My pride and my grief: For my sister...A Jaime Lannister Story

Ch-7

Rhaegar was at the library, reading, as usual, when his nanny (I dunno what they call that in Westeros. :) entered the room hurriedly. 'Prince Rhaegar, why have you been here for all this time without me? I told you to inform me of your whereabouts!' she chided him. 'Come now,' she urged. 'The King has sent for you.' Rhaegar's heart sank. He kept his face composed. He had learnt not to betray his feelings after that unfortunate incident with the Kingsguard. Aerys had sought him out that day, unbeknownst to Rhaella and- Rhaegar shuddered and tried to block the memory. 'My Prince?' came the concerned voice of his nanny, Starlene. Rhaegar heaved a sigh of relief. He nodded meekly.

They reached the Throne Room, by which time he was trembling. His eyes met his mother's and he remembered what she had told him. 'Father isn't well, Rhaegar.' she had informed him. Yes, father wasn't well, he thought. Aerys fixed his gaze on his son. He smiled. Rhaegar loosened a bit. Father was fine; today, at least. 'Rhaegar.' he called affectionately. Rhaegar's eyes widened. He all but ran up the dais.

Rhaella saw her son run up to Aerys and stop short, as if realizing what he had done. What have you done, Aerys?, she thought sadly, noting his hesitant glance at the King. 'Come, son.' she beckoned . Docilely, he walked to his seat and sat, looking confused. 'Tywin Lannister is returning here, with his wife and children shortly.' she confided. 'Mother,' piped Rhaegar enthusiastically, 'May I see them?' 'Yes, of course you can, dear.' she responded. 'Do not act like a child!' admonished Aerys. 'You are the Crown Prince.' At that, he quietened, visibly drawing into himself. 'Yes, father.' he assented. He looked down. 'Well' snapped Aerys, 'What are waiting for? Go!' he barked. He was distracted by the entry of Grand Maester Pycelle. 'Pardon me, Your Grace.' he apologized, bowing. 'a raven has arrived from Casterly Rock.' The King extended a hand for the letter.

'Your Grace,' he read, 'I am saddened to announce the death of my father, lord Tytos Lannister, Warden of the West. I am sorry to say that I will be arriving to King's Landing much later than I had planned, having a few affairs to set in order at Casterly Rock.

Ever your loyal servant,

Ser Tywin Lannister.'

The King appeared shocked for a time. Then, slowly, he came to his senses. 'He can't come, can he?' he breathed. 'Well, then, we'll go!' he declared. Turning to the Maester, he ordered 'Write a letter to Tywin Lannister. ' The Maester hurried to get quill, ink and parchment.

'Dear Tywin Lannister,' Aerys dictated, 'I and my family mourn with yours for your loss. May your father find peace with the Seven, where he belongs. As your lifelong friend, I feel that it is my duty to commiserate with your grief.

Also, if this is any consolation, I King Aerys Targaryen, Second of the name, lord of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm, hereby name you Lord Tywin Lannister, Lord of Casterly rock and Warden of the West.

Your friend, now and always,

King Aerys Targaryen,

Lord of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm.' he finished.

'Prepare to move the court to Casterly Rock.' he commanded, and left the room.