𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓣𝓱𝓲𝓻𝓭 𝓢𝓸𝓷

Chapter 49 Marriage

Aegon stepped out of his chamber, the lingering warmth of the morning sun casting soft light through the stone corridors. His mind was still buzzing with the events of the night before, the unexpected turn of events with Rhaenyra and Alicent replaying in his thoughts. As he closed the door behind him, Darvon, ever vigilant, approached with a knowing look in his eyes.

"My prince," Darvon began in a low voice, glancing around to ensure they were not overheard, "the king was looking for you and Princess Rhaenyra last night. He had the guards searching all over the castle."

Aegon's heart skipped a beat, but he managed to maintain his composure. "Thank you, Darvon, for covering for us. It seems we owe you more than just our gratitude."

Darvon inclined his head in acknowledgment, his expression one of unwavering loyalty. "I only serve to protect you, my prince."

With a nod, Aegon made his way toward the grand hall, where he knew his brother would be overseeing the preparations for the celebration. The thought of facing Viserys now, after the night he had shared with Rhaenyra and Alicent, filled him with a sense of unease. But he had to push those feelings aside—Viserys was the king, and Aegon needed to play his part.

As he entered the grand hall, the sight of bustling servants and colorful banners greeted him. The room was being transformed into a grand spectacle, fit for the celebration of a royal birth. At the center of it all was Viserys, directing the final touches with a gleeful smile on his face. The king turned as Aegon approached, his expression brightening at the sight of his brother.

"Aegon!" Viserys called out warmly, stepping forward to greet him. "There you are. I was beginning to wonder where you had disappeared to last night."

Aegon forced a smile, bowing his head slightly in respect. "My apologies, brother. I was... caught up in some matters, but I am here now."

Viserys chuckled, clearly in high spirits. "No matter. You're here now, and that's what's important." He gestured around the room, his eyes gleaming with pride. "What do you think? I want everything to be perfect for my son."

Aegon looked around, taking in the lavish decorations, the tables laden with golden plates and goblets, the banners bearing the Targaryen sigil fluttering in the breeze. It was clear that Viserys had spared no expense in celebrating the birth of his son.

"It looks... nice," Aegon replied, his voice measured. He didn't want to dampen Viserys' enthusiasm, but the thought of this celebration only deepened the unease in his heart.

Viserys beamed, clearly pleased with Aegon's response. "I want him to know from the very beginning that he is cherished, that his arrival is a blessing to this family."

Aegon nodded slowly, forcing himself to agree. "Of course, brother. It is only right that the future prince is honored in such a way."

But as he spoke, Aegon couldn't shake the feeling that this celebration was only the beginning of the complications that would arise from the birth of Viserys' son. The lines of succession were now blurred, and Aegon knew that his position in the family—and in the kingdom—was more precarious than ever.

"Have you seen Rhaenyra?" Viserys questioned, and Aegon shook his head in response. "She was in her chambers the last time I saw her," he lied smoothly, and Viserys nodded in understanding. With Viserys engrossed in the celebrations, Aegon took the chance to slip away unnoticed.

With the birth of Viserys' son, the time has come for him to wed, for without a union, his claim to the throne may forever slip away.