The Red Keep, Kings Landing...277 AC...
"The new sewer system has already made an enormous impact on cleaning the air of Kings Landing." City Watch Commander Ser Manly Stokeworth reported to the Small Council. "Crime has fallen somewhat too and the health of the people has improved."
Haeron nodded, sitting in the Kings Chair as his father was now refusing to see him or Lord Tywin without all of the Kingsguard present and as Ser Harlan was down with a fever he refused to leave his chambers. That was a good piece of news that he needed to alleviate his own worries, available labour had ensured with his and Lord Tywin's guiding hand that the new sewer system had been completed in record time and had for now at least purged the smell from the city which would have a lot of other potential benefits as the Lord Commander of the Gold Cloaks had pointed out.
Without all of the sewage building up in the city there would be an immediate boost towards public health of the people living there along with making it a much more tolerable place due to the lack of stench. It wasn't gone completely but it was a vast improvement over how things had once been. Haeron had even managed to place some runes carved into dragonglass which would help preserve them to break down the waste and pump fresh water back into Blackwater Bay. It would take some time for that to truly become visible to people but it would ensure cleaner drinking water for the city.
On top of that more work for people in maintaining it meant less crime as those who had families wanted a steady wage and not an unstable income from criminal activities which also came with the risk of being caught and punished for their crimes.
All of which had people singing Haeron's praises for actually doing something about the conditions in Kings Landing rather than ignoring it, it was rare for any royal to do anything for the smallfolk and here was the crown prince no less doing something quite significant. So while he had only managed to get the support of a few of the noble houses on his side, it was at least a step in the right direction.
"Before we end the meeting my lords I think there is another matter that is worth discussing." Haeron said as he produced a model ship from his bag. "Shipbuilding in Westeros has been stagnant for centuries now, actual designs used by our great-great-grandfathers are still being built and sailed. Not having a navy that improves and expands on the past makes us fall behind the rest of the world. To that end with the aid of some shipbuilders on Dragonstone, I intend to rectify this issue." Haeron said as he drew their attention to the model.
"I call this a Brig, a two masted square rigged sails vessel, three on each mast. Designed with a more streamlined hull to cut through the water with more ease. She also has a giff-rigged fore and aft sail sail to aid in manoeuvrability along with a few other little improvements in the build to make it not only a more sturdy and able design but also faster than ships currently used. Able to act as both a warship and a cargo vessel with little effort." Haeron explained as he pointed out each new feature of the design.
Most members of Small Council looked at the design with interest, it was certainly different to the bulkier and more square designs that had come before. One member however was of a different mind.
"Your grace this is a foolish errant!" Lord Lucerys Velaryon, the Master of Ships said with complete disregard for the prince's words. He and the others members would frequently belittled the princes and Lord Tywin to the King to earn favour and other rewards from him but never to their own faces. Rhaegar wouldn't care but Haeron and especially Tywin were dangerous and would destroy them if they did anything more than that but this issue was too much for him to turn the other cheek this time. "The designs we use are tried and true. They..." He started to say but Haeron despite his own good relation with the man's cousin Jothos Velaryon interrupted the Master of Ships rather than let him finish his tirade.
"Are unsteady and slow, half of them last ten years before sinking if that. But you will have the opportunity to prove your point." Haeron said before telling them just what he had planned. "Words are easy but there is an old saying 'Actions speak louder than words' so to that end especially as I have already built a functioning brig, we shall stage...a race." Haeron said calmly.
There was a stunned silence in the room as they all heard what he had suggested, more so that he had such faith in the design that he had already had one built.
Tywin merely raised an eyebrow and as he spoke he could not help as the sides of his mouth perked up slightly.
"A race, your grace?" He queried and Haeron who could see his amusement however well he hid it responded to his query.
"Indeed, one month from now. My Brig will race a ship of similar size from your fleet. The race will be from Kings Landing to White Harbour in the North, the first ship to get there, wins. It is as simple as that. This will prove which design is better." Haeron said calmly with great confidence.
"It will certainly get people excited. I can see a lot of things coming from this." Lord Symond Staunton, the Master of Laws said with an eager smile. "Nothing like a good competition."
"Then the race will be held." Lord Lucerys Velaryon said, glaring at Prince Haeron which was surprising for him to be so blatantly disrespectful. Haeron stared back at him more calmly and held his ground which made the Lord of the Tides as he was known storm out in a huff. Seeing this shocked the other members of the Small Council as they had never seen Lord Velaryon act in that way.
Tywin who had long suspected Aerys wanted to replace him as Hand of the King with Velaryon was hoping that the Prince's latest scheme was successful as it would humiliate Lord Velaryon in front of the entire realm! Who would want a lord in such disgrace in a position of authority? He pondered with anticipation.
But he also couldn't help but wonder just what the Prince was aiming for with this? Tywin pondered, thinking the options through. Races were not uncommon and therefore neither was betting on them so he wondered if maybe the Prince was going to use that somehow? It was a highly risky strategy, the Prince had always been bold but not one to take wild gambles. Tywin also did note something else that his spies had told him that made the situation more intriguing.
While the construction of this new ship made sense of a lot of purchases that Prince Haeron had been making in regards to lumber and other ship building materials and quite a lot of other things, the purchases exceeded what he judged would be necessary to build a ship like this 'brig'. In fact by quite some way so what else was the prince building? Tywin wondered and considered he must have something better on the drawing board. More than that though there had been reports from his people on Dragonstone that they had heard 'strange noises' echoing across the island but no idea just what they were which only deepened the mystery he pondered.
News of the race quickly spread, not least of which was from the mouth of Lord Velaryon himself who fuming at the idea of his ships being deemed obsolete. The excitement predicted by Lord Staunton was also spreading fast as it was an unusual event and the first major thing to happen since the Defiance of Duskendale.
Even Aerys was interested despite his paranoia being worse than ever now, he looked from the Red Keep as the new ship came into port, the brig which had been named Aemon's Ranger after the greatuncle at the Night's Watch. It didn't look like much but the new and different design intrigued those that were interested in such things. Lord Velaryon's ship, the Sea Snake named after the famous ship of the great explorer Corlys Velaryon arrived not long after. It was a much more clunky looking ship with a much bulkier looking hull but it was about the same size as the Aemon's Ranger.
While this fever for the coming race was building up Haeron had to ensure that his crew was skilled enough to handle the new ship and more than that he had to find another captain quickly as the man he had hoped to give the job too had been bought out by Lord Velaryon with another commission in a rather obvious attempt to sabotage him. Many of the better captains were doing the exact same to earn Velaryon's favour so Haeron had needed to look elsewhere for a competent sailor that he could entrust his new ship too.
Thankfully, Golor hung out in the more 'disreputable' places in Kings Landing and had found him just the man. So that night, a secret meeting was arranged.
Haeron was travelling as incognito as he could with Golor and Ser Lewyn, the tavern was a grimy and dirty place but it was low key enough that they should avoid unwanted attention. Golor spoke to the tavern wench who led them into a back room without too much unease so clearly she was used to this kind of thing.
At the table was a man that looked older than he really was due to many years at sea, he had been a sailor since he was a young lad and had never wanted to do anything else according to Golor but he had a family to support and the chance of a safer life that paid well might be enough to sway him.
"Davos, I presume?" Haeron said as he sat opposite him, the sailor/smuggler nodded before seeing the silver hair under Haeron's hood and the manner of his speech gave him away.
"Your grace." Davos said, almost jumping to his feet as he realised he was in the presence of the Crown Prince himself. Haeron raised his hand and told him.
"At ease Davos, I regret having to meet like this but I am in a difficult position and need a man who knows the sea. I have been led to believe that you are such a man." Haeron said and Davos seemed confused as the crown prince he would have thought could have everything but soon Haeron made his reasons clear.
"If you have not heard of it yet, I am staging a race with Lord Velaryon over a new type of ship that I am introducing. The Brig is a fast and nimble vessel and will outpace her competition but Lord Velaryon is ensuring the odds are stacked in his favour by sabotaging me at every turn. I need a man that can handle my new ship and get it as fast as possible to White Harbour, a captain of skill and competence." Haeron said which made Davos understand why the prince was going to these lengths. He disliked the idea of these power games between the nobility but if he could work it in his favour then he was willing to try. A prince could presumably do many things that could benefit him but he kept that impulse in check, this opportunity would only come perhaps once in a lifetime or never...so he did not want to ruin it for himself.
"I would need some time to get used to the ship you want me to sail." Davos said as he knew sailing an unfamiliar ship could lead to all sorts of problems especially if it was of a new design. Haeron nodded before adding his payment for this task.
"Complete this task and you will be given a commission as a captain in the Royal Navy, a knighthood as well which should ensure you and your family rise in stature and given the family name Seaworth. A coin purse of a hundred gold dragons will be paid in advance in return for your agreement right now." Haeron said, producing the large and heavy pouch of coins for Davos to see that it was genuine.
Davos did not even blink he was so surprised at what the Prince was offering, the coin alone would be enough to settle his family for years and a commission in the Royal Navy and as a Captain...that would pay him way more than his current work as a smuggler, he would have a steady pay that would see him able to afford decent education for his boys and a comfortable living for his family not to mention he would be here to watch them grow up which was a major point for him.
He didn't need to think about it, as long as the ship was sound...he would do it.
"You have a captain your grace." Davos said and Haeron nodded, he was still learning to use legilimency but he could sense that Davos would be true to his word, like the crew he had checked after the first captain had bailed on him. He handed him the coin pouch and added.
"Come to the docks tomorrow. I will show you your new command." Haeron told him with a smile, knowing he could trust him and that he was as good a sailor as you could hope to have.
"As you wish your grace." Davos said, eager to get home and share the news with his wife. The Prince was known as a highly intelligent and trustworthy man who had already done a lot of good for the people of the realm without even having the throne yet, the long standing river of shit that had been outside his own home for as long as he could remember was gone now and the air itself was far more pleasant.
He should at least look at the ship he reasoned.
- x -
The Docks, Kings Landing...The Next Day...
Davos was as good as his word and met them at the docks that morning, riding on horses they gathered a fair bit of attention or at least Haeron did but Davos the moment they reached the dockside was focused solely on the ship.
She was beautiful he thought as he stared at her smoother lines and twin masts. There was some decoration but it was minimal and although Davos could not read, the name was proudly emblazoned on the bow.
"Aemon's Ranger, in honour of my several times uncle who serves at the Wall." Haeron told him with some pride. They dismounted their horses and went up the ramp to the deck of the ship and it was not so different that Davos did not recognise most of it but it was somewhat changed in small ways.
"I will need to take her out around the bay to see how she handles." Davos told him and Haeron nodded and then said.
"Then take us out Davos Seaworth." Haeron said as he turned to the helmsman and told him and the rest of the crew on deck. "This is your new captain, obey his order."
The crew who had more than a few Valyrian dragonseeds among them did not disobey the Prince and Haeron looked expectantly at Davos who nodded and swallowed his nervousness and did what he knew best, sailed ships.
"Cast off forward and aft lines." Davos said as he came up to the helm and then with that done he told them. "Let out some sail, turn to port."
The sails dropped and the ship turned as the helmsman turned the ship, Davos noted that it was easily turning, much better than normal boats this size and as they moved into open water he felt the stiff wind and with a clear path ahead, decided it was time to see just how fast this new ship was.
"Full sail." Davos commanded and the crew did as he commanded, deploying the full sails and there was a surge in acceleration that came so quickly that Davos honestly blinked in surprise, the speed of the ship was much greater than he would have thought. Golor and Ser Lewyn Martell were also both surprised at the speed, they had both been on ships before and knew that this was faster than was normal for a ship.
"Check our speed." Davos ordered after a while, wanting to know just what speed they were reaching. The tried and true system of knots was still in use and it was checked twice to make sure they got an accurate speed. The sailors eventually reported with some surprise after double checking.
"12 knots sir."
Davos was surprised as the ship's acceleration and cruising speed were very high but the ship was as steady as a rock, true this was a calm bay and not the open sea but it was still a strange thing as even the most stable ships he had been on before had not been this steady at speed.
"Right then, let's see what she can do." Davos said as he stood near the helm, Haeron just smiled as he watched Davos put the new ship through its paces, taking out into the Narrow Sea before returning to port. This happened daily for the next few weeks to make sure that the crew knew the ship well enough to perform well in the race.
But the night before the race, something was afoot.
Davos was making sure the crew were going to rest because the next day was the beginning of the race, the ship had been performing well and he was actually excited himself for the journey. The ship was already previsioned and the crew now trained...it promised to be quite an unusual contest he thought and was about to return home when he saw a group of men heading up the docks. They were all brandishing hammers and crude tools. They were jeering and heading straight for the ship, Davos's breath caught in his chest as he realised their intention, most of the crew had already gone and there was no-one but him and a couple of men to defend the ship.
But as soon as his fear made him reach for his dagger even though he knew it was a losing fight, a party of men appeared from hiding places around the dock, they swarmed the men and quickly took them down, sparing only one who was brought to his knees before the leader of the group who was wearing a hood, when he lowered Davos saw the prince's silver hair quite clearly and then heard his voice.
"Return to Lord Velaryon and tell him that he will not win this race by cheating, now!" Prince Haeron said and the intensity of his voice and the coldness of it sent a shudder through Davos as while the Prince was younger than he was, he had a powerful presence that seemed to dominate everything around him.
After his men released the thug who ran away as fast as his legs could take him, Haeron then turned to Davos and smiled, it was incredible how quickly the prince could go from cold and harsh to kind and reassuring in the blink of an eye. He had not met many princes in his life but he had known men and he was unique among all of them he thought with astonishment.
"I regret if this incident has caused you any distress Captain Seaworth, I had my suspicions that Lord Velaryon might try something so I made...counter plans." He said and then told him with a smile. "The men will watch over the ship and yourself as you head home. Best get there soon, you'll need your sleep for tomorrow."
"As you will your grace." Davos said, remaining respectful towards his benefactor and saw that these games of power got more nasty than he had imagined. Who would have thought a lord would betray his future king like that? Davos thought with disgust, it certainly was not a wise move to make an enemy of the future ruler of Westeros.
The Next Day, The Red Keep...
The gardens overlooking the harbour below were packed with people waiting eagerly for the race to begin. Both the Sea Snake and the Aemon's Ranger were sat in the entrance to the harbour, a simple rope the only thing in their path.
Even the King was present although he kept way back, fearful that someone would push him over the edge. Haeron however was not afraid and spoke to the gathered crowd.
"Today we mark an interesting event, a test of old versus new. The present against the future and see which is superior. A board has been placed in the throne room where progress of both ships will be charted as the spotters we have placed along the route report back to us. And now, it is time for the race to begin." Haeron said with a calm smile on his face, his words he could tell were angering Lord Velaryon especially but despite the small amount of pleasure he got from that he turned to the large horn that had been set up for him and blew into it.
A loud bellowing sound filled the area and both ships along with the dock workers could hear it. The rope that was holding the ships inside the harbour was pulled back clearing the way ahead and both ships set their sails and as the wind caught them began to make their way out of the harbour and into Blackwater Bay.
Both moved slowly at first, taking time to accelerate and reach their top speeds but Aemon's Ranger just as Haeron had hoped started to gain distance on the Sea Snake as her better sail arrangement and hull shape came into play. She pulled away from her rival and Haeron turned back to the crowd and told them. "The Race is on, now I have no doubt that some of you might like to place wagers on whoever might be winner so I will ask his grace the King to ensure that if a bet is placed then it will be honoured. After all, if we can't trust them to honour a simple wager then how can we trust any of them to keep their word?" He said and Aerys who was in a world of his own as he watched the two ships disappear into the distance came back to the moment and stared at his son questioningly for a moment before saying.
"Yes...yes of course. Any who don't will be punished." He said threateningly and Haeron bowed slightly in thanks even if he didn't mean it. Turning to the Master of Coin next. "Lord Qarlton Chelsted will keep a record of each wager placed, so in the interest of fairness...how about it Lord Velaryon? Ten Thousand Gold Dragons?" He said looking at the rich arsehole lord who snarled back, he had hoped to have the new ship sunk at its moorings and had tried to put his own men on the ship to sabotage it at sea but the Prince seemed to have identified them immediately.
"Lord Velaryon? Answer." Lord Tywin said with an expectant look and the Lord of Driftmark grimaced before saying.
"Agreed."
"Excellent." Haeron said with a thrill from his plan working successfully, he had used his magic specifically legilimency to find those that couldn't be trusted on his ship before it had left. He also knew the man would not want to pay when he lost. He could afford it but he didn't want too. Would likely refuse outright in fact which would only make him look a foolish and prideful loser in front of everyone and would certainly not do his standing with Aerys any good, especially when he had made a show of saying if they could not be trusted to honour a wager then how could they be trusted at all?
"Then I too wish to place a wager. Lord Tyrell?" Tywin asked with a probing look at the oafish lord of Highgarden, Luthor Tyrell. The man had been snacking on the food on the table nearby and froze at hearing his name mentioned.
He was just unlucky his wife wasn't here to stop him, Haeron thought with amusement as he knew Tywin would eat Luthor for lunch so to speak.
- x -
The days that followed passed with great excitement as news of the race's progress came in, the board which had a painted map of the route from Kings Landing all of the way to White Harbour was updated regularly as the spotters reported sightings of the ships as they made their way up the coast.
Chatter about the race was moving around the Red Keep and indeed Kings Landing at lightning speed and wagers were being placed big and small all of the time. Haeron had been targeted by several lords who hoped to have either coin or favours from the prince if they won but Haeron was completely confident in his ship and knew they would be the ones beholden to him.
As the days passed the wooden ship icons were put into their positions on the map as each new piece of information came in, one thing that was becoming increasingly evident that the Aemon's Ranger was opening an substantial lead on the Sea Snake, making considerably better progress.
Those who had placed wagers on the Sea Snake began to get nervous as victory began to look unlikely, Lord Velaryon in particular as he was confronted with the possibility of a rather embarrassing loss and was reaching out to some pirates near the Vale to try and interfere with the ship, to stop it reaching White Harbour or at least slow it down so his own vessel could win but the man who was taking those messages was in the prince's employ and purposefully made sure those letters went nowhere.
The days passed and the ships passed the Vale and now came closer to the North's only major port, excitement spread as the end of the race came into view and one morning, a message from Lord Manderly arrived. The crowd was excited to hear just who had won as there had been no sightings of the ships in a couple of days so no-one knew just who had won. Many suspected the Aemon's Ranger as it had a good lead on the Sea Snake but those with coin purses wagered on Velaryon hoped otherwise.
Grand Maester Pycelle pulled out the message and opened it before announcing the winner.
"I have here the word of Lord Wyman Manderly, also signed by Lord Rickard Stark as proof it is legitimate. He reports that on the morning of now two days passed, The Aemon's Ranger came first into port at White Harbour." Pycelle said calmly and as the information spread a cheer went out from those that had hoped the Prince's new ship would win and especially from those that had bet on it, others who cared not still enjoyed the atmosphere.
Those that had hoped Velaryon's Sea Snake might win were downcast but worse were those that had bet coin on that, Lord Tyrell knew Olenna his wife would kill him when he got back to Highgarden as he had wagered a small fortune on it with Tywin Lannister who was now giving the world one of his extremely rare smiles at the money he had now acquired.
The Queen too was smiling as she stood with her children, even Rhaegar was there for his own curiosity at who had won the race. Daeron and Shaena both cheered for their eldest brother while Rhaegar gave an approving nod. Viserys was still too young to know what was happening but was just happy his mother was happy.
The King himself seemed surprised at the outcome but was then presented with a model of the winning ship as a gift, he seemed to take a liking too it.
Haeron though was staying as calm and collected as you could imagine, turning to Lord Velaryon who was looking like he had swallowed a lemon.
"I believe you owe me ten thousand gold dragons Lord Velaryon." Haeron said with cool tone that was devoid of any superiority but the Lord of Driftmark refused to accept it.
"You cheated! You must have done! My ship cannot lose!" He yelled loudly which made the entire hall silent. Haeron merely raised an eyebrow before saying.
"I am prince not a god. I cannot command the tides or winds. How could I have cheated otherwise? I have not unlike you tried to sink my ship at its moorings or sneak spies onto the ship. So how have I cheated?" Haeron asked Lord Velaryon with cool calmness which only infuriated the Lord of the Tides who had bet a lot of coin on this race and knew that while he was able to pay it all it would take a large portion of his treasury.
Perhaps this was what made him act so foolishly, maybe it was his pride unable to accept that he had been beaten or maybe it was the hope that Aerys would grant him favour if he killed Haeron who Aerys considered his greatest enemy after Tywin Lannister. But whatever the reason he drew his sword and lunged at the Crown Prince.
The ladies in the room cried out in alarm and men loyal to the Prince made to protect him but they didn't need too. Haeron with reflexes born of quidditch in one world and years of training in this one easily dodged the rather clumsy strike and caught the blade in his hands, pulling it free from Velaryon's unsteady grip and sending it clattering across the floor without even cutting himself.
The men skilled at fighting were honestly impressed at such a feat but it was Ser Lewyn Martell that acted and impaled Lord Velaryon through the chest with his sword as he went for his other weapon, a dagger. The Lord of Driftmark gasped in pain as he fell to the floor dying, some of the ladies in the room fainting at the scene but Haeron was seemingly unaffected. He was actually surprised to have pushed him that far but clearly something else had been going on.
"He was not trustworthy." Haeron said calmly, seemingly to everyone but in particular to his father. "We need a Velaryon who is trustworthy to rule Driftmark."
"Yes, Jothos will do it." Aerys said with a fury at the snake that had been apparently been trying to get close to him but had been so disloyal.
Tywin who had been watching this play out wondered if that might be what Haeron had been intending right from the start, Jothos and Haeron had a good relationship and the previous Lord Velaryon had been a thorn in his side, had he arranged this whole situation to remove a problem and place an ally in a position of power? Tywin pondered, if so it was a masterful move and if not then he had been exceptionally lucky but he hoped that he did not rely on that luck holding out, it was always a fickle mistress.
Nevertheless the race was over and both he and the Prince had benefited from it in certain ways, Lord Redwyne would be called to take over the position of Master of Ships and Haeron would be true to his word. Davos Seaworth would be knighted and given a commission in the Royal Navy, raising his family in both wealth and status.
But another effect of Aemon's Ranger winning the race was that all of the houses in Westeros now wanted the new design, Haeron had counted on that. He sat in his room that night pondering just what to make from the situation, not many houses were rich enough to have a navy with the obvious exception being the Iron Islands which was a matter of necessity for them but he would never in a million years give them the new designs. He would he decided use the spreading of the new designs as a ruse to travel Westeros and try to meet with the more powerful houses. It would be dangerous but it was a potential option when he didn't have many.
He was about ready to head for bed when an unexpected shiver ran through his body, he had no idea of just where it had come from given it was a fairly warm night but looking through the window he saw a red light streaking across the night sky, it was not the fabled red comet that passed by this world sometimes but a smaller light that was hurtling down towards the ground not far from the city.
It would land not far from the city Haeron realised and with hindsight he could now remember that he had felt a similar sensation around other objects of magical power.
Without wasting time he rushed out of his room, thankfully already being dressed but not confident enough in his abilities to try apparating just yet. His guards did try to ask what he was doing rushing out so late at night but he didn't answer them and ran for the stables, leaping on a horse and riding out while Ser Lewyn and Golor followed with a few others. Riding through the city streets and out of the still open gate towards were the shooting star had landed. The ride was longer than Haeron had expected as it clearly had travelled further away before landing but eventually he arrived at the long gash in the ground formed by the crashing object.
The ground was still hot to the touch but Haeron barely felt it as he carefully moved forward, astonished as he finally found the meteor, it was smaller than he had expected and red in colour but was metallic in its appearance, glad to be wearing gloves he carefully picked it up and it was cold, despite the impact which still made the ground smoke from the remaining heat. It was also surprisingly light, barely weighing anything in his hands and apart from the colour, it reminded Haeron of what he had heard of the fallen star that House Dayne had made Dawn from. It was like it apart from the colour and he could feel magic that had been locked into it.
Haeron smiled as he knew just what to make with this he thought to himself.
Ser Lewyn and Golor managed to catch up to him and saw what he was holding with awe.
"Your grace, are you sure its safe?" Ser Lewyn said looking at the strange rock and seeing the similarities to Dawn being the same metal as clearly as the Prince could but worried for his safety. Haeron smiled and told him.
"Quite safe I am sure, the gods have blessed us today." Haeron said as it was what people would expect him to say but maybe it was true who knows, Haeron thought as he retrieved his horse and with the knights rode back to the city and the Red Keep.
- x -
The Red Keep, Kings Landing...
News of the falling star had spread quickly and many people knew that the prince had managed to get it first. The castle's forges had become his temporary home as he worked tirelessly to make something from the lump of meteoric iron, the sounds of his efforts echoed all over the castle and the furnace burned the hottest it had ever burnt to rework the metal. Many of the blacksmiths were sworn to secrecy if they saw just what the prince was making, so they would not reveal anything until it was complete.
The days passed until finally he emerged, coming in to court and showing everyone the results of his efforts.
The sword was a larger blade than was normal, a great sword as they were known with a black steel hilt and pommel that had been shaped to look like a pair of dragon head and neck on either side with the centre having a fair sized ruby and black leather to help on the grip. At the end on the pommel was a golden circle with the symbol of House Targaryen, the three headed dragon engraved on it.
The blade however was a strange red colour and was as sharp and as strong as Valyrian steel while being extremely light and easy to wield, as was proven by the Prince when he moved it around effortlessly despite its size. Rhaella and her children looked on in amazement as did most of the court and Aerys in particular stared at the sword with longing, even Rhaegar came to see just what had been made from the falling star.
After a few duels where Haeron had fought several knights who had too retire when the Prince either defeated them or when their swords broke from hits from the new sword, everyone saw that Dawn from House Dayne now at last had a rival...a sword of equal strength and sharpness.
Haeron meanwhile was enjoying his new sword, he had not intended to make such a large sword but it was working fine in the open and he was having a smaller short-sword made for himself for fights in more tight quarters to balance it out. It also added to not only his status but that of House Targaryen to have such a blade, his house had lost their two ancestral swords Blackfyre and Dark Sister many years ago and now they at last had a replacement and one that had only one true match anywhere in the world.
It also was helping with his magic, when the sword was on his person and especially when he was touching it he could feel his magic being amplified, some special quality in the metal perhaps but it would allow him to use magic more easily. It wasn't a true foci like a wand but it helped he considered.
"This sword is truly a gift from the gods, one that I will not waste. And while it will be the one I wield from this day forward, it will not be an ancestral blade handed down from father to son as it is normally with these things. Instead we shall take the lesson of House Dayne and instead it will be wielded by only one of this house that is found worthy. The Dragonknight. If none are found worthy, the sword will not move from its vault. And its name hence forth will be Crimson Heart." Haeron said, deliberately calling on the memory of Ser Aemon Targaryen the legendary knight who was said by some to be the greatest to have ever lived.
"But...that sword is meant for me!" Aerys demanded, shouting childish by the way he was whining.
"A sword is meant for a warrior and you are most assuredly not, unless being a warrior is having your thugs whip a young child." Haeron said, his gaze becoming cold and hard which seemed to terrify Aerys, the court too as they were all aware of what had happened in this very hall years ago and the Prince made them all fully aware that he remembered it vividly.
"This will be a symbol, a weapon that belongs to a worthy warrior...a potential hero even. I do not claim to be a hero or a worthy warrior although I will try to set a standard for future wielders to be judged by. This is not a plaything." Haeron added before turned and leaving with his mother and younger siblings as Aerys pouted and sneered at his son.
The words shared between them made everyone fully aware of the bad blood between the king and the crown prince, a growing tension that would not go away. Sooner or later something would have to give.
- x -
"Incredible!" Daeron said as Haeron carefully let him touch the new sword, his eyes excited but Haeron moved his hand away from the blade when it went to close.
"Be careful, a blade is meant to cut. Don't help it do that to you." Haeron warned his younger brother who nodded solemnly, but then Haeron smiled and messed up his brother's hair which made Daeron laugh along with Shaena.
"Is it really like Dawn?" Shaena asked him having heard all of the stories of the fabled sword and now her eldest brother had such a blade. Haeron nodded and let her see for herself which delighted her.
Rhaella was so proud of her son for finding such a thing and making something that could well outlive all of them with it, she loved all of her children deeply but Haeron was probably the one that she was the most proud of although she would never admit that. He worked so hard and had already achieved so much, he would make a brilliant king she thought with certainty which only increased her fear that Aerys who knew that he would never be anywhere near as smart, strong and capable as his eldest son would kill him before he got the chance to inherit the throne.
Rhaegar meanwhile was looking at the sword and given its colour could not help but wonder if this was the supposed 'Lightbringer' that some legends of the 'Prince that was Promised' spoke of. He had thought at one time that he was the chosen one but had realised that had been his own arrogance and vanity, he wondered though if his children or perhaps his brother's might be Prince that was Promised and the remaining two heads of the dragon just like Aegon and his wives/sisters Visenya and Rhaenys.
Haeron then made and announcement.
"Given the success of the brig I will be travelling to the other houses that have ships to discuss the adoption of the design." He said, knowing it would be best to avoid the Red Keep for some time but his private work on Dragonstone was still being constructed and he had much to do elsewhere, not to mention see if any of the houses might support him if he tried to remove Aerys from the throne although it was likely a lost cause he thought with anger. Unless they were directly threatened most houses would do nothing to aid him against his own father and was now having to consider killing him.
That dark thought took a good deal of effort to keep off his face as he pondered on how to do it, there were a number of spells but getting close enough to use them was tricky so he would need to work on his apparation before he could even try it. In case the worst happened though, he was making preparations and that night before he departed the Red Keep, returned to his other hobby, carving a large and elaborate chest while working magic into it with runes and other spells...if it was ever needed he thought to himself.
- x -
The following morning Haeron bid a farewell to his mother and his younger siblings, they were sad to see him go but knew it was not forever. He was going to visit the other houses to see if they would be willing to adopt his new ship design although Rhaella knew that he was doing it for another more secret reason, to drum up support to replace Aerys. He was risking a lot with this and she just hoped he was sure of what he was doing she thought with fear.
He gave her one last hug and kiss on the cheek before hugging Daeron, Shaena and Viserys before mounting his horse accompanied by a company of men loyal to him including Ser Lewyn Martell and Ser Golor and rode out of the castle. The column of men was fast and made its way out of the city in quick time, their first destination being Casterly Rock where Lord Tywin was waiting for them, eager for them to meet away from prying eyes.
Casterly Rock, the Westerlands...A Few Days Later...
Haeron had not been to the Westerlands in many years, not since he was very young and they had ruled from there for a year but he had been only a boy then. The impressive fortress of Casterly Rock sat on top of the cliff and loomed over them. Haeron and his party rode towards it, the Lion's Gate open to allow them free entry. Lord Tywin, his twins Cersei and Jaime along with the rest of their family and the servants were all lined up to greet them. Haeron dismounted and Cersei who was the most eager to see him was feeling rather flustered at the impressive figure he cut in his 'red dragon' outfit and the new incredible sword at his side. Jaime was annoyed and jealous at this but Tywin paid them no mind as he bowed to the Prince as he approached.
"Welcome your grace, Casterly Rock is yours. Rooms have been prepared for yourself and your men." Tywin said calmly and Haeron returned it with a respectful nod.
"Your hospitality is greatly appreciated Lord Lannister. I hope our discussions will be most rewarding for us both." Haeron replied and Tywin nodded calmly as he was hoping the same.
- x -
After retiring to their rooms and freshening up Tywin and Haeron went to the pathway on the side of the castle facing the sea, it might be a strange place to hold secret discussions but since there was a sheer drop on either side and anyone on the path would be easily seen it was perhaps the best place in the castle.
"The Brig design." Haeron said, handing the plans over to Tywin who took them with a raised eyebrow. "Westeros has been stuck for centuries now. The same ships for hundreds of years and that needs to change."
Tywin was surprised at the sudden gift and questioned it.
"I had thought that you would use the new designs to gain favour." He admitted and Haeron nodded.
"With other houses I will but not with you. I still owe you a debt and that I hope is a partial repayment of that." Haeron told him honestly. "I suspect your price for your support in overthrowing Aerys will be far more personal." Haeron said knowing full well what Tywin would want.
Tywin nodded, he wanted his daughter as queen, that was hardly a secret and Haeron it seemed was willing to accept that if he gave him his assistance. He hardly knew Cersei Lannister but when had that ever mattered in the marriage stakes?
They went to see the twins so they could at least make them aware of what they were planning but as they came into the sitting room were the twins were supposed to be waiting both Tywin and Haeron were shocked to see both twins on a table, making out with each other with their clothes nearly off.
They were silent for a moment until Jaime realised they were there, he got up suddenly and looked incredibly startled by the sight of the Prince and his father, but Cersei just looked at him puzzled before turning her head and seeing them standing there and her face went white with terror.
Tywin moved forward so quickly it was almost a blur and slapped both of them hard, knocking them to the ground with a snarling look of fury on his face. He was looking like a vicious lion about to tear them apart when surprisingly it was the prince that came to their rescue.
"Since it seems they have yet to consummate this...union." Haeron said with a raised eyebrow of distaste as he was fully aware as both a Targaryen and as someone who had seen the purebloods back in his old world what came from such...inbreeding. "There is no reason it need go any further...perhaps some time apart will help cool their attachment." He suggested to Tywin and he looked at the prince still furious although not at him, he knew that there was little chance of tying Cersei to him now but the prince was giving him a way to salvage the situation without further embarrassment to House Lannister and for that he was grateful, this did give the Prince potential leverage over him but if he was right in his reading of Haeron then he wouldn't use it.
"Indeed, since you are I believe travelling Westeros, will you take Jaime with you?" Tywin asked calmly as he brought his emotions under control. That scared both Cersei and Jaime immediately and then enraged Cersei at the idea of being separated from her other half.
"YOU CAN'T DO THAT!" She demanded, seeming to expect to force them into changing their minds but that only earned her another slap from Tywin.
"You will do as you are told!" Tywin told her sternly as he grabbed her by the hair which made her cry out in pain, Jaime went to try and interfere but Tywin stopped him with a glare.
It was hard for Haeron to watch, he hated people who abused their children but in this he couldn't afford to interfere. He would need Tywin's support when the time came to remove his father and while he couldn't do anything for Cersei sadly he would be able to help Jaime a little he thought with depression at the evils of this world.
"I will take Jaime as a squire, it gives an acceptable excuse for him not being here and the distance needed." Haeron said and Tywin nodded.
"Push him to his limits. Make sure he knows what is expected of him." Tywin ordered and the fact he had such a short temper to give Haeron an order showed how furious he was. Haeron nodded in acceptance which made Jaime almost shiver in fear while Cersei shook with fear at what her father might do when he decided on her punishment and her grief at being separated from Jaime was already aching but there was nothing to be done.
Haeron had intended to stay longer at Casterly Rock but given events he felt it better to leave now, the visit had left a sour taste in his mouth and with a squire that he was now responsible for Haeron thought with anger. He had no idea just what was this was between Jaime and Cersei, why they would go down this route? Tywin would be harsh with them both after this, more than he had ever been before so taking Jaime with him was as much of a mercy as it was a punishment.
Who knew what a man like Tywin would do if he really wanted to hurt you? Haeron thought with fear.
Targaryen Camp, The Reach...A Few Days Later...
Now travelling through the Reach to head into Dorne, Haeron's party had stopped for a rest after a long day's ride. Plans to visit the Arbor and House Redwyne had been scuppered by problematic seas so they had agreed to meet later when it was more convenient.
Jaime Lannister was sulking in his tent, still not used to being so far from home and more to his aching heart from Cersei! He thought with sorrow. He and her were meant to be together he thought with a lovesick mind! They had been in the womb together and they had always meant to be together! Cersei had always told him and she was always right! He thought with complete certainty.
"UP! NOW!" A voice shouted and Jaime jumped with the sudden fear of it. He saw the Prince enter the tent and honestly he was terrified of the incredible figure standing before him. His tall and muscular form clad in a simple shirt and his stern face made Jaime freeze,
"Training now young Jaime." Prince Haeron said with a cold and stern voice which sounded oddly similar to his father which only sent a chill up Jaime's spine. The Prince was regarded as one of the best swordsmen and knights in all of Westeros and easily the best that House Targaryen had produced since Aemon the Dragonknight, under any other circumstances Jaime would be thrilled to be trained by him but the fact it was under these circumstances scared him more than anything else other than his father.
He was forced out of the tent and Haeron took one look at him, up and down intensely as if studying him like a maester would and sighed.
"Join me in laps around the camp, keep pace with me or tomorrow you do it twice as long." Haeron told him before stretching slightly, showing the muscular torso of the prince only made Jaime feel more insecure but he had no choice but to follow as the prince began to jog around the camp. Jaime thought this would be easy especially as he was younger than the prince but as they ran around and around the camp he began to feel his own stamina start to run dry. He was feeling the pain at his sides and his breath was short and rapid after what seemed like only a short time. He was stumbling more and more as his legs began to feel heavy and sweat poured from his skin.
The prince to his astonishment was not only going as steadily as ever but with only the slightest sheen of sweat on his body. His breathing was controlled and his pace seeming to be blistering compared to Jaime's own. The men in the camp were watching and smirking and some laughing at Jaime's failure to keep up with the prince which only spurred Jaime to push harder but ultimately this was a step too far and he felt his legs fail him, collapsing and falling face first into earth. Despite being slightly dazed he could hear the men in the camp laughing which only made him feel even worse before then he felt himself being helped up and saw to his amazement that it was the prince that had helped him. Jaime expected him to be furious at his failure but instead the prince looked calm as he told him.
"The body can only take so much at once, pacing yourself and controlling how much you put into something will help you last longer. Your mind and your body must not only be as fit and as strong as they can be but be in tune with one another. Having a good sword arm is worthless if the rest of you isn't as strong as it can be." Haeron told Jaime calmly who listened with surprise before he told Jaime. "We will work on building up your body and then when you are ready...we will spar. Not until you are prepared for such a thing. Now go and get some food and water, your body will need to replenish itself." Haeron told him and with surprising gentleness helped Jaime to his feet and led him go over to the fire where food and water were waiting for him before the Prince resumed his exercises much to Jaime's shock as the prince carried on for what seemed like forever before coming to get some food and water himself. Ser Lewyn Martell came over to Jaime with a smile and told him.
"He's taking it easy since we are on the road. At the Red Keep, he trains even harder than this."
Jaime honestly had no idea just what to say as he downed his water, thinking the prince must be stronger than Gregor Clegane to manage all that.
Sunspear, Dorne...A Week Later...
Jaime who had never been anywhere except certain places in the Westerlands and one trip to Kings Landing was absolutely astonished as they entered Dorne. The intense sun was unlike anything he had ever felt before and he could almost feel his skin burning the moment they passed the Red Mountains. Crossing them had been an experience in itself but then to see the seemingly never ending expanse of desert beyond them...it honestly was nothing like he had imagined. The maesters has of course told him of this but none of it had truly prepared him for the reality, nor the heat which necessitated them all to wear light coverings and head scarves.
With the exception of Ser Lewyn who had grown up here, none of them even the prince was coping well with the extreme heat and conditions. Following the paths through the desert was difficult enough and Jaime wondered as he looked out over the sands how many people they had swallowed over the years. The Targaryens had failed for centuries to conquer Dorne and now he was beginning to see why.
It seemed like an eternity before they arrived in Sunspear and this city was another shock to Jaime, the city of Lannisport and Kings Landing with the exception of Casterly Rock and the Red Keep were the only sort of buildings he had seen but Dorne was so different.
The buildings were made with pale stone and some had domes in either white or gold, some had blue patterns in painted stone along the outside. They rode on horse back through the city and Jaime could hardly contain himself as he looked around wildly to try and see everything. Their party was being deliberately careful to not attract attention yet, enemies can be anywhere and the most dangerous ones were the ones you don't see coming.
So it was better to be as unnoticed as possible for now.
They rode through the city and towards the castle of House Martell, the Sandship. Jaime's boyish mind for a moment thought that the Martells has placed a ship on top of their castle but then realised that it was a ship made of stone. His mind honestly was astonished as to why anyone would have a castle shaped like a ship?!
Ser Lewyn only had to show his face and they were allowed entry, riding into the Sandship was an impressive sight even for Haron who admire their determination to make something original as their castle that spoke of their history.
The courtyard was was full to greet them, Prince Doran was present with his new wife Lady Mellario of Norvos, Princess Elia Martell stood next to them and then was the most infamous of all Prince Oberyn Martell. His cunning grin made Jaime worry as he had heard many rumours about him but Prince Haeron was not concerned and dismounted his horse followed by the others, pulling back his hood the Martells knelt and Prince Doran spoke.
"Your grace, we are honoured by your presence. The Sandship is of course yours."
Haeron nodded and replied to stop the kneeling.
"It is my honour to visit such an impressive structure as this. I thank you for your hospitality." Haeron said and shook Doran's hand before turning to his wife and kissing her hand as one should when greeting a lady. "Lady Mellario, my congratulations on your marriage and I wish you and your husband the happiest of lives together."
"Thank you Prince Haeron. I only wish you the same when you find a woman to wed." Mellario said with a smile and a sideways look at Elia who Haeron would greet next.
Looking at her he could see why she was known as the 'Jewel of Dorne', exceptionally beautiful with a face that painters would have given their souls to use in their work and a slender if elegant body. Her bosom was small but in proportion to the rest of her. She had warm and intelligent eyes and an enchanting smile. Haeron knew that given she was the noblewoman with the closest Valyrian ancestor if his father ever allowed him or Rhaegar to marry then Elia would have likely been his future bride. He took her hand and gently placed a kiss on it.
"Princess Elia, I see tales of your beauty hardly do you justice. It is my privilege to meet you." Haeron said and she with a knowing look in her eyes smiled.
"I hardly would call myself a great beauty Prince Haeron but your compliment is appreciated." Elia said and Haeron smiled back, she was quick witted he thought with approval.
"Am I to wait while the Prince chatters endlessly with my sister?" A voice mocked from the side and Haeron just shook his head while the others all looked on in shocked worry.
"Oberyn!" Doran and Lewyn said at the same time in censure while Elia just shook her head in exasperation and Mellario looked worried that her goodbrother had insulted the future king of Westeros.
"Fear not Prince Oberyn, I was just getting to you." Haeron said with a smile as he turned to the 'Red Viper' and shook his hand. He did not miss how Oberyn looked at him with somewhat lustful eyes but he didn't care, Oberyn's vices were well known along with his easy preference in bed-partners.
"The Red Viper, I see your tongue is as sharp as your spear point." Haeron said and seeing that a flirtatious comment was coming Elia swiftly moved the conversation on as she had no idea just how the Prince might take Oberyn's attempts at seduction.
"Rooms have of course been prepared for yourself and your party. Please allow me." She said as she meant to lead them and Haeron graciously followed with the rest of his party. Jaime in particular was looking around with astonishment at every single thing he could see and enjoying it all the more.
Haeron arrived in his room and saw it had a balcony that looked out over the city below, he smiled to himself as he took in the view, seeing the different culture and style of Dorne was a welcome break from normal. Dorne was so different to the rest of Westeros and he saw great appeal in their ways but alas he would not be here for long. He had many other places to visit he thought to his disappointment but reassured himself that when he did possess the throne he would re-establish the old custom of travelling to each of the kingdoms every so often to make sure he was kept aware of their issues.
- x -
Later he greeted Prince Doran in his solar and as they looked out over the city they discussed the future.
"When eventually Aerys decides to wed Rhaegar or myself off then it is likely that your sister will be chosen for one of us. Do you want her to be subjected to the judgemental madness of Aerys? He barely tolerates Andals in the Red Keep and he would be disgusted by someone of our family not appearing as a Valyrian. I am aware that you have eyes in the capital so you know that I am right." Haeron said knowing of at least two Dornish agents in the Red Keep so Doran would be fully aware of Aerys and his worsening behaviour.
"But why would I risk putting you on the throne?" Doran asked with a cold smirk but Haeron knew he was being tested and replied honestly.
"Because his madness is only getting worse, sooner or later he is going to do something that will lead to civil war, something Dorne might struggle to stay out of especially if Elia is wed off to my brother or myself." Haeron said plainly and Doran's expression did stay neutral but there was a telltale tightening around his eyes that showed he was fully aware of that likely outcome.
"But also because I am not interested in merely keeping my own house in power. I intend to uplift all of Westeros with new sciences and technology. My intention is to make Westeros the most powerful nation in the world and as such Dorne along with it. To that end, as a gift, I present you with the new ship plans to share among your vassals. Of course I do not intend to declare myself king now and cause the kingdoms to rise up in a civil war. Merely I hope to convince enough of the Great Houses to remove my father from power. So it is my hope that you would be willing to support me." Haeron said as he handed the plans of the Brig to Doran who took them with some surprise but a nod of understanding.
"You are playing a dangerous game my friend but it is an interesting one and I wonder if you would be willing to make Elia your queen?" Doran asked and Haeron who had suspected that was coming asked a question of his own.
"Does she want that?"
Doran blinked in surprise, not having expected him to ask that before Haeron explained his position.
"While I am sure she would make a fine queen is she willing to be subjected to the rigours of the court? To have her every movement and word questioned and her ill health made a jape? I am aware of her 'frailty' of body if not of mind and while I would never judge her for something that she cannot control but the rest of the court and Aerys will I assure you. Is that something that Elia wants for her future?" Haeron asked bluntly and Doran looked momentarily angry at the seemingly harsh words about his beloved sister but knew in his heart that Elia did not want to be queen. She would be an incredible one of that he had no doubt but she would be hurt by the horrible words of the court and her ill-health would count against her.
"If she wishes it, and only if she wishes it then yes I would make her my queen." Haeron said which given his previous words shocked Doran but more so that he would take what she wanted into question rather than treat her like cattle.
For that alone, Doran and Oberyn would support him.
- x -
Later that day after Haeron and Doran had concluded their meeting, Haeron stood in the yard with his sword fighting against Oberyn in a sparring match as their respective friends and family watched.
"Your sword is oversized, are you compensating for something?" Oberyn taunted him but Haeron did not respond as he was now in his 'fighting mind' where he was devoted to the fight and nothing else.
Oberyn regretted those words as despite the sword's great size Haeron could move it like it weighed nothing and as a warrior his skill was near faultless. He was the closest match to Arthur Dayne that any of them had ever seen and as Oberyn tried to deflect Haeron's attack away he hit the wooden staff of the spear so hard that it broke in two and then with Oberyn in shock Haeron delivered a hard kick to his stomach sending the Red Viper to the ground and stabbed the sword into the earth next to his head.
That brought a gasp from the members of House Martell as from their position it looked for a moment like Oberyn had died but Haeron extended his hand and Oberyn took his hand to help himself up. They all breathed a sigh of relief while Jaime and Golor smirked at their prince's victory.
"Showing off in battle will only get you killed." Haeron warned Oberyn as many of his family had done before but Oberyn just scoffed and told him.
"But it makes life more fun." He said with a smirk and Haeron just kept his reservations about that statement to himself as he could tell they would only fall on deaf ears. "Good match." Oberyn conceded which Haeron took with his usual good grace and said back.
"Indeed, I see why they consider you the greatest spearman in Dorne." Haeron told him before turning to Jaime who now was sweating but it was nothing to do with the heat. "Jaime, practice sword. Time for training."
Jaime was feeling a hard chill as he knew already how hard the Prince drilled himself and how he was held to the same standard. Golor and Ser Lewyn both grinned as they knew what the young squire was in for and before the eyes of House Martell Jaime nervously drew his practice sword and Haeron started taking him through the various stances. Slowly at first and then getting faster and faster which went on for hours until they finally left to freshen up for dinner that night. Jaime by the end of it was absolutely devoid of energy to continue, covered in sweat and could barely stand.
Elia fussed a little over Jaime as the boy was exhausted after the intensive training but as she later that evening in the small feast that was held danced with Haeron she whispered something in his ear.
"Thank you my prince, few people have ever considered just what I wanted. I hope you find a woman that can be your queen." Elia told him and Haeron smiled, a genuine smile that thankfully no one but Elia saw and he whispered back.
"It was my pleasure Princess, may you find happiness. It is perhaps the rarest treasure in our world." He said which was true as most marriages in their world were dynastic and rarely considered what the lady in question would like. The fact he had considered her feelings already had earned him her favour, she would see him and his party off personally the following day as they had a very long road ahead of them.