As Aegar soared through the sky, Maekar surveyed the battlefield below. The Triarchy soldiers scattered in fear as they witnessed the terrifying sight of a dragon descending upon them. Flames erupted from Aegar's mouth, engulfing groups of enemies in a fiery inferno. The Triarchy soldiers screamed in agony as their bodies turned to ash, their armor melting in the intense heat.

Maekar's heart pounded with adrenaline as he directed Aegar's devastating attacks. He reveled in the power he wielded from atop the dragon's back, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of determination and vengeance. With each pass, he burned more Triarchy soldiers, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake.

Finally, Maekar signaled Aegar to land, his mind set on facing the infamous Crabfeeder in the treacherous caves of Bloodstone. As they touched down, Maekar dismounted, his sword at the ready. The dark and eerie atmosphere of the caves seemed to amplify the tension in the air.

The Crabfeeder emerged from the shadows, a hulking figure with a twisted grin on his face. He wielded a massive sword, its blade glistening with a deadly sheen. Maekar braced himself, his heart pounding in his chest. The battle that ensued was fierce and brutal.

As Maekar faced off against the Crabfeeder in the pitch-black depths of the Bloodstone caves, the air crackled with an electric intensity. The clang of their swords echoed through the cavern, echoing off the rugged walls. Each strike sent shockwaves of force rippling through their bodies, threatening to shatter bones and rend flesh.

The Crabfeeder's movements were swift and brutal, his sword slicing through the air with lethal precision. Maekar danced with death, his reflexes honed to their limits as he deflected the Crabfeeder's onslaught. Sweat poured down his brow, mixing with the blood that trickled from his wounds. Each breath was a struggle, his lungs burning with exertion.

With every clash of their blades, the ground trembled beneath their feet, sending loose rocks cascading down from the ceiling. The very earth seemed to tremble in fear as the two titans clashed, their sheer power threatening to tear the cave apart. The air grew thick with the scent of iron and the acrid smell of burning torches.

Maekar's muscles screamed in protest, but he refused to yield. The pain fueled his determination, his eyes blazing with an unwavering resolve. He fought with a primal fury, his strikes fueled by a desire for revenge. Each swing of his sword carried the weight of the fallen, their spirits guiding his every move.

The Crabfeeder's attacks grew more frenzied, his desperation evident in his every move. He lunged forward, his sword aimed at Maekar's chest with deadly intent. In a split second, Maekar sidestepped, narrowly avoiding the lethal strike. With a surge of strength, he retaliated, his blade finding its mark on the Crabfeeder's exposed side.

A guttural scream escaped the Crabfeeder's lips as blood spurted from the grievous wound. But he refused to relent, his eyes filled with a feral madness. The battle reached its climax as the combatants traded blow after blow, each strike more savage than the last. The clash of their swords echoed through the cave, drowning out all other sounds.

Finally, with a final burst of energy, Maekar unleashed a devastating strike. His sword cleaved through the air, its trajectory unerring. The blade found its mark, slicing through the Crabfeeder's defenses and sinking deep into his chest. A moment of eerie silence hung in the air before the Crabfeeder's body crumpled to the ground, lifeless.

A mix of exhaustion and triumph washed over Maekar as he stood amidst the aftermath of the battle. Blood seeped from his wounds, staining his armor and pooling at his feet. He glanced around, the dim light of the torches casting long shadows on the walls.

Dragging the lifeless body of the Crabfeeder behind him, Maekar emerged from the depths of the cave. His men, their faces a mixture of admiration and concern, surrounded him. They knelt before him, their voices trembling with reverence, declaring him the King of the Stepstones. But even as their cheers filled the air, Maekar's strength waned.

His vision blurred, the world spinning around him. The toll of the battle and the loss of blood finally caught up with him. With a final act of defiance, he collapsed to the ground, his body spent. As darkness closed in, Maekar knew he had paid a heavy price for victory, but it was a price he was willing to pay.

—————

Two weeks had passed since the fateful victory at the Stepstones, where Maekar had triumphed over the Crabfeeder. Yet, the brave warrior had yet to awaken from his deep slumber.

On a Velaryon ship bound for King's Landing, Maekar lay motionless in a small cabin, his battered form resting on a comfortable bed. The ship swayed gently with the rhythm of the waves, its sails billowing in the wind as it cut through the sea. The crew moved about their tasks quietly, careful not to disturb their wounded commander.

It was during this peaceful journey that Maekar's eyes fluttered open, slowly adjusting to the soft light filtering through the cabin windows. His vision was hazy at first, but as his senses sharpened, he became aware of a figure standing beside him. It was a Maester, dressed in the traditional robes of his order, his face lined with both concern and relief.

The Maester's gentle touch on Maekar's arm brought the warrior fully awake. As he tried to sit up, pain shot through his body, reminding him of the injuries he had sustained. The Maester's voice, calm and soothing, filled the air. "Easy now, my Prince. You've been unconscious for quite some time. Your wounds were severe, but you're finally on the path to recovery."

Maekar's brow furrowed as he struggled to piece together the events that had transpired. Memories of the intense battle at the Stepstones flooded his mind, followed by the darkness that had engulfed him. "The Crabfeeder... Did we prevail?" he managed to ask, his voice weak but filled with determination.

A small smile played on the Maester's lips as he nodded. "Yes, my Prince, you emerged victorious. The Crabfeeder lies defeated, and his followers scattered. Your bravery has earned you the respect of your men and the admiration of the realm."

Relief washed over Maekar's weary body. The weight of his injuries suddenly felt lighter, replaced by a sense of accomplishment. But as his gaze met the Maester's, he couldn't help but notice the worry etched in the old man's eyes.

"However," the Maester continued, his tone becoming more somber, "the path to recovery will not be easy. Your wounds were grave, and it will take time for your body to heal fully. We are now on our way to King's Landing, where you will receive the best care and attention."

Maekar nodded, his determination unyielding. He knew the road to recovery would be challenging, but he had faced worse challenges in his life.

As the ship sailed closer to King's Landing, Maekar's mind filled with thoughts of the future. He wouldn't let his injuries deter him from his mission. The victory at the Stepstones was just the beginning, and there were still battles to be fought, both on the battlefield and within the realm.

As Maekar began to settle into the reality of his injuries and the path to recovery, a familiar voice echoed through the cabin. "Maekar, nephew, you've finally awakened!" It was the voice of his uncle, Daemon.

Maekar's eyes brightened at the sight of his uncle, a mix of gratitude and admiration filling his gaze. Despite his weakened state, he managed a faint smile. "Uncle Daemon, it's good to see you," he greeted, his voice laced with exhaustion but also genuine warmth.

Daemon approached the bed, his stride confident and his eyes filled with a mixture of concern and pride. He took a seat beside Maekar, his gaze lingering on the bandages and bruises that adorned his nephew's body. "You fought valiantly, nephew," he began, his voice filled with a mixture of reverence and excitement. "The battle at the Stepstones was nothing short of legendary."

Memories of the battle flooded back to Maekar's mind, the clash of swords, the roar of the waves, and the taste of victory. He remembered the moment when he stood upon the blood-stained shores of the Stepstones, triumphant, the Crabfeeder's dead body in front of him. "It was a hard-won victory, but we emerged victorious."

Daemon nodded, his eyes gleaming with pride. "Indeed, nephew. And it is because of your unwavering leadership and unmatched bravery that the men declared you "King of the Stepstones," he declared, his voice resonating with conviction.

Maekar's brows furrowed in surprise, a mixture of astonishment washing over him. He had fought alongside his men, shoulder to shoulder, never seeking glory or titles. The declaration of being named King of the Stepstones caught him off guard.

"But Uncle, I never sought such a title," Maekar responded, his voice tinged with a hint of disbelief. "I fought for the realm, for justice."

Daemon placed a reassuring hand on Maekar's shoulder, his expression filled with understanding. "I know, my boy. And that is precisely why the men bestowed this honor upon you," he explained, his voice steady and resolute. "Your actions on the battlefield and your unwavering commitment to your people have earned you their respect and loyalty."

—————

The court had gathered in the throne room once they heard of Prince Daemon's and Prince Maekar's successful return to the capital. They whispered among themselves before falling silent at the sound of heavy footsteps. The crowd gasped and broke into murmurs as Daemon and Maekar appeared at the doors to the throne room, Maekar using a cane for aid walking and a makeshift wooden crown atop his head.

With help from his uncle, Maekar made it down the steps and walked closer to his father. He could see the worry etched on his face as they approached, stopping just before the Kingsguard. Maekar looked around for a moment, before he spotted his dear Alicent standing on the balcony overlooking the throne room, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears.

Daemon dropped the Crabfeeder's battle axe at the foot of the throne. "Add it to the others."

"Once we smashed the Triarchy, the men named me King of the Stepstones," Maekar spoke up, his voice coming out rougher than most expected. The crowd began murmuring before Maekar spoke again. "But I know there is only one true King, Your Grace, my crown and the Stepstones are yours," he took off the crown. "I would bow but," he nodded to the cane supporting his weight.

"Keep the title," Viserys said, shocking the crowd once more. "I hereby name Prince Maekar of House Targaryen, Prince of Dragonstone and heir to the Iron Throne, Khal of the Narrow Sea, King of the Stepstones and wielder of Blackfyre," Maekar's head shot up from its bowed position, to see his father unstrapping the ancestral Targaryen sword before walking forward and placing it in Maekar's hand. "I was never quite good with swords and haven't had much use with this. Blackfyre will serve you well."

"Thank you, father," Maekar whispered in shock, his eyes running over the hilt of what was once Aegon the Conquerer's sword. Viserys granted permission for Maekar to leave, and the gathered court watched as Alicent rushed down from the balcony as quickly as she could with a pregnant stomach. The husband and wife didn't look at each other as they left the throne room.

Yet when they reached their chambers, Alicent's true emotions came out.

"You promised me you'd be safe!" Alicent yelled, anger evident in her voice as she leaned against the table in the middle of the room. Maekar sat on the plush couch situated by the fire, his leg resting on a pillow.

"I tried my best," Maekar muttered, his eyes closed. "I came back to you, didn't I?"

Alicent paced back and forth, her anger slowly giving way to worry and concern. She couldn't bear the thought of losing Maekar, the man she loved more than anything in the world. Tears welled up in her eyes as she approached him, her voice now filled with a mix of frustration and fear.

"But you were injured, Maekar," she pleaded, her voice quivering. "I couldn't bear the thought of losing you. I thought we had promised to protect each other, to keep each other safe."

Maekar opened his eyes and looked at Alicent, his heart heavy with guilt. He knew the risks he had taken, the battles he had fought, and the toll they had taken on his body. He reached out a hand towards Alicent, silently beckoning her to come closer.

"I know, my love," he whispered, his voice filled with remorse. "I never wanted to cause you pain or worry. But I had a duty to fulfill, a responsibility to protect our people and fight for justice."

Alicent's anger softened as she approached Maekar, her eyes filled with tears. She took his outstretched hand, her touch gentle and tender. Sitting beside him on the couch, she placed her other hand on his cheek, her voice filled with a mixture of love and vulnerability.

"I understand your duty, Maekar," she said softly, her voice trembling. "But it scares me to see you risk your life, to see you hurt. I can't bear the thought of losing you."

Maekar leaned into her touch, his eyes filled with love and gratitude. He knew he had put her through a great deal of worry and pain, and he regretted causing her any distress.

"I am sorry, Alicent," he murmured, his voice filled with sincerity. "I promise to be more careful, to consider the consequences of my actions. I never want to cause you pain."

Alicent sighed, her anger dissipating further as she looked into Maekar's eyes. She knew his sense of duty and the fire that burned within him. It was one of the reasons she loved him so deeply. But she also knew the importance of their love and their future together.

"I love you, Maekar," she whispered, her voice filled with tenderness. "And I want us to build a life together, to create a family and cherish each other. Promise me that you will prioritise our safety and happiness."

Maekar nodded, his eyes brimming with determination. He knew that his duty as a prince and a future king would always be there, but he also knew that his love for Alicent was paramount. He would work tirelessly to find a balance between his responsibilities and their life together.

"I promise, Alicent," he vowed, his voice steady and resolute. "You are my world, and I will do everything in my power to protect and cherish our love. We will face the challenges together."

Alicent smiled through her tears, her love for Maekar shining in her eyes. She leaned in and kissed him gently, their lips meeting in a tender embrace. In that moment, they found solace in each other's arms, knowing that their love would be the guiding light in their journey, no matter the challenges they faced.

Alicent winced as she pulled away from their kiss, pain etched along her face as she held her stomach. Suddenly they heard the sound of liquid hitting the floor and both husband and wife looked at each other worriedly.

"I am only seven moons along," Alicent whispered, concern in her face as her water broke. The baby was coming now it seemed.

Maekar hurriedly got his cane and limped outside the room, seeing the guards outside.

"Fetch the fucking, Maester!" He ordered them. "My wife is having the baby!" He could hear Alicent's labored breathing behind him, and when both guards looked at him dumbfoundedly, Markar hit them with his cane. "Quickly!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with urgency. "My wife is in labor, we need the maester immediately!"

The guards immediately sprang into action, their footsteps echoing through the hallways as they hurried to fulfill Maekar's request. Time seemed to stretch as Maekar anxiously waited for their return, his heart pounding in his chest. He couldn't bear the thought of anything happening to Alicent or their unborn child.

Finally, the sound of hurried footsteps approached, and Grand Maester Mellos appeared with Alicent's midwives, his face filled with a mix of concern and determination. He quickly assessed the situation.

"You shouldn't be here to witness this, my Prince," Mellos said.

"He's staying with his wife," Alicent demanded, hunched over the table as she tried to calm her breathing. Mellos sighed with a nod and guided Maekar back into the chambers where Alicent lay, her face contorted with pain.

"Maester, please," Maekar pleaded, his voice filled with both fear and hope. "Do everything you can to ensure their safety. I can't lose them too."

The Maester nodded, his experienced hands moving swiftly and with purpose. He reassured Maekar that they were in good hands and that he would do everything in his power to bring their child safely into the world. Maekar stood by Alicent's side, holding her hand tightly, providing the support and comfort she needed in that moment of intense pain and anticipation.

Hours passed, each one feeling like an eternity, as Alicent endured the grueling process of labor. Maekar remained by her side, his love and concern evident in his eyes. He whispered words of encouragement, promising to be there for her every step of the way.

Finally, the moment arrived. The cries of their newborn baby filled the room, bringing a mix of relief and joy to Maekar and Alicent's hearts. Tears of happiness streamed down their faces as they looked at their child for the first time, their love for each other and their little one overwhelming them.

Maekar gently kissed Alicent's forehead, his voice filled with awe and gratitude.

"You did it, my love," he whispered, his voice filled with emotion. "You brought our child into this world. Thank you."

Alicent smiled through her exhaustion, her eyes filled with love and pride.

"I couldn't have done it without you," she replied softly, her voice filled with tenderness. "Thank you for being by my side."

"A daughter, my Prince," Mellos smiled, handing Maekar the bundle of blankets. Just as Maekar leant down to show Alicent's their perfect daughter, Alicent let out a deafening scream of pain. Maekar watched as Mellos ducked under the covers before quickly reappearing.

"It seems that Lady Alicent is once again having twins," Mellos told them.

"I fucking knew it was twins!" Alicent cursed, pain gripping her has contractions started once more. Alicent pushed and pushed, screamed, cried and cursed at the Maester until finally a triumphant laugh escaped Mellos' lips.

"A boy!" He cheered. Alicent's and Maekar's hearts swelled with joy as they realised they had been blessed with twins once again - this time, a boy and a girl.

"Maekar, we have been doubly blessed!" Alicent exclaimed, her voice filled with awe and happiness.

Maekar couldn't contain his excitement as he looked at their two precious children. His eyes glistened with tears of joy as he gently cradled his son and daughter in his arms.

"Our family grows, Alicent," he said, his voice filled with love and pride.

Alicent beamed with joy as she reached out to touch her newborn daughter's tiny hand and then her son's. The room was filled with a sense of wonder and overwhelming love as they celebrated the arrival of their twins.

In that moment, as they held their babies close, Maekar and Alicent felt an indescribable sense of completeness, knowing that their family was now whole. Four children. They were ready to embark on this new chapter of their lives, cherishing each precious moment with their twins and embracing the love and joy that their presence brought.

The door to the room swung open, revealing a group of anxious yet excited family members eager to meet the newest additions to the family. Viserys entered first, his eyes filled with a mix of joy and anticipation.

"Maekar, Alicent! I cannot express how thrilled I am to meet my grandchildren! You have made me a proud grandfather once more!" He raved, and Maekar handed him his daughter to hold.

Following closely behind Viserys was Otto. The lines on his face deepened with age, but his eyes sparkled with a warmth that mirrored his daughter's. He approached the bed with a cautious yet tender expression, ready to welcome his grandchildren into the world.

"Look at what a beautiful family you have created," Otto said softly as he held his newborn grandson. "I am honored to be a grandfather."

Daemon, followed suit. His eyes danced with mischief, but there was also a deep affection for his nephew that shone through. He moved closer to the bed, a playful grin spreading across his face, eager to meet the newest members of his family.

"Well, well, well, Maekar, you've gone and become a father again. I must say, family life suits you," Daemon grinned, looking over Viserys' shoulder at the little girl. "These little ones are lucky to have you as their father. Mind if I give them a little mischief now and then?"

"I will only allow you near my children if we want the Red Keep demolished," Alicent said humorously from her place on the bed. Daemon for the first time gave her a real laugh.

"Have you picked names yet?" Viserys asked, handing his granddaughter off to Daemon who shushed her as she began to cry.

"Moira and Rhaegar," said Maekar, and Alicent nodded fondly as she leaned on Maekar's arm. The family of four had become six. Maekar, Alicent, Aegon, Baelon, Moira and Rhaegar.