Chapter 92

The Targaryens enjoyed a stable reign over Westeros, their power unshaken, yet the challenges ahead loomed in the form of Aegon's children. Maegor, though as skilled as his father with a sword, had shown signs of cruelty from a young age. His lack of empathy extended to all except his immediate family—his mother, father, brother, and sister. This darkness troubled Aegon, especially as his son grew older.

As the years passed, Aegon began to step back from taking the potions infused with Melange, allowing age to slowly catch up with him. The same was true for his wives, Rhaenys and Visenya, who too had let the effects of the substance fade. Despite this, their reign remained strong, built on healthy relationships with powerful houses like the Starks and the Gardeners, as well as their alliances with Merlin, a trusted friend and advisor. Merlin's influence extended beyond Westeros, and his wisdom was invaluable, but he often came and went from the Targaryen court on his mysterious travels.

In King's Landing, Aegon sat uncomfortably, his back being treated for the cuts he had sustained from the Iron Throne's jagged edges. Merlin stood nearby, chuckling softly.

"I warned you," Merlin said with amusement. "A throne made of swords might look imposing, but sitting on it? Not so much."

Aegon winced, managing a half-smile. "Yes, I thought it was a brilliant idea back then. Now… not so much."

Rhaenys and Visenya exchanged amused glances, watching their husband's discomfort.

Merlin smiled before adding, "I'll be heading to Yi Ti soon. But the timing is a bit complicated. There's an issue I need to deal with."

Rhaenys, always keen on maintaining ties and connections, raised an eyebrow. "If you're leaving for some time, why not send Paul and Cassandra here? Lena's been asking about Paul a lot recently."

Lena Targaryen, a deviation from the original timeline of succession, was the youngest child of Aegon, Rhaenys and Visenya. She was the apple of their eyes, cherished by both parents. Merlin knew that Lena and Paul were close, and the bond between them was undeniable. Aegon had even confided in Merlin that if not for the delicate political situation with the Faith of the Seven, he would have named Lena his heir. She had the sharp mind of Visenya and the eloquence of Rhaenys, making her a strong candidate for the throne, a fact that troubled Aegon as his sons showed more flaws with each passing year.

Aegon and Rhaenys nodded, their eyes softening at the mention of their grandson. They were eager to see Paul again, but as Aegon shifted the conversation, his expression grew more serious.

"How are Maegor and Aenys?" Aegon asked, his voice carrying the weight of a father grappling with the future of his dynasty.

All three shared a glance, their faces falling into solemn expressions. Aegon sighed, breaking the silence. "Aenys is the same—kindhearted, courteous, always wanting to be loved. He tries so hard to please everyone, but in doing so, he leaves himself vulnerable."

Rhaenys nodded, her voice gentle but laced with concern. "He makes friends easily, but he's too trusting. He lets others influence him far too much, and while he dreams of a peaceful, prosperous realm, his idealism blinds him to the realities of ruling."

Visenya, always the more pragmatic of the three, spoke with a mix of pride and sadness. "Maegor, on the other hand, was born for war. His skill with weapons is unmatched. He thrives in battle, and his reputation as one of the finest knights of his time is well-earned." She paused, her voice lowering. "But… his strength comes at a cost. He is hard, brutal at times—too often, he takes things too far."

Aegon's expression darkened as he nodded in agreement. "Maegor is quarrelsome, quick to anger, slow to forgive. His temper is dangerous, and while that might serve him well in battle, it's not the temperament of a ruler. He's rigid, unyielding. And that... that's not good for the crown."

Rhaenys exhaled, the weight of their dilemma heavy on her shoulders. "We've talked about this many times, but it feels no easier. Letting Maegor take the crown would be dangerous. His loyalty lies with us—his family—and maybe Merlin, but to the realm? Beyond that, he's cold, distant. He lacks the empathy a king needs."

The rules of succession had changed, thanks to the wise counsel of Merlin, which allowed for the throne to pass based on merit, not merely birth order. While the realm had accepted this change, it had given Maegor the belief that he had a chance to rule. And that was what troubled his parents the most. Though Maegor was loyal to them, they could see the seeds of madness in him, and the fear of him becoming a tyrant was real.

Rhaenys glanced at Visenya, whose sad smile reflected the quiet pain only a mother could feel. No mother wanted to admit that her son might not be fit to rule.

Merlin, ever the voice of reason, spoke up. "I know Maegor is fiercely loyal to you—his mother, his father, his brother, and even to me and my family. But beyond that, his emotional connections are limited."

Visenya's gaze dropped to her hands, her voice almost a whisper. "Yes. He doesn't have any real friends beyond Paul. He's not close to his nephews or anyone else, really."

For years, Visenya had tried to temper Maegor's aggression, to guide him towards a path of balance, but it seemed her efforts were in vain. The wildness in him was like a fire, untamed and unpredictable. She feared what the future might hold—especially the possibility of rebellion once Aenys was king.

The survival of Rhaenys had altered the course of history. In another timeline, Aegon and Visenya's relationship had been strained by grief after Rhaenys's death. Aegon had mourned deeply, and Visenya had grown distant, fixated on Maegor's claim to the throne. In that version of history, she had supported Maegor's usurpation, unable or unwilling to see his faults. But in this reality, the three of them were united, their bond stronger, and they recognized the signs of danger in Maegor. Visenya, though pained by it, saw her son for what he was, and she feared what might happen if he ever wore the crown.

Merlin, sensing their inner turmoil, offered a solution. "It would be best for Aenys to take the throne, with Maegor as his Hand. Together, they balance each other—Aenys with his kindness and Maegor with his strength. One would temper the other's flaws."

Aegon, Rhaenys, and Visenya exchanged looks, each contemplating the wisdom of Merlin's words. It was a compromise, but one that might prevent disaster.

"Yes," Aegon said quietly. "That may be the only way forward."

Rhaenys nodded in agreement, while Visenya, though still sorrowful, accepted the truth. The Targaryen legacy would survive, but only if they navigated these dangerous waters carefully. And for that, they would need both of their sons—working together, not against one another.

What they didn't know was Maegor wouldn't rebel or unsurp his nephew, because of Merlin and Paul's influence he was not into the idea of kinslaying to get the crown. And felt a rebellion will only cause the Targaryen Dynasty to suffer.