The Maddest Obsession → aemond targaryen, hotd

Chapter 13: He Can Keep His Tongue

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While everyone gathers in the throne room to hear petitions about the inheritance of Driftmark, Daervon stays behind to meet the King and request Viserys's support on the case.

He is greeted by Sers Arryk and Erryk Cargyll before entering Viserys's apartments. The first thing he notices is the large model of Old Valyria dominating the chambers, covered in dust and cobwebs as if it has been unattended for years.

"Uncle, it is me. Daervon," Daervon announces his arrival.

"Daervon," Viserys's voice comes from inside the bedchambers, a sound that mirrors his evident pain. "My boy, come in."

"The petition for the succession of Driftmark is imminent. Princess Rhaenyra and her heirs require your allegiance," Daervon says as he walks further into the bedchambers, where he finds the King dressed in his royal clothing, wearing a golden half-mask to cover his decayed face. His hair is all but gone, his teeth rotten. "You're ready."

"I am born ready, my boy," Viserys wheezes, a hint of determination in his voice. "Bring me my crown."

Daervon retrieves the crown from the cushioned box and places it gently on the King's head. He then accompanies his uncle through the long corridors, flanked by the Cargyll twins.

"Daemon is overjoyed by your victories," Viserys says, his voice raspy but proud. "I must admit, I never doubted your competence."

"It is an honor to hear that from you, Uncle," Daervon replies with a smile, his respect for the King evident.

As they walk, Viserys's expression grows somber. "Stand by Rhaenyra when the dark times come, Daervon. I am aware of Otto's constant attempts at manipulation over the years. Otto would jeopardize the stability of the realm in his goal to put an heir with Hightower blood on the throne."

"I will, Uncle," Daervon promises, his voice firm with resolve. "I will stand by her."

As they reach the massive double doors of the throne room, the doors open, and all eyes turn to the entrance. The crowd is stunned at the sight of their king. Ser Erryk announces the arrival.

"King Viserys of House Targaryen, the First of His Name, King of the Andals, and the Rhoynar, and the Yulongren, and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms, and Protector of the Realm."

Flanked by Sers Arryk and Erryk Cargyll, Viserys makes his way to the throne, hunched over and clearly having trouble walking. Daervon throws a triumphant smirk at Otto Hightower before joining his father's side, his hand resting on his sword. Feeling eyes on him, he turns to see Aemond looking at him with an intense, unreadable expression.

Viserys passes a glance to a surprised Rhaenyra and Alicent, then tells Otto that he will sit the throne for the day and takes charge of the proceedings. Otto makes way for Viserys to walk the steps to the throne, but the King is visibly struggling. One of the Cargyll twins moves to help him, but Viserys dismisses him. He stops midway as his crown falls, looking up to see Daemon stepping forward to help his brother to the throne, placing the crown back on his head.

"I must... admit... my confusion. I do not understand why petitions are being heard over a settled succession," Viserys declares as he sits on his throne, his voice strained but authoritative. "The only one present... who might offer keener insight into Lord Corlys's wishes is the Princess Rhaenys."