Aenys returned to Dragonstone without issue.
After all the excitement that he had witnessed over the past week, life on Dragonstone became a bit more monotonous for the young boy. So he quickly adapted by introducing new activities into his schedule.
Aenys asked Ser Jon for secret lessons a couple of weeks after his return to the island. The knight was at first hesitant to help him train, but after Aenys kept asking he finally relented. The lessons in truth were nothing more than mock drills that he had Aenys go through. And yet, to Aenys the drills were better than nothing. It kept his body mobile and his mind focused on something.
Eventually Daeron would join him in the drills too when he found out about it, all without their mothers knowing. Maekar eventually discovered what they were up to, but after asking Ser Jon about their lessons he gave his approval. He sometimes watched them train too, giving them pointers here and there.
Aenys would continue his lessons with the maester alongside his cousins. He learned more about the kingdoms that his grandfather ruled, which included Dorne. He learned more about the Conqueror and all previous Targaryen rulers. More than just history, Aenys was also made to learn the pragmatic lessons of managing a castle and all its holdings as any lord and prince should. These were boring lessons, but his mother helped him understand that it was his duty. He was a prince, after all. His position meant that he had responsibilities to uphold. Aenys sometimes questioned the truth of his mother's words. It was not as though he was going to inherit anything. Even Summerhall was given away to his uncle, not his father. So it would probably pass down to Daeron next.
Perhaps Aenys would have to build something for himself one day.
Aenys increased the time he spent with Vaeraxes, reading and even singing to the dragon sometimes with the help of Shiera. Through his bond with the dragon, Aenys would tell that Vaeraxes enjoyed these moments too. Shiera herself would accompany him many times to see the dragon. Vaeraxes was more wary with Shiera than when with Aenys, but that was true for everyone. His mother still refused to get too close to Vaeraxes while his father continued taking his detailed notes about the dragon's growth rate and daily activities. He often compared notes with the maesters who remained on the island.
By all accounts, Vaeraxes was growing as healthy and strong as Aenys was. Unfortunately, the maesters were disappointed that they could never get too close to the dragon. Vaeraxes would not allow them.
Aenys continued to grow in stature as the moons passed. As he aged, he was finally able to receive formal lessons from Ser Jon and even Uncle Maekar, although he was no squire yet. There was also another new addition to their little group: Aerion. As he grew older, Aerion began to ask his parents to let him join Aenys and Daeron on Dragonstone, saying that as someone who had the blood of the dragon he should be allowed to stay in the castle of their ancestors. Lady Dyanna permitted it, but she did so with a dramatic flair, saying that Aenys was stealing her precious sons from her.
Aenys swore he was innocent, but he welcomed Aerion with open arms. How could he not? His younger cousin was always excited to see him.
Aerion was more bold when it came to Vaeraxes than most, always wanting to admire the dragon up close. Thankfully, he heeded the warnings from Aerys and Maekar and the other maesters to never get too close to the dragon when Aenys was not around. One of the maesters had tried it and was nearly burned to a crisp for his troubles.
Valarr continued to keep his distance. His jealousy only seemed to increase as both Aenys and Vaeraxes grew. Aenys decided to ignore him. His grandfather's words echoed in his mind many times through all of this, but the words did not resonate with Aenys. He loved his family. He loved his Uncle Baelor and Aunt Jena. They were always kind to him and helpful whenever possible. Valarr was not like that. Why should Aenys care about his cousin when his cousin only acted hostile and jealous toward him? Blood ties were important, especially in their family. It was for that reason that Aenys gave Valarr the courtesy of simply ignoring him rather than punching him again. To Aenys, he was being kind by simply not acting against his cousin.
Something else Aenys noted as he grew older was the continued comfortable presence of someone in his dreams. It reminded him of that night in the Red Keep, when he thought that someone was singing to him as they held him. Now, he was having that experience more and more. It was nothing bad. He rather enjoyed the sensation of being held. He just did not understand where it came from.
Aenys felt embarrassed talking to his parents about it, and Daeron and Aerion did not prove useful. So he turned to Shiera despite also finding it embarrassing to talk to her about such things.
Shiera just smiled when he brought it up to her one day. "If there's nothing wrong, then I wouldn't worry about it."
Perhaps she was right. Shiera often was, especially during her lessons about magic and the importance of their blood. Aenys began to see her more and more as a sister even though she was technically his great-aunt.
Aenys began to exchange frequent letters with Lyonel Baratheon and Tybolt Lannister. The two boys wrote to him first, asking him about updates in his life as well as telling him about all the exciting things that they were going through. Aenys was more than happy to keep in touch with the two of them. More friends was never a bad thing in his mind. He did not miss the worried look that would pass over his mother's face every time he told her about a new letter that he got from one of them. It would not be until he was older that Aenys understood why his mother worried about his friendship with the two heirs, but by then Aenys had too much of an attachment to the two of them to just stop. It was not his fault that he was making friends, and Aenys was too stubborn to let his mother's fears dictate his actions.
Maybe he was just being vindictive toward Valarr. Aenys wasn't certain, and he never dwelled on it long enough to figure it out.
There were times when Aenys wrote to Calla and Haegon as well, but his communication with them was not as frequent.
There were some new additions to the family over these years. The first was with his Uncle Rhaegel and Aunt Alys who had twins in 196 AC. They announced the pregnancy just a few months after they were married. They named the twins Aelor and Aelora Targaryen. The two shared their mother's looks, with their blonde hair, but they had the Valyrian purple eyes. It was almost as if they were Lannisters with the eyes of the Targaryens. Given who their grandmother was, it was not the worst comparison to make.
Aenys' grandfather welcomed the birth of two new Targaryens with joy. Aenys would get to meet them a few months later after the two were bigger and Aunt Alys had recovered enough for the journey.
When they came to visit during the final months of that year, Shiera suddenly approached him and disguised him with a cloak, similar to her own, and had him follow her to the Chamber of the Painted Table. Aenys didn't know how, but none of the guards out in the halls spotted them even as they entered the room.
His Uncle Maekar was the one to close the door to the room, but by then Aenys and Shiera were already standing in one of the corners, silent and observing.
Aenys spotted his parents, Uncle Rhaegel and Aunt Alys, as well as Aunt Dyanna, Uncle Baelor, and Aunt Jena.
What was happening?
"A princess has finally been born to house Targaryen." It was Baelor who opened the conversation after Maekar sat down.
Aelinor looked crossed. "Prince Baelor, Aelora has just been born. Do you truly think it appropriate to discuss this now?"
Alys looked as if she agreed.
Baelor sighed. "I understand your concerns, Aelinor, and I would not do this were it not necessary. Father has expressed his approval in seeking a possible match between Aenys and Aelora. It would ensure that Aenys' blood is kept within the house."
"Or limit him you mean," Aelinor accused. It was the first time Aenys was seeing his mother stand up against Uncle Baelor. It was surprising.
Baelor did not answer, so Jena spoke up in his stead.
"I do not understand your disapproval, Aelinor. I thought you wanted Aenys safe?"
"I do. I want to keep the peace, but I will not allow my son's freedom to be the cost for it."
"Freedom?" Maekar echoed, his arms crossed. "Marriages are rarely ones of love but rather convenience. Why should Aenys' be any different?"
"Because he has a dragon."
Aelinor's blunt response caused everyone to go quiet.
Maekar's eyes narrowed, his nostrils flaring. "Is that meant to be a threat?"
Aelinor flinched and looked away from the angered prince.
Baelor raised his hand. "Enough, brother. Aenys is Aelinor's son. She has a right to speak her mind."
"I think my daughter would be happy with Aenys," Rhaegel said with a wide smile, seemingly ignorant to the tension in the room. "He's a good boy. I'm sure the two of them would be happy riding Vaeraxes together."
Dyanna laughed softly. "This is true. I can already see it."
Aerys looked at his wife. "Nothing has to be set in stone, but after our trip to the Red Keep you know that the letters for betrothals have only increased. Aenys made a good impression."
Aelinor did not look convinced but did not argue further.
Alys let out a small sigh. "I have similar reservations as Aelinor. My daughter has only just been born, but I understand the political necessities of the match. I do not mind the idea of my daughter being wed to the only dragonrider in the realm."
Aenys' ears burned as he heard all of this. Young as he was, he still understood what was being discussed.
"Our father does not wish to push the issue," Baelor said. His face was calm. "But he will step in if he feels it necessary. There must be peace."
"Then what is there to discuss when you have already decided on a course of action?" Aelinor's voice was bitter. Everyone else could tell.
Baelor's face did not change, but there was regret in his eyes.
The family meeting would end soon after, with Aelinor leaving the room first without another word. No one tried to stop her.
Aenys didn't know if his father and uncles discussed the matter further as Shiera led him out of the room now that the door was opened again.
It wasn't until they were back in his chambers that Shiera had him remove the cloak.
Shiera shot him a smile. "Well? Were you able to learn anything, my little dragon?"
"I don't understand."
Why had Shiera let him spy on such a meeting? How had they been able to spy in the first place?
Shiera's smile only widened. "I've been working on my talents, you know. After Vaeraxes was born, my skills have only gotten stronger."
Something clicked inside Aenys. "Magic."
Her lectures weren't just lectures?
"You're smart. Good. Yes, I have been studying magic for as long as I can remember. Those cloaks we wore have been imbued with a shadowbinding spell. The only one I know so far. Unfortunately, with your skills, there are still limitations, so you can not truly move through the shadows. But it allowed you to remain undetected."
Shiera's explanation was almost enough to make Aenys forget what he heard. Almost.
But it stayed in his mind. It must have shown, because Shiera reached for his cheek and cupped it.
Shiera caressed his cheek as she said, "Do you understand what they are trying to do, Aenys?"
"A marriage."
"Yes, but do you understand what the marriage signifies?"
Aenys tried to come up with an answer. "I….mother was not happy."
Shiera shook her head. "She was not, no. When her son is trying to be controlled, your mother found her courage and stood up to the crown prince. But even she cannot stand up against the crown."
Controlled? Him?
"The king. Prince Baelor. Your family. They want to control you, guide your actions," Shiera said, answering his silent question. "They are afraid of the instability that you will bring, so they want to stop you from forming a powerful alliance with one of the houses eager to court you. A marriage to your newborn cousin would keep you isolated even if smart for the blood of the dragon."
Aenys tried to wrap his head around all of this. "I don't get it."
He was becoming frustrated. First it was his grandfather, and now even his uncles were trying to force things on him. And for what?
It was not the idea of being married that made him angry. It was that he had no choice.
"You have a responsibility as a prince, do you not?" Shiera said. "Your parents were also forced to marry. Why should you be any different?"
Aenys remembered his lessons. He was already five. The king was the head of their family. They followed his commands. However, this understanding did not make Aenys feel any less frustrated. It was a frustration that he had begun to feel since his grandfather tried to force Valarr upon him, as if Aenys had any reason to be subservient to his cousin.
"What should I do?" Aenys turned to Shiera for help, for he did not know what else to do.
Shiere looked into his eyes. Aenys always thought that her eyes were beautiful.
"They will understand eventually that such a match will not stop anything," she replied softly. "Your cousin is a Targaryen princess, so she will not be a bad pick for you. Whether or not you will want to make her your queen will be up to you, Aenys."
His queen? Aenys still didn't understand Shiera's insistence that he was going to be king one day. It was not as though he didn't want it. He had seen the Iron Throne. It was majestic. It was power. Aenys felt a certain pull to it. To be called king would not be a bad thing, right? Then he could do a lot of things.
But he was not going to inherit it. He understood the line of succession already.
Shiera just smiled at him again before bending down and kissing him on the forehead. It was a gentle kiss, and Aenys felt warmer afterward.
Their conversation ended there, but it would stick with Aenys for a long time.
The fact that Shiera was a magic user did not change anything for Aenys. She was still important to him, and he did not treat her any different.
That only seemed to make Shiera like him more.
Aenys never told his parents about what he and Shiera had done, about what he had heard. Or the fact that he felt angry when he knew he shouldn't. He was still just a prince, and it was only natural that he should obey his uncles and grandfather, right?
'But you have Vaeraxes,' a voice whispered to him.
Aenys never gave the voice a response.
---
When Aenys turned six, his lessons with Ser Jon intensified, something which Aenys appreciated. He also asked his parents if he could become someone's squire, but his mother told him to be a little more patient. Even though he was denied, Aenys still kept with his training. He preferred the sword, but he also asked Ser Jon if he could start learning about other weapons too. It was never a bad idea to become familiar with all the tools avaliable to him.
Then Aenys turned seven, and his Uncle Maekar and Aunt Dyanna had another son. They named him Aemon Targaryen after the son of the Old King. Aemon was born at Summerhall, and rather than wait for his uncle and aunt to visit, Aenys was pleasantly surprised when his mother informed him that they would be going to Summerhall instead.
This meant that Aenys would visit the Stormlands for the first time in his life. To say he was excited would be an understatement.
Aenys felt that Vaeraxes was displeased with him about his new journey, so Aenys promised to sing even more songs to his dragon when he returned. Some might say that it was impossible for Vaeraxes to understand him, but Aenys was convinced that his dragon understood his intent.
Shiera did not join him on the trip, choosing to stay behind on the island. So it was just Aenys and his parents, accompanied by Baelor and his family. They did not sail down to Storm's End, but rather sailed to King's Landing where they would join the king and queen in their procession toward Summerhall.
Aenys rode with his grandparents in their carriage after his grandmother called for him. They spent most of the tourney just talking about Aenys' life on Dragonstone and what he wished to do now that he was seven.
"I want to become a squire!" Aenys said with vigor. "I'm ready for it."
Daeron looked amused. "You have the stature for it. You and your Uncle Maekar are too big for your own good."
Despite being the same age, Aenys was already more thickly built when compared to his cousin Daeron, something Daeron was not too happy with.
"Unfortunately, your father is not too much of a knight," his grandmother teased. "I'm sure either Baelor or Maekar will happily take you as their squire."
If he picked Uncle Maekar, would that mean that Aenys would have to leave Dragonstone? Aenys wasn't sure how to feel about that. He wanted to travel, yes, but Dragonstone was his home. Plus, Vaeraxes enjoyed the island a lot too. The heat always calmed his dragon.
Aenys didn't give it much thought as he just enjoyed the time he spent with his grandparents. He was grateful that his grandfather didn't bring up the lingering issue between him and Valarr.
The journey took longer than Aenys expected. They made several spots at different castles along the way. All the lords the landed knights welcomed the royal family with open arms. They seemed especially enthusiastic to host Aenys, proudly proclaiming that he was one of them thanks to his mother's blood. They seemed more distant with his Uncle Baelor, though, something that Aenys made a note of this time around.
By the time they reached Summerhall, Lord Baratheon had joined the procession in order to pay his respects to the new Targaryen prince. No one in his family bought the man's excuse.
Aenys didn't say anything. He was just happy to see Lyonel again. The Baratheon boy was growing big and wide too.
Lyonel excitedly told Aenys how he was already squiring for one of his uncles, which just made Aenys all the more determined to become a squire as soon as possible.
'Maybe I could ask Uncle Maekar….'
His uncle was a formidable knight. Aenys was certain that there was much that he could learn from his uncle.
It would be a thought for another time, as when Aenys first gazed upon Summerhall he was immediately struck by how beautiful the castle was. It lacked any true fortification, so perhaps he should call it a palace instead.
It was beautiful regardless. The gardens and all the flowers made Aenys think of the Reach even though he had never been there.
Before they could step inside, Aenys noticed a certain black dragon banner flapping in the wind as it hung over one of the carriages.
'The Blackfyres?'
Were the Blackfyres here too?
His grandfather seemed similarly surprised, and when they were ushered inside the grand palace sure enough Daemon Blackfyre was there to greet them. The handsome knight wore a striking red doublet with a black cape which barely concealed the Valyrian steel sword hanging from his side.
'Blackfyre.'
Aenys was so focused on the sword that he nearly missed Daemon's greeting.
"I'm happy to greet you, your Grace. You must be happy to welcome another grandchild into the world."
Daemon appeared joyful, almost playful.
Daeron on the other hand looked guarded. "Daemon. I did not think that you would be here."
"And miss the chance to welcome another Targaryen prince to the realm? I would not dream of it. We are family, after all."
Daemon's words were warm and inviting.
They did not seem to bring Daeron any comfort.
There was no argument, however. Daeron gave his thanks before declaring his desire to see his new grandson.
As they made their way to one of the rooms, Aenys noticed Daemon glancing his way. When the two locked eyes, the man just smiled and waved at him.
Aenys did not say anything. A part of him was curious to know if either Calla or Haegon were here, but he could ask later.
There had been no complications with the birth. His Aunt Dyanna was healthy, as was his new cousin. The infant Aemon was born with the same features of his brother Aerion and his father Maekar: silver hair with the striking purple eyes of Old Valyria. Funny how Daeron was the only one to take after their mother the most so far.
A small feast was prepared for them in order to celebrate together. Only Rhaegel and his family were not present. In a surprising twist, the black and red dragons would celebrate the birth of another prince together.
Aenys was happy to see that Calla had come. Her two older brothers were with her, but unfortunately Haegon had not traveled to Summerhall with them. It was a pity, but he was still happy to see her again.
Calla was dressed in a beautiful purple dress, and rather than have her hair tied into a long braid this time she let her long hair flow.
Aenys found it striking, but in the back of his mind he still thought that Shiera was more beautiful.
Aenys would spend a lot of time with her and Lyonel over the next few days in order to play catch up with the time they had missed.
---
Daeron was not surprised when Daemon cornered him in one of the rooms after the feast had concluded. Daeron had retreated into Maekar's private study in order to read over some correspondence and look after other documents. He might be here on a small vacation, but a king's duty was never finished.
"The family seems to be growing more and more," Daemon said after he sat down in one of the chairs, making himself comfortable.
The room was furnished with the basic necessities, but Maekar was not the type to spend on too many luxuries if he could help it. Daeron respected that quality in his son even though he himself still enjoyed certain extravagant spending from time to time.
"I have been blessed," Daeron replied after setting down the letter that he had been reading. It was from Lord Tyrell expressing his joy about Aemon's safe birth. Empty platitudes, but Daeron welcomed them nonetheless.
"We both have."
Oh right. How many children did Daemon have? Daeron had lost count.
"Is there something specific that you wish to discuss, brother?" Daeron decided to cut to the chase. He was tired, so he didn't want to spend all night beating around the bush.
Daemon studied him for a moment, his eyes searching for something. Then he said, "I've heard that you wish to marry Aenys to his cousin, Aelora."
Daeron was not surprised that Daemon knew something like that. He had made no formal announcement, but he had let it be known to his small council about his desire to see Aenys wed to his cousin. It was Daeron's way of making the lords back off without tying Aenys down. At least until Baelor had a daughter of his own. Such a match would be more preferable. It would tie Aenys to Valarr. However, despite his son's efforts, Jena had yet to become pregnant after the birth of Matarys. At the very least, from what Daeron heard, Matarys and Aenys seemed to get along much better. A small blessing in such tense times.
"It is a possible match."
"A strong one, no doubt," Daemon gave a slow nod. "Perhaps the key to hatching more eggs is through Aenys' blood."
Or was it Aerys'?
'No, Aerys was unable to hatch the egg that was placed in his cradle.'
None of Daeron's son's eggs had hatched. It was Aenys that carried that potential, not Aerys. Perhaps an exception of some kind. Daeron had given the matter much thought over the years. He even asked Shiera if she could replicate that love potion of hers. She quickly dismissed his idea, saying that he would not get what he was hoping for.
Then what was it? What made Aenys different from the rest of his family? Daeron could not understand. Perhaps the gods were just fickle with their blessings.
"But there are other alternatives," Daemon said. "There are others who carry the blood of the dragon with them."
Daeron would not deny the surprise he felt. His brother was just coming out and saying it.
"One of your daughters you mean."
"He and Calla are the same age," Daemon said with a smile. "If not, I have two others. He could even marry two of them if he wished."
Daeron's eyes widened. "What are you saying?"
"The dragons are the key to our strength." Daemon leaned forward. "The more children Aenys has, the better the odds that more eggs will hatch. We cannot let this opportunity go. Just as the Conqueror once wed his sisters, so too should Aenys have two wives if need be."
"Do you understand what you're suggesting?"
"Do you worry about the Faith?" Daemon's voice was dismissive. "We are different from the rest of the realm, brother. You know this. We are Valyrians. We must ensure that Aenys is not a single spark but a new ray of hope for the future. All the better if his dragon is capable of laying eggs. All the rest have already turned to stone, but even then if Aenys was able to bring life back into his egg perhaps his children will do the same for the rest."
Daemon was not proposing a mere marriage. No, it was far more ambitious than that.
"We suffered through the debauchery of one monarch," Daeron retorted as he frowned. "I will not set my grandson down that same path. More than that, Aenys will not be king. Two wives is impossible."
Daemon just looked at him with what appeared to be pity. "Do you believe that?"
Daeron was starting to get angry. "It is not what I believe. It is a fact. The succession is clear. Baelor will be king after me. And after him, Valarr will take the throne. And his son after that."
Daeron was met with silence. Daemon did not shout nor did he raise his voice. He did not argue further.
Rather, he just stood and offered him a curt nod.
"Very well, brother. If you wish to hide behind your words, then so be it. I do wonder how long Aenys will remain the dutiful prince that you so wish that he was."
Daeron was not sure if Daemon was giving him a threat, but he did not answer. He just watched his brother leave the room in silence.
'Dammit.'
Daeron could only curse, wondering once more why his family had to be so complicated.
---
Another guest arrived at the palace a few days later. It was another Targaryen.
Brynden.
He was Aenys' great-uncle, but Aenys had never once talked to him before. Despite the man's quiet nature, Aenys had him in his sights. More specifically, he had Brynden's Valyran steel sword in his sights.
Not one to mince words, Aenys approached Brynden one afternoon in one of the gardens.
"I want Dark Sister."
Brynden slowly turned to him. Aenys wasn't sure if he was weird for not flinching when the man's eyes fell on him. His red eyes were abnormal, but Aenys stayed his ground.
Brynden did not have a visible reaction to his proclamation. Rather, he glanced down at the sword in question before looking back at Aenys again.
"Dark Sister." Brynden cocked his head ever so slightly. "You want it?"
"Yeah. I can't have Blackfyre, so I want Dark Sister."
Brynden's lips curled. Perhaps he wanted to sneer. Aenys didn't know.
"You can't have Blackfyre, you say? Even though it's the sword of kings?"
Aenys didn't let Brynden distract him. "Dark Sister belongs to the best warrior. To a brother. I don't have any brothers, but I will be the best warrior. Better than you."
"Children have too much confidence in themselves." Despite his words, Brynden did not look annoyed. "Tell me, young Targaryen. What is it that drives you? For what reason do you seek to wield this sword?"
"I don't know yet." Aenys didn't. A lot of people wanted different things from him. Aenys wanted adventure perhaps. He wanted to travel. To ride his dragon and be happy. But there was one thing that he was certain of. "Right now, I want Dark Sister."
Brynden just stared down at him in silence. Aenys wasn't sure, but he thought that maybe the man was judging him.
"You have much confidence. I suppose you feel untouchable because of your dragon. But tell me, where is your dragon right now? I could easily cut you down right now, and that would be the end of you."
Aenys didn't get it. "I want Dark Sister." That was all he cared about right now. If Brynden was trying to intimidate him, then it wasn't going to work.
Sighing, Brynden turned away from him. "Train and become a formidable warrior. Then maybe I'll consider it."
He walked away after, but Aenys felt satisfied. His great-uncle had not dismissed him outright. This was good. Aenys could work with this.
'But Blackfyre….'
His distant uncle was correct. The sword Blackfyre belonged with the crown. Why did Daemon still have it?
'If I was king, then the sword would be mine.'
To the young Aenys, it was just an innocent thought.
His future self might just consider it a goal.
---
Aenys' first time at Summerhall went by in a flash. He got to see some old friends, so he was happy overall. He and Lyonel promised to duel the next time they saw one another.
To make sure that he kept his part of the deal with both Lyonel and Brynden, Aenys asked his Uncle Maekar if he could start squiring for him.
Maekar was taken aback by the request. "You wish to become my squire?"
"Yes. Please, uncle. I promise I will do my best!"
Even if it meant splitting his time on Dragonstone, Aenys was prepared to do it.
Maekar stroked his beard in thought. "If your parents agree to it, then I do not oppose the idea."
His uncle sounded nonchalant, but Aenys thought that he could see gratitude in the man's eyes.
It mattered little either way. Aenys went to try and convince his parents right away.
Aerys was okay with it. Aelinor looked a bit disheartened.
"You want to leave Dragonstone already?"
"I promise I'll visit often," Aenys said. "I can't leave Vaeraxes alone forever."
"So it's more about the dragon," Aelinor mused, chuckling. "I suppose I can't measure up to a dragon, huh?"
For a moment, Aenys worried that his mother would refute him, that she would tell him to remain on Dragonstone. Instead, she gave her approval, saying that he could return in a few months' time to begin his training as Maekar's squire.
Aenys was ecstatic. He hugged his mother as a thank you.
That would become Aenys' new schedule. He returned to Dragonstone with his parents, promising Daeron and Aerion that he would come back soon.
When he was back on the island and told Shiera of his plans, she informed him that she would be coming with him this time. Aenys didn't mind, but he didn't understand her reasons.
"I want to make sure that you stay safe, Aenys," she told him. "There are some that would like to see you dead for their selfish reasons."
Aenys wanted to know who they were. He would happily burn them with Vaeraxes.
Time continued moving after that. Aenys and Shiera traveled together from Dragonstone to Summerhall and vice versa many times as Aenys ensured that neither Vaeraxes nor his parents felt lonely without him. Ser Jon followed him too.
When it was discovered that he was now spending months at a time at Summerhall, the palace became more active with many young lords visiting often. Tybolt was one such person. Aenys was more than happy to spend time with his friend, and the two often trained together. Lyonel wanted to visit too but held himself back, writing to Aenys that he wanted their next encounter to be when they were ready to duel.
Tybolt thought that Lyonel was too thick headed for imposing such a self-rule. Aenys just laughed it off.
Calla visited often too. Haegon accompanied her sometimes. Aenys was also happy to see them.
Eventually, when they were of appropriate age, Aelora and Aelor came to visit as well. Aelor became another member in Aenys' growing band of friends.
Aenys, Daeron, Aerion, and Aelor. They were cousins, but their bond made them think of each other as brothers.
There were times that Matarys joined them but not often. The younger prince felt guilty to be near Aenys when Valarr held animosity toward him.
Aenys did not hold this against Matarys. The love of one's brother was important, after all.
Aelora also went out of her way to spend more time with Aenys. Aenys was not sure if she knew what their grandfather hoped from them or if she was just naturally interested in him, but she was family. Aenys would not push her away without reason.
There were other two notable births during the year 199 AC: Princess Daenora Targaryen, born to Uncle Rhaegel and Aunt Alys, and Princess Daella Targaryen, born to Uncle Maekar and Aunt Dyanna.
Daenora was born with the silver-blonde hair and purple eyes of a Targaryen, although sometimes her hair appeared more blonde than silver. Daella on the other hand had the dark hair of some Daynes but had the purple eyes of Valyria.
When the two girls were born, Aenys realized that his grandfather would just see them as more chances to entrap him. As he grew older, Aenys saw his grandfather's actions as nothing more than a cage, and Aenys did not want to get caught in it. He wanted to choose his own path. It was egotistical of him, and he knew his Uncle Maekar would never approve of such thinking, but Aenys could not find it in himself to roll over and play nice every time. If he did marry one of his cousins, then it would be because he wanted to.
That same year, at Summerhall, after he told Shiera his thoughts, the older girl seemed pleased, so much so that she kissed him again. Not on the forehead, but rather on the lips.
Aenys was eight, and it was the first kiss that he had experienced. It was brief, but it still left him burning.
Shiera did not explain her actions. Aenys never asked either.
Then 200 AC arrived, and with another year came another birth: Aegon Targaryen. He was another son of his Uncle Maekar and Aunt Dyanna.
Uncle Baelor and Aunt Jena still only had two sons.
Then, another new year would arrive.
---
201 AC would go down as one of Aenys' most memorable years. Why? Well, Aunt Dyanna would give birth again. Only this time she would barely survive. Maester Melaquin, the maester of Summerhall, said that Dyanna was lucky to be alive. Something about the babe being positioned incorrectly. Aenys didn't get the full details, but he was thankful that the birth was completed without any tragedy. Dyanna was left severely weakened by it, but she gave birth to a healthy Targaryen princess. She was named Rhae Targaryen, and she was born with the silver-blond and purple eyes of the dragon blood. It was a day to be celebrated.
Then there was the event that impacted Aenys the most. This year marked his tenth birthday, and it was during this year that Aenys would go on his first flight with Vaeraxes.
Vaeraxes' growth rate had remained steady throughout the years, to the point that the maesters were amazed. Vaeraxes was already ten, just as Aenys was, but the dragon showed no slowing down in growth. The maesters, as well as his father, theorized that the dragon's constant flights around the island as well as the flames of the Dragonmount played a role in Vaeraxes' growth. The maesters guessed that Vaeraxes was quickly approaching the estimated size of Syrax, and the Pretender Queen's dragon had been much older.
Aenys noted that Shiera seemed pleased with herself with the growth rate of Vaeraxes. He wondered if she was using her magic on his dragon to aid in its development.
A specialized saddle had been crafted for Aenys and Vaeraxes. His father had been the one to commission it. It was of black leather color with the Targaryen sigil proudly displayed on it. Aenys did not bother with chains or anything of the sort. Vaeraxes could be temperamental, but Aenys trusted his dragon with his life already. He would not allow his closest companion to have chains forced upon it.
Aenys, whose long hair was tied into braided ponytails, wore a rather simple leather outfit for the occasion, although Elaena had arrived to Dragonstone with a more decorated riding gear that she felt would be more appropriate for him. Aenys turned it down as gently as he could.
There were others who showed up to see Aenys' first flight. Among them were his grandparents and all his uncles. Even Dyanna made the trip, carrying the infant Rhae in her arms.
Brynden made an appearance, as did Aenys' Penrose relatives.
Daemon Blackfyre was also present, along with his family. Aenys spotted another distant uncle of his in the mix: Aegor, or the so-called "Bittersteel."
Aenys heard that the former bastard spent a lot of his time on Essos these past couple of years, but he did not know the truth of it. What he did know was that, ever since he arrived, Aegor spent most of his time staring at Shiera who wore another one of her provocative dresses for the occasion. Yet, Shiera ignored him.
Aenys tried to keep his mind clear of such thoughts as he was led to where Vaeraxes was waiting for him after his preparations were complete.
His father walked beside him. "Nervous?"
"Excited."
He could never be nervous around Vaeraxes.
Aerys stroked his long beard in thought. "Hm. I suppose I cannot understand since I do not have a dragon bond of my own."
Yes, how unfortunate.
"But I suppose you've already been blessed with different favors."
Tied to Aerys' wrists were different embroidered ribbons and handkerchiefs. These were the favors that Calla, Shiera, and Aelora pushed upon him when he saw them last. For "good luck" they said. Daella had cried when she realized that she didn't have anything to give him. She was only two but already did not like to be excluded.
There were some gasps from the guards and maesters as Vaeraxes came into view, emerging from one of the caves. The dragon always drew out that kind of reaction from others.
The young dragon seemed to let out an affectionate purr as it spotted Aenys.
Also delighted to see his dragon, Aenys forgot about protocol and ran up to Vaeraxes. The dragon brought its head down so that Aenys could place his hands upon it, gently rubbing the dragon's head.
Vaeraxes only purred more. Or what sounded like a purr anyway. It was hard to describe the noises the dragon made sometimes.
The maesters still didn't know whether Vaeraxes was male or female yet, and even through his bond with the dragon Aenys was not sure. It was almost as if Vaeraxes wasn't sure itself either, almost like it was waiting for something.
Aenys didn't focus on that for now. He had something else on his mind.
"Today, you and I fly together for the first time, friend. What do you think about that?"
Vaeraxes just stared into Aenys' eyes. Aenys thought he could see approval in the dragon's gaze. More than that, he sensed that Vaeraxes was pleased through their bond.
That was good enough for him.
Aerys slowly approached. When Vaeraxes noticed this, the dragon's eyes changed from warm and affectionate to more guarded.
Aenys was amused. "Even now, you have a hard time trusting others."
"I'm not sure if I should feel insulted or not," Aerys said with a dry tone as he stopped some distance away. He had learned to not get too close despite his desire to do so.
"I don't think it's personal, father."
"Hm." Aerys didn't give a response to that. "When you're ready. I shall wait for you here."
Aenys didn't comment on his father taking out his journal as he prepared to take down notes of today's flight.
The maesters were already doing the same.
There was no formal training that Aenys had done on this. The maesters had shared the lore that they held on dragon riding, but the knowledge that the Targaryens once held had been mostly lost thanks to a madman's faith.
But the Valyrians of old had to start somewhere. So too was Aenys prepared to become the new pioneer on dragon riding.
Aenys did not give Vaeraxes any verbal commands. Rather, the dragon merely lowered itself further so that Aenys could climb onto the saddle. The saddle had taken a lot of work to put on Vaeraxes. One of the servants had almost been eaten alive during the process. It took Aenys singing to the dragon and remaining at Vaeraxes' side the entire time for the dragon to remain calm.
Perhaps Vaeraxes was too free spirited for his own good, but Aenys realized that he himself was similar to his dragon in that regard. He did not want others trying to meddle in his life either.
Aenys did not think too much on this as he secured himself on the saddle. Once more, Vaeraxes raised its body on instinct once Aenys was ready.
'So high.'
They were still on the ground, and yet Aenys already felt bigger than everyone else as Vaeraxes let out a deep growl as it spread its wings. Aenys was able to make out the looks of amazement from his father and all the others down below.
But Aenys was already looking toward the skies.
"Vaeraxes. Sōvēs."
It was a simple command, but to Aenys it changed everything.
With another growl, Vaeraxes raised its head further and flapped its wings. Dust and debris were kicked off just as Aenys and Vaeraxes took off flying.
Vaeraxes was faster than Aenys anticipated, but it did not stop the thrill that overcame him as he and the dragon soared through the sky together for the first time.
His family were all watching from the port village down below. The smallfolk living on the island had also gathered to watch the historic event for themselves.
They all looked unbelievably small from where he and Vaeraxes were flying.
It was freeing. From such heights, Aenys began to truly understand why past Targaryens felt like gods among men. There were no words that could truly describe what it felt to be flying with Vaeraxes at this moment.
It just felt right.
On this day, the winds were favorable, so Vaeraxes flew with ease. Aenys found no struggle in giving commands as they glided through the clouds. It was as if he and Vaeraxes were the perfect team.
Here, in the air, Aenys once again reaffirmed his convictions.
He was free, and he would not allow his destiny to be dictated by others.