westerling. Having bowed to the prince, he approached the cradle and began to examine the egg with his eyes and feel it with his with hands.Having assessed the egg, he turned to Rhaenor.

— Prince Baelon's dragon has really started to hatch. Very soon indeed must hatch completely.

— Fine. 

Rhaenor was pleased. If a dragon hatches, then his brother will survive. He will become the first Targaryen after great-grandfather Jaehaerys and great-grandmother Alysanne, whose dragon egg hatched in the cradle. 

Personally, his egg, which Uncle Daemon put in his cradle immediately after birth, cooled down and was returned to the dragon watchers.

"But I was able to acquire Syrax."

A few minutes later, the eggshell continued to crack again, and through the top of the egg, the head of a dragon with a long neck finally peeked out. The little dragon looked like a mini version of Caraxes, but it was blue in color like a Dreamfyre.

"Seven, Dreamfyre paired with Caraxes? That's unexpected."

Having finally gotten out of the egg thanks to the help of the dragon watcher, the baby dragon lay down next to Baelon, putting his tail on his stomach. The baby opened his eyes slightly, turned around slightly, feeling an unfamiliar weight on his tummy, but did not cry. Apparently, the connection began to form. 

"Well, we just have to wait for her to strengthen Baelon, as well as the fruits of the healers' efforts."

And Rhaenor waited humbly. The second day has passed since Baelon's birthday and he is still alive. The eldest prince managed to exhale. The forecast of the masters did not come true, his brother was still alive, breathing close to his dragon. 

And after a couple of weeks, Baelon got better. He began to open his eyes more, drink more breast milk from his wet nurse. For the first time, Rhaenor was able to hold him in his arms without fear that one moment his brother's eyes would close and he would die. 

He was no longer Aemma Arryn's only son. Now there were two of them, two brothers. A smile spread across the eldest prince's face. He had been dreaming of a brother or sister for so long, and now his dream had finally come true.

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A month passed, and after the healers made sure that Baеlon was not in danger of death, Rhaenor decided to take his younger brother on his first flight. To continue the tradition founded by his grandmother, the late Princess Alyssa, to take newborn Targaryens with them to the sky on a dragon. Aunt Amanda didn't share his enthusiasm, though. 

— He's just a baby. Are you sure you should take him with you to meet the beast?

— The healers assured me that he was safe. And Syrax is not a beast, she is my friend, my soul. So I'm going to ask you to choose your words carefully, Aunt. 

— Excuse me, nephew. It's just hard for me to understand your love for the dragon. 

— I know, Aunt. But this is also our difference from other people.

Putting on a black riding suit and tying his brother to himself with a cloth bandage, he left the nursery, leaving his aunt to embroider.

Behind him, his sworn shield, swordmaster, and the man the prince trusted as much as himself, Ser Westerling, walked silently. On the way, he met the youngest of his late mother's ladies-in-waiting, Lady Alicent Hightower. The girl was dressed in a pale blue, modest dress with long sleeves and her hair was loose as always. A smile formed on his face at the sight of her. She had been his friend since childhood and probably even more. His cheeks flushed slightly at the thought, and he immediately tried to push them away. 

— Lady Alicent, it's good to see you. — he greeted her with a shake of his head and a smile.

Busy with his brother, Rhaenor rarely saw her on the horizon. But he hoped to meet her in my free time. 

—Prince Rhaenor, — she smiled weakly back at him and curtsied. — I see you and Prince Baelon are going for a walk?

If Ser Westerling hadn't been there, she would have called him by his first name, as she did when they were alone. Even then, he had barely managed to persuade her to drop the formalities.

— Yes, I thought it was time for him to see Syrax since his father doesn't have his own dragon. Would you like to come with us? I'm sure my brother will be glad to meet you. 

At his suggestion, the girl looked at him with some concern. Like his aunt, Alicent couldn't understand his love for the dragon. She was also afraid of Syrax. Every time he came to the dragon pit to ride his golden lady, she always stayed in the carriage.

— Thank you for such an interesting offer, my Prince, but I must decline. I have things to do.

—Oh, I see. Well, then, see you soon, Lady Alicent.

— See you soon, Prince Rhaenor.

And they went their separate ways. 

"Maybe you'll meet her next time, little brother. With a lady that I like. — the prince thought, stroking his brother's back with his palm.

Upon arriving at the dragon pit, Syrax was already waiting for the prince. The yellow female dragon was lazily lying on the grass near the entrance of the pit, and a dragon watcher was standing next to her, watching her closely, holding onto the end of the chain, the front of which was wrapped around the dragon's neck.

But as soon as she noticed Rhaenor, she got up on her paws and was about to go towards him when she was stopped by the dragon keeper's team.

—Umbagon, Syrax. (Wait, Syrax.)

She snorted with displeasure at the order, but stopped the drawing, waiting for the prince to reach her. 

— Syrax! Issa jorrāelagon hāedar. Nyke've missed ao sīr olvie. (Syrax! My dear girl. I've missed you so much.)  - Rhaenor came up to her, and gently ran his palms over her muzzle. — Nyke daor mērī tubī. ( I'm not alone today.) 

And moving slightly away from her, he untied his brother from his chest and gently took him in his arms. 

— Bisa iksos issa valonqar, Baelon. Ziry's issa ānogar. (This is my brother, Baelon. He's my blood.)

Syrax tilted her muzzle forward to sniff the baby.

— Tubī ao se nyke jāhor gūrogon zirȳla flying rūsīr īlva. Ivestragī's show zirȳla skorkydoso nice se dāez se jēdar iksos.(Today you and I will take him flying with us. Let's show him how nice and free the sky is.) — Rhaenor said, nodding at the dragon watcher, motioning for him to remove the chain from Syrax's neck.

And he immediately obeys. 

Syrax crouched down, allowing him to climb into the saddle. Tying her brother back to her chest, and taking the reins with one hand and holding his brother with the other, he gave the order.

— Sōvegon, Syrax!(Fly, Syrax!)

The yellow wings spread, and she flew out of the pit. Rhaenor was smiling broadly during the flight. Seven, no matter how much he flew, flying always brought him joy and a sense of freedom.

— I hope, brother, that you, like me, are free in the sky.— Rhaenor whispered, looking lovingly at his brother.

Baelon lay quietly for the entire flight, blinking his indigo-colored eyes. The eye color is inherited from their late mother, Aemma Arryn. But Rhaenor knew that his brother liked flying, because flying is in his blood.

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When his father talked over dinner about his desire to remarry, Rhaenor tensed up. It was hard for him to imagine any lady in the place of his dear late mother Aemma Arryn. But still, he did not speak out against this decision. Despite his personal feelings, the prince understood that his father was still young, full of energy and had needs. Baelon also needed a mother. No matter how good Aunt Amanda was, she wasn't a mother. And soon she would be forced to return to the Valey, because she was no longer a maid of honor. Her father allowed her to stay in the castle as a relative, but her right hand had repeatedly raised the conversation that it was time for her to leave.

— I know you miss your mother, Rhaenor. I miss Aemma too, my boy. She was my whole world, my heart, my soul. But I have to get married again. My duty as king demands it. Viserys said, extending his hand forward to cover his son's hand.
— I understand, Father. I understand everything and I will accept your decision.— Rhaenor said, forcing a smile.

He understood everything. But it still hurt to imagine my father with another woman.

— Thank you son, I am so lucky that you are so understanding.

Viserys lightly squeezed his son's hand in gratitude and then let go, continuing to eat. They didn't talk about anything else.
The next day after class, Rhaenor picked up Baelon and his dragon, who refused to be separated from his rider, and headed to the garden in the company of his young friend, companion Corwyn Corbray. Behind them, Ser Westerling silently followed. His younger brother has not yet seen the royal garden, and the clean air will only benefit him.

— I hope you feel better, my prince. I was worried about you.
— Thank you, Corwyn. I hope you're okay too.

Like Rhaenor, Corwyn recently lost his mother. Lady Corbray was ill for a long time, and despite the efforts of the maesters, she died. And the boy briefly left the Red Keep to mourn his mother.

— I still miss my mother, my prince.
— I understand, I miss my mother too.— Rhaenor said, looking at Baelon, who was stretching his fingers towards the dragon, which was comfortably wrapped around his neck like a snake.

After his death, his mother often began to appear in his dreams. Tears became his frequent friends at night.
Lost in thought, Rhaenor didn't notice at first that his aunt, Princess Rhaenys, was sitting on a bench to the right, looking into the distance. And as he noticed, well, because of a slight nudge in the side from Corwyn, he was about to turn in the other direction so as not to pass by her, but she noticed him and called out by name.

— Rhaenor.

"I noticed it after all."

It wasn't that Rhaenor didn't love his aunt. Not at all. It's just that after the Great Council, the relationship between their families became strained. Rhaenys stopped visiting the castle, and if she did, it wasn't for long. When she looked at her father, he saw displeasure in her eyes. And from now on, she behaved with restraint towards him and her mother. There was no more warm smile on her face. Even after staying at the castle during the mourning period, she never went to visit him and Baelon. So he wasn't sure if his aunt was happy to see him.
Turning to the knight and Corwyn, he nodded his head in their direction, indicating that they should leave them alone. Despite his young age, his companion understood and, with a nod, left with Ser Westerling. As soon as they were gone, Rhaenor sighed and approached his aunt. Baelon, sensing a change in his brother, began to whirl around.

— Shh, Baelon, shh. It's okay.

Approaching his aunt, but stopping with a respectable distance between them, Rhaenor greeted his aunt.

— Princess Rhaenys, it is a pleasure to see you in such fine weather.
— I see you're not walking alone. — the middle-aged woman drew attention to the baby that was in her nephew's arms, as well as the baby dragon around his neck.
— Yes, Baelon thought it was good to be outdoors.
— Baelon right? Nice name.

And she shifted her gaze into the distance. Following her gaze, Rhaenor saw his young cousin, Laena, dressed in a turquoise off-the-shoulder dress, and his father walking together in the distance. His eyebrows rose in surprise.

"Laena is a candidate after all? She's twelve years old. I was hoping I was wrong about that."

Yesterday, after dinner with his father, Rhaenor thought for a long time who he could marry. The richest houses with great prestige are Lannister, Tyrell and Velaryon. If we consider the Valyrian houses, it's only Celtigar and Velaryon. And although the Celtigar are rich too, most likely the father will pay attention to Velaryon. Targaryen have already married them more than once. Also, given the history with the Grand Council, he will definitely choose Velaryon to restore ties. There was just one problem. Well, it was a problem for Rhaenor, his cousin's age. Laena is twelve now, she's too young to be married. Admittedly, he did not think that Rhaenys would allow her daughter to be married off at such an early age. But apparently I was mistaken.

— Tell me, nephew, did Viserys tell you about his desire to remarry? — Rhaenys turned her gaze back to him.
- Yes.— Rhaenor answered her, patting his brother on the head.
— And you don't mind?
— If my father is happy, then I am happy.

To his words, Rhaenys chuckled and shook her head.

— You are a good child, Rhaenor. Viserys is very lucky to have you. And so is your brother."

He was surprised by this sudden praise, but he didn't show it. Although she saw everything despite his attempt to keep his face calm.

— Thank you, Aunt.

Since Rhaenys didn't say anything else, but continued to watch her daughter, the eldest prince turned to leave.

— I'm sorry, Rhaenor. For everything.

He froze in mid-stride, and then nodded his head at her and continued walking in silence. The eldest prince was surprised. He certainly didn't expect any regrets from the proud Princess Rhaenys. But that's not a bad thing, either. It would be better for them to pour in peace than in tension. Relatives after all. As great-grandfather Jaehaerys used to say in his lifetime, dragons should stick together.

"Well, we will soon, considering that Laena will marry her father, thereby establishing relations between the families."

After a walk, after sitting in the nursery for a while, reading fairy tales to his brother, and then reading the books that the Maester had assigned him, he was called to the Small Council. To his surprise, Lady Alicent was present in the hall for some reason, although she seemed nervous.

"Why is she here? What is going on?" — Rhaenor wondered as he took his seat.

To the right of his father, the king.

— My king, forgive my curiosity, but what is a girl doing here? — asked the master of laws, Lord Lionel Strong, for all those present.
— Ah, your question is appropriate, Lord Lionel. Lady Alicent Hightower is here on business."

"On business? What kind of business?"

Rhaenor looked at his friend with concern. What had happened that she had to be here? If she had something wrong with her, why hadn't she come to him?

— Now that everyone is here, I would like to make an announcement. As you all know, I am planning to remarry. I have been carefully considering who I will choose as my wife. After careful consideration, I have decided that my second wife will be... Lady Alicent Hightower.

His words pierced Rhaenor like a sword. He stared at his father in disbelief, then looked at Alicent, who had lowered her head.

— It's impossible! — Lord Corlys exclaimed in displeasure, slamming his fist on the table. — My daughter is a Valyrian lady! And you choose this girl instead of her?
— Watch your speech, Lord Corlys! Lady Alicent is a noble lady. – father gave Velaryon a stern look.
— She is the daughter of the second son! She has nothing behind her back!

While Lord Corlys voiced his displeasure, and the others silently processed what they had heard, Rhaenor just sat staring at one point. His father's last words echoed in his ears. Of all the noble maidens, he chose Alicent. Exactly the one he liked. And he knew perfectly well about his warm feelings for Alicent! I knew it! And he still chose her. His heart sank in his chest. It hurt so much. He wanted to scream himself hoarse at his father. But Rhaenor just sits there.
And then he gets up from the table and turns to his father with a calm expression on his face.

— Congratulations, my king. You have made a fine choice.

He remains calm until he reaches his chambers. There, on a pillow, the teenager unleashes his rage. He beats and tears it.
Rhaenor is wounded, deep in his soul, and he doesn't know what to do.

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His second brother was born with the sunrise. He was a loud and healthy baby. To be honest, before he held him in his arms, Rhaenor was certain that he would feel nothing for this child. He was not born to his mother, the late Queen Aemma Arryn. He was related to the ambitious Hand of the King. 

But as soon as he was in his arms, all the dark thoughts left his head. He was a live, healthy baby. He was another brother. Rhaenor always wanted to have a lot of brothers and sisters to play with. Just like Laena and Laenor. But his other brothers died in their cradles before they could live a day. Well, except for Baelon. His brother was the only one who managed to survive and live more than a day. 

But now the gods themselves were giving him a gift in the form of a new brother. Rhaenor couldn't hate him. He couldn't and didn't want to. Gazing at the baby with tenderness, he carefully held him in his arms and turned to his father with curiosity.

 — What will you name him?

 Not all, but his brothers had names like Jaehaerys, Aemon, Aenys.So the eldest prince was curious to know what his new brother would be called. His father looked at the tired Lady Alicent and then turned his attention to Rhaenor.

— Alicent and I have thought about everything and decided that if a son is born, we will name him Aegon, in honor of my late brother. And if it's a daughter, then Alyssa is named after my late mother. So it turns out that the boy's name will be Aegon.

Rhaenor smiled contentedly. Aegon is a strong name, just what you need for a baby. 

— Good choice. Congratulations, Father, Queen Alicent. 

No matter how much his father hurt him, Rhaenor would love his new brother as much as he loved Baelon. 

"We should bring Baelon and show him our little brother. Let him know his face." —thought the prince as he handed the baby to the wet nurse.

That afternoon, only in the evening, when Aegon was moved to the nursery, the eldest prince lifted Baelon from the cradle into his arms and carried him to another cradle where their new brother was sleeping sweetly. The boy was fidgeting in his arms, unhappy that he had been distracted from their game with the wooden horse.

— Don't! Don't! — Baelon exclaimed.

—Hush, my valonqar (little brother) hush.— Rhaenor whispers and kisses his brother on the forehead. — I know you want to play with the ponies, and you will. But first, meet someone.

 Rhaenor leaned slightly down to bring Baelon closer to Aegon.

— Look, honey. This is our valonqar (little brother), our blood. His name is Aegon. 

Baеlon looked at the sleeping baby with confusion. And then he raised his pen to slap him on the cheek, but Rhaenor lifted him up in time.

— No, Baelon, you can't lay a hand on your brother. He's our brother, he's our family. — the teenager said sternly, taking his brother's hand affectionately and bending down put it to Aegon's cheek. — You see, he's small and weak. It's bad to hit him.

Rhaenor knew that Baelon wasn't being malicious. He just wanted to explore him, as he had never seen a young child before today. Let alone a younger brother. Baelon had no idea what it meant to be an older brother. But he would learn.

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As with Baelon, Rhaenor decided to take young Aegon on his first flight to Syrax. Although Lady Alicent expressed concern about this decision.

 — He's still a child. Is it safe to let him near that monster?

 Rhaenor frowned at her reference to his golden lady. Of course, he knew that the queen was afraid of dragons, as were many people in the kingdom, including his aunt, Amanda Arryn, but he would not allow anyone to refer to his girl in such a way. Even someone he had once been infatuated with.

 — Queen Alicent, I would ask you not to refer to my golden lady in such a manner. Her name is Syrax.

— I'm sorry, Prince Rhaenor, I didn't mean to offend you. I'm just worried about my son.

 The older prince's displeasure subsided. Of course she was worried, she was a mother after all.

 — Don't worry, everything will be fine. I promise I will return your son to you safely.

 After a few moments of silence, she nodded her head in agreement. However, he could still see doubt in her eyes. And he couldn't see her, his mother didn't like it either when he rode a dragon. But the Targaryen passion for flying is in their blood and it can't be stopped.

As Rhaenor walked through the castle corridors with Aegon in his arms, he could feel a gaze on the back of his head. Given that Corwyn was walking on his right, the gaze belonged to his new sworn shield. Ser Criston Cole. Rhaenor had chosen him a couple of days ago, as Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, Rhaem Redwyne, had passed away, and Ser Harrold Westerling, who had been his sworn shield, had taken his place. 

— Is something the matter Ser Criston?

— I beg your pardon my prince. It's just that if you'll allow me, I'm curious as to why you've taken Prince Aegon with you.

A smile spread across his face. That's right, since Ser Criston is new, he doesn't know anything. 

 — Ah, this tradition was started by my grandmother, Princess Alyssa Targaryen, when she took my recently born father on a dragon flight. And then my uncle. I've already taken Baelon on a flight. Now it's Aegon's turn. Have I satisfied your curiosity, Ser Criston?

He nodded in agreement.

— Don't worry, Ser Criston, you'll get used to it.– Corwyn told him.

When he arrived at the dragon's lair, Syrax let out a quite satisfied roar and approached him. Seeing a little blood on her face, Rhaenor realized why she was happy. 

— Issa gevie riñnykeā. Nyke ūndegon ao've already ipradārin sīr sȳrī.( My beautiful lady. I see you've already eaten so well.)

Rhaenor was never bothered by the blood, the fact that he ran his palm over her muzzle.

— Ao sagon issa gevives. Jurnegon qilōni nyke maghatan. Bisa iksos aegon, issa tolie valonqar. Tubī īlon jāhor gūrogon zirȳla va zȳhon ēlī flight. (You're my beauty. Look who I brought. This is Aegon, my other little brother. Today we will take him on his first flight.)— the guy said, bringing his brother closer to her.

Syrax sniffed the baby and released air from her nostrils, causing it to spin. Smiling, the prince took a few steps back, watching his dragon land on the ground so that he could climb into the saddle. 

— Sōvegon, Syrax!(Fly, Syrax!)

As always, the flight was wonderful. Wind in the face, freedom. Rhaenor wanted to never leave Syrax. There were no studies, intrigues, or complaints from the members of the Small Council in the sky. Just him, Syrax, and Aegon. Only Baelon was needed for complete happiness.

"We'll have to take the two of them on a flight at the same time next time," — the prince came up with an idea.

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To the surprise of Rhaenor, and the entire Small Council, with the exception of Otto Hightower, the king ordered them to choose a dragon egg for young Aegon. No one understood the purpose of this, given that the prince was robust, unlike Baelon, who was doomed to die without a dragon.

 — My king, isn't it dangerous to give the prince an egg? — asked Lord Lyonel Strong, the Master of Laws.

— Dangerous?– repeated the king. 

- Yes. Perhaps the prince. in the future, he will marry one of the ladies of the kingdom and then the dragon will go to this family. It's dangerous. If not Prince Aegon, then his descendants can try usurpation. You can't give dragons to all houses. — the man continued to speak. 

Rhaenor nodded in agreement. Dragons are a power exclusively owned by House Targaryen. It's enough for them that House Velaryon has three dragons available. 

_ Father, Lord Strong is right. Even King Jaehaerys did not grant access to dragons except to his two sons and my grandmother, Princess Alyssa. Even then, she only received a dragon after her marriage to my grandfather, Prince Baelon. — added Raenor. 

 It seemed that mentioning his great-grandfather would stop his father from being foolish. But it was only a illusion. Otto Hightower's poison was much stronger.

— Oh, I understand your concerns. But I'm not going to deprive my children. Aegon will get the egg. — The King's voice was surprisingly firm. — And if a dragon hatches out of him, and Aegon someday marries a woman not from our house, then he will leave his dragon in Dragonstone.

It sounded good. But where was the guarantee that Aegon would want to give up the dragon? Rhaenor held back his sigh, as did everyone present except the hand. He smiled without hiding his joy. 

 — Very well, father. I will choose Aegon's egg myself, as I did with Baelon.

— Oh, that would be wonderful, my boy. His father nodded his head contentedly.

After sitting through the discussions in the Small Council, the prince went to his chambers to change into riding clothes. After changing his clothes, he rode a carriage with Corwyn and Ser Criston to the Dragonpit. He was going to fly to Dragonstone on Syrax.

— Wake bē, issa qeldlie riñnykeā. Ziry iksos jēda naejot sōvegon.( Wake up, my golden lady. It's time to fly.)— gently running his hand over her muzzle, Rhaenor said. 

His girl was unhappy that he had distracted her from her sleep, but she forgave him, lightly brushing her tail. 

— Corwyn, Ser Criston, I think you'll have to stay here and wait for me.

 Syrax could carry both of them, but she was being вредной and only let him on her. 

 — How can I let you go alone, my prince? As your sworn shield, I must be by your side.

— Don't worry, Ser Criston, I won't be long. You should practice with Corwyn for now.

— Have a safe flight, my prince! Syrax for you too! — Corwyn exclaimed, smiling.

Climbing into the saddle, he gave the command.   

— Sōvegon Syrax.(Fly Syrax).

And she took off with a loud roar. 

On Dragonstone, he was greeted by the castle's castellan, Ser Eldrick Hart, the dragon watchers, and some of the island's residents came out of their homes.

— Welcome, Prince Rhaenor. — they greeted him.  

— Thank you for the warm welcome. I came with the permission of my father, the king, to choose an egg for my brother, Prince Aegon. 

— We'll escort you to the Prince Rhaenor incubators.

And he followed the dragon watchers. They led him to a cave where dragon eggs were hanging in closed cauldrons over a fire.

— Silverwing has laid a lot of eggs lately," one of the dragon watchers said, opening one of the cauldrons.

There was a silver-colored egg inside. But it seemed to Rhaenor that this was not what he was looking for. As if that doesn't suit Aegon. We need something else. And the prince went on. They showed him a red egg, a red-silver egg, but he stayed on the golden egg. It was the color of his Syrax. Bright just like a baby.

— I choose this egg. 

— As you command Prince Rhaenor.

 As the prince exited the pit and was about to go to the castle to rest for a while, Ser Hart approached him.

— My prince, if I may. I have something to tell you. 

— Yes, I'm listening to you. 

— The thing is...According to the will of Prince Daemon, there is a guest living in the castle. 

— A guest?" What kind of guest is this and why am I only finding out now? And my father? Is he aware?

— I'm sorry, my prince, but Daemon's prince told me to keep quiet about this.

"Typical uncle. — the prince thought, rolling his eyes. 

— So what kind of guest is she?

— Prince Daemon's mistress, Lady Mysaria.

— Wait, the same whore my uncle supposedly married? What right does she have to be in the castle? Father told Daemon to send her away!

— Prince Daemon did that at first. But she came back because she went into labor. And we couldn't leave her, there was a prince's child in her womb. And Dragonstone has always been a welcome home for dragon bastards. 

Rhaenor closed his eyes and sighed wearily. Uncle has caused problems again. 

— I see. So she's still living in the castle because of the baby?

— Yes, when Prince Daemon learned of his son's birth, he ordered us to keep her in the castle.

"So Daemon has a son. He's probably a couple of months older than Aegon."

— Well, thank you for informing me. I'll go meet our guest. Where is she staying?

— In the chambers of queens, Rhaenys.

Rhaenor nodded and headed for the castle. He was curious to see his cousin. And this lady Mysaria who had captured his uncle's heart. Upon opening the door, he indeed found his uncle's mistress there. A woman with dark, loose hair, with a few silver strands peeking out, wearing a beige dress, sat on the edge of the bed, gazing out the window, holding a baby in her arms. At his approach, she turned, and he was able to see her face. She was truly beautiful. 

 — Prince Rhaenor. What an unexpected meeting. — the woman said, standing up and curtsying.

— Why is that? Dragonstone is my domain.I didn't expect to see you here. 

 He saw her shoulders tense. The prince approached her.

 — Don't worry. If my uncle wants you here, I won't kick you out. You're my cousin's mother. What's his name, by the way? 

 Despite his words, the woman remained tense. She watched him closely, clutching her son to her chest.

 — His name is Moreo.

— Moreo?

— It's a name from Lys. — the woman explained to him. 

Rhaenor leaned forward slightly to examine the baby. Seeing that there was still no aggression in him, the woman hesitantly tore her son off her chest. Judging by the eyebrows, which were almost invisible because they were so light and the purple eyes, the kid inherited the genes of uncle Daemon. 

— What a wonderful boy.—  Rhaenor said, and smiled faintly. 

The kid was innocent and sweet, just like Baelon and Aegon. Without saying another word, the prince retired to his chambers. He needed a little sleep before heading to the castle with an egg for his brother. 

Upon returning to the castle, Rhaenor and the dragonwatchers headed to the nursery. Baelon was lying on a rug, stroking the neck of his dragon, who was making squeaking sounds of pleasure. As the older prince approached his brother, he knelt down and kissed him on the forehead. 

 — My valonqar(little brother). How have you been without me?

— Baba!

— Close, but not quite. — Rhaenor smiled as he stood up and approached the cradle. 

Reaching down and picking Aegon up, straightening up, he nodded to the dragonwatchers to get the egg and put it in the crib. One of them put on leather gloves and opened the pot, and the other, wearing gloves, carefully took the egg and put it in the crib. After that, Rhaenor carefully put his younger brother back in place. Once in the crib next to the egg, the baby stirred slightly.

 — May the Seven grant you a dragon, little one, —  Rhaenor whispered.

Chapter Text

The birthday of Baеlon Targaryen was an important day for Rhaenor. His brother had managed to survive until the age of two. This was a miracle, considering that his mother's other children, the late Aemma Arryn, had either died in their cradles or been born dead.

Waking up in the morning with a good mood, the crown prince had breakfast and changed into riding clothes, heading to the nursery. The first thing he was going to do for his brother was take him on a flight to Syrax. Walking quietly so as not to wake up Aegon, who was sleeping in the second crib, the guy stood up and bent down to take the gently sleeping Baеlon in his arms. The latter began to turn around because he no longer felt his blanket. 

— Good morning,valonqar (little brother). Today is your special day. - Rhaenor whispered and handed the baby to the nurse who changed the clothes of the boy who still woke up. 

Rubbing his eyes with his little fist, the second prince raised his face and looked at Rhaenor in surprise. He obviously hadn't expected to see him so early. 

— Rey?

— Yes, it's me, baby. Congratulations on your special day. 

In response, Baelon yawned and buried his face in his older brother's chest. It was still too early for him. But when Rhaenor took off on Syrax, the baby woke up and cried out in excitement as the dragonfly took off higher. He was in the sky! The baby loved flying. He had never cried before. 

 — Rey! Rey! — the baby said happily, clapping his hands. 

Rhaenor couldn't help but smile. So the baby finally woke up. It would be a pity if he overslept everything. 

After flying on the dragon, the eldest prince returned back to the nursery to change his brother's clothes. Aegon was no longer sleeping, but sucking on a soldier. And next to him, a golden dragon was quietly dozing. A couple of days after he put the egg in its cradle, a dragon finally hatched out. 

— Good morning,valonqar (little brother).— Rhaenor said and kissed his second brother on the forehead. 

—The egg! — Baelon exclaimed when he noticed his brother. 

—Bae! Re! — The second prince also exclaimed. 

 Rhaenor watched his younger brothers interact with tenderness. Baelon and Aegon were very close. One would imitate the other. Or crawl after the other's tail. It was very cute.

— It's time to go, little ones.

 A feast was organized on the occasion of Baelon's birthday and many guests arrived at the castle to see the second son of the king and his first wife, Aemma Arryn.

When everyone gathered in the hall, after his speech, the father decided to be the first of the family to give a gift to his brother. Baelon's father gave him crystal soldiers made from Essos. The second was Alicent. She hung a chain with the Seven's sigil around his neck.

— They will protect Prince Baelon from harm. 

And now it was Rhaenor turn. By his order, a small chest was brought into the hall under the gaze of the guests present. A dagger made of Valyrian steel was first pulled out of it. When your uncle is the famous Daemon Targaryen, it's much easier to find something. 

It was written on the dagger:

Sōvegon freely raqagon nykeā falcon, se zālagon aōha enemies rūsīr perzys raqagon nykeā zaldrīzes.(Fly freely like a falcon, and burn your enemies with fire like a dragon.)

"Hugh did a good job. It's no wonder they call him the best blacksmith on the island." The prince thought with a subtle smile.

"This is so that you can protect yourself in the future, brother."

His second gift was a wooden dragon that looked exactly like Baеlon's real dragon. Today, the baby wasn't brought from Dragonstone because the dragon wasn't very nice to people. The last time it happened, it set fire to the hem of Baеlon's nanny's dress when she took it to change clothes. 

 — My Shi! my!

 — Yes, it looks like your dragon.

And the third gift was the chest itself, which was decorated with a dragon and a falcon. Rhaenor wanted his brother to know and never forget who he was. That he was not just a Targaryen, but also an Arryn. That he was the son of Aemma Arryn.

— Happy birthday little brother.— The prince said and kissed his brother on the forehead. 

 The guests present applauded. 

After the prince went down and stood on the left side of the throne, a member of the Arryn family approached the king and his brother with a gift. His cousin, the ruling lady of the Eyrie, Jeyne Arryn, presented a small falcon in a cage.

— My aunt, the late Queen Aеmma, used to have a falcon, too. And I thought it would be right if her son had one too.

The father smiled sadly at the mention of the mother, but gladly accepted the gift. 

—My son Prince Baelon and I thank you for your gift to Lady Arryn.

After Arryn, other close relatives of the crown began to arrive, including Velaryon, Baratheon, Massey, Hightower, and then other numerous houses.

Chapter Text

At the end of the event, his father wanted to see Rhaenor in his chambers. And he obeyed, handing his tired younger brother over to the nurse. He began to whimper from the fact that he had lost his warmth and pulled his arms towards him.

— No way!

The eldest prince smiled and cupped Baelon's cheeks and kissed him gently on the forehead.

— It's okay, baby. I'll join you and Aegon in the nursery later.
- Plavda?
- I promise.

After making a promise on his little finger to his brother, he left the throne room and made his way through the castle corridors to his father's private chambers. Nodding to Ser Harold, who was standing guard, and another knight, Rhaenor entered the room. To his surprise, his father's chambers were not empty; his aunt, Rhaenys, was also present. After his father's marriage to Alicent, relations between House Targaryen and House Velaryon had become even more strained. Rhaenys had left without saying a word to his father. The silence hit his father harder than the cursing.

— Father, Lady Rhaenys. — he greeted them.
— Oh, come in, son. Rhaenys and I were just talking about you

"Well, it's a good thing it's not Otto Hightower,"—Rhaenor thought.

The young man obediently approached and sat down in the chair.

— I'm listening.

The father, who was sitting at the table, exchanged glances with his aunt and began the conversation.

— You're an adult now, Rhaenor. It's time for you to start thinking about your own family and children.

Rhaenor was unfazed by this conversation. He was well aware of who he was and that he needed an heir of his own.

— And let me guess, you already have a candidate in mind for my future wife.

It doesn't take much thinking to figure out who his father and aunt have chosen. With Lady Rhaenys here, the most obvious candidate for his bride is his cousin, Laena Velaryon. She is a Valyrian bride, the granddaughter of King Jaehaerys's late first son, Prince Aemon. Marrying her would bring Velaryon closer to the crown and resolve the conflict that arose between the families after the Great Council.

"That's clever, I can't say I disagree."

— You've already figured out who your father and I were thinking of, haven't you? — Rhaenys asked, studying his face.
— It would be hard not to guess, Lady Rhaenys, given that you're here.— Rhaenor answered her and smiled.— Laena Velaryon, right?
— We thought that a marriage between you would benefit both families. What do you think about this, son?
— I think she's the best option for me.

Rhaenor wasn't thinking with his heart, but with politics. Despite the fact that they were cousins and had played together as children, he didn't know her at all. But he will find out, because he is going to be a good husband for her.

Chapter Text

On the occasion of Aegon's birthday, a hunting party was organized, and many lords celebrated his second brother's name day in the forest. The Arryn surrounded him and Baelon, while the Hightowers hurried to Aegon and Alicent, who was once again pregnant. His stepmother was already in her late stages of pregnancy, and she was due to give birth soon. However, this time, the eldest prince prayed for a girl, a sister who could be named Visenya. After all, three princes were already enough.
While hunting, Father was the first to catch a white deer and killed it with a spear that was given to him by Jason Lannister. Rhaenor did not see it himself, because at that time he was in another part of the forest with Ser Criston and Corwyn. But upon returning to the camp with the dead boar, he heard the whispers of those present.

— The white stag came to King Viserys by himself. I heard he even managed to bow to him.
— So the gods are very pleased with our king.
— Long live him.

He didn't pay much attention. After the hunt, he cleaned himself up and headed to the tent where his brothers were. Rhaenor was going to personally give his brother a gift. After all, it was his day.
Inside the tent, Aegon was sitting on a green carpet, a gift from Lord Hightower, playing with a wooden knight and a wooden dragon, while Baelon sat across from him, holding a wooden dragon and trying to imitate a dragon's roar.

— It seems my two little dragons have been in a serious fight.

Both boys immediately turned their attention to the elder prince as he entered.

— Rey! — the brothers exclaimed in unison and jumped up from their seats and ran to meet him.

Rhaenor smiled at them and squatted down, spreading his arms in different directions to hug Baelon first, and then Aegon.

— What are you playing with my two little dragons?
— I am Aegon! – the boy declared, proudly lifting his chin.
— And I'm his dragon.

"They're probably playing Aegon the Conqueror."

— Were you a good little dragon? — he turned to Baelon.
— None. I didn't let Aegon sit on me.

At his words, Aegon pouted his cheeks resentfully, and Rhaenor couldn't resist pinching one of them.

— Don't be sad. Better look at what I have for you.

Rhaenor called out loudly to the two knights and they entered the tent, carrying a chest with the Targaryen crest. From it, the eldest prince first pulled out a dagger in a sheath, which was engraved with the words:

Zālagon aōha enemies raqagon nykeā zaldrīzes.(Burn your enemies like a dragon.)

Aegon stared at the weapon with wide eyes, and Baelon began clapping his hands in anticipation of what was to come.

— This will come in handy in the future, Aegon. To protect yourself and your loved ones.

The second gift was a golden wooden rocking horse, the same color as the dragon that hatched from Aegon's egg. Brother gasped and started touching the horse with his hands. Baelon also looked at the gift curiously and, coming closer, began to touch the horse. He had exactly the same rocking chair in the corner of the nursery, only it was blue. A gift from their aunt, Alys Arryn. Still, the boy was curious.

— Do you like it?— Rhaenor asked.
- Yes! — Aegon exclaimed and tried to climb onto the rocking chair.
- Yes! — Baelon agreed, holding up his hands.

Rhaenor smiled and leaned forward to help his brother get on the horse.

Chapter Text

The second child of his father and Lady Alicent was born in the morning. It was a healthy baby girl, just as he had hoped.
His father's smile never left his face. In fact, it grew wider when he held the baby in his arms. He was overjoyed. As for his stepmother, she lay in bed, pale and exhausted. This birth had been more difficult for her than the previous ones. Looking at her now, he could see his mother, Queen Aemma, lying in bed after another birth, staring into space.

— What name will you give her? — turning to his father, Rhaenor asked in a whisper.
— Helaena. That was the name of Alisent's grandmother, Lady Hightower.

The corners of Alicent's lips turned up slightly. She was obviously happy with the idea.
Helaena Targaryen. It sounds unusual.

"Although it doesn't matter what her name is, I already love her." – thought the eldest prince, taking her in his arms.

Sister. He's been dreaming of a younger sister for a long time, and now he has one.

***

When the baby was moved to the nursery, Aegon and Baelon came up to her cradle with curiosity.

— Who's that? — Aegon asked, pointing at the baby.

Rhaenor, who was standing behind the brothers, took his hand by the handle and lowered it.

— Don't point a finger at her. This is our younger sister, her name is Helaena.
— She not pretty.— Baelon said, frowning.

Rhaenor chuckled at that and ran his hand through his hair.

— All children are like that. And you and Aegon were like that too.
— No!— Aegon shook his head negatively.
— Yes. And I was just like Helaena, and so was our father.

The boys looked at him incredulously. It's clearly difficult for them to imagine him or their father as small, wrinkled, and bald.

— But boys, that's what's important. Never call your sister ugly. She's your little sister, she's small and you're big. She needs your care and support. Look at her. How can she fight back against someone like you?

The brothers leaned forward again to look at their sister.

— It's small. — Aegon mutters.
— That's right. She's small, but you and I are big and strong. We must take care of her and protect her. – said Rhaenor putting his hands on their shoulders.

Chapter Text

Rhaenor was sitting at his desk when Aegon burst into his chambers, tears streaming down his face, followed by a breathless Lady Bethany Hightower, who he remembered was the queen's cousin. He had seen her a few times with Alicent when she was still just a lady-in-waiting.

— Rey! — exclaimed the boy, running towards him.
— Prince Aegon, wait! This is not proper. — the girl tried to stop the young prince, but to no avail.

He had already successfully reached his older brother and was reaching up for him to take him in his arms. Which the older prince did, looking at his brother with concern.

— I'm sorry, Prince Rhaenor. I tried to keep up with Prince Aegon, but I couldn't.
— It's okay, Lady Bethany. It's not your fault that my brother has such fast legs. — Rhaenor answered her, looking at his brother, who was burying his face in his chest. — What happened to the egg?

Sniffing, the boy, still without lifting his head from his brother's chest, spoke.

— The witch took Baeley.

Rhaenor looked at his brother in bewilderment. A witch? Who had he called that? Stroking his hair, he looked at Lady Bethany inquiringly, hoping she would clarify the situation. Noticing his gaze, the girl was silent for a moment before responding.

— Lady Amanda took Prince Baelon away from the games to attend classes.
— The witch stole him! — exclaimed Aegon, and looking up at Rhaenor with tear-filled eyes, he added,
— She took him away. Give it back Rey. Give it back!

And pouted his lips.
Rhaenor sighed, and taking out a handkerchief began to wipe his brother's eyes.

— I'll give it back, I'll definitely give it back. Don't worry egg. And you can't call people that. Lady Amanda is not a witch.
Better eat a lemon cake, it just arrived. — said Rhaenor, pulling his other hand to the plate of cakes and put it in front of his brother.

Aegon loved sweets. But especially he shared with Rhaenor a love for lemon cakes. And he did not lose. At the sight of his favorite sweet, the boy was distracted from his grief.
And the eldest prince returned to the documents but his thoughts were about aunt Amanda. The woman took Baelon to classes. But was it? He was well aware of her dislike of Alicent and her dissatisfaction with being her father's new wife's lady-in-waiting.

"What if the dislike was transferred to the children from Alicent?" — the eldest prince pondered.

Worried about these, Rhaenor ordered the servants to keep a better eye on Amanda when she was with the children. He hoped he was wrong.
Unfortunately, the suspicions were true. According to the loyal servants who were with the young princes, the aunt often prevented the boys from playing together. One of the maids managed to overhear through a slightly open door as the woman told young Baelon not to play with Aegon, as he was not his brother. Rhaenor was displeased. The House of the Dragon must be united. Even a disgruntled falcon should not interfere. He had already dealt with one snake like Otto Hightower.
In the evening, he summoned Aunt Amanda to his chambers for a conversation. She stood before him with a calm expression, her head held high.

— Do you have any idea, aunt, why I have summoned you?
— No, nephew, your summons remains a mystery to me.— she replied without batting an eyelid.

Rhaenor chuckled.

— Then I will enlighten you, aunt. You are here for attempting to sow discord within the royal family.
— Ido not understand what you are referring to.
— Do not lie to me, aunt. I know that you've tried to interfere with the friendship between my younger brothers on more than one occasion.

Amanda didn't change her expression and continued the conversation in the same calm manner.

— So, they did report me to you after all.
— Yes, I'm surprised too. Of all people, I have to reprimand you. I thought it was only Otto Hightower causing trouble, but it turns out it's you, Auntie. Don't you feel ashamed?
You've made my brother cry. A little child!

Rhaenor's hands trembled with anger. No one dared to make his brothers cry. Not even his beloved aunt.

— I don't feel sorry for the Hightower puppy.
— Don't you dare speak like that! Aegon, Prince of House Targaryen! — the prince barked.

The woman didn't flinch, but her fingers curled into a fist.

— I have no reason to love this woman's child. You and Baelon are my only concern. You are both the blood of Aemma and Daella.
You can judge me nephew, but I truly believe that it is dangerous to associate with... Prince Aegon.

He sighed wearily and closed his eyes. Aunt was stubborn.

— He is a child, a small child. It is not his fault that Otto Hightower sent Alicent to my father.
He did not ask to be born Otto Hightower’s grandson.
You are behaving like great-grandmother Alysanna.

Auntie's lips pursed at the sound of it. It was an unpleasant comparison. But it was true. Great-grandmother blamed his grandfather Rodrik Arryn for the death of his grandmother Daella. He had taken her too soon. And her dislike had passed to his mother Aemma Arryn. Just because she was not only Daella's daughter but also Rodrik Arryn's daughter.

— It's painful to hear, nephew.
— I know.
— You do realize that I can't love this boy, even if you want me to. I can't because he is the son of two people I hate.

Rhaenor took a few steps forward, looming over his aunt. His anger subsided, and he reached out, taking her hand in his. She tensed, but did not pull away.

— I understand that you cannot love Aegon, and I will not force you to, aunt. But please do not interfere in the relationship between my brothers.
Okay? My mother would want them to get along, just as she does with you.

There was a few minutes of silence between them, and then Amanda sighed and nodded, squeezing his hand.

— I heard you.

Chapter Text

Helaena was a strange child. As Maester Mellos noted, she cried much more when she was in someone's arms, whether it was a nurse, her father King Viserys, her mother Alicent, or her older brother Rhaenor. Unlike her brothers, she showed no interest in the dragon egg that had been placed in her cradle.

— Is she well? — the king asked the maester, observing his daughter as she slept in her cradle.
— Her life is not in danger, my king. Princess Helaena was born as strong as Prince Aegon.
— Then why is she crying in my arms? Or in my wife's arms? Why isn't she interested in the dragon egg? Can you explain this to me, Master Mellos?

Helaena is his first daughter, and of course, having experienced the loss of children, the man was worried about his girl.
Rhaenor same, who visited his sister quite often, personally believed that she wasn't strange, but simply different. Children can't be identical to each other. For example, Baelon, unlike him and Aegon, didn't like lemon cakes and preferred orange cakes. Or take himself, unlike his uncle Daemon, who favored swords, he preferred archery. Therefore, Rhaenor wasn't surprised by his sister's tears. The same goes for her indifference to the dragon egg, which he replaced with a new one on his father's orders because the previous egg had cooled down. She's still quite young, and not all Targaryens show interest in dragons. His late grandmother, Princess Daella, despite her lineage, was afraid of dragons. The same was true for Princess Gael and his mother, Queen Aemma Arryn. Perhaps Helaena shares their fear. However, it's too early to tell. Perhaps things will change as she grows older. Even if they don't, he won't love his sister any less. She remains his younger sister, someone he needs to care for.

— When you wake up, my dear sister, we'll go for a walk in the garden. Fresh air is good for young children. — Rhaenor whispered as he sat by the cradle after his father and Maester left the nursery.

Chapter Text

The return of Corlys Velaryon from the war led to the official announcement of an impending marriage between Rhaenor and Lady Laena Velaryon. However, the return of his uncle, Prince Daemon Targaryen, from the war caused another scandal. When Daemon returned, Rhaenor's father, King Viserys, promised his brother that he would grant him any request as a token of gratitude for his participation in the war on the Steps. Daemon's request was not for the annulment of his marriage, but rather for his brother to legitimize his illegitimate son. The Small Council Chamber was in an uproar over this request.

— It is impossible my king! To acknowledge a prince's bastard when he is still married, it would be a disgrace to his wife my king. We cannot do such a thing to a poor woman. — Otto Hightower spoke, casting displeased glances at the Vicious Prince.
— If you will allow it my king, the Vale of Arryn will not forgive such an insult to the crown. — Lord Strong added.
— I can't imagine what Lady Royce will say about this,— Beesbury muttered, waving for the cupbearer to refill his wine.
— I don't care what my bitch of a wife thinks. The fate of my son is at stake, — Daemon said, dismissing his wife with a wave of his hand.
— Prince Daеmon how can you say such things?!
— Daemon no more word!

The only ones who remained calm were Lord Corlys, and Rhaenor. The former didn't care, he was already thinking about his daughter's wedding, while the older prince was simply the first to be informed about his uncle's desire to legitimize his son. And he couldn't refuse his uncle's help. Little Mateo was innocent like all of Rhaenor siblings.

— If you will allow me, Father, I have something to say about this.— he said as he stood up.

Everyone present fell silent, turning their gaze from the wicked prince to him.

— I'm listening to you, Rhaenor. Tell me what you think about all this. — Viserys nodded and took a sip of wine from his goblet.
— Uncle Daemon informed me of his desire to legitimize the boy a little earlier than your father did.

Everyone's eyes widened in surprise.

— You knew and kept silent? How could you, Rhaenor?! — The king exclaimed, placing his goblet on the table with a loud thud.
— If I may continue, Father. Yes, I was aware of my uncle's plan, and I have written to my cousin, Jeyne, and Lady Rhea Royce about it. My cousin, the ruling lady of the Vale, is furious, but in memory of my mother, her aunt, she will not cause a scandal. However, she demands monetary compensation from the crown for Lady Rhea's suffering and the annulment of her marriage to Uncle Daemon. — Rhaenor continued, taking a letter from his cousin and placing it on the table.

The letter was immediately taken by the right-hand man and immediately passed on to the king, who immediately began to read the contents.

— It is indeed as my son said. — Viserys said, putting the letter aside and rubbing his eyes. — The Vale is willing to overlook my brother's actions for a price.
— But what about Lady Royce? Perhaps her thoughts differ from Lady Jеyne's! Perhaps she does not wish for a divorce.— Otto Hightower persisted.
— Speaking of Lady Royce, I have a letter from her as well. — replied the prince, taking out another letter from his right hand. — Lady Rhea is also displeased with her uncle's behavior. She has insulted him several times in her letter, but I will not reveal the specifics.
— As sharp-tongued as ever. — Daemon rolled his eyes.
— She demands a divorce, because according to her words, the marriage between her and her uncle was not consummated. But she needs an heir. — Rhaenor continued to speak, ignoring his uncle's glare.

This letter passed through the hands of all the members of the small council until it finally ended up in the hands of his father, the king.

— Seven Daemon, you just got back and you're already giving me a headache. — Viserys shook his head in disappointment, looking at his brother.
— If only you'd listened to me earlier and annulled my marriage to the Bronze Bitch, I wouldn't have to ask you to legitimize my child right now. — Daemon answered him, not admitting that he had done anything wrong.

There was a long silence in the hall. And then the father made his decision.

— Good. Since Lady Rhea herself is requesting a divorce, I will grant permission and explain everything to the High Septon. The letters written by her hand will serve as proof to him that the marriage between her and Daеmon was not consummated.

Viserys turned his gaze to his brother and, taking a sip of wine, continued speaking.

— As for your son, brother, I will legitimize him as your son, but a little later. Now we need to deal with your divorce and my son's future wedding.
We're done for today. All of you can go except you, Rhaenor.

After everyone had left, the king looked with disapproval at his eldest son, who was now standing in front of him.

— I can't believe you knew everything and didn't tell me about it. So you wrote a letter to Lady Jeyne and Lady Rhea without my permission. Rhaenor, you are my son! You are my heir! There can be no secrets between us!
— I know that you and Daemon have a strong bond. But as the future king, you must be able to put the needs of the kingdom above your personal feelings! The Vale doesn't oppose you just because you have Arryn blood in your veins. What would we do without it?
— I just wanted to help my uncle and aunt. They were both suffering from this union. — Rhaenor replied, looking his father in the eye.
— Not everyone gets to experience happiness, son. Half of the lords of Westeros are married to their wives not out of love, but out of duty. Your uncle's marriage was arranged by my grandmother, the late Queen Alysanne, for the sake of an alliance with the Vale.
— Why did we need this alliance with the Vale? It was already established when my grandmother, Princess Daella, married the High Lord, my grandfather, Lord Rodrik Arryn. It was reaffirmed when my mother married you!

Rhaenor was not going to back down. His father might be displeased with him, but he had done what he believed was right. Uncle Daemon deserved happiness, just like Aunt Rhea. He couldn't understand why his father couldn't see it, considering that the man had married Lady Alicent of his own free will.

— That's enough, Rhaenor. As punishment for acting behind my back, you will leave the court and stay on Dragonstone for a month.

With that, their conversation was over. The king stood up and left, leaving his son no opportunity to challenge his decision.

Chapter Text

The children did not react well to Rhaenor's departure. Aegon and Baеlon both had hysterics and clung to their older brother's legs, pleading with him not to leave. However, their tears did not sway the resolve of their father, King Viserys. Although his heart ached at the sight of his children's tears. The Seven knew that he never wanted to upset his children. But it was necessary. Rhaenor needed to realize his mistake and remember who his loyalty belonged to. 

— I don't want to! I won't give it back! — Aegon shouted.

— Don't leave me, Rey! — Baelon echoed his younger brother.

The eldest prince was heartbroken himself. He loved his younger brothers and sister. They were everything he had dreamed of since childhood, and it was painful to part with them. However, in his pride, his father refused to acknowledge his mistake and instead punished him. And for what? For Rhaenor's desire for justice and happiness for his uncle Daemon and aunt Rhea. They were not happy in their marriage and were making each other miserable. Now, the uncle has a chance to raise his son, to meet the woman he truly loves, without being forced by anyone, and to create a happy family with her. The same goes for Rhea Royce. A woman will finally be able to find someone who will respect her, if not love her, and perhaps even acquire an heir. 

— Don't cry, dear, it won't be long. Before you know it, I'm back with gifts. — said Rhaenor, squatting down and began to stroke the brothers' hair. 

— I don't want to!

— No!

Since the king could no longer bear to watch the suffering of the children and retired to his chambers, Queen Alicent slowly approached them. She tried to look calm, although the eldest prince could see the sadness in her brown eyes. 

—Aegon, Prince Baelon, that's enough. Let your brother go. He has a duty to fulfill. 

— No! No! — Aegon exclaimed, shaking his head negatively at his mother's words.

— We don't want to! 

 Alicent shakes her head in displeasure, and, stepping closer to her son, leans over and whispers in his ear, placing her hand on his shoulder. 

— What is this behavior, Aegon? Stop it now, I said. 

— No! — Aegon replied, clinging to his older brother's leg. 

 Rhaenor shook his head at the queen as she reached out to pull the younger princes away from his feet. He would handle it himself. 

— I know you're sad, but I won't be long. I promise I'll be back before you can blink, and I'll bring you sweets. For you, Baеlon, there are orange pies, and for you, Aegon, there are lemon pies. — he lifted his brothers' faces and used his thumbs to wipe away the tears streaming down their cheeks. — And for little Helaena, there's a beautiful dress. — Rhaenor added, turning his attention to his sister, who was wriggling and whimpering in her in the nanny's hands.

It took a lot of effort, but he managed to negotiate with his brothers, and they reluctantly let him g

                                           ***

Since this trip was still a punishment, Rhaenor went to the island without his friend Corwyn and the sworn shield Criston. It's just him and Syrax, and the servants at the castle will take care of him.

— Tubī ziry iksos sepār issa se ao, issa dōna riñnykeā.(Today it's just me and you, my sweet lady.)— the prince whispers to his dragon, running his palm over her wing. 

She felt his emotions, lifted her tail and touched the tip of his knee. A faint smile spread across the eldest prince's face.

— Issi ao trying naejot support issa raqagon bisa? Kirimvose, issa jorrāelagon hāedar. Ziry iksos jēda naejot sōvegon.(Are you trying to support me like this? Thank you, my dear girl. It's time to fly.)

The flight did not bring him the usual pleasure. It was somehow dreary without his brothers and friends. Apparently, his father had decided to seriously punish him.

"It would have been better if he had been able to stand firm in the face of the Lord of the Hand." — the prince thought with annoyance.

But no, Otto Hightower was inviolable and all his decisions, even those he made without the king's approval, were for the benefit of the state. His father values him more than he ever valued his late mother, Aemma Arryn, whom he claimed to have loved dearly. He cares for him more than he does for his own younger brother. His father does not give his family the respect they deserve, but he still expects them to be loyal.

Rhaenor chuckled. Despite his love for his father, he was not blind to his mistakes.

Upon his arrival at Dragonstone, he was greeted by the castle's steward and Lady Mysaria, who was dressed in a light-colored gown with a shawl draped over her shoulders. Standing next to her was little Mateo, smiling at him with his toothless grin. 

 — Prince!

Rhaenor smiled back at the child. He often flew to the island to fulfill his duties as an heir and spend time with his cousin. The boy was so sweet and reminded him of his younger brothers, so the heir spent his free time playing games with him. 

— Welcome, my prince. — Eldrick Hart, the castle's castellan, bowed his head in greeting.

— Thank you for your warm welcome.

— Your chambers are ready, my prince, as are the servants and knights who will attend you while you stay at the castle.

— That's good, very good. I'll go to my chambers and have Syrax fed.

—Of course, my prince.

Just as Rhaenor was about to leave for the castle and the others began to disperse, a roar rang out from the sky, and young Mateo joyfully clapped his hands and exclaimed to his mother.

— Look at another dragon!

Turning around, the Crown Prince stared in amazement at the dragon descending to the ground. It was Sea Smoke, and his two cousins, Veleryon, were riding on top of it.

"What are they doing here? Shouldn't Laеnor be resting? And Laena? She didn't mention their arrival in her letters."

 — What a surprise, dear cousins.

— We've missed you too, cousin.— said Laenor, jumping off the saddle, and Laena followed him.

— We can literally see how happy you are to see us. You're smiling from ear to ear. — said Laena, approaching her fiancé.

— Oh, I'm certainly happy to see you both. It's just that your arrival is quite unexpected, considering that the letter you sent me, Laena mentioned that you would be busy with various women's matters and that Laenor would be recovering from the war.

— See, I told you we should have sent him a raven.— Laenor leaned over to his sister and whispered in her ear. 

 Laene rolled her eyes at her brother's words.  

 — That would have ruined our surprise. 

Rhaenor chuckled at the bride's words. Their arrival was an unexpected but still pleasant surprise for them. He couldn't remember the last time they spent time together as a family.

Chapter Text

A month passed without a dragonstone. Rhaenor fulfilled his duties as the crown prince, played with his cousin, who was quite an active child, and flew with Laenor in the morning. His golden lady raised her head when she overtook Seasmoke. He could feel her happiness and even her glee. Although his cousin's dragon was not upset, it actively sought out Syrax's attention.

"If Caraxes ever finds out about this, Seasmoke will have a hard time," — the prince thought as he watched the two dragons flying together in the sky from his balcony.

Caraxes was very protective of Syrax while he was in the dragon lair. He even courted her, according to the dragonwatchers. If Daemon hadn't gone to war and then Rhaenor hadn't flown to Dragonstone, they would have mated long ago.
As for his fiancée, they also spent a lot of time together. They would walk around the village and fly to Syrax. Laena especially enjoyed flying.

"In the sky, I feel free from all these rules and expectations."
"I understand you, cousin. I feel the same way every time I ride Syrax."

His bride is a straightforward woman. If she doesn't like something, she'll say so to his face.
She's told him more than once that she doesn't like the way his father rules. His favoritism towards Otto Hightower. She's especially been outspoken about her cousin, Ser Vaemond.

— Can you imagine? That cowardly bastard refused to claim the steps in the first place, and now he's demanding them back.

But he wouldn't be able to take them back from Darmon. Although Rhaenor would love to see Daemon try to open his mouth in front of his uncle. Five seconds and he'd lose his tongue. Once Daemon had the lands that would pass to his son, there was no way he'd give them up.
In the end, the punishment wasn't that bad. Although Rhaenor missed his siblings and wrote letters to them, which Aunt Amanda claimed she read to the children.

— You love them very much. — Laenor once said over a game of cards.
— Of course I do, how could I not? — he was surprised. — They're my family.
— It's just that not everyone is as capable of loving brothers and sisters from a second marriage as you are. Our father actually thought that you would ignore them. — Laena explained to him, placing another card in front of him.

There was truth in their words. Take his mother's family, for example. Aunt Alys and Uncle Albert ignored his mother and did not see her as a sister. As Aunt Amanda had told him, the resentment against Daella had shifted with her death to the child.
But he was not like his Arryn relatives. Despite how much he was unhappy with his father, he did not have such feelings for his children. They were innocent. They're Targaryens, just like him. The family must be united.

***

Upon their return to Red Keep, the courtiers, father, Alicent and the children came out to meet them. Baеlon and Aegon shifted their feet especially impatiently. If it weren't for Aunt Amanda's hands on their shoulders, they would have rushed to Rhaenor long ago.

— Welcome back, my son. I'm glad to see you.
— I'm glad to be back as well.
— I see you weren't alone on the island, Prince Rhaenor. — Otto said, glancing at the two Velaryons standing behind the prince.
— Yes, my cousins were keeping me company, Ser Otto. After all, Lady Laena is my fiancée, and Ser Laenor is my cousin, and he was resting on the steps after the war. — Rhaenor replied without changing his expression.
— But they didn't inform the king. That's not proper.
— Enough, Otto. My son is back, and it is not a bad thing that Rhaenys children were on the island. As my son said, Lady Laena was with him because she is his bride, and Ser Laenor brought her there while he was resting. — Viserys waved his hand at the Hand of the King. — Let us return to the castle, for you must be tired.

As soon as Rhaenor entered the castle and reached his chambers, his brothers rushed to embrace him.

— You are back! — Aegon exclaimed.
— You've been gone a long time! — Baelon said, puffing out his cheeks.
— Where are the presents? You promised!
— We missed you!

Rhaenor was smiling contentedly as he stroked his brothers' hair.

— Of course I brought you sweets. I'm sure you'll like them.

He looked at Aunt Amanda, who was holding little Helaena in her arms.

— And how is my sweet sister?"
— As usual, she cries a lot. His aunt answered him calmly.
— Do you think our next brother or sister will be the same as her? — Baelon asked.
— Ugh, I don't want to. — Aegon wrinkled his face.

The elder prince froze upon hearing his brother's question. The next brother or sister? What was Baelon talking about? A realization struck him.

— Aegon, is your mother expecting a child? — he asked his brother cautiously.
— Yes. — Aegon confirmed.

Rhaenor tensed at what he heard. It reminded him of his mother's frequent pregnancies. He didn't understand why his father was in such a hurry to make Alicent pregnant again. It was strange.

"Seven help Lady Alicent. His father clearly doesn't know when to stop."

Chapter Text

Time passed so quickly that Rhaenor didn't realize how fast the day of his own wedding had come. He was nervous, to be honest. The thought of Laena as his wife was a bit strange. Just a few weeks ago, they were just cousins, but now they almost were husband and wife. 

The throne room was decorated, and there were many different dishes and drinks on the tables, and the guests were still arriving. Alicent had done a good job. Rhaenor was dressed in a red and black suit, the colors of his house, and his long silver-gold hair was tied in a low ponytail. He was wearing a cloak with a three-headed dragon, the symbol of House Targaryen.

 His father even cried when he saw him.

— If Aemma were still alive, she would be very happy for you. 

A sad smile spread across the heir's face. He wouldn't have minded if his mother were still alive and present at the wedding. Even better would be if she could hold her grandchildren in her arms. But unfortunately, not everything happens the way we would like it to. 

 — Well, who would have thought I'd live to see this day? My nephew is finally discovering a woman. Thank the Seven, I thought you'd be like Laenor.

Uncle Daemon was smiling proudly, holding Mateo's hand as boy looked around curiously.

—...Thank you uncle. I see you are not alone today but with your son. And where is his mother if I may ask? 

— She is in Pentos now. Mysaria does not like to attend events where the nobility is present. 

"Well that's even better. Less reason for quarrels between uncle and Lord Hightower."

— Well enjoy the holiday. Especially you little one.

— Thank you. Mateo said and smiled at him with a big smile.

— You're a nephew too. And don't worry so much, you won't remember much of it in the morning. Just the pleasures of your wife."

— Uncle!

— Oh, who's the one who's embarrassed? I'm just telling you the truth.

After speaking with his uncle, the prince made his way to the septon and his father, who were waiting for him. All the guests stood and watched as the bride appeared, accompanied by her father, Lord Corlys Velaryon. Rhaenor couldn't take his eyes off the bride. She was dressed in a white wedding gown adorned with pearls, her platinum hair was loose, and she wore an aquamarine tiara on her head. She was breathtaking. His father coughed, and he stopped staring at his bride, looking down at the floor. 

As soon as Laena released her father's hand and stood in front of him, the septon stepped forward and spoke.

— In the face of the Seven, I marry these two, may they be one from now on and forever. Look at each other and say your vows.

Rhaenor and Laena, looking into each other's eyes, started talking at the same time: 

— Father, Blacksmith, Warrior, Mother, Maiden, Old Woman, Unknown...

— I am hers, and she is mine... 

 — I am his, and he is mine...

 — ...From this day until the end of my days. Both finished speaking at the same time. 

The septon began to bless the marriage seven times. Then, with a wave of his hand, the septa began to sing the wedding hymn. After the anthem, the septon addressed everyone in the hall.

— If there is a person here who believes that this union is impossible, let this person step forward and announce the reason. Or let him shut up forever!

No one responded, and the elderly man nodded and looked at the bride and groom.

— You can exchange wedding cloaks and kiss. 

 Corwyn and Laenor immediately rushed over to help with the cloaks.

— With this kiss, I pledge my love to you and acknowledge you as my lord and husband. —Laena said before leaning forward and kissing Rhaenor. 

— With this kiss, I pledge my love to you and acknowledge you as my lady and wife. — the prince said as he kissed her back.

 After they broke the kiss, the septa raised the sacred seven-sided crystal above their heads and recited the final words of the ceremony. 

— Before the gods and men, I now pronounce Crown Prince Rhaenor of House Targaryen and Lady Laena of House Velaryon to be man and wife! One flesh, one heart, one soul from this day forward, and may the one who stands between them be damned!

Their lips met once more.

Chapter Text

A couple of months after the wedding, Rhaenor received a raven from King's Landing and returned to the castle. Lady Alicent had once again successfully given birth to his father's child, and not just one, but two. Twins; a boy squirming like a baby goat and a girl just crying. But what was remarkable was if the boy took after their father completely, but his twin sister, judging by her dark eyebrows, inherited her mother's color. It was interesting.

— Congratulations to you, Father, stepmother. You have wonderful children.

The father was smiling contentedly as he held the babies in his arms, but Alicent, pale and tired, was lying on the bed resting. The birth turned out to be difficult for her this time.

—Thanks, son. Very soon, you will experience the joy of fatherhood.

A smile spread across the heir's face. Her father was right, Laena got pregnant quickly after the wedding night and was due to give birth three months later. That's why he left her on Dragonstone, forbidding her to fly with him.

— "Indeed, I will soon know your feelings.
What have you decided to call them, by the way?"

Looking at the boy with tenderness, Viserys replied.

— Your new brother will be called....Aemond. I want to honor the memory of my brave uncle, Rhaenys 's father. But so that she doesn't take offense at me, I'll add another letter to this name.

"A smart decision. Despite my marriage to Laena, aunt never stopped glaring at my father."

—That's a great name.And what will my sister's name be?

The king shifted his thoughtful gaze to his wife and then looked back at his newborn daughter.

— Alerie, after Alicent's mother.

The brothers were overjoyed at the birth of their brother. As soon as Aemond was placed in his crib, the boys surrounded it.

— Yay, a new brother! — Baelon exclaimed happily.
— Yes, your new little brother. And another sister.

Aegon frowned looking at the new sister.

— Will she be like Helaena?
— Yes. Just as beautiful and charming as our dear Helаеna. They are sisters after all.

Chapter Text

It took a while, but Rhaenor noticed how upset Aegon and Baelon looked. With the arrival of their new siblings and his own child, the atmosphere around the boys had changed. They no longer ran to the nursery with their usual enthusiasm, pushing each other to get a peek at the crib. Instead, they walked reluctantly, taking slow steps and avoiding getting close to the babies. And if they were looking at them, he could see Baelon's lip jutting out, and Aegon's hands clenched into fists. It was strange. They didn't act like this with Helaena.
When he shared this observation with Laena, she immediately gave him an answer.

— They're jealous.

He stared at his wife in surprise, which made her chuckle.

— Jealous? — Rhaenor asked. — But why?
— I always forget that you have no experience in this matter, because you have been an only child for most of your life. — said the young woman, putting the book on the bedside table.— You know, it's hard when the attention that was only for you suddenly shifts to another person.
— But they didn't act like that when Helaena was born.
— There was only one Helaеna back then. Now there are three of them, two of them taking their mother's attention and one of them taking yours. — Laena explained to him.

He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. If he thought about it, Alicent had indeed started giving all her attention to the twins after she recovered, something she hadn't done for Aegon before. She had been pampering Helaena, as she was her first daughter and cried quite often. The same went for him. With the birth of his son, his own flesh and blood, he began to pay less attention to both boys.
It's not worth talking about the father. The king's work took up a lot of his time, as did his illness. The children rarely saw him.

— What should I do?

Rhaenor didn't want his brothers to feel left out.

— Talk to them, find time to spend time together. Make it clear that your love has not changed and will never change, that your love is not a pie that can be divided into parts, and someone can get and someone can not.
That it is boundless.
— Yes, I will. Thank you, Laena, you have given me food for thought. — he thanked his wife and kissed her cheek. — By the way, how did you understand what exactly children are experiencing?
— My mother told me once that Laenor wasn't so happy about my birth. He sulked, threw a tantrum, and even nearly pushed my egg to the floor.
—Wow, you don't look like it. I 've always envied your connection with him and wanted me to have a younger brother or sister too.

Laena chuckled.

— Well, now you have brothers and a sister. Now you're experiencing the joys of being an older brother.

The next day, after putting off a couple of things, Rhaenor went to see his brothers. The boys were sitting on the carpet in Aegon's chambers. Aegon was throwing toy soldiers into a book that looked like a fortress, and Baelon was reluctantly twirling a wooden dragon in his hands.

— Are you trying to break through the wall? — he asked one of the brothers as he approached them.

Aegon turned around abruptly, a look of surprise on his face, before turning back around and shrugging his shoulders, silently launching another soldier that didn't make it to its target.
Baelon didn't react to him, continuing to play with the dragon.

Sighing to himself, he squatted down next to the boys to be on the same level with them.

— I don't think I've played with you for a long time. Rhaenor began cautiously. — Your fortress has become impregnable since the last time.

Aegon shot him a quick sidelong glance.

— Nothing like that. The witch just gave the book a thicker one.
— Aegon. We've been through this before: Lady Amanda is not a witch. You can't address her like that.

But the boy didn't react to his words. He was as stubborn as a goat.

— And you have Baеlon, a pretty formidable dragon." He may well help Aegon break through the fortress. He turned to the other brother now.

Balon nodded his head at him, without taking his eyes off the toy.
Silence fell between them. Rhaenor decided to take a different approach and talk to the children directly.

— You know, I think you've both been upset about something lately. Maybe I upset you?

Aegon froze with another soldier in his hand. His shoulders tensed. Baelon stopped twirling the dragon and hugged it to his chest. But he said it anyway.

— Yes.
— Is it because I don't play with you much anymore? — Rhaenor asked quietly.

Aegon whirled on him, and there were angry tears in his eyes.

— Yes! You! Mom! Dad! Everyone abandoned us for them! Stop it! — he shouted. You don't read us any more fairy tales!
— And you don't ride Syrax! — Baelon added after his brother.
- Yes! And Mom, she doesn't kiss my forehead anymore. It's all because of them!
— You don't love us anymore!

Rhaenor felt his throat tighten. He clearly saw the hurt in their eyes, he clearly heard the pain in their voice. And it shouldn't be like that.
Getting to his feet, he took a couple of steps forward and knelt in front of the brothers.

— That's not true. Yes, I've started spending less time with you, focusing on my son. But I didn't love you any less. You are the flowers in my garden. The more of you, the better. Even with the arrival of Aеmond, Alerie, and Jacaerys, I will never stop cherishing you. He said, reaching out to wipe the tears from their faces.
— I promise, I will not leave you again.

Baelon turned away, wiping his tears with his sleeve on his own. And then he muttered.

— ...Will you come to us tonight?

Aegon let his older brother wipe his face, and reached forward to bury his face in his shoulder.

— ...I want to go to Syrax.....Now, — he whispered.
— Good. — Rhaenor agreed.

Chapter Text

—Rеy, why doesn't she have the same hair as me? And Jace, too? — Aegon asked his older brother one day, looking curiously into the cradle where his other sister was sleeping, and then turned his gaze to the crib where his nephew was sleeping.

Rhaenor wasn't surprised by the question. The children have quite noticed that the kids are significantly different from them, typical Targaryens. Continuing to comb Aegon's hair, he replied.

— Well, my dear, our sister has hair from your mother. And my Jace got it from his grandmother, Princess Rhaenys. She also had dark hair when she was young. — he replied to his brother, continuing to run his fingers through his hair.
— That's weird.— Aegon muttered.

Indeed, Targaryens usually have silver, gold-silver, or platinum hair. And the eyes are purple, lilac, purple. And Alerie, who took after her mother in appearance with her dark red hair and brown eyes, and Jace with her dark hair inherited by the genes of Arryn and Baratheon, did not fit the usual standard of their house at all.

— But we won't love their any less. Right kid?
— Yes! — Aegon exclaimed.

Aegon slowly began to get used to the existence of his younger brother and sister, as well as his nephew. And this pleased the heir. They are one family and should be united. Although the existence of Otto Hightower was still a problem for him.
The right hand dared to question the legitimacy of his son. Fortunately, Aunt Rhaenys reminded the arrogant man who her grandson took after.

— I also had dark hair when I was young, Ser Otto, from my mother Baratheon. Does that make me a bastard, too?

Her words successfully silenced Hightower. And the rumors about Jacaerys bastardy are subsiding. He and Velaryon did their best to make people remember the Baratheon genes that were in his son Rhaenys's bloodline, as well as the Arryn genes on his mother's side.

"If Hightower continues like this, I'll take my uncle's suggestion and get rid of him." — Rhaenor thought, so tired of the hand.

Chapter Text

Rhaenor sighed wearily as he dragged his younger, struggling brother into the carriage.

—Let me go, Rey! Let me go! I want to fly!

But the grip of the eldest prince was as strong as it remained. No matter how much he loved Baelon, the man wasn't going to indulge him in this. After all, the boy was only six years old, too young to fly his own dragon.

— I said no, it's too early for you to fly yourself.
— That's not fair! You flew to Syrax when you were seven years old!

Ever since Baelon turned six, he had set himself the goal of surpassing Rhaenor's feat and flying his dragon into the sky early.
But it just didn't work out, because the eldest prince is always bothering him.

— I was seven, and Syrax was bigger than your Shrykos back then.

Baelon puffed out his cheeks and turned away from him in the other direction. Standing at the door of the carriage, Ser Сriston shook his head with a frown, but Ser Corwyn laughed.

— It seems that someone was interrupted again.
— This is not funny, Ser Corbray. Prince Baelon is still too young to realize the danger he is putting himself in.

Rhaenor pulled his brother into the carriage and closed the door of his jury shield. All the way back to the castle, the boy sat in silence and frowned. But the eldest prince stood by his decision. His brother will fly, but only when he and his dragon grow up.

Chapter Text

Lady Alicent was pregnant again. Did this surprise Rhaenor? Not at all. He had already realized that his father was planning to start a large family. But he was worried about his stepmother's frequent pregnancies. Alicent Hightower has just recovered from childbirth and is back in position. Her smile was forced, and he could see it. Looking at her tired, with black eyes, Rhaenor saw his mother Aemma Arryn. Her father did not give her a proper rest after each pregnancy and eventually she died. The man was afraid that Hightower was also waiting for this fate. And he decided to talk about this topic with his father. The man looked surprised by his fears.

— Oh, son, Alicent is young and strong. She will cope with childbirth, like all women before her.
— My late mother was tough, too. And where is she now?

It was a dirty trick to mention my mother. But he always acted. Her father felt a lot of guilt towards her.

— Don't, Rhaenor. You are welcome.
—I just want you to hear me. My mother knew no joy except constant pregnancies. I don't want your other wife to experience the same thing. Give her a break. Don't make her give birth almost every year.

Rhaenor didn't know if the words would reach his father, but he hoped for the best.

— Rey! — Baelon exclaimed, running to meet him. — Did you hear that? We're going to have a brother or sister again!
— I heard you, my dear. How did you know? — he asked hugging his brother.
— Aegon told me.
— I see. And where is he?
— Picking flowers in the garden for Hel. He broke her toy and she burst into tears.
—I see. Well, let's go see how he's doing. And then we'll fly to Syrax.

Chapter Text

In the evening, Lady Alicent gave birth to a baby, another healthy boy. The baby was strong and healthy. And with Targaryen features, judging by his light, almost invisible eyebrows and purple eyes.

— He's beautiful. Congratulations, stepmother, father.

Lady Alicent smiled faintly in response, and her father almost beamed with happiness. He held the newborn carefully, hugging it to his chest as if it were a treasure. Although that's the way it is. Every child is a treasure.

— What would you call him? — Rhaenor asked curiously.
— Hmm.

Viserys rubbed his chin thoughtfully, examining the baby. And then he said with a smile.

— I thought of it. Daeron!

"Daeron? I thought he'd decided to name the baby after Uncle Daemon.Although I don't think Otto would have allowed it."

—That's a wonderful name. Hello, Daeron. — he said, taking his newborn brother in his arms.
— I'm your older brother. Soon you will see your other older brothers and sisters.
—And a dragon. — Viserys added.

Which made Rhaenor freeze for just a moment. He didn't really expect to give him an egg. The boy was already the fifth son. Is it appropriate to give him a dragon egg when the late King Jaehaerys did not grant such a favor to his youngest third son? Although, his father is not the late Jaehaerys. And it's only fair that all children have a dragon.

— And the dragon, of course.

The children greeted their younger brother quite joyfully. Baelon and Aegon surrounded the lullaby, and Helaena, holding onto the nanny's dress, watched from her place.

— Brother, can I choose an egg for him? — Baelon asked, touching the baby's almost bald head with his fingers.
— I want to too! — Aegon exclaimed, holding up his hands.

Rhaenor couldn't refuse them, and he didn't want to. Let them choose an egg for their little brother. It's their turn.

Chapter Text

Rhaenor was literally shaking with rage. He couldn't believe the hand's audacity. How dare he hurt his Aegon? His baby?

— Rey,— the boy whimpered, clinging to him.

The boy's cheek was red from the blow.

— My prince, it's not what you think. We just....

But the man does not listen to Hightower's pathetic excuse, he pushed his brother aside and resolutely moved towards him. Grabbing him by the collar, the eldest prince forcefully pushed him against the wall.

— Shut your lying mouth, Otto Hightower, or I swear I'll strangle you! How dare you lay a hand on my brother? Who do you think you are? You're just the hand of the king! You're the second son! How dare you lay a hand on a prince of House Targaryen?

Rhaenor forgave that slimy bastard a lot. But not this time. No one dares to hurt his brother!

— Prince....you

— I'm going to kill you, Otto Hightower! I swear you'll regret being born!

His voice rose to a scream, and he let go of his collar, the prince immediately grabbed his right hand by the neck and began to strangle. His loud voice attracted attention, as did his younger brother's crying, which caused Ser Criston, Corwyn, and Aegon's sworn shield, Mir Geryon Redwyne, to rush into the chambers a few seconds later.

— Seven, my prince, what are you doing?
— Prince Rhaenor, release your hand.
— Oh, Prince Aegon, what happened? Should I call the Maester?

There was a commotion, and servants passing by began to look into the rooms. Ser Criston and Ser Corwyn managed to unhook him from the neck of the gasping Otto. He fell to the floor and began to crawl away from him.

— Let me go! Let me go! He hit Aegon!
— No, my prince, you have to cool down. Please calm down. — Corwyn begged him, carefully restraining him.

Rhaenor stopped trying to break free from their grip. He closed his eyes, inhaled and exhaled, and then opened his eyes again and ordered.

— Ser Redwyn, bring Aegon to the Maester. Ser Xriston, arrest the Lord Hand for harming a member of the royal family!

And they obeyed. Of course, Otto tried to get out, but the knights held him tightly when they took him out of the chambers.

"Seven."

Rhaenor hands were shaking. He had just held the life of a damn leech in his hands. He could have pushed harder then....The man shakes his head negatively. No, he couldn't think about it, no matter how much he wanted to.

"I need to calm down, check on Aegon, and meet with my father, who will obviously have questions.He thought, running his hand through his hair.

Aegon was scared, but he wasn't hurt anywhere else. But my father was unhappy. Lady Alicent, who was standing next to him, looked worried.

— What are you doing, Rhaenor? Why did you strangle Otto? You may be a prince, but even you are not allowed to raise your hand to the hand of the king!
— Just like he doesn't dare lay a hand on the prince!" He slapped Aegon on the cheek! — Rhaenor replied to his father.
— That's a lie! My father wouldn't do that! — Alicent stood up for her father.
— Call Aegon and he will answer you.

And Aegon was brought to the throne room. Despite his fear and uncertainty, the boy, holding the nanny's hand, answered.

—...Yes. Grandpa hit me. I didn't want to study, I wanted to play. He grabbed my hand and started struggling to escape. I don't like sitting at the table. It's boring.

And he lowered his eyes to the floor. The stepmother and father neverescha exchanged glances with each other. Of course, it was hard to believe that a man dear to their hearts would do this, even with his own blood.

— I can't believe it. It's not like Otto. What's gotten into him? — Viserys was asking himself rather than addressing anyone.
— I think the question is removed from me, why did I almost strangle Lord Hand?
— Take Aegon to your place. And you, Rhaenor, go to your wife.

After leaving the throne room, sending the maid away with a nod, the man took his brother by the hand and led him to himself. All the children were supposed to be there waiting for him with Laena. They walked down the castle corridor in silence until Rhaenor finally spoke.

— It's not your fault, Aegon. Your grandfather was wrong.

And he will be punished. The next day, Otto Hightower was removed from his position as hand and sent to Oldtown.