The Rise of A Dragon - Chapter 13: To Casterly Rock

Happy New Year Everyone!🎊🎊🎆

Several Moons Later, King’s Landing  

“Have you taken everything you need?” Rhaella asked her daughter.

Rhaella had entered her daughter’s room to ensure that she was prepared for the journey to Casterly Rock. This would be the first time that Aerea would be leaving King’s Landing and Rhaella wanted to be sure that she had everything she needed.

“Yes, mother. I just wish that you were coming with us.” Aerea replied.

She was excited to finally be going on her first trip, and to not only see Casterly Rock and Lannisport, but Jaime as well. It had been years since she had seen the boy, and while she enjoyed their correspondence with each other, it did not compare to seeing him in person.

Rhaella smiled as she gently cupped the side of Aerea’s face, “I wish that as well, but Viserys is not old enough to travel such a distance and I do not want him to be left alone.”

This was partially true; Aerys did not want his son to make such a journey both for his health and safety along with not trusting those outside their employ with their son. But Aerys had also made it clear that he did not want her around, not wanting his sister wife to join him.

Rhaella did not know what she had done to be refused joining the rest of her family, but a part of her was glad to have extended time away from her brother husband. She would miss her son and daughter, but Aerys had been breathing down her neck more since the death of Jaehaerys and him making his oath to stay faithful to her. Having to deal with his forced intimacy, was a burden that Rhaella was drowning under.

“Now come, Aerea. You know how your father hates to be kept waiting.” Rhaella said as she and Aerea left for the castle gates.

As she predicted, Aerys had a look of annoyance on his face as he stood in the center of the yard. Servants, knights, guards, and nobles moved around quickly trying to finish their preparations.

“Aerea, where is your brother?” Aerys asked his daughter as she and Rhaella stopped in front of him.

“I have not seen Rhaegar since last night, after we had dinner. He was not in his room when mother and I looked.” Aerea responded.

A sneer formed on Aerys' face, “Honestly, a prince of the realm should know better than to be tardy.”

I was late, why are you not yelling at me? Aerea thought but knew better than to say that aloud.

“The carriage will be brought out soon for you to ride in.” Aerys said to his daughter, but his body was turned to face the doors of the Keep, no doubt so he would be ready to berate his son the moment he saw him.

Aerea frowned at the thought of riding in a carriage, to be seen as something needing protection. “Father, can I ride a horse? Barristan has been teaching me and I have been giving a steed of my own.”

Aerys looked down at Aerea, “This is not a simple trip, Aerea. We will be on the road for weeks, possibly moons if the weather is unfair.”

“I know and I can handle it.” Aerea pleaded, “You and Rhaegar are going to be riding, and I want to be seen with you, father, to do as you do.”

Rhaella knew that Aerea’s pleas would most likely be heeded by Aerys as Aerea was playing into her father’s desire to be seen as important, but she decided to help ensure this. “Husband, Aerea may be a new rider, but she will have you there to help her should she falter. And it would show that our house is stronger than ever if you ride through the Kingdoms with your two heirs by your side.”

A look of intrigue appeared on the King’s face. Riding would show that Aerea is not some simmering girl, but as strong and capable as any other.

“Fine.” Aerys then turned to a nearby attendant of his, “You there, head to the stables, have my daughter’s steed prepared and brought here for her.”

Aerea smiled as she watched the attendant leave to carry out the King's order. “Thank you, father.”

Before he could respond, Aerys spotted his eldest son walking through the Keep doors with his group of friends.

“Where have you been, Rhaegar? We have been forced to wait because of you.” Aerys spat.

Rhaegar barely reacted as he walked forward, “I was in the library, father.”

Aerys scoffed, “Of course you were.” Aerys did not continue his rant as his attendant had reappeared with Aerea’s horse, “Just mount your horse so we can leave.”

Rhaegar nodded his head before turning to face Rhaella, “Goodbye, mother.”

Rhaella smiled, “Goodbye, Rhaegar. I wish you safe travels, my love.”

Aerea hugged her mother, “Bye mother, I will write to you whenever I can.”

Rhaella hugged her daughter back, kissing her forehead, “And I will look forward to your letters.”

“Love you, mother.” Aerea said, leaning back so she could look her mother in the eye.

“I love you too.” Rhaella replied, Rhaegar had stopped saying aloud that he loved her, usually not returning those greetings when she gave them to him, so Rhaella was happy to still have Aerea who did so without hesitation.

Rhaella then looked at Aerys, “I pray for your safe return, husband.”

“No one would dare try to hurt us.” Aerys said before looking away, “I leave the Keep and the city in your hands.”

Rhaella schooled her features, inwardly surprised by her husband’s decision, expecting him to leave the management of the city in the hands of a castellan. “Of course, Your Grace.”

Aerys said nothing else as he went to mount his horse, Rhaegar and Aerea copied their father, mounting their own steeds.

The Queen watched as her husband and children led the procession out of the castle gates, watching until the distance between them became too great to see then any longer. She hoped that the tourney would be a happy affair, praying that the animosity between the King and the Hand would not ruin the atmosphere.

Rhaella was no fool, while Aerys may have been oblivious to it and suspected something fouler, she knew the true reason Tywin had decided to throw this tournament was not to honor Viserys, but to ask Aerys to join their houses together by marrying Rhaegar to his daughter, Cersei.

With Viserys’ birth, not only has Aerys’ temperament improved, but has put in Tywin’s and the realm’s minds that Rhaella will not be giving the King another daughter, and with Rhaegar now beyond the age of minority, Aerys would have to look outside the family for Rhaegar’s future wife.

Rhaella liked the idea of Joanna’s daughter marrying her son, fulfilling the wish that they and Myria had to become a family in not just words but blood.

Cersei was also the daughter of the richest house in Westeros, a girl of beauty and refinement, and to her, there could be no better match for Rhaegar. But Rhaella knew that Aerys may refuse, not because of any fault with the girl, but simply because Tywin would be the one to propose the match.

As Rhaella went to enter the Keep, followed by Ser Harlan, she could not help but think about whether Aerys would be able to behave somewhat decently while in the home of his Lord Hand.

~X~

Over A Moon Later, Casterly Rock

Joanna again found herself preparing for the King and his party's arrival. Although, this day was different as instead of the event being a funeral for a Lord Paramount, it was a tournament held in honor of a Prince's birth.

There would be far more people pouring into the city as the royal family made their way to Casterly Rock.

All except Rhaella and the very child we are supposed to be celebrating. Joanna thought to herself, still upset that she would not get to see her old friend after years apart.

“Joanna.” The woman in question turned around and saw that her husband had been the one to call out to her, standing next to her as they oversaw the servants that were finishing their final preparations.

“Husband, I assume that the King is almost upon us?” Joanna asked, still staring ahead.

“He is, I received word that the royal family have just reached the gates of Lannisport. They should be here within the hour.” Tywin answered.

Joanna looked at him from the corner of her eye, “And you still believe that Aerys will accept your proposal?”

“I do.” Tywin said without hesitation, “He will find no greater match than our Cersei.”

“He will make his stay here hell. He will move to push and prod at you when it becomes clear what we wish to accomplish.”

“I know, Aerys has always been the type of person to enjoy making others uncomfortable, but I will not allow his pettiness to overcome me. And while he will undoubtedly seek to mock me, he will see reason.”

And just how much will you have to endure? Joanna placed her hand on her husband’s arm. “I hope you are prepared.”

Before Tywin could respond, their daughter and youngest son had appeared. Cersei’s long blonde hair flowed down her back in perfectly styled ringlets, she wore a gold and red dress that was fit to mold onto her body, with a train that was connected to it, trailing behind her. She was holding Tyrion’s hand, leading the toddler to their parents, smiling at them.

“Father, mother.” Cersei greeted her parents.

“Cersei, where is your brother?” Tywin asked, wondering where his eldest son and heir was, surprised to not see him by his twin’s side.

Cersei pursed her lips, “Jaime went back to his room because he remembered that he wanted to show Princess Aerea his new sword when the royal family arrived.”

Tywin had gifted Jaime a custom made sword a moon ago due to the prowess that he had been showing as of late. Cersei remembered the slimy feeling of jealousy that had filled her as she watched Jaime lift the blade with a happy grin. When she had told her father that she too wanted a gift, she had to keep herself from exploding when two days later, Tywin had given her a new harp.

Joanna sighed, “We will have to make sure that Jaime does not immediately unsheathe his blade when the royal family arrives.”

“He will not.” Tywin said, fully prepared to scold his son if he gave a single sign of acting inappropriately.

Joanna then looked at her daughter, “Cersei, do you remembered what we discussed?”

“Yes, mother. I know how I must behave in front of the King and Crown Prince.” Cersei said, “I have to ingratiate myself to Prince Rhaegar.”

“Remember, this betrothal is not yet set in stone-”

“And all father has to do is speak to the King and it will be.” Cersei interjected.

“And I will, my dear, at first opportunity. You will be betrothed to Prince Rhaegar when all is said and done.” Tywin told their daughter.

Joanna had to keep herself from shaking her head as Cersei smiled at Tywin. For years she had been telling Tywin that it would do Cersei no good to constantly tell her that her marriage to Rhaegar was a forgone conclusion.

She knew that nothing in life was ever completely certain, but there was a stubbornness in Tywin Lannister that he passed onto their daughter, a will that would not have them expecting that one did not always get the things they wanted.

Joanna then looked at her son, “Are you excited for the tournament, my sweet?”

 Tyrion let go of Cersei's hand as a nervous expression appeared on his face, “Yes, they will be a lot of knights and… and Jaime said he would let me meet Princess Aerea.”

“Let you?” Joanna said amusedly, “You will already be meeting Princess Aerea, along with her father and brother when we welcome them into our home.”

“But the princess is Jaime’s friend I want her to like me too, what if she doesn’t like me?” Tyrion asked nervously.

Tyrion loved and looked up to his older brother, Jaime was everything that he wanted to be, so the thought of someone that Jaime cared for not liking him terrified him. Jaime spoke of Aerea as if she were this higher being, as someone that he admired greatly. Tyrion could not stop the feeling that if Aerea did not like him then Jaime would no longer love him.

“She will like you, Tyrion. She better not even think of disliking you, or else.” Cersei told him.

“Cersei.” Joanna said admonishingly, “Do not speak that way about royalty, especially not when they get here.”

Cersei ignored her mother as she focused on her brother, “The princess likes Jaime and knows that he loves you, we both do. So, she will like you too, who else do you think has been sending you those books you like carrying around?”

“Those are from the princess?” Tyrion asked wide eyed.

For the past year, Tyrion had been receiving books about dragons, the Children of the Forest, and other magic creatures. He thought they were from Jaime who would give him the books, stating that he deserved them for having a studious mind.

Tyrion devoured these books quickly, the maesters who thought him noting that he was developing quickly for a child of his age and that he would grow to be an intelligent man.

“Yes, they are.” Cersei said she was unsure what Aerea’s motivation was for doing this, especially as she had written to Jaime telling him not to tell Tyrion who the books were from, but they made her younger brother happy, so she said nothing about it.

Until now… 

“Brother, good sister, it seems I have found something of yours.” Genna Lannister said as she arrived in the chamber hall with Jaime in front of her as her sons and husband followed her.

“Thank you, Genna.” Tywin told his sister, before looking at Jaime, “I thought I said you and your siblings were to arrive together?”

Jaime looked down at the ground, “I’m sorry, father.”

Tywin continued to stare at his son while Jaime fidgeted under his penetrating gaze. Tywin looked away, “Do not act in such a manner when our guests arrive. It will not just be the King, but almost every important noble in the continent will soon grace these halls in the next few days.”

“Yes, father.” Jaime then moved, standing next to Cersei.

“Was grabbing your sword necessary? You could show it to your precious princess at any other point.” Cersei leaned to whisper in Jaime’s ear.

Jaime shook his head, “I know, but I want to ask Aerea to spar with me when she arrives. I will beat her this time, I know it!”

“Can I watch?” Tyrion asked, he was always excited to watch his brother train, and the thought of seeing Princess Aerea do so as well, made the young boy giddy.

“I doubt you will win. From what I hear Aerea is having sparring matches with Prince Rhaegar, if he deems his sister to be worthy of crossing swords with, you won’t stand a chance.” Cersei said confidently before Jaime could give Tyrion an answer.

Jaime rolled his eyes, “Do you ever talk about anything other than Prince Rhaegar?”

As the twins began to bicker, Tywin clenched his jaw as he saw his younger brothers enter the hall. His attention was not on Kevan or his wife, Dorna Swyft, but on Tygett and Gerion.

“What are you two wearing?” Tywin asked as he looked the two up and down, quickly moving to stand in front of them, preventing them from walking further into the hall.

From the corner of his eyes, Tywin could see Dorna flinch at the sound of his voice and as subtly as she could, moving closer to Kevan. Ever since, she and others were taken as political hostages by Tywin after the War of the Ninepenny Kings to force those who took large loans from Tytos Lannister to pay their debts back, Dorna had been afraid of him.

Tywin thought the chinless woman was being overdramatic especially as she was able to move past the fact that she was in Kevan’s custody during her time in Casterly Rock as a hostage, marrying Kevan not long after her release. But the man pushed away his usual annoyance at Kevan’s wife as he returned his focus to his youngest brothers.

Tygett was wearing old and well-worn armor. Tywin recognized it as a suit that Tygett had bought for himself years ago with coin that he had won from different tournaments and traveling competitions, wanting to make his way on the world without relying on their family's wealth and Tywin's accomplishments. Gerion was wearing a black tunic, trousers, and boots, looking as if he were going to a funeral or was a man of the Night's Watch.

“And what is wrong with how we are dressed, brother?” Tygett asked tersely.

Tywin narrowed his eyes, “You make our family look far beneath what we are.”

Gerion smiled, “Well, we can't all look as… proper as you do at all times of the day, Tywin.”

It seems that I have given them too much credit. I have underestimated these boys' foolishness. Tywin thought.

“Go and change, both of you.”

Tygett opened his mouth, preparing to argue, but Tywin did not give him the opportunity.

“I will not allow you fools to embarrass our family and drag our name through the mud with your actions. So, either change or neither of you show your faces to the royal family. Since you are both acting like children, I shall treat you as such.” Tywin said coldly, glaring at his brothers.

The hall fell into silence as everyone was now staring at the brothers.

Tygett visibly bristled, his face turning red with anger before he turned on his heel and stormed away.

Gerion let out a low whistle, “Did you see that? Tyg turned into the world’s angriest tomato just now. 

Tywin's glare turned icier, in no way amused by Gerion's jape. Gerion raised his hands in from of him in a defensive gesture, but this act was not believable with the smirk that was gracing his lips. He then wordlessly left the hall, practically skipping away.

Tywin continued to clench his jaw, already feeling tired and annoyed despite the day being far from over.

And Aerys is not even here yet…

~X~

Aerea looked all around her in awe as they passed through The Lion’s Mouth, taking in the enormous cavern.

Over the past moon, the princess had thoroughly enjoyed taking in the new sights and locations for the first time in her life, but she could say that the places along the King’s Road failed to match the beauty of the Westerlands, especially Lannisport.

Seeing the Sunset Sea for the first time took her breath away as they traveled through the city streets, and she could say with certainty that the view of the sea was far better than the one they had in King’s Landing.

Cersei was right; Casterly Rock truly is like nothing else. Aerea thought as she and the royal party finally reached the castle itself.

The members of the main branch of House Lannister were already waiting for the King and his party when they arrived in the courtyard. As Aerys and his children dismounted, everyone bowed to him.

“Casterly Rock is yours, Your Grace.” Tywin said in greeting.

Aerys waved his hand flippantly, “Of course, of course. Now, let us break bread.”

When the Lannisters stood, Aerea discreetly waved at Jaime who returned it happily. Cersei saw this action and made eye contact with Aerea, and just when Aerea was going to wave to the girl, Rhaegar stepped forward and stood next to her. This immediately drew the Lannister girl’s attention away from the princess and onto the Crown Prince, staring at him dreamily and longingly.

Aerea rolled her eyes, she had forgotten that Cersei was infatuated with Rhaegar. She had assumed that Cersei’s feelings would fade over time, but clearly absence had made Cersei’s heart grow fonder.

Once this was done, Aerys turned his attention to Tywin’s wife, “Joanna, it warms my heart to see you again.”

“I as well, Your Grace.” Joanna said cheerfully, all but Tywin were unable to hear the displeasure that she hid behind her words.

To her surprise, Aerys did not look at her with lust, quickly turning his attention away from the woman and onto her children. “I see your twins have gotten more beautiful with age, Joanna.”

“They have, it is a blessing from the Gods.” Joanna said, placing a hand on Jaime and Cersei’s shoulders.

Aerys’ smile became sharp and vicious as he turned away from the twins and met the gaze of the three-year-old boy standing next to his siblings. “You must be Tywin’s youngest son the Gods have blessed him with. Are you not?”

Tyrion fidgeted under the King’s gaze, “Ye-yes, Yo-ur G-race. I-I am Tyrion Lannister.”

“Ah, he clearly gets his handsome looks and way of speaking from his father. I know how proud a man must be to have a son so... perfect.”

Tyrion, being too young to understand the insult that the King had given him, smiled, but the rest of his family stood tensely, each hiding their anger to differing degrees as a few members of the court snickered and whispered at the sight.

Aerys then smirked at Tywin, “Are you not going to show us where we will be staying?”

“Of course, Your Grace.” Tywin said as he waved his hand to a few of his maids, having them take the royal family’s belongings away.

Aerea moved to the King’s side, “Father, could I stay behind? I wish to talk to Jaime and Cersei.”

Aerys looked at the Lannister twins before looking at his daughter, “And you cannot speak with them tonight at the feast Tywin will be throwing in our honor?”

“I could, but I do not feel the need to rest. And everyone will want to speak with me at the feast that I may not have time to talk to them.” Aerea argued.

“Fine, but do not show up late to the feast, Aerea.” Aerys said to his daughter before following Tywin and Joanna.

Rhaegar moved to his sister’s side, “Will you be fine by yourself?”

“Yes. I will have Ser Barristan with me if anything were to happen.” Aerea told her brother.

Rhaegar nodded his head as he moved to follow Aerys, “Don’t do anything I would not.”

“Your boring butt doesn’t do anything at all besides reading and playing the harp.” Aerea muttered.

Rhaegar then raised his hand, using his fingers to flick Aerea’s forehead, a barely noticeable smile forming on his face when his sister winced. “Behave.”

“Ass.” Aerea muttered, rubbing her forehead as she watched her brother and his friends leaving the hall and following Aerys.

A smile appeared on Aerea’s face as she went to where the rest of the Lannister family were standing, she stopped in front of Jaime, surprising the boy when she hugged him.

Jaime immediately returned the hug, “I missed you, Aerea. Letters do not cut it.”

Aerea laughed, “I felt the same way.”

When she pulled away, she turned to Jaime’s sister. Aerea did not hug the girl, but gave her a bright smile, “It is good to you again, Cersei.”

“It is good to see you as well, prin-Aerea.” Cersei greeted before looking at the doors if the hall, “Is Prince Rhaegar not returning?”

Jaime covered his mouth with his hand to hide the snort that escaped him but was obviously not successful as Cersei turned to glare at him.

It is not my fault you are so obvious, sister. Jaime thought.

Aerea was thinking similar thoughts, but did not make them known, answering Cersei politely, “My brother was tired from the journey. Our father had us leave and pack our campsite before the sun rose, so that we would not have to spend more time in the wilderness. But I know that he wants to rest before the feast your family is throwing us tonight.”

Cersei was disappointed that Rhaegar was not here at the moment, but was placated with the knowledge that she would see him again at the feast.

Aerea then looked down at the little boy who was hiding behind Cersei, staring back at her anxiously. Aerea kneeled in front of him, smiling, “And you must be Tyrion. I have heard much about you from Jaime.”

“You have?” Tyrion asked, moving his head slightly and revealing more of his face.

Aerea’s smile grew, finding Tyrion adorable, “I have, your brother has told me about how smart you are in our letters.”

“Is that why you gave me all my books?”

“Uh, yes, a mind like yours should be nurtured.” Aerea replied, looking at Jaime with surprise and confusion.

Jaime looked the same, not knowing how Tyrion could have known this as he had not told his brother about most of his favorite books being gifts from Aerea. Neither noticed the faux innocence on Cersei’s face, making sure not to say anything to them to draw attention to herself.

Aerea stood, walking past the siblings, and greeting their uncles and aunts. When the family had come to King’s Landing, she did not interact with them, spending most of her time with the twins, Cleos, Robert, Stannis, and Ned.

“My lords, my ladies, I must thank you for allowing my family and I into your home, and for throwing this tournament in my brother’s honor.”

“That is not necessary, Your Grace. It is the pleasure of House Lannister to host such an event.” Kevan remarked.

“Regardless, to know that my family has such loyal and devoted houses behind us, is a comfort. I am looking forward to the festivities and to see your brothers and other men of your house compete.”

Tygett had an interested gleam in his eyes, “You are, Your Grace?”

Aerea nodded her head, “I am, I remember watching you and Ser Gerion during the tourney for my father’s investiture anniversary, Ser Tygett. I must admit I was rooting for Ser Barristan, but I cannot deny that the maneuver that you used to unseat Ser Caswell was masterful.”

A small smile began to appear on Tygett’s face as he stood straighter at the princess’s praise. “You praise me quite highly. I often feel as men try to use brute force instead of remembering the skill that is required of jousting.”

Jaime and Cersei looked at their uncle with shock, surprised by how he was smiling and how kind he was being to the princess. It was not that Tygett was mean or even cruel, but he was serious man who treated most outsiders with stiff politeness. So, seeing him take to Aerea so quickly and so easily was astonishing to the other Lannisters.

Gerion let out an obnoxious snort, “Of course you would be so excited to talk about jousting, brother. Will you give the princess a demonstration of your swordsmanship next?”

Kevan let out a small sigh while Genna rolled her eyes at Gerion’s words, both knowing how Tygett would react once they were alone. Tygett gave his younger brother a dirty look from the corner of his eye, keeping himself from viciously berating Gerion in front of Aerea and Barristan.

Luckily for Gerion, Aerea intervened, “I would like a demonstration, if it is no bother to you, Ser Tygett. I have heard of your exploits in the War of the Ninepenny Kings, my own father, Lord Tywin, and Ser Kevan earned a knighthood, and it was reported that you would have earned one as well if not for your immature age. Isn’t that right, Ser Barristan?”

Barristan stepped forward, “The princess speaks true. You were about ten name’s days old, I believe?”

Tygett could not hide the awestruck expression on his face as Barristan the Bold, one of the best knights alive, the man who ended the War of the Ninepenny Kings when he slew Maelys the Monstrous in single combat, an act which gained him the title of Kingsguard. “Yes, yes I was, Ser Barristan.”

Barristan smiled, “Reminds me of myself, when I was the same age and decided to try and compete at a tourney in Blackhaven as a mystery knight.” 

Everyone knew the story of how Barristan gained his epithet of the Bold, how he sought to prove himself in that tourney by trying to compete. The people in attendance laughed at him, but Prince Duncan Targaryen took pity on him and decided to face Barristan, taking the young boy’s challenge seriously. And at the end, Duncan bestowed the title of the Bold upon Barristan for his actions.

Tygett felt that he could relate, he too experiencing the mocking and jeers that were thrown your way when you are a someone of a youthful age trying to prove yourself to your elders.

Tygett had to beg his older brothers to allow him to go with them to the Stepstones, stating that every person capable was needed for the war. And it was only when he needled Tywin’s sense of pride by saying how weak House Lannister looked with Tytos refusing to fight himself like other lords such as Ormund Baratheon, that he succeeded.

“Kevan, perhaps you and Tywin should have left the babe with his nurse, he might get a hunger for milk soon!”

“Why were you brought to the Stepstones? A war is no place for children.”

“Just don’t get in the way, you little brat.”

Tygett could remember the anger he felt within him when Tywin and Kevan were knighted but he was not, having his age used as reasoning against him. Deep down, a dark, twisted part of him believed that this was Tywin’s doing, a way for his successful and feared older brother to maintain his over him, to keep Tygett from outshining Tywin.

“And I am sure that your skill has improved more than since the war. I am more than confident we shall cross paths during the tournament. Perhaps, we can even spar with each other before then?”

“I would like nothing more.” Tygett said, inwardly ecstatic over being given the opportunity to spar with the famous knight.

Gerion crossed his arms, jealous of his brother for being acknowledged by a man such as Barristan the Bold.

Aerea smiled when she noticed the boy standing behind the Lannister siblings alongside a smaller boy and a bald man. She smiled brightly as she made her way towards them, “It is good to see you again, Cleos.”

Cleos jumped, his eyes widening, giving the girl before him a deep bow. “Y-your Grace!”

“You do not need to speak to me so formally, Cleos. You can just call me Aerea.”

“Yes, You-Aerea.” Cleos stuttered.

Cleos had not gotten used to the fact that Aerea liked him, that she had taken to writing to him. He was aware of how people viewed him, seeing him as cowardly, plain looking, and that he was lacking the intelligence of his maternal family. And he knew that said maternal family had similar opinions about himself, his brother, and especially their father. That they were more Frey than Lannisters, the ones who did not fit in with the shiny, perfect lions.

So, Cleos was surprised that even after becoming friends with Jaime and Cersei, Aerea still interacted with him.

Despite not being that much older than them, Cleos was not close with his twin cousins. Neither Jaime nor Cersei bothered to hide their indifference towards him, an action that Tyrion had started to adopt, even with the efforts of Joanna and Genna to stop it. So Cleos kept a wide birth, only interacting with them when necessary.

Aerea then looked towards Cleos’ father, “It is good to make your acquaintance, Ser Emmon.”

“The pleasure is mine, Your Grace.” Emmon greeted, the apple in his throat bouncing as he spoke.

“You’re Princess Aerea.” Aerea looked down and saw that the young brunette boy who looked to be around five years old.

He had been standing next to Emmon and had rushed to stand between Aerea and his father, staring at Aerea with awe in his green eyes.

“I am, and you must be Lyonel Frey. Your brother has told me much about you in our letters.”

“Really?” Lyonel asked as he looked between his brother and the princess.

Aerea nodded her head, “Really.”

Lyonel grabbed Aerea’s hand, holding it tightly as he grinned. “I want to show you my toys!”

Genna quickly moved when she saw this, “Lyonel, do not man handle the princess!”

“I have taken no offense, Lady Genna. I know that Lyonel is only excited, he did not mean any harm.” Aerea said softly, not wanting the boy to get in trouble.

“I appreciate your kindness, princess but others would not act as you have if my son was to believe that this behavior was good.” Genna argued, but her firm gaze was on her husband.

Emmon had done nothing as Lyonel had acted so causally with Aerea before she had given their son permission to do so. It was maddening to Genna how passive and inattentive Emmon could be, even during important moments such as this. Emmon looked at the ground when he noticed the look Genna was giving him, not knowing what he had done wrong, but knowing that his wife would thoroughly tell him once they were alone.

Seeing the anger that was coming from his sister, Kevan cleared his throat, “Perhaps Lyonel can show the princess his toys while the children give her a tour of the Rock?”

Jaime looked at Aerea happily, “I can show you our training yard. And my new sword!”

“The one your father commissioned for you?” Aerea asked.

Jaime grabbed the hilt of said sword, “I have it right here.”

“I would like that.” Aerea said before looking at Cersei, her tone becoming teasing, “Well, Lady Cersei, it seems you have finally been given the opportunity to show me the greatness of Casterly Rock and the Lannisters who occupy it.”

Cersei, realizing that Aerea was repeating what she had told her the last time they saw each other, just barely resisted the urge to smile, speaking to the princess theatrically. “I am the only one capable. I would not want anyone to give you an unpleasant experience or leave you more ignorant of my house than you currently are.”

Aerea grinned, pointing her head towards the doors. “Please lead the way then. Show me what I have been missing.”

Cersei raised her head haughtily, walking ahead of the princess with confidence. Jaime shook his head amused as he took Tyrion’s hand, pulling him after their sister.

Aerea smiled as she watched Cersei walking away, saying her goodbyes to the adults as she followed Cersei, Jaime, and Tyrion, still holding Lyonel's hand as they walked.

Cleos quickly followed the group, and Barristan moved at a distance, allowing the children to have a bit of privacy while still watching over his princess.

~X~

Hours Later

Cersei glared at the sight in front of her, watching another girl dance with Rhaegar. The welcome feast started a short time ago, and she had yet to get time alone with her prince.

He is surrounded by these pathetic little girls and whores, not giving him any respite from their disgusting touches! My sweet prince is simply too kind and knightly to reject their worthless advances. Cersei thought, desiring nothing more than to go up to the dancing pair and throwing the girl dancing with Rhaegar to the ground.

The Lannister had found herself distracted, thoughts of Rhaegar disappeared from her mind when she, her brothers, and her cousins gave Aerea a tour of the castle. Cersei could not deny the pride she felt as she watched how amazed Aerea became as she was shown every important part of Casterly Rock. Especially as the princess would look to her instead of the others for any questions she had.

But once the feast had begun, Cersei remembered what her true purpose was during this celebration; to gain Rhaegar’s favor and have him fall in love with her before her father proposed a marriage between them to the King.

She thought this would be easy as the royals would be sitting at the high table with her family as guests of honor and hosts of the tournament respectively. And Cersei knew that mother was helping her in this endeavor as Joanna, being the one who planned the feast and its sitting arrangement, sat her daughter right next to Rhaegar.

But the prince barely even glanced her way, giving her simple responses as she tried to speak to him before quickly excusing himself and leaving the table, and having not yet returned.

Cersei eventually forced herself to look away from the center of the hall when, yet another noble girl asked Rhaegar for a dance, watching as the prince once again accepted.

Her gaze landed on a table in the far-left corner of the hall, catching sight of Jaime and Aerea. The two had left the high table when the houses of the Vale, led by Jon Arryn and the members of his household entered, both spotting Robert Baratheon and Eddard Stark behind Jon.

Cersei realized she had been so distracted that she had not noticed Robert’s brother, Stannis, and her cousin Cleos had joined them.

A small huff escaped Cersei as she saw that Robert had swung his arm around Aerea’s neck, refusing to let go as he was eagerly grinding his knuckles against the top of Aerea’s head. The lordling was laughing boisterously as Aerea struggled to get out of his grasp, the princess did not look to be in pain, but rather annoyed by her cousin’s immaturity.

Stannis appeared to be admonishing his brother while trying but failing to pull Robert’s arms off the princess, Jaime was laughing almost as hard as Robert as he watched, Cleos was looking between the cousins nervously, obviously afraid that Robert might hurt Aerea with his roughhousing, and Ned was standing a foot away from the group looking embarrassed, as if trying to pretend that he was not associated with them.

Cersei was surprised that she had not noticed them sooner with the attention they were now drawing and looked away from the group of six. There is no way in all the hells I am going over there.

And she was glad that she had not made the decision to as she spotted from the corner of her eye that Rhaegar was now free, no longer dancing with anyone. Cersei stood from her chair and moved as briskly as she could without running or appearing to be in a hurry, making her way to the dance floor.

Cersei growled under her breath as people who were moving about began to get in her way, and she had to fight the urge to shove them all from her path. She ignored the looks she received as she only had eyes for her silver prince.

She had lost track of Rhaegar for a few moments, but finally found him again, talking to his friends as they stood near a fountain of wine. Cersei stopped in her tracks when she witnessed the redhead of the group glaring at any approaching girls and women that tried to walk up to the group, causing them all to turn around, leaving discouraged.

How dare he?! What right does that dog have to determine who can interact with Rhaegar?! Cersei did not know the man, but she knew that she immediately disliked him.

Slowly, Cersei walked around the group, making sure to not be seen as stopped and hid behind the fountain, now having the perfect listening point. Her new plan was to wait until Rhaegar inevitably left his friends alone to speak with him, not wanting to be embarrassed and be given the same treatment as the girls before her.

Myles chuckled as he watched Jon glare at another hopeful young woman looking for Rhaegar’s attention, sending them all but running under the weight of his gaze. “Don’t you think you are being a tad excessive? You’ve acting as if the hall has been invaded and you are defending Rhaegar from the enemy.”

Jon looked around them and sneered, “I might as well be, honestly, did these girls's septas and mothers forget to teach them decorum and propriety? The way they have been throwing themselves at Rhaegar, pulling him around the room like he is a prized stallion, it’s so shameless.”

Richard looked at Rhaegar and grinned, “You have been very popular tonight, far more than usual.”

Rhaegar looked down at the cup of wine in his hands, speaking truthfully, no emotion bleeding into his voice. “Most of the ladies here do not live at court, so it is understandable why they are using this rare opportunity that has been given to them.”

“You know, countless men would kill to be in your position; having to do nothing but exist as all types of women throw themselves at you and yet you couldn’t give two shits.” Richard said, shaking his head in mock disappointment.

“The ladies of the realm do not desire me for anything more than my inheritance and a pretty crown for themselves, they are only wasting their time trying to seduce me when they should be convincing my father to make them my wife. Furthermore, I have more important things to think about than marriage.”

Cersei frowned when she heard this, sympathetic to Rhaegar’s plight, it could not have been easy for him to be constantly pursued by those that sought to use him for their desire for power.

Hold out a little longer, my sweet prince. Soon you and I shall be betrothed, and you will not have any more harlots attempting to seduce you. I will not let them have you, I will be all you need, Rhaegar.

Cersei now found herself more impatient than before, hungrily wishing that her father would ignore tradition and etiquette and ask Aerys for a betrothal right this very moment.

“Is one of those more important things your sister?” Richard asked, pointing across the room towards Aerea who was still trapped within Robert’s grasp, only this time, Robert had stopped using his hand to mess with Aerea’s hair and was instead using it to drink from a chalice filled with ale.

Rhaegar looked at the scene, while a part of him wished to go over a remove his sister from the presence of those boys, he knew that would not go over well. “Aerea does not want me interfering in her friendships, she thinks me too overprotective.”

Arthur let out a small laugh, “The princess is not wrong; you always look a certain way whenever she receives a letter from one of them.”

“I only want her to be safe. I don’t believe those boys would be capable of doing anything but pull her into trouble.”

In Rhaegar’s opinion, Aerea, despite being more aware of certain things, was still naïve to much of the world. This stemmed from the sheltered environment that their parents raised them in, and while he knew his sister had a strong sense of self, he knew how easy it was to be led astray by bad influences.

Arthur shook his head, smiling at the prince knowingly, “I believe that you are overestimating Aerea’s friends, seeing danger where there is none. I for one, think it is a good thing that she has formed friendships with each of them.”

“I think Arthur is right.” Jon spoke, drawing the attention of the others, Myles and Richard both looked at Jon shocked, and even Arthur himself was unable to hide how his eyes widened.

It was obvious to anyone who paid enough attention that Jon Connington did not like Arthur Dayne. The heir to Griffin’s Roost made it clear that he wanted to be the person closest to Rhaegar and hated that Arthur was an obstacle in his path, occupying the position he long coveted, so hearing him agree with something Arthur said, was surprising.

Rhaegar raised an eyebrow, looking at Jon questioningly, waiting for the other boy to explain his reasoning for agreeing with Arthur.

“Just look at the boys that Princess Aerea has befriended, each of them has ties to some of the most powerful and richest houses in the realm; Baratheon, Lannister, Stark, and Frey. And three out of four of these houses have some issue or another with the King and you.” Jon explained.

Rhaegar thought this over, “The North is still cold towards my father due to his actions during his celebration tourney. I have no doubt it is the reason there are no Northern houses in attendance this night, as it stands young Eddard, the second son of Lord Stark, will be the North’s only representative for the tournament.”

The North was known for never forgetting any slights thrown against them, when one house is insulted, all the others take offense. And laughing at the sight of a teenage boy's dead body while his mother wept for him was more than just insulting.

“And father is constantly insulting Lord Tywin and his house each day. It is surprising that he keeps Tywin as his Hand with how much he seems to dislike him.” Rhaegar added.

To anyone else, they would have found it strange that Tywin would hold this whole tournament in the first place, that he would host a celebration for the man who made it no secret that he desired his wife, who constantly treated him with distain and contempt, who mocked and laughed at his children.

But Rhaegar understood that Tywin Lannister, a man of immense pride, was willing to endure the humiliation and toss his ego to the side, using this event as the chance to secure a marriage between his daughter and Rhaegar.

Rhaegar was aware of the Lannisters’ plot from the day he first met Cersei, seeing the way she looked at him, how she persistently tried to gain his attention. And tonight, he would have had be blind not to see how the seats at the high table were made strategically so that Cersei would be sitting next to him.

However, Rhaegar was also not blind to the truth that Aerys has been both jealous and suspicious of Tywin since he first became King. It was unlikely that Aerys would accept a proposal, regardless of how politically advantageous such a match would be, his petty feelings undoubtedly twisting his judgement.

Still, Rhaegar could not find it within himself to be troubled by this, privately grateful that he would not be made to marry Cersei Lannister. He never had much of an opinion on the type of woman he would want his future wife to be, but after being forced to interact with countless ladies over the years and during this feast, he knew that he would hate to be married to a girl like Cersei.

Cersei was not pious, gentle, demur, sweet, or obedient like most girls, and no matter how hard she tried to endear herself to him, Rhaegar could see that she was willful, arrogant, impatient, and defiant. Rhaegar shuddered to think of how exhausting it would be to have such a girl as his wife, and he pitied the poor fool who would be forced to suffer such a fate.

“Wait, I can understand the Starks and the Lannisters not being fond of the King, but what has King Aerys done to the Baratheons? I thought he loved his cousin, Lord Steffon?” Myles asked.

Jon shook his head, “I was not referring to the King and Lord Steffon when I mentioned the Baratheons, I meant Rhaegar and that lout Robert. That fool has not tried to hide his dislike of our prince, you saw how he was glaring at Rhaegar with his beady little eyes when he greeted the royal family tonight.”

Rhaegar and Robert had never been close, but their relationship had become colder after their tense interaction during Aerys’ celebration tourney. Robert had not forgotten the insult that Rhaegar had given him that day and made it clear that he still held a grudge against the prince even years after that fact.

“Should you really be slandering the son of our liege lord?” Richard asked Jon sardonically, “If anyone were to hear you, you would find yourself in trouble with both of them.”

“That is the point I am trying to make; Robert is unfortunately the eldest son of Lord Steffon, which means that he will one day be the Lord Paramount of the Stormlands. Unlike his younger brother, Robert will be a rash and slow-witted ruler, and he will continue to act rudely towards Rhaegar when he becomes King. So, don’t you think it would be best if instead of worrying about possible traitors due to perceived grievances, that it could be avoided if someone close to Rhaegar would be the one to deal with these future problem lords and ensure their loyalty?”

“Princess Aerea is quite friendly and personable. It is as if she always knows the right thing to say to people, even if they have less than favorable opinions of her before they meet.” Arthur said, seeing the point Jon was trying to make.

“Exactly.” Jon said, “The princess has a way of minimizing most slights that people feel they have been given. Look at what she did, unprompted, with the Glovers after the death of their heir. That is a skill that is not so easily taught.”

Rhaegar could not deny that his friends were right; Aerea’s personality made her the type of person who would always try to fix problems and right wrongs. He could also admit that his sister was far more sociable than he could ever be. Rhaegar did the bare minimum of remembering his courtesies and not coming off as rude or entitled, only socializing, when necessary, while Aerea went out of her way to be nice and warm to others.

Aerea reminds me of mother in this sense. Both of them are kind to a fault, always wanting what is best for others, even if it’s detrimental to themselves.

“So, you think Aerea should be what? Rhaegar's ambassador for unruly and arrogant lordlings?” Richard asked.

Jon turned to Rhaegar, “My prince, you said so yourself that now that you have reached your majority and have been knighted, that you would have to take politics more seriously. You need to know who you can trust, who you must keep at a distance, and who you must watch closely. I believe that your sister would be the best person to help you in this.”

Myles smiled impishly, “You already know Aerea is more than qualified, just look at how she got a grump like Jon to like her.”

Jon glared at Myles whilst he and Richard laughed. His glare intensified when he saw Arthur trying not to laugh, and when a ghost of a smile could be seen on Rhaegar’s lips. Jon took slowly to others, usually treating most with a cold detachment or with barely hid superiority. So, seeing him introduced to Aerea, and being unable to act as he usually did, both because of his reverence of Rhaegar, Aerea's title, and genuinely coming to like the princess, was amusing to say the least.

Myles’ laughter soon trailed off, but he continued to grin, “Still, Jon is not wrong about letting Aerea help in you in areas like this. I do the same for my brother, William. He is the one who has been groomed for lordship, but he is not as physically capable or bold as myself. Our father doubts he will ever become a knight, but I will be his sword when he becomes Lord of Maidenpool.”

“I feel the same when it comes to my older brother and my sisters; we each have something that the others lack, but we do not use that against each other.” Arthur added, thinking about Andren, Ashara, and Allyria.

“So, we shall both cover up the other’s weaknesses?” Rhaegar asked himself aloud.

It was common in their family’s history for monarchs to have their siblings, cousins, and other relatives to help them rule, whether in positions like on the small council or unofficially. Although, there were just as many monarchs in their history who resented or did not trust their relatives, keeping them at a distance and away from government.

But I know I can trust Aerea with matters such as this. Rhaegar thought, even as he remembered how he did not trust telling Aerea about the prince that was promised.

“That is something to think about, thank you.” Rhaegar told the others, “Let us go, I believe that we've spent enough time here tonight that my father will not be mad that I left early.”

The group of five began making their way towards the high table. After they left, Cersei stepped out from behind the fountain, wearing an unsettled expression on her face as she watched the group leave.

My family is not a House to be kept at a distance! To compare us to the Starks and the Baratheons is… is an insult! Cersei thought angrily.

Even if the King foolishly disrespects father, he knows better than to push us away, for we are the richest and most powerful House in the realm, even more than House Targaryen! He knows that he needs father to help him rule the realm. I am not something to be disregarded and be seen as other. It’s why I am the only choice to be Rhaegar’s Queen and the mother of his children.

Cersei then moved with purpose, leaving the hall as she sought to find a way to ensure she would become Rhaegar's Queen.