Aaaaaand as promised, an alternate ending! Due to it being over 14K, it will be divided into two parts. This is a thank you to all my readers, from my whole heart and soul, you all brought back my dying dream of being an author. So this is for all of you.
As most of you know, most of the war and battles stemmed from Laenora's death, so I spent a while trying to figure out how those events would work if she never died. So some parts of the war may just be paraphrased because I did not want to write the whole war in detail in one chapter. After all, that is not what we are here for.
And yes, to my critical readers, this is not going to be completely realistic. It is a make-believe happy ending, so things are going to be suspiciously victorious. This is the happy ending we wished they got.

What if during her nap before the murder of her daughter, Queen Visenya had her first prophetic dream? A dream that showed her the death of Laenora, Aegon, and the tragic course of the violent war between dragons that would claim much of her family.

Visenya's violet eyes flew open as she felt her throat sear from screaming. She'd never had a dream so vivid, so detailed, and so real. Her heart began to race as she clawed at her chest, reminding herself that it was not real.

Aemond rushed into their royal apartments, looking at her in concern. "I was on my way to see Aegon and Daeron, why were you screaming?"

Visenya stared at the sheets, trying to make sense of what she dreamt. She was not a dreamer, she very seldom dreamt at all. But what she saw was a warning.

And if her dream was right, two men were waiting to ambush her and kill her sweet daughter.

"I need you to trust what I am about to tell you, and trust I shall explain it after the deed is done."

Aemond nodded. "What is it?"

"The secret tunnels, there is an entrance into Helaena's chambers. In there, two men have her and the children bound."

Aemond's eye widened. "Our children are in there!"

"I am aware, Aemond. You have to take some of my Queensguard to be at that door and I will go to the main entrance with the remaining guards so that we may trap them. But we must be careful, they intend to kill Laeny."

Aemond's violet eye filled with rage and he grabbed Blackfyre. Visenya reached for the Valyrian steel dagger, tying it inside the sleeve of her gown for easy access. She stood in front of her husband, placing her hand on his cheek.

"The gods have given me a chance to rewrite our history. We can save our little girl."

Aemond had taken three Queensguards to the tunnels, standing guard behind the false wall. Visenya and her remaining four Queensguards walked to Helaena's chambers. "No sudden movements, my daughter is under their knife."

They got there in enough time. Aemond came in through the tunnel, killing one of the men as he held a knife to Laeny's throat, and Visenya used her dagger to kill the other. Her daughter was alive. Completely terrified from all the blood and death around her, but alive.

Sleep was not to be found after the sun had set and Visenya called for an emergency council meeting. She could not let them know of her dream, not yet. Mostly because the dream left one thing on her mind.

Laenor was alive.

She needed to see it to believe it because a revelation so significant left her doubtful, and she did not want to get hopeful.

Half into the night, Visenya and Aemond could not stray far from the twins' room. Aemond sat on the chaise, Maegor asleep on the cushion next to him and Laenora asleep on his chest. He hadn't let her go since she got tired, unable to handle being far. She was so terrified, she'd already seen too much for a young girl. Watching her mother and father murder, all while getting the blood backspray from her captor's murder, had left her terribly shaken.

Visenya entered the room after having gotten some water, sitting next to Aemond on the opposite side of Maegor.

"How is she?" Visenya whispered, stroking her hand over Laeny's light curls.

Maegor and Laenor's dragons, Veraxes and Verlys, both sat in front of the fire and watched intently. At five years old, they were starting to get large enough that the nannies wouldn't come in if they were in the room. They were the size of ponies, large enough to bite off a head if anyone got too close.

"She makes small noises, signs of nightmares I recognize from her mother." Aemond looked at Visenya. "I am owed an explanation, I believe."

Vis kissed the top of Laeny's head and then leaned back against the cushion, her body utterly exhausted. She ran her hand over her bump, looking at her husband with tired eyes.

She explained everything to him. From losing Laeny, to having Vharra, Laenor's return, the battle of Rook's Rest and Aegon's death, the Battle of the Gullet claiming the lives of Baela, Joffrey, and Corlys, the birth of Aemma (and how she was conceived), Rhaenyra's attempted invasion of King's Landing, her killing Daemon, and her rescuing him from Alys River's torture.

"I knew Daemon was involved with whatever happened to Jacaerys," Aemond mumbled.

"I need to fly to Lys," She whispered.

"Why?"

"I need to find my father, Aemond. Rhaenys may be my hand, but Corlys and the Velaryon fleet still side with Rhaenyra. Bringing back my father would prove to the world her transgressions. As it stands, little Aegon and Viserys are bastards. Her claim is all but naught."

"We need to plan to strike against Daemon and Rhaenyra. They just tried to kill our daughter!" Aemond said louder than he intended. They both watched Laenora with worry as she shifted in Aemond's arms, making a small whimper.

"They will pay for what they have done to us, Aemond. I saw myself make many a mistake, and I have the chance to fix it."

"I still do not understand, you have never been a dreamer. Why now?"

"I would like to think that the gods were trying to spare another grieving mother, mother's instinct if you will. Our line will prevail, but House Targaryen will not survive if we kill one another."

"I ride at your will, My Queen. Give me a name and I shall reduce them to ashes."

She placed a hand on his cheek and smiled. "I know, ñuha jorrāelagon. But I must fetch my father first, and then I shall consult with Rhaenys. Her advice has been sound, and she knows the histories, she could give me insight on how to handle what I have seen."

"You should leave for Lys on the morrow, I will stay with the children and Rhaenys will keep council at bay until your return."

"You are king, Aemond, you have a place leading the council in my absence as well. King Consort does not have to be your title."

"I bent the knee to you, you are my Queen. I shall serve no other, myself included. My place is not as your equal."

She smiled again. "Nyke would vūjigon ao lo īlē daor holding īlva tala."
*I would kiss you if you were not holding our daughter.

He smiled softly at her. "You saved our daughter's life, I would do much more than kiss you."

-

Visenya concealed her hair and pregnant belly with a cloak as she walked to the shore. Lys was a busy city, full of other white-haired elitists, but she did not want him to see her.

Visenya stopped at the bottom of the steps and she felt like a brick had hit her in the chest. There he was, with a shaven head but she knew her father better than anyone. He was her everything, the only reason she survived her childhood. He was the only one to show her real love before Aemond.

She watched from a distance, not wanting to make a scene. She would stay until he and Quarl retired for the evening, and then she would follow them home. She knew why and what made him leave, she knew it was never his choice and that he fought to stay with her. The vision had shown her everything. But her heart still ached.

Hours passed, and the sun began to set. When a bell signaled the end of the day, Visenya kept a distance and followed.

The streets were busy, and she began to get worried as she snaked her way through the crowds, her hands protecting her belly. Her dagger was in her sleeve once again just in case, but she could not make a scene.

Laenor and Qarl turned down an empty alley that had multiple doors leading to the common apartments. She had not realized how close she had gotten, and she was now right behind her father.

Laenor suddenly pulled out a knife and turned on her, but Visenya tried to turn and her cloak got twisted, covering her face.

"Why are you following us? Who sent you? Tell that bitch and her traitor husband I will not fight for her!"

"Stop!" She exclaimed, reaching up to fix her cloak and remove it. As soon as she showed her face, Laenor's eyes widened and his blade dropped from his hand.

"Visenya?"

Her tears returned and she nodded. Laenor pulled her into his arms, one arm around her back and the other hand over her hair as he kissed her forehead. "Ñuha tala," He whispered.
*my daughter

She nodded and pulled away to look at him. "It is true, you are alive."

"We should go in, it seems we have much to discuss," Laenor smiled, placing a hand on her cheek. "You looked so much like your mother growing up, it is a relief to see you as your own woman now."

They went inside and sat on the settee while Qarl went to their small kitchen to brew some tea. "It is not a lavish palace, but it has served as our home since we arrived."

"No one knows?" She asked.

Laenor shook his head. "I keep my head shaved. Many have light Valyrian locks, but I find it easier to keep them shaved. It reminds me too much of my true home and family," He squeezed her hand. "I am a pretender with no hair, able to convince myself I am not the same man whom abandoned my family."

Visenya shook her head. "They made you leave, Father."

"How are you here?" He asked.

Visenya explained everything to him, starting with the death of Viserys and her coronation. She told him of her mistreatment at the hands of Daemon, and her mother's complacency. And then her dream, and what this war would become if she did not change it.

Laenor sucked in a breath. "When word reached here of the birth of your twins, I was amazed you would name your daughter after me. All these years I stayed away, afraid of the power she held. I knew the Hightowers would take it the moment Viserys passed. But in my heart, I knew none would be able to fully defeat her or her line."

"Everyone underestimated me. A ghostly weakling, they called me. Once I discovered they were wrong, I hid that within like a blade in its scabbard, eagerly waiting to draw and attack. I want them gone. He tried to have my daughter killed, Papa. And he would have succeeded."

Laenor nodded. "And strike you shall, my girl. And I will be right behind you the whole time."

Qarl set down the tea in front of them. "Whichever ships sail for you, I shall lead them in your name," He said.

Visenya smiled. "Thank you, Ser Qarl. If my father had to be exiled with anyone, I am glad it was with you. I am happy you both experienced some happiness." She began to shift as Vharra began to kick, her hand going to her bump as she readjusted.

Laenor's eyes trailed down to her belly and he lifted his hand. "May I?"

She nodded with a smile and grabbed his hand, placing it over where the kicking could be felt. "Her name will be Vharra, Laeny picked it out."

Laenor rose a brow with a shocked chuckle. "Laeny is a beautiful alias for her. It is just so unbelievable, imagining you as a mother."

She let out a laugh. "Much has changed, Papa. I can not wait for you to meet Laenora and Maegor. Only Aemond knows I am here, I wished to make sure before giving Rhaenys false hope."

He nodded. "Making her your Hand was a smart decision. Do you have the Velaryon fleet behind you?"

Visenya shook her head. "He pledged for Rhaenyra. But once he sees her lies and that you are alive and loyal to me.. I need as much support as possible, I need that fleet."

-

Seasmoke and Grey Ghost danced around one another as they flew above King's Landing. Visenya was laughing, genuinely feeling joy as she and Laenor flew from Lys. Aemond heard them from the twins' room and grabbed them both, heading for Blackwater Bay, where his wife always landed.

Aemond held Laenora with one arm, his other hand holding Maegor's as they watched the two dragons land. Rhaenys was not far behind, hearing the familiar call of her son's former dragon and worrying.

Visenya climbed off and pressed her forehead between Grey Ghost's nostrils. "Emi olvie naejot gaomagon, jiōragon mirri rest."
*We have much to do, get some rest

Laenor watched with a smile. "I should not be surprised a dragon claimed you."

Visenya turned when she heard Rhaenys choke back a sob. She ran to Laenor, tightly embracing him. Visenya walked to Aemond, taking Laenora in her arms.

"How are you, my sweet girl?"

Laenora hugged close to her chest, her legs resting around her mother's bump. "I missed you, Mama. Please don't leave again."

She kissed her forehead. "I will try, Princess. Is that an order?"

Laeny nodded. "I declare, as Princess to the Realm, you stay home forever."

Aemond and Visenya let out a laugh at her declaration. "Your Mother is Queen of the Realm, she may need to leave at times."

"To kill the bad guys?" Her eyes welled up with tears.

"Mama and Papa will kill all the bad guys," Maegor spoke up. "I want to kill bad people, I can hold a sword."

"And you are quite exceptional for your age, Son, but you need to stay home. Who else will protect Laeny while we are away?" Aemond asked.

"Me! I will protect Laeny, I can do it."

"Well, then it is settled."

Laenor met the twins, a sight that brought Visenya to tears.

Everyone began to walk inside, Visenya walking close to Laenor. Aemond began to feel a sort of doubt in his chest. Visenya and he fell in love because she was alone and had no one. Now that she had Laenor, would she even need him anymore? Would she put all her time back into Laenor, the person who showed her love first?

Once they were inside, Laenor stepped next to Aemond. Rhaenys and Visenya looked at them. "Go on," Laenor nodded. "I wish to speak with Aemond."

Visenya looked at her husband but he just nodded. Visenya took the children and continued to walk with her grandmother.

"You married her, and yet you both seem ..."

"Happy," Aemond responded.

"I have not yet been able to understand," Laenor said, eyeing him suspiciously. "You must understand my hesitation. When I last was here, you hated her. You tormented her daily. And she hated you."

"Yes," Aemond nodded. "But when you left her, you left her open and wounded. I do not fault you now that I know the truth. But I saw something that resembled a dragon in her, and if I was infuriated by the abuse she endured at the hands of her parents, she should have been more so. But she believed it to be ... normal. My whole life has been one large injustice due to my sister's favor with my father. I realized she was just another victim, and my quarrel was not with her."

"So you picked her up."

"No, I gave her the tools to pick herself back up, I do not wish to take all the credit. She has Daemon's strength, gods be damned. I showed her things, and she to me. We broke each other free of our parents' influence. It took time, but we fell in love. I before her, but she is stubborn."

"She gets that from her mother. It does not matter, when they get a plan in their head, nothing will stop them. So you truly are devout to her, completely loyal?"

"I would end my own life if she asked."

-

Plotting began. Rhaenys, Laenor, and Aemond were the only ones to know of the dream. Things began to line up just as she had foreseen. Corlys left Rhaenyra when hearing of his son's return and chose to patrol and guard the Gullet for Visenya.

Visenya still grew nervous despite their advantage. They had more dragons. Sunfyre, Meleys, Vhagar, Seasmoke, Tessarion, and Grey Ghost. Helaena would never fly Dreamfyre into battle

Rhaenyra had Vermithor, Silverwing, and Sheepstealer. Syrax would never be fit for battle, Vermax can not be claimed while Jacaerys lies in a coma, Moondancer is too small, and so was Tyraxes. Stormcloud was just a hatchling.

Thanks to Brella's ability, a killer had been sent to kill Nettles before she could claim Sheepstealer. But then Rook's Rest approached and Aegon grew weary.

"Let me fly and defend you!" Aegon groaned as Visenya rocked Vharra in her arms. it had been one month since her birth, two months since the attempt on Laenora's life. The day Vharra had been born, Laeny demanded to be the first to hold her. Save for her parents, of course.

"Aegon, please just trust me."

"How can you count Sunfyre as one of your dragons when you do not let me ride him behind you? What are you not telling me?"

Visenya handed Vharra to the handmaiden, taking a deep breath. "Aegon, I know how things will end if you. I have seen it."

Aegon stepped in front of her. "You are just over-worried."

"No, Aegon, I saw it. A dream that showed me the fate of our house if Laenora had been killed. You rode to Rook's Rest against my orders and Vermithor killed you. Aegon, I saw my life without you, I saw your wife birth a babe that would never know its father. I watched myself crumble with grief and never fully recover. You are my brother and best friend."

Aegon seemed lost for words. "More than Brella?"

She rolled her eyes. "Always the jester. You are both tied, pleased?"

"Yes," He nodded. "Are you sure of everything you saw?"

"Yes, but only Aemond, Laenor, and Rhaenys know. Targaryen dreamers can often be viewed as mad and if the council finds out, I am sure it would slip through the cracks of security and word would get to Dragonstone. This is my secret weapon. I do not need you fighting for me, Brother, I need you home and breathing."

Aegon huffed. "I feel like a child being punished and coddled. I want to prove myself."

"There will be other ways to prove yourself, I am sure of it but you underestimate your value. You seem to think you need to prove yourself through battle and valor. But Aegon, you already have. My first night in this castle when I moved here, you made jokes to get your mother's attention off me. You have been a companion, and you have evolved into a much better version of yourself. But if you ride into battle without my leave, I will never forgive you and I will hold on to that resentment for the rest of my life."

Aegon's eyes softened as he avoided eye contact with her. "You are sure Helaena is pregnant? I have been giving her more affection, more pleasure, I want her to be happy."

"She is. And she needs you Aegon. Your other three children need you. Aemond and I need you."

Aegon closed his eyes. People needed him. For all his years, all he heard his mother do was complain about him. He was her means to her ends until Visenya arrived on a silver platter and became her tool against Rhaenyra. After that, his mother paid him no mind. He was not needed. But now he was.

Instead, Visenya and Aemond flew for Rook's Rest. Killing Vermithor had some obstacles, but it was a victory nonetheless. Visenya would not drag Vermithor's head through the streets this time, she would not make that mistake again. Grey Ghost and Vhagar both gave him a proper pyre, burning him for well over an hour before he became ash. Visenya and Aemond watched with respect.

She knew from her dream that this would help save her marriage from a tumultuous time. Her original decision to rush into battle and Aegon's death had caused the first rift after Laenora's death.

After some time, they still agreed to go to the Vale and things still happened there as she had dreamt. The Gullet happened directly after and that was where things differed.

Despite Nettle's death, she still saw the brown dragon with a familiar face. Rhaena was on Sheepstealer.

It came as a shock to them all. It was Visenya, Aemond, and Rhaenys against Ulf, Rhaena, and Baela. It was not a fair fight, Moondancer was much smaller than the rest and Rhaenys should not have gone against her granddaughters.

Sheepstealer was as large as Grey Ghost and Meleys, a bit more of a challenge for Grey Ghost. The Triarchy below was firing on both the Green and Black fleets, getting their revenge against both Corlys and Daemon from their previous war.

Rhaenys tried to focus on burning the enemy fleets, but Silverwing was following her. Visenya was getting annoyed with Baela's persistence. Needless to say, it was no effort for Grey Ghost to close his jaw around Moondancer's head. Baela's body was impaled with several arrows before she even hit the water.

Silverwing was her next target. Sheepstealer and Vhagar were at it and Rhaenys needed Silverwing off her tail. The silver creature was far more of a challenge than Moondancer. Grey Ghost and Meleys both fought against the faster Silverwing, all dragons taking damage.

Visenya and Grey Ghost both let out a yell when Silverwing's talons cut along Grey Ghost's tail and side, blood spilling onto the ships before. The injury filled the Queen's dragon with more might and with the help of Meleys, they managed to scare Ulf enough to make him run away in cowardice.

But the difference of events came with Sheepstealer. With a change of rider, Rhaena grew hysterical when she watched her twin die at the hands of Visenya. She abandoned her pursuit of Aemond and Vhagar, rushing to Visenya.

Visenya had not seen her coming and the brown dragon slammed right into her own. Both dragons started spiraling to the water below and Visenya's heart rate accelerated. She lurched forward to hold on to Grey Ghost's horns as he tried desperately to catch the fall. Her chest tightened with fear as they quickly descended upon the water and there was no slowing down.

Grey Ghost finally got turned and crashed on his underbelly to keep Visenya on his back. Her body slammed forward on impact and her head hit his scales, thankfully between the horns. Her vision began to blur but she tried to look around.

So much fire, and so many arrows. She dizzily climbed off her dragon and fell halfway down. When she got to her feet to walk around him, her vision was warped but she was horrified by what she did see.

On their way down, Grey Ghost had sunk his talons into Sheepstealer's neck and ripped it open. The dragon was dead, and his body had slammed into what she knew was the Gay Abandon.

The last thought before she went unconscious was how her mother would now be grieving more children.

-

When Visenya woke at King's Landing, she was irate. Aemond told her that Grey Ghost was fine, he just had some painful tears with what seemed like a limp from the fall but he was at Blackwater Bay and recovering.

Rhaenys was grieving the loss of both her granddaughters and husband. The next council meeting was quiet as Visenya paced the room. She had stitches on her forehead from the impact against her dragon, her face was tight with fury. No one dared speak until Brella entered.

"My falcon flew to Dragonstone and over the Gullet. It seems Rhaenyra and some local soldiers pulled Aegon and Viserys' bodies from the wreckage, but they also found more."

Visenya quit pacing and clenched her eyes shut.

"And?" Rhaenys asked.

"Right before Sheepstealer fell, Prince Joffrey had flown to the ship to attempt to save his little brothers. He was also crushed in the wreckage."

Visenya fell back in her chair, pinching the bridge of her nose. "You mean to tell me," She sucked in a deep breath, "I just ... killed ... THREE OF MY BROTHERS?" She screamed.

"My Queen," Lord Lannister spoke up, "It was Sheepstealer and Rhaena that crashed into the Gay Abandon."

"Sheepstealer's body fell because my dragon killed him. Just brand me a Kinslayer and turn people against me, why doesn't she!"

"Your Grace, as far as the citadel and smallfolk see it, you are the rightful heir and Queen now. Your mother broke laws that exempt her from the throne. You are her next child, legitimized by King Viserys. People may not have been happy about you being a woman, but you were the true option. In standard wars, one against armies and not families, it would be acceptable to kill every last standing one on the other side. You must treat this like a standard or you shall be called weak and emotional." Rhaenys finished speaking, leaning forward.

"A bad omen, all of this," Visenya whispered. "I began a war that has become nothing but vengeance and backstabbing!"

"The war did not begin with you, Visenya, it began when they sent men to kill our daughter!" Aemond raised his voice.

"Some could argue it would be her coronation," Orwyle responded.

"This war started when that fucking cunt paraded her bastards around this castle with a devious smirk!" Jasper yelled.

"One of those bastards is your Queen, mind your tongue!" Lucerys shouted back.

The room filled with shouts and insults and Visenya slumped back in her chair with defeat. She had no words, nothing to say to calm her own council. Half the council possibly still distrusted her due to being a woman but she was the lesser of two evils in their eyes.

Rhaenys quickly stood with a stern face and the men suddenly silenced.

"It does not matter. Soon none shall remember what it was that started this war. Your mother may view the beginning as your usurpation, and that is but one answer. Or was it when the child was almost beheaded? Or when Jacaerys was mysteriously stabbed? Or when Visenya took Aemond's eye?"

The room stayed silent as everything looked down.

"When this first began, I cautioned you against an attack. I willed you to find a way to come to terms with your parents before acting. And you did until the unknown mishap at Storm's End. I believe no one in this room had a part, but Daemon took the chance to take the bit. The desire to kill and burn has taken hold and reason has been forgotten, but not on your end. When all the bodies fall, know that you were the only one to try and peacefully avoid this war. You tried the alternate route. There is no other way, and that is the hand that has been dealt."

"You told me there is no war so hateful to the Gods as a war between kin, and no war so bloody as a war between dragons. There will be more blood, and there I sit atop my dragon, watching -"

"Watching what? Watching continuous battles that Daemon and Rhaenyra take no part in?" Aegon said, no sign of humor on his face. "You are our Queen, and you have fought two battles now while she sits on her rock and he stays in a haunted castle. Our troops are stronger because they are inspired. For the first time in many years, they have a leader also willing to sacrifice her own life for them. Certain families have turned to us for that alone!"

"If you can prove Daemon drew first blood on Jacaerys, the histories shall that you petitioned for peace first. I swear to you, I did not harm him," Daeron spoke. "I urged him to speak to his mother, I asked for peace on your behalf. The time for petitions has long passed."

Visenya looked at every face in her small council meeting. She had surrounded herself with men and women alike she could trust. Tyland had been the only remaining member from her grandsires council, keeping the position of Master of Coin. After Lord Jasper's arrest, she'd invited her husband's uncle, Gwayne Hightower, to be Master of Laws in hopes to keep good faith with House Hightower. Maester Munkun replaced Orwyle, Rhaenys had replaced Otto, Ser Arryk replaced Lord Westerling, and Brella had replaced Larys. Aegon, Daeron, Laenor, and Lucerys had also joined just for council and to be included.

Gone was the weak council of King Viserys, and in front of her sat a group of people that looked in her direction. Loyal, strong, and capable people.

She nodded. "Alright, then we remind everyone how House Targaryen gained these Kingdoms. I was every dragon utilized. Our major armies need dragons flying Vanguard. Daeron should follow the Hightower host, he has good relations with that family and I know they are not fond of me at the moment."

"Do not forget to keep the castle guarded, Your Grace," Rhaenys reminded her.

She nodded. "Laenor and Seasmoke shall remain, and Aegon and Sunfyre." Visenya stood and looked at the map. "I want constant information about the Riverlands, Crownlands, Reach, and Eyrie, anything within a day's flight. We have more dragons now, the battles will have fewer casualties with us above burning the enemies."

-

The tides of the war changed, favoring the Red Queen. Dragons had become a common force in the battle, showing a might that had not been seen since Aegon's Conquest. Daeron and Tessarion helped win the Battle of Honeywine with House Hightower's victory, but it saw the loss of Lord Ormund.

When Lord Mooton attempted to retake Rook's Rest, Meleys was there to end the siege.

When Visenya received word that the two thousand strong Winterwolves were marching on the tired and wounded Lannister army, she immediately armored up and departed on her dragon with Lucerys and Arrax behind her.

The Battle by the Lakeshore had already begun when they arrived and she could tell much of the Lannister army had been slain. The two dragons reigned fire below, offering the Westermen as much assistance as possible.

When most of the forces had been destroyed, Arrax and Grey Ghost landed to see the soldiers. Many of the men were wounded, and many burnt from the surrounding fire. But those who lived looked relieved.

This continued for the following months. Visenya had remembered Dalton Greyjoy from her dream, how he would ransack and rape his way along the coast of the Westerlands and Reach. She and Laenor flew to eliminate him.

It was almost beginning to feel too easy. She'd helped in several battles either with Laenor, Lucerys, or Daeron. The council had proposed that she never fly with Aemond or Rhaenys, stating that the Crown and any heirs not be together pending any deaths. If she and Rhaenys were to fly out, that would take out the Crown and the Hand. Additionally, if she was gone, she needed her Hand and King Consort leading in her place.

But Aemond served a purpose on both land and and dragonback. While Daeron was taking a small leave to be with Brella and their newborn, Aemond fought with the Hightower army in the First Battle of Tumbleton. Any man to meet Aemond on foot became a body for Blackfyre to cut down.

They all knew that the Blacks had three remaining fightable dragons; Caraxes, Syrax, and Silverwing since his craven retreat from the Gullet.

One late night, not long after the First Tumbleton, Aemond traveled home to council with Visenya. They sat in front of the fire with Laenor and Rhaenys, the only ones who knew of the dream.

"They will send Silverwing to fight the Second Tumbleton," She said as she rubbed her belly, pregnant with Aemma. "It will not be long until Daemon leaves Harrenhal for Dragonstone, and they will plan to take King's Landing while there are fewer dragons. They will expect Aemond to go for Harrenhal, so the largest threat will be gone."

"But it will be a trap, Alys will be eagerly waiting to capture him with all their men. So if Vhagar never leaves, how will they still attack?" Rhaenys asked.

"Vhagar shall still leave. Laenor and Daeron shall fight the Second Tumbleton, at least that's what they will think. Laenor and Seasmoke shall be just outside the city waiting for them. Lucerys shall be with the Baratheon fleet, seeing as his wife is Lord Borros' daughter. Aemond will fly to the Riverlands and surround the castle with men, and he will burn down Harrenhal instead of taking it. The surrounding men will capture Alys if she tries to run."

"That leaves you here with minimal protection," Aemond spoke.

"The people will throw Rhaenyra out before she can even intrude. Seasmoke will kill Syrax, but I want my mother captured. I will lure Daemon just as last time and I will get him to confess before killing him. Grey Ghost will kill Caraxes."

"No!" Laenor argued. "What if the anger of losing the war gives him more strength than you foresaw? What if he is able to kill you this time? I will not leave you alone."

Visenya swirled the water in her goblet. "Father, I need you to capture Rhaenyra and have her close to hear Daemon confess."

"I cannot let you face him alone, you cannot ask me to -"

"I am not asking you, I am commanding you as your Queen." Her words had power behind them, her jaw clenched and her eyes firm.

When the time came, Daeron and Tessarion went against Silverwing but it ended the same: Tessarion died, killing Silverwing and Ulf, and Daeron was injured yet alive.

The night before Aemond was due to leave, he sat with Visenya and the twins in front of the fire in their chambers.

"Is the new babe going to be a girl or boy?" Laeny smiled, holding Vharra.

"What do you think?" Aemond asked, running his hand over her curls. "I know you only wanted Vharra but you shall have many siblings."

"She has me!" Maegor argued.

"You are my twin, I can not rid myself of you, Maggie," Laenora giggled.

"I told you not to call me that!" Maegor called and tackled her on the settee. Aemond was quick to grab Vharra as the twins wrestled on the ground.

Despite knowing they should have stopped it, Visenya and Aemond couldn't help but smile, knowing this could have easily been taken away.

"How did we live without this?" Aemond whispered.

"It almost killed our marriage," She whispered. "It almost killed us."

Both children fell into the fireplace tool rack, and Maegor pulled away while placing a hand over a cut on his forehead. "Ow!" He groaned.

Laenora giggled at him and he glared, wiping the blood on her white nightgown.

"That's going to need stitches, I will call for Munkun," Aemond sighed and handed Vharra to Visenya.

Maegor lightly punched Laeny in the arm and they went back to smiling and teasing each other. Visenya watched with a smile, enjoying every second. Every moment felt precious and she needed to hold on, she knew how fragile every life was. She had taken their prewar happiness for granted, and she could have lost Laeny for it. Now security had doubled and most of the family had their own guard. Maegor and Laeny were the heirs, they would marry one day and be the crown, so they had guards stationed on them specifically. Visenya's Queensguard was never allowed breaks like before when she did not take it seriously.

Munkun came and stitched the cut on Maegor's forehead, Aemond watching with a frown from similar memories. He was just thankful his child still had both eyes.

He could tell Laenora was gearing up to tackle her brother again Munkun left and he lifted her by the waist, throwing her over his shoulder. "Not happening. It is late, and the Prince and Princess need their sleep."

"What if she attacks me in my sleep?" Maegor grinned. "You can not make us sleep then!"

"I believe it is time for our children to have separate rooms," Visenya responded.

"NO!" Both children cried.

"You are both six now, it is about time for separate chambers. You do not get to share forever."

"We will when we are married."

"Maegor," Visenya rose a brow, "You do not yet understand what marriage means. For all you know, it is just one long sleepover, hm?"

"Isn't it?" Aemond smirked.

Visenya hit his arm. "Not helping."

"See, Laeny hits me too!" Maegor grinned.

"Bed, now!" Visenya frowned. "Bed or you get no time with your dragons tomorrow."

Laeny let out a frustrated sigh. "Fine, Mother. Father, take me to bed!"

"When did we become 'Mother' and 'Father'?" Aemond said with a frown.

"You said we are six and need different beds. I suppose we are too big to say 'Mama' and 'Papa'."

"Visenya, take it back?" Aemond almost whined. "I am not ready to be 'Father' yet."

"Fine, but everyone still has to go to bed."

A maiden took Vharra to the nursery and led the twins to their room to no avail. Within an hour, they returned and slept between Visenya and Aemond. They looked at one another from their pillows and he reached his hand over to rub her belly. "Give Aemma a kiss for me when she is born."

Like clockwork, Aemma was born two moons later and Visenya was mentally preparing for the attack on the city. In the very small chance that Daemon would succeed, she had Rhaenys take them to the Dragonpit, waiting with Meleys until the coast was clear to return. If Visenya were to fall, she needed her heir and Hand away and ready to retake her throne.

Laenor was waiting close to the shore as Rhaenyra arrived, immediately attacking her when she was close enough to catch off guard. Seasmoke had already grown larger than Syrax, and he pushed her down to the sand to give Rhaenyra a chance to jump off like the coward she was.

Rhaenyra had taken the bait and got off, running for the ships. Seasmoke bit down on Syrax's neck, her blood spilling over the ships below. Her eyes started to roll back and Seasmoke threw her down into the water. He burned the few ships that had arrived with Rhaenyra and landed in front of her.

"Just stop resisting," Laenor sighed, getting off Seasmoke. Rhaenyra was utterly alone now; the commonfolk were denying her and throwing her out, and her ships were burnt sea fodder.

Rhaenyra's jaw clenched as she swallowed her pride and allowed Laenor to bind her hands together. "Here to kill me now, hm? Revenge?"

"The Queen shall decide what to do with you after you learn the truth. You never could see the bigger picture, Rhaenyra. It was always about what you wanted. I warned you the first time I saw you mistreat her."

"And look at her now, I was clearly wrong. She manipulated everyone into despising me."

"You think she gained favor with the smallfolk just for manipulation? She did it because they are a part of the job that you threw aside. She takes every job seriously. The crown is not just about selfish wants and needs. She was willing to put in the work to take care of everyone under the crown, not just herself."

He led her up the steps of Blackwater Bay, leading her to Maegor's Holdfast.

Meanwhile, Visenya had been waiting in Maegor's Holdfast, watching the sky as Grey Ghost and Caraxes danced songs of violence and pain. She felt every wound her mount received from the Blood Wyrm, awaiting the arrival of Daemon.

Her plan had worked. She lured him in, let him attack her, and got him to confess once Rhaenyra was within earshot. He faced Rhaenyra and Visenya stabbed his back, and he fell to his knees, begging Rhaenyra for forgiveness.

Visenya stood behind him, holding the blade to his throat with a smirk. "How does it feel, hm? Think of how he felt, to be betrayed by his most trusted mentor, a trusted confidant, his father. I want you to feel it! Look in the eyes of your wife, the mother of that boy, and face her judgment! Because trust me, Father, I know how to finish a job."

Laenor stepped forward and spit in Daemon's face. "That is for mistreating my daughter."

Visenya cut his throat and all her pain spilled out with his blood.

Visenya walked up to her mother, mirroring her own stone-cold expression except Visenya's was full of power and rage. "You are going to surrender. We shall call every lord left standing to the capital and you shall confess everything to everyone. You shall urge your remaining bannerman to bend the knee to me, and then you shall die for your crimes. You have no one left. Rhaena, Baela, Joff, Aegon, Viserys, Syrax, and Jacaerys are all gone because of you. So for whatever love you may still hold for me, and your love for Lucerys, do such without resistance and I shall grant you a quick death."

Rhaenyra finally met her daughter's eyes. Visenya could see pain and agony in her eyes, but she also saw defeat and exhaustion. And maybe ... pride?

"I am at the will of your mercy. Will you transport Jacaerys here?" Rhaenyra finally spoke.

"No," Vis shook her head. "I will go to him with Lucerys."

After dumping Daemon's body into the ocean, she flew to the Stormlands to fetch Lucerys and fly to Dragonstone.

"How do you know he will wake?" Luke asked as they walked the halls. There was not much of an army left, and the few that remained bent the knee in the face of her dragon.

"Just trust me. Wait out here."

After using the blood magic she remembered reading about - and seeing - Jacaerys woke with a startle and shock on his face when he saw his sister. "How -"

"Shh," She smiled, running her hand over his hair. "Little brother, how I have missed you."

"Daemon - he did it!"

"I know. Calm down and I shall explain it all."

After an hour of telling him everything that had happened - and what would have happened - and answering all his questions, he finally cracked a smile. "So, Unburnt? Decided to go about and show us up?"

"Had to do it somehow," She grinned. "You lot overshadowed me my whole life. Give me a victory where you can."

Jacaerys frowned at her words. "If I could go back, I would and -"

"Jace, we were children. Easily manipulated just like they needed. You did not know better. Daemon sunk his claws in you, and I do not fault you. What matters is that I got to see you."

"Because you didn't, right? In your dream, I mean."

Visenya nodded, looking at her hands. "I woke you from Harrenhal, and you woke with Mother by your side and you spent your final hours with her. One of my many regrets. I just needed to see you, to tell you how much I love you despite staying away. Jacaerys, I ..."

"Just pawns, remember? I know now it was not your choice. You always took care of us. You stood above us all, trying to keep us in line and protect us. You took the brunt of it, making sure we did not have to. I see that. And I am glad I got the chance to apologize."

Tears fell from her eyes as she smiled. "The love I have for you and Luke shall never be rivaled. My little brothers, the first boys I was privileged enough to watch grow into men."

"I can not believe they're all gone."

She nodded, wiping away her tears. "I am so sorry, Jace. I am ..." Her shoulders shook as she sobbed. Not just for him, but for everyone. The siblings she had, the siblings she barely knew. Siblings nonetheless.

"We all paid a price, Visenya. You were forced into your situation and you made it work. You found a man you love, and you had children, you had to choose them. I hope they never know the pain and conflict we did, I hope they now get to grow without that constant shadow. You took all our pain and used it to make a better life for the next generation. I am glad. I am glad my death will not be in vain."

Lucerys finally entered the room, looking between his siblings. "Jace!"

Visenya let the two brothers catch up, offering smiles and laughs where warranted. They spent hours talking about their life, past and present. Lucerys boasted about Aerion and Ellyn, and Jacaerys soaked up every word.

Visenya watched as his energy slowly began to die, and Luke did too. "I want you to tell Mother that I forgive her. I do not wish for her to die thinking I hated her."

Luke nodded. "Of course."

Visenya and Lucerys each held one of his hands as he reminisced more on their childhood, his speech slowing with each word. And within moments, he took his last breath.

A pyre funeral was held for him on Dragonstone that same night, an intimate ceremony just between Visenya and Lucerys. Vermax lit it before disappearing into the clouds, his sad song echoing over the island.

"No more fighting?" Lucerys sniffled. When Visenya looked at him, she saw the same little boy she grew up with. The same boy she defended, fought for, and maimed for. The young boy whose life was so important to her, the one she took her uncle's eye for. And if he was the only sibling she got to carry into their new life, that was okay. Because they broke the cycle of power and abuse. Even if it would only last a generation or a hundred, they fixed it enough so their children would never know their pain.

"Yeah, Luke, no more fighting."

Part 2 will be up soon!!