Dragon's flame

[Lothares] [112AC]

Danny POV

Aelyx and I stood at the docks, overseeing the repair of two ancient ships. These vessels would carry the 1,400 members of the Rhoenar. The Rhoenar are true heirs of the ancient Valyrian Order. Their library holds countless books on dragons—detailing their habits, behaviors, and histories—and even some on the forgotten technologies of old Valyria. Aelyx plans to replace 3,000 troops stationed on Dragonstone with rhoenar and intends to send most of the dragonstone's troops to King's Landing. He also plans to train the Targaryen bastards residing on Dragonstone under the Rhoenar's tutelage, and then marry many of them to Rhoenar families. This, he believes, will ensure no bastard can ever claim a dragon.

"We set out tomorrow," he declared firmly.

"But where will we house them? We don't even own a proper castle..." I questioned, concern in my voice.

"When we enter the Narrow Sea, I'll speak to Rhaenyra about it," Aelyx replied.

[The Next Day]

Aelyx POV

The ships were ready. Two massive vessels, each flanked by a dragon on either side, were set to embark.

"I'll be heading to Rhaenyra," I told Danny, turning to mount my dragon.

"Vhagar, jēda (go fast)," I commanded.

The plan was straightforward: Rhaenyra should be at the Trident, negotiating a match for herself as instructed by King Viserys. With that in mind, I urged Vhagar forward, soaring toward the Trident.

Rhaenyra POV

The endless bickering and duels over me had grown unbearable. Men fought for my hand, but none had asked me what I truly wanted. The Blackwoods and Brackens, driven by an age-old rivalry, found any excuse to clash. The latest duel had ended with the Blackwood heir besting the Bracken heir, a child barely of age.

Then, a roar filled the air, a sound so powerful it shook the hall. The murmurs and whispers around me ceased instantly. The gates were flung open.

"PRINCE AELYX TARGARYEN OF HOUSE TARGARYEN."

A smile spread across my face. Aelyx's arrival meant an escape from this madness.

Aelyx POV

I entered the hall, removing my mask and cloak. Immediately, I felt the weight of a thousand gazes upon me—eyes burning with jealousy, envy, and curiosity. I strode toward where Rhaenyra sat, noticing a flicker of joy in her eyes.

"My little brother, why are you here?" she asked with warmth.

"To talk to you, elder sister," I answered, my tone casual.

"Hold! Her grace was in conversation with the heir of House Blackwood... She cannot leave... Wait!" a butler from House Blackwood interjected, his voice laced with arrogance.

I could feel the smug presence of House Blackwood's retinue surrounding us.

"Vezhven ūndegon, House Blackwood," I said, my voice cutting through the tension, loud enough for everyone to hear.

A few chuckled at my words, and I heard Rhaenyra's soft laughter as well. The Blackwood heir, however, could only stare in confusion, unsure how to respond.

"Iz Uēpa rūpagon, nēdin rhaenagon ēdruta rūbra."

{ "If you had your fun, let's go to a silent place to talk." } I said to Rhaenyra, my tone playful yet commanding.

Rhaenyra stood, and together we walked toward the hall's entrance. But as we passed the Blackwoods once more, a thought sparked in me, and I couldn't resist a final jab.

"Don't overthink it; it means 'Weak fools, House Blackwood,'" I said loud enough for all to hear. The room erupted into laughter, and I couldn't help but feel a rush of satisfaction.

Rhaenyra smirked but remained composed.

"Why are you really here, Aelyx?" she asked in a more serious tone.

"I wish to ask your permission to shelter some remnants of the old Valyrian Order on Dragonstone," I said, my voice firm.

"Why should I agree? What's in it for me? It seems like you and Danny are just bringing your private army to Dragonstone, trying to take it from me," Rhaenyra replied sharply, a hint of distrust in her words.

"A promise... We will come to your aid 'once' Rhaenyra. Whatever you need—whether it's burning cities or destroying armies, we will stand by you," I said seriously, my gaze unwavering.

A smile finally tugged at her lips.

"But remember your oath. I do not tolerate those who forget their promises," she warned, her voice soft but laced with authority.

I nodded. "I will not forget."

"And don't anger all the lords when they ask for your hand in marriage. Politely refuse, and avoid doing anything that could harm your claim to the throne," I advised as we walked toward Vhagar.

"Sovès, Vhagar."

As we landed on the shores of Dragonstone, the Rhoenar's ships were already docking. An elder dragonkeeper was there, accompanied by several knights. Vhagar landed gracefully, and I made my way toward the dragonkeeper.

"Who are they, Your Grace?" the dragonkeeper asked carefully.

"They are those who will be staying here. I've already spoken with Rhaenyra; she agreed," I said firmly.

"See to their accommodations," Danny instructed.

Aelyx... Did she say Aelyx? Not Aley... What have I done wrong? Did I make a mistake? Oh gods above, please protect me...

Danny and I soared above the clouds on Vhagar, the vast expanse of the open sky stretching endlessly before us. The feeling of freedom and infinity was overwhelming. When I first flew a dragon, I instantly understood why the Targaryens saw themselves as superior to others.

"So... how was your trip?" she asked, breaking the silence.

"Good, I guess," I replied, my voice distant.

Danny POV

Why is it so hard?! All I have to do is tell him that I love him, and everything will change. Don't overthink it... The thought of him marrying someone else finally convinced me. I want him to be mine and mine alone.

I took a deep breath, gathering all my courage.

"I love you," I finally said, my heart pounding in my chest.

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