Bound by Blood and Oaths

Chapter 2: Talk Of The Future

Pentos ~ 298 AC

Jaehaerys can't help but be suspicious. They have traveled from city to city. Each time they leave and go to the next town, fewer and fewer people were willing to host them. It even became clear that the tactics employed by Viserys were not working. He even earned himself the nickname 'Beggar King'. Begging for audiences and support for his claim to wealthy and influential citizens and factions.

It even came to the point that no one was willing to hear what Viserys had to say or willing to spend their money on receiving them. Jaehaerys can't say he blames them. Viserys isn't the most pleasant guest to have. He has become more arrogant and boastful about how he will conquer Westeros and take back his throne. On how he will kill all his enemies.

Sometimes Daenerys and Jaehaerys think they don't even matter to him anymore. Just pawns for him to use in his campaign. At least the two younger siblings found solace in each other. Daenerys takes care of the wounds of her brother when he shields her from Viserys. Or from his frequent trips into the violent parts of whatever city they found themselves in. He told her it was to become stronger and to practice his fighting skills. It even earned them a fair bit of coin, but she hates to see him return with wounds.

When they entered Pentos, they received an invitation from a highly influential person. A magister of the city Pentos called Illyrio Mopatis. He invited them to stay at his Manse. The invitation pleased Viserys and Jaehaerys can't help but think he and Illyrio have something planned. Viserys was in too good a mood for his liking. He only saw it during the times had a plan. Which failed, but it seems this time Viserys thinks it will work.

"Jaeh?" Dany asks as she looks around the large grounds of Illyrio's Manse.

"I know. I am wondering about it as well," Jaehaerys mumbles as he looks around with suspicious eyes. This man is clearly wealthy beyond anyone that was willing to host them for at least two years. What would such a man gain in helping Viserys? He must know what kind of person Viserys is or what his reputation is.

Over the years Viserys descended into mental rage-filled states more often, it made the two younger Targaryens clung to each other for support. Viserys not only made them closer, but he also made Jaehaerys hate him more and more. It won't be long before he will alienate himself. Jaehaerys even questions at times whether he even cares for them anymore.

"We will make it through this. Like we always have," Dany says smiling at her brother.

He has grown and developed into a good and handsome man. Not only physically, but also his personality. Dany is not blind to see that Jaehaerys can be angered and it is hard to earn his forgiveness. Even so, she has never seen him do anything to hurt or harm her. Not that he has any reason to hate her at this point. Dany's only worry now is Viserys and what he has in store for them.

"Your Grace, it is a pleasure to host you and your family at my Manse," Magister Illyrio says with a small bow. Viserys smiled as the trio approached the gate of the Manse.

"Magister, the pleasure is mine. Your hospitality will not be forgotten. I assure you," Viserys says as she shook the hand of Illyrio.

The man looks kind enough, but Jaehaerys is not convinced so easily. Too many people were nice in the beginning and they weren't too giving in the end. Maybe it was different in Westeros, but he can't remember. 'Words are air', Jaehaerys thought, 'It is what they do that counts.'

"I am sure you are tired of your journey. Rooms are prepared and food and drinks will be brought to you. Your Grace, we can talk tomorrow about what we have discussed through letters. If that pleases you," Illyrio says.

"That is an excellent idea. It has been a long day for us. We're thankful for your hospitality," Viserys says with a pleased and regal tone.

Jaehaerys almost wanted to roll his eyes. Viserys are becoming delusional. He thinks he is a King and that those that meet him are honored by hosting him and his. It may have been true years ago, but now they see only the Beggar King. Illyrio must find this either a fun and exciting distraction or he has motives of his own. Hard to tell with his ilk. The things they do for fun are often not what others think is fun. Even so, they were already corresponding with each other? That makes the younger Targaryens weary; Viserys made another plan to take his throne.

Each was given rooms in the beautiful estate of Illyrio. Its high-pillared galleries and large courtyards filled with flowers and ponds are something almost forgotten by Daenerys and Jaehaerys. They lived on the street for years and suddenly are brought back into luxury. Servants walked the grounds to take care of the daily tasks. Cleaning, keeping the gardens clean and beautiful, and probably too many other tasks that Jaehaerys is not able to think of.

As soon as Jaehaerys steps into his room, he is met by fragrant smells. In the corners of the room were large vases filled with colorful flowers. On the wall are large and detailed tapestries. The stone floors are covered in carpets. There was even a small corner reserved for studies and work. Lastly and much to Jaehaerys' joy, a comfortable bed that faces the Bay of Pentos. A room filled with luxury.

Jaehaerys wonders what Viserys and Illyrio have been planning. A sneaking suspicion tells him that it is something he will not like.

= Driftmark ~ 298 AC =

Baelor stands near a railing overlooking the harbor. His ship is being prepared once again. His search for the Targaryens was not as he hoped. The only time he came close to them was in Myr, but he must have scared them somehow. Perhaps it was not good to disguise himself as a common mercenary. A mistake he will not make again. He will try to find them again but in armor fitting for a knight.

"Baelor, I heard you will go to Essos again," Jacaerys says as he approaches him, "Why are you still searching for them? Have you not given enough for them at the Trident?"

"I am, brother. Robert the Usurper may have taken the throne. Ser Barristan may have joined his Kingsguard, but he is not my King. Have you forgotten? They are our blood, Jacaerys."

"So is Robert. Rhaelle is the grandmother of Robert Baratheon. He shares our blood too," Jacaerys says as he looks in the same direction, leaning against the hand railing. Baelor remained quiet for a moment as he thought of an answer. It didn't come quickly though.

"He does... but that does not make him worthy or the rightful King," Baelor eventually says. Jacaerys shrugs as he turns to Baelor.

"I am not going to stop you. You are as honorable as Eddard Stark. But are you sure you wish to go? You could start a family now that you're not part of the Kingsguard."

"I am bound to my oath. It was not made for the Baratheons, but for the Targaryens. I am a member of their Kingsguard. It is my duty," Baelor says firmly not showing any willingness to reconsider his stance.

"I knew you'd say that. It is better I forget you were here. And forget the treasonous words I heard about my King," Jacaerys says through a laugh. Baelor smiles as he looks at the Lord of The Tides.

"It would be for the best. You don't want Stannis coming here to ask why you're harboring a famous exile."

"My exact thoughts. I have delivered your weapons and armor to your ship. The armor lacks the usual white cloak and intricate details, but it will serve you well," he says as he stands back up to walk inside the castle. Jacaerys stopped for a moment before glancing back at Baelor. "And Baelor? Send word if these Targaryens are worthy. I am rather curious myself."

"I will, but I need to find them first."

"You can start in Pentos. The ship will take you there and it is the closest Free City. Good luck, brother."

Baelor watches the Lord of the Tides walk back into the castle. He takes a deep breath and looks over the island one last time. It will probably be another few years before he will see it again. Soon enough, he is bound to Pentos. Once again in search of the Targaryens.