Baelon The Cruel And His Queen Of Love And Beauty || ASOIAF

Chapter Six

As Baelon had foreseen, by the time supper rolled around, his father, Aerys, had largely forgotten about the mystery knight and his earlier frustration. The King drowned himself in wine, one cup after another, as the night wore on.

Baelon, unfortunately, found himself seated next to Aerys, and he watched with growing apprehension as his father's endless chatter filled the room. The relentless talking pushed Baelon to his limit, and he feared he was nearing his breaking point.

Tonight, Aerys had chosen to forgo the grand feast, opting instead for a private dinner with the family. Rhaenys and Viserys had already been sent to bed, accompanied by Rhaella and Elia. The absence of the two women at dinner was hardly surprising , having to be married to Aerys and Rhaegar is insufferable enough. Any amount of  time I could get away from either of them, I would gladly take.

Aerys, emboldened by the wine, continued his rambling conversation with Baelon. His speech shifting from trivial matters to grandiose ideas, and Baelon struggled to keep up with the ever-changing topics.

"...And then, you see, Baelon, the realm will thrive under the Targaryen banner," Aerys declared with unwavering conviction.

Baelon, his patience waning, managed a polite nod and replied, "Yes, father, of course, the realm,"

Aerys chuckled, the sound mirthless and eerie in the dimly lit dining chamber. "You're a good son, Baelon. Steady and dependable. Just what this family needs."

Rhaegar emitted an exasperated sound, prompting an eye roll from their father.

Baelon remained silent, opting not to engage in the exchange between his father and his older brother.

"Will you be participating in the tourney tomorrow, my son?" Aerys inquired of Baelon.

But before Baelon could respond, Rhaegar interjected confidently, "I, too, shall be taking part in the tourney."

"Yes, I know," Aerys responded, his annoyance evident.

Rhaegar, though clearly displeased with the lack of their fathers enthusiasm, chose to remain silent.

Aerys repeated the question, directing it at Baelon. "And will you, my son?"

Baelon offered a warm, somewhat mischievous smile. "Of course, father," he replied. "Participating in a tourney is far more entertaining than merely watching it, after all."

With a gleam in his eyes, he turned to Rhaegar and said, "I trust you won't fall off your horse in just your first round,"

Rhaegar nodded with a solemn look of determination. "I shall give my best, father,"

Aerys then turned to Baelon, a faint smile on his lips. "And you, Baelon, I expect nothing but victory."

Baelon chuckled, embracing the competitive spirit. "You shall have it, father, and the Targaryen name will shine,"

Aerys chuckled, "Good, good," he said.

His father suddenly shifted the topic, his gaze landing on Baelon.

"Speaking of tournaments and victories, my son," Aerys began, "many noble ladies have come here for the celebrations. Have any of them caught your eye?"

Not this marriage horse shit again, he found it difficult to not roll his eyes but he did.

"No," he responded tersely, his tone leaving no room for debate. His father, however, seemed intent on pursuing the matter.

Taking a bite of his meal, Aerys persisted, "What about the girl from House Tully? What's her name again?"

Fuck if I know.