The Bastard Prince

2

Aegon and I walk into the hall together, and I move to sit between Helena and Aegon.

"Maelor, I would like for you to sit next to Jace, If Aegon does not mind moving." My mother smiles.

"I mind. I promised Helena I would sit next to her." I tell her coldly and she clears her throat. I send Alicent a smile and kiss Helenas hand. We all sit quietly until the king comes, then we stand until he tells us to sit again.

"How good it is... to see you all tonight... together." The king says and looks around I send him a smile.

"Prayer before we begin?" Alicent asks.

"Yes."

"May the Mother smile down on this gathering with love. May the Smith mend the bonds that have been broken for far too long. And to Vaemond Velaryon, may the gods give him rest."

"This is an occasion for celebration, it seems. My grandsons, Jace and Luke, will marry their cousins, Baela and Rhaena, further strengthening the bond between our houses. A toast to the young Princes... and their betrothed." The king speaks.

"Hear, hear!" Damon speaks as we raise our glasses.

"Well done, Jace. You'll finally get to lie with a woman." Aegon leans over to taunt my brother. I let him have his small fun as we wont be hear for long anyways.

"Let us toast as well Prince Lucerys... the future Lord of the Tides." The king speaks.

"You do know how the act is done, I assume? At least in principle? Where to put your cock and all that." Aegon goes back to talking to Jace.

"Let it be, uncle." I speak up not wanting to ruin my grandsires night.

"You can play the jester if you wish, but hold your tongue before my betrothed." Jace says and Aegon hums.

The king groans as he stands, and I give him my full attention.

"It both gladdens my heart and fills me with sorrow to see these faces around the table. The faces most dear to me in all the world... yet grown so distant from each other... in the years past." My grandsire speaks then pulls off his mask showing his rotting face and missing eye. I keep my face neutral." My own face... is no longer a handsome one... if indeed it ever was. But tonight... I wish you to see me... as I am. Not just a king... but your father. Your brother. Your husband... and your grand sire. Who may not, it seems... walk for much longer among you. Let us no longer hold ill feelings in our hearts. The crown cannot stand strong if the House of the Dragon remains divided. But set aside your grievances. If not for the sake of the crown... then for the sake of this old man who loves you all so dearly." The king slowly sits as he pants for breath.

My mother stands and raises her glass making me raise a brow." I wish to raise my cup to Her Grace, the Queen. I love my father. But I must admit that no one has stood... more loyally by his side than his good wife. She has tended to him with... unfailing devotion, love, and honor. And for that, she has my gratitude... and my apology."

"Your graciousness moves me deeply, Princess. We are both mothers... and we love our children. We have more in common than we sometimes allow. I raise my cup to you... and to your house. You will make a fine queen." Alicent stands and say her own speech. I scoff lightly and finish the wine in my cup. Helena reaches over and lays her hand on my thigh.

Aegon stand and I watch him out of the corner of my eye as he walks over to stand between Jace and Baela. He reaches over for the pitcher of wine and pours himself a glass.