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There were many moments in Maegor's life when he hated everyone. He hated the times his father beat him in training, and the whispered tales of how much his mother despised him. But this moment—preparing to travel to King's Landing—ranked highest on his list. Vaemond Velaryon had the gall to challenge Lucerys' claim to Driftmark, and Maegor wanted nothing more than to bash his head open.
As he packed for the journey, Maegor stepped out of his chambers and into the courtyard, where preparations were well underway. He spotted Jacaerys looking irritated and approached him.
"What's got you so sour?" Maegor asked, raising an eyebrow.
Jace rolled his eyes. "Mother won't let me ride Vermax. She insists I ride in the carriage with her."
Maegor chuckled. He found nothing wrong with the carriage—it was the perfect place for a nap. "Stop whining. I'm not riding Drakon either. You can join me in my carriage if you like—more space, and you won't have to deal with the children."
Jace huffed but nodded in agreement. Maegor tossed his bag of books into the carriage—something to keep him entertained—and turned to survey the rest of the group. He spotted Vissera and Rhaena running toward their own carriage, laughing together. His sister Baela would meet them at King's Landing, having traveled to Driftmark to visit their grandparents.
Maegor's gaze lingered on Vissera as she smiled, her joy infectious. He absentmindedly touched the hilt of his sword, his fingers brushing against the jeweled necklace Vissera had once gifted him. She had said it was to protect him, but every time he felt it, he was reminded of how deeply she affected him.
Jacaerys and Lucerys jogged over, cracking jokes, and Luke invited himself into the carriage. Maegor didn't mind; he had grown fond of the boy. Lucerys' bravery in taking Aemond's eye had earned his respect.
The trip was long, and Maegor dozed for most of it, only waking when Jacaerys nudged him as they approached the gates of King's Landing. "We're here. Where should we go first?" Jace asked, eager to explore.
Maegor rubbed his eyes and looked around. Something felt off. No one had come to greet them as they were supposed to. His father, Daemon, stood nearby, noticing the same thing. A single man approached to welcome them—a slight Maegor found disrespectful, especially to the heir of the throne. His unease grew, and he tightened his grip on his sword.
Before entering the Red Keep, Daemon pulled Maegor aside. "Remember, Maegor, always keep your guard up."
Maegor nodded and rejoined Jacaerys and Lucerys. "Let's check the training grounds," Jace suggested, and Maegor agreed. As they walked, Maegor's attention was drawn to Vissera, who was giggling with Rhaena as they followed their mother into the keep. He had been meaning to speak to her, but she always seemed to avoid him.
