The Hidden Heir (ignore the cover)

A King's Burden

Chapter six: A King's Burden

King Viserys Targaryen sat alone in his solar, the dim light of dawn casting long shadows across the room. The fire had burned low, leaving the room in a somber twilight. The king's thoughts were heavy, burdened by the decision that lay before him. The events of the previous night, when Daemon had revealed the truth about Lyanna, replayed in his mind with relentless clarity.

The revelation had shaken him to his core. Daemon's confession that Lyanna was not truly Rhea Royce's daughter but rather the child of a woman of humble origins had left Viserys grappling with the implications. The legitimacy of his niece, the impact on his daughter Rhaenyra's claim, and the potential upheaval of the realm were all part of the weight he carried.Viserys reached for the small bell on his desk, summoning his brother and his daughter to his presence. As he awaited their arrival, he wrestled with the enormity of his decision. The legitimacy of a Targaryen child could alter the dynamics of the court, and the ramifications of his choice would extend far beyond the Red Keep.---Daemon Targaryen arrived at the king's solar with a heavy heart, his infant daughter cradled in his arms. Little Lyanna, now a mere newborn, slept peacefully, oblivious to the turmoil surrounding her. Daemon's face was a mixture of determination and anxiety as he approached his brother's study.

Lyanna was wrapped snugly in a soft blanket, her tiny face barely visible. Daemon had ensured she was well cared for, but the weight of the secret he had kept for so long was now manifesting in a different kind of burden. This child, who had been hidden away for her safety, was now at the heart of a critical decision that would impact their entire family.

Ser Harrold Westerling opened the door to the solar and announced, "Prince Daemon, Your Grace."Viserys looked up from his desk, his weary eyes meeting his brother's. "Daemon, come in. And—" he paused, his gaze softening as he saw the infant in Daemon's arms, "—bring her closer."Daemon approached and carefully laid Lyanna's tiny form on a cushioned chair near the king's desk. She stirred slightly but remained asleep, her tiny hands curled into delicate fists.

"Your Grace," Daemon said, his voice steady despite the turmoil within. "This is Lyanna. I've brought her here as you requested."

Viserys stood and walked over to the chair, his gaze fixed on the infant. For a moment, he was lost in thought, his expression a mixture of concern and tenderness. "She's so small," he murmured, almost to himself.Daemon nodded, a touch of pride in his voice. "She is. And she's the daughter of a Targaryen, just as you've heard."Viserys turned to face Daemon, his eyes hardening with the gravity of the situation. "Daemon, I have considered your request carefully. Recognizing Lyanna's Targaryen blood is a monumental decision. It affects not just our family, but the stability of the realm."Daemon stepped closer, his voice earnest. "I understand the implications, Viserys. But we've always said that our family must come first. Lyanna deserves to be acknowledged. She's part of the Targaryen legacy."

Viserys sighed deeply, his gaze returning to the sleeping child. "And what of Rhaenyra? She is my chosen heir, the future queen. If I were to recognize Lyanna, it could be seen as a challenge to her claim. The court could see this as a threat, potentially leading to unrest."

Daemon's eyes met his brother's, unwavering. "Rhaenyra's claim is important, but she has her own strength. Lyanna's recognition doesn't diminish her place; it merely acknowledges the truth of our bloodline. It could even serve to unite factions rather than divide them."Viserys's expression softened as he looked back at the baby. "You've always been a man of action, Daemon. This decision—making Lyanna a part of our official line—would be a bold move. It would require careful handling."Daemon nodded. "I agree. But with your support, we can manage the implications. It would show the realm that we are united and strong, despite the complexities of our family."Viserys placed a hand on the desk, his gaze returning to Lyanna. "Very well. I will recognize Lyanna as a Targaryen. But this must be done with caution. We will announce it in a way that emphasizes unity and strength, ensuring that it does not undermine Rhaenyra's claim."Daemon felt a surge of relief and gratitude. "Thank you, Viserys. I knew you would understand the importance of this."

Viserys's eyes met Daemon's, and for a moment, the burden of kingship seemed to lift. "Let's hope this decision brings the peace and stability we seek. For Lyanna's future, and for the realm."

Daemon nodded, his expression resolute. "I will do everything in my power to ensure it."Viserys turned his attention back to the sleeping infant, his heart touched by the sight of her peaceful slumber. "Take her back to her chambers. We have much to prepare for, and her presence must be kept as secure as her future."Daemon carefully picked up Lyanna, cradling her in his arms once more. He looked at his brother with a mixture of gratitude and determination. "We'll see this through together, Viserys."As Daemon left the solar with Lyanna, he knew that this was just the beginning of a new chapter for their family. The decision had been made, and the future of House Targaryen was now set on a path that would test their strength and unity.In the quiet of the corridors, Daemon looked down at his sleeping daughter, her tiny face serene and innocent. He vowed to protect her with every ounce of his being, for she was the symbol of both their legacy and their hope.