By Your Side

By Your Side

warnings: mentions of death/hanging (very brief), forced to marry jason lannister, f!targaryen!reader, not proofread

summary: as a targaryen, you must do your duty to strengthen your family’s alliances. that means marrying whoever your father chooses, regardless of your love for someone else.

author’s note: more harwin woooo. also I just know harwin would hate and beat up jason lannister without question.

You had never been so envious of Rhaenyra.

You hadn’t minded when she had been made heir, you’d been happy for her. You didn’t care that your father favored her, that she was ‘the realm’s delight’– you were content to be hidden behind her shadow.

But one thing you would always be jealous of was how your father allowed her a choice.

He had allowed her a choice of who to marry before she wedded Ser Laenor– a choice that was not afforded to you.

Viserys had grown ill– and quite frankly tired– of fighting with his daughters on political matters. So, after Rhaenyra’s chaotic wedding to Laenor and the binding of the houses Targaryen and Velaryon, it was your turn.

The King announced your betrothal with no ceremony. He requested you attended a meeting of the small council a week after Rhaenyra’s wedding, which was of no surprise to you. Your father often requested either you or Rhaenyra to attend and listen in on the going ons of Westeros.

But this council was different. As you sat in your chair, your fingers fiddling with the small dragon glass sphere in front of you, you couldn’t help but feel anxious. With one daughter wedded, you knew that your father would seek to marry you off, too.

“Princess,” it was the lord hand, Lyonel Strong speaking. “If it please the King, I was hoping you would consider my eldest son, Harwin, as your husband. I know you have many suitors asking for your hand–”

You opened your mouth to speak, but your father beat you to it.

“I apologize, Lord Lyonel, but I have already betrothed my daughter to another. She is to marry Lord Jason, of House Lannister.”

You resisted the urge to gag, anger and jealousy bubbling in your gut like a boiling pot about to overflow. Your hand clasped the dragon glass sphere fiercely, your knuckles whitening at the force.

“Father, if I may–” you began, but Viserys waved a hand and shook his head.

“You may not. It is settled. He is Lord of Casterly Rock, and a strengthened alliance between our families is of utmost importance.”

You shut your mouth, teeth grinding together in discontent and rage.

The remainder of the council meeting went by agonizingly slow. You sat there quietly, jaw clenched as you toyed with the seams of your dress. You could feel the occasional pair of eyes watching you, but you kept your gaze trained on the table in front of you.

As soon as you father rose and the council was dismissed, you sprung from your chair. Your walk was swift as you practically ran from the chamber, pushing through the heavy wooden doors and into the corridor.

Ser Harwin Strong, your personal guard, was waiting for you by the doors. At your abrupt exit he startled, straightening and following you without hesitation.

“Princess, if you would slow–” he began from behind you, quite surprised at your speed. He had never seen you so eager to be away from a place– or perhaps he had never seen you so worked up about something.

Harwin had been your personal guard since Rhaenyra’s naming as heir. Although most men vied for the chance to protect the future queen, he set his sights on you.

Your father had granted him the position with no protest. From then on, Harwin had been a constant figure in your life. Sure, you’d met him before he became attached to your hip. Rhaenyra had introduced you to him numerous times– but you never spoken beyond that.

Perhaps you were guilty of stealing glances when you thought he was not looking, or wishing he would ask you to dance at a festival. So what? Wishes seldom came true.

But then he became your guard, and your attraction to him reared it’s head. It was no secret he admired you– both from afar and up close. But you were slow to allow yourself to admire him.

However, after years of being together nearly every day, you either learn to love someone or you learn to hate them. Luckily for Ser Harwin, you learned to love him.

That made this whole predicament so much more difficult.

“I will not,” you threw over your shoulder, your feet stomping up the stone stairs as you made your way through the castle.

You heard Harwin mumble something behind you, but you paid him no mind as you stormed past corridor after corridor. Finally, you made it to the royal apartments.

You threw open the door to your chambers, attempting to slam it closed behind you, only to be stopped by Harwin’s large figure.

He slipped into the room, shutting the door softly behind him and turning the lock. You ignored him as you threw yourself down onto a lounge, eyes watching the tall ceiling.

“Princess, what is the matter? You practically ran here,” there was a hint of amusement in his voice, but the moment you turned your icy gaze to him, he sobered.

“My father,” you spoke the words distastefully. “Has decided it is my turn to be wed.”

Harwin hummed as he approached your lounge, his hands clasped behind his back.

“No worries, Princess. I’m sure that my father will speak to the King.”

“He did,” you stated bitterly. “The King would not hear it. I am betrothed to Lord Jason Lannister.”

Harwin said nothing. He crouched beside you, his gloved hands reaching for yours. You allowed him to take them, breathing heavily through your nose as you thought of your now bleak future.

Jason Lannister was notorious for being an ass. Rhaenyra had corroborated that statement more than once during her time searching for a husband. She had narrowly dodged his attempts for her hand, but you had not been so lucky.

“It seems that my father has learned his lesson through my sister. I am not afforded the choice of a husband. Instead, I must mary this vile man and be forced to bear his vile children.”

Harwin chuckled softly, pressing his lips to your knuckles. You turned your head, eyes narrowed as you looked upon your knight.

“You find that amusing?” You questioned.

“I find you amusing, your highness. Your dramatics are quite entertaining.” He pulled back from your hands in favor of looking into your eyes.

“This is not meant for entertainment, Ser Harwin. This is a serious matter.”

“Most serious, Princess.” He replied, lips turning up in a teasing grin.

You huffed, pulling your hands from his and shifting your body in the lounge. Now you lay with your back towards him.

“It is not the end of the world, my love. You are strong, and you will not let a leech like Jason Lannister change that.”

“He will not change it,” you confirmed, your back still turned. “But what will he do to try? I cannot imagine being forced to spend days and nights with him. From what Rhaenyra has said of him, he seems truly awful.”

“I will be with you,” Harwin spoke. His hands moved to your side, gently pulling you back towards him. You went without protest.

He captured your chin between his forefinger and thumb, turning your face so you would have to look at him.

“I will be with you,” he repeated, his eyes locked with yours. “I will never let him do what you do not want him to do. I will not leave your side, and I will not stop loving you, no matter the lord you marry.”

“Careful, Ser Harwin,” your voice was low as you spoke, humor creeping into it as your lips quirked up in a small smile. “Such talk is treasonous. A princess and her knight? What would the realm think?”

“I do not care,” he answered honestly, leaning his forehead against yours. “Let them hang me. If it were up to me, you and I would leave this place and escape to Harrenhal. You would be my lady wife and we’d do whatever we pleased.”

You did not speak for a moment, weighing your thoughts and words.

“I do not see why my father refused your father. A union between the families of the King and his Hand–”

“Your father is doing what he believes is best. The Lannisters are powerful allies,” Harwin interrupted.

“Mayhaps, but I believe we have stronger allies closer.”

“Mhm,” Harwin hummed. “How much closer?”

You grinned, brushing your nose against his. “Oh, I dunno, maybe on this corridor?”

“That far?” He replied.

“This room?” You tried.

“A little closer.” He said.

“Mayhaps right beside me?” You giggled.

He smiled at the sound of your laugh. Harwin tilted his chin then, brushing his lips on yours.

You inhaled deeply, closing your eyes. If it were up to you, you would stay in this moment forever. But it wasn’t up to you, and duty was a cruel mistress.

“We could always run away,” you told him, your voice a whisper.

“You and I both know we are bound to our duties.” He responded, and you sighed.

“No more dwelling on this matter,” he spoke after a moment, his lips just barely touching yours as he talked. “It does no good to worry.”

You hummed in agreement, eager to free yourself from those thoughts– if only for a moment. You pressed your lips to Harwin’s and he responded quickly. The kiss was soft, full of unspoken love and promises between the two of you.

That was one thing you loved about Harwin. He was subtle with his affections, but he was also so protective of those he loved. You knew that everything he said had been true– that he would gladly die if it meant he got to love you for a moment longer.

And although you would not marry him, you knew what you had would not falter. Harwin had been there before, and he would be there after, Jason Lannister be damned. The pair of you had snuck around for years, what’s a few more?

Harwin pulled back from you, one gloved hand coming up to cup your cheek. His thumb traced the line of your cheekbone as he looked at you fondly.

“I wish I could stay longer, but I fear my father would have my head. I’m to see him about matters with the City Watch.”

You nodded in understanding. You reached out a hand, brushing a stray curl from his eyes.

“Farewell, Ser Harwin. I’m to be at the dragon pit soon, anyway.”

He stood, his touch lingering until he could no longer reach your face. You sat up, watching as he bowed his head, gave you a small grin, and said a quick ‘princess.’

You watched him leave, and you didn’t rise until the wooden door closed behind him, already wishing that things were different like you had so many times before.

Since you mentioned Harwin… (smut pleek)

Princess | Harwin Strong

i had no idea what you wanted other than *harwin* so i hope you like this!! (tho the title sucks so bad but i’m too lazy to think of a better one)

warnings: smut, 18+, mentions of loss of virginity?, bits of fluff ig, fem!reader (?) x harwin but other than that there’s no specifications!

idk how to do this warning shit ngl. also my first time writing smut and you didn’t really specify so… also it’s not proof read at all so read at your own risk

summary: the morning after ser harwin breakbones carries his princess to safety and has his way with her

word count: 1.2k (ish)

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Whispers of dawn kissed her cheeks, bursts of gold rallying against the dark of her closed eyes, and the Princess smiled against the softness of her pillow as she registered the warm weight slung over her bare hips.

Harwin’s calloused hand was splayed against her stomach, holding her close throughout the night and break of day. Her smile grew wider as he grumbled unintelligibly and his grip tightened. She could only spare half a thought for her dear sister - poor Rhaenyra stuck with a heartbroken Laenor on her wedding night - as she felt her new found lover stir.

“Good morning, Princess.”

His voice, deep and still cloaked in sleep, was laced with a sense of smug satisfaction she would have found insufferable on anyone else. Luckily for Ser Harwin Strong, she found him far too endearing for her own good. “Good morning, Ser.”

She could feel his lazy grin against her shoulder as he peppered gentle kisses along her smooth skin. “So proper,” he teased as his kisses reached the slope of her neck.

“I’m a Princess,” she sniffed, tilting her head.

He smirked and bit her neck lightly, “A dirty Princess, what would your father think?”

Holding in her whimper, the Princess arched a brow despite knowing he couldn’t possibly see it. “I’d rather not think of my father at all, thank you.”

Harwin hummed as he nuzzled her jawline. His heated breath made her shiver and his grin widened. Last night felt like a dream - one he’d had many, many times over the past few moons. A dream that was often accompanied by his hand in his trousers after. King Viserys would have his head on a spike if he ever found out just what the knight had done to his precious daughter, but Harwin couldn’t find it in him to care much. He had the most beautiful woman in Westeros in his arms and he wasn’t about to let any man - King or not - stop him from relishing this moment.

She turned to face him and his heart stuttered at the softness in her eyes as she smiled. No one had looked at him like that before, certainly not a Princess.

“What?”

His own smile turned just as soft. “You’re beautiful.”

She snorted lightly and he had to stop himself from looking like a complete idiot and confessing his love and adoration at the sound. “Rhaenyra is the Realm’s Delight.”

He couldn’t help himself; he pressed a tender kiss to her forehead and grasped her chin delicately in his large hand. Gods when had he last been this gentle with anyone? She seemed so small compared to him - although most people were small to him - and his chest felt tight in the best possible way as he looked at her. “You are the most breathtaking woman I have ever seen.”

A blush crept up her neck and Harwin smiled smugly at the sight. She had been so confident the night prior, seeing her uncharacteristic shyness before him now made his cock stiffen and, judging by her deepening flush, she could feel it too. “You’re the first man I’ve lain with,” she admitted.

He didn’t tell her that he hoped he’d be the only man she’d ever lie with. Instead he opted for the safer choice, “Well one union had to be consummated, Gods know your sister’s wasn’t.”

She gasped indignantly and slapped his chest. “Ser Harwin!”

Clasping her hand to his chest, he leaned over. “Yes, Princess?” He was lying fully on top of her now and he felt his pride swell as her eyes flickered to his lips.

“You’re incorrigible.”

“I figured that having fucked the King’s daughter, a few jests on his heir’s behalf couldn’t make things much worse.” He grinned as she gaped up at him and took the opportunity to finally kiss her lips again.

She moaned quietly as she parted her lips for his tongue. Harwin made her feel a thousand things at once. She couldn’t tell if she was excited or scared or shy or offended anymore, all she knew for certain was the very obvious effect he had on her body.

The Princess had resigned herself to admiring the knight from afar until he had carried her to her rooms during the commotion at Rhaenyra’s wedding. Having him in her rooms after saving her like that… how was she meant to resist him?

She was no damsel in need of saving like in one of the stories her mother had told her as a child, but being tossed over his strong shoulder after he had immediately stepped into the fray to save her set off the butterflies in her stomach.

It was wrong. Her father would lose his mind if he found out, especially after the recent rumours of her sister’s indiscretions. But she couldn’t ignore the thought that he might consent to a match between them and her groan as Harwin slipped his hand between her thighs was far louder than she had expected.

“You’re so wet for me, Princess.”

She groaned again and shut her eyes, unable to stop herself from grinding against the palm of his hand as he fucked her with his fingers. Harwin didn’t bother to disguise his own groan as he watched his fingers disappear into her over and over.

“Look at me.”

It took an embarrassing amount of effort for her eyes to open and find his. His intense stare alone almost pushed her over the edge.

“You’re going to look at me while you come undone on my fingers, Princess.”

She couldn’t hold back her whimper. “Yes,” she breathed.

Harwin grinned at her. “Good girl.” He added a third finger and watched as she struggled to keep her orgasm at bay. Gods she was stunning: legs spread wide just for him, hair wild against her pillow and her chest flushed.

“Harwin.”

“Princess?”

She could barely form a sentence. “Please.”

“Use your words.”

A brilliant shade of pink covered her cheeks. She’d never felt so submissive in her life. She was a Princess, she wasn’t meant to take orders from those beneath her, and yet here she was acting like a whore - on the verge of begging - for a mere knight. Gods she loved it. “I can feel it, please.”

“Such a good Princess,” Harwin murmured as his fingers found her clitoris. Her moans were so loud he almost feared the entirety of the Red Keep would hear but he didn’t stop and he didn’t dare tell her to be quiet. “Let go for me.”

He felt her shutter around his digits and he stared, transfixed, at the way her thighs shook and her bosom heaved. Her moans gradually turned to soft whimpers and Harwin made sure she watched as he licked his fingers clean. She tasted even better than she had last night.

It took a few minutes for his Princess to catch her shaky breath and Harwin swallowed roughly as he studied the glisten of sweat on her brow. “I suppose I ought to do the honourable thing now.”

The Princess looked at him in confusion, mind still clouded with pleasure. “Honourable thing?”

He couldn’t stop himself this time. “I’m going to love you, wed you and fuck you for the rest of your life, Princess.”

matters of the heart.

harwin strong x reader

on princess rhaenyra's wedding night, harwin couldn't help but grow jealous as he watched daemon dance with you.

warnings: fem! reader, smut, angst, daemon being a menace, reader is called "princess", jealous harwin, virginity loss, slight corruption kink, size kink, overstim, pussy drunk harwin, praise, body worship, possessiveness, breeding kink. MDNI/18+ only.

word count: 2.1k

note: just watched the new episode and I'm down bad for him so can we all agree that ser harwin strong is the hottest knight in all of westeros?

— i don't give anyone permission to translate/copy my works. If you enjoyed please consider reblogging or leaving feedback <3

Harwin watched with a clenched jaw from the sidelines as the rogue prince twirled you around, his hand resting close on the small of your back while he whispered something hilarious in your ear because you just broke out in a soft giggle.

"Say princess, should we ditch the wedding and take to our own sources of entertainment?" Daemon's words had a grin stretching on your lips, "I think that ought to offend our families, my prince."

"It ought to offend more than just our families." The targaryen smirked, his eyes catching onto harwin's as he pulled you flush against his torso,

"such as the commander of the city watch for instance." Daemon's lips brushed against your ear, "he appears to be quite taken with you,"

You scoff in response, "and yet he'd rarely ever speak to me." Daemon chuckling at you made you roll your eyes,

"you're mistaken, princess. That boy is clearly smitten at the likes of you." He spun you around, lips ghosting above yours as he said that.

Before he could advance, he was yanked off you firmly but subtly, "it's rude to interrupt a dance like this," Daemon speaks, looking at the man who just shoved him away, "breakbones."

"Ser harwin—" you start but harwin's arm around your waist leads you away from the silver haired prince, "I think I'll have the next dance, if you don't mind," he said through gritted teeth, "my prince." You could feel the disarming tension between them.

"That was quite the show you put on there," you said in a hushed voice as the knight led you across the dance floor, "I'm sorry, princess."

But you know he isn't sorry. Not one bit. Especially when daemon was intentionally trying to get on his nerves by getting too cozy with you right in front of him, knowing full well of the way harwin pined for you.

To be honest, you thought daemon was just bored and needed to fuck things up but he couldn't do that on a greater scale because his brother would be upon him the very next instance. So he settled for passing off the young Strong as compensation.

"Would you escort me to my room, ser?" You whisper, tilting your chin up to look at the knight who was leading you on the next dance as the song started, "I think I'm quite tired from all the ordeals as of today,"

harwin seemed to hesitate for a moment before complying with his lips pressed in a tight line. His large hand remained on the small of your back as he helped you through the crowd, his warmth bleeding into your skin just from the simple contact, leaving tingles running through your spine,

"good night, princess." He spoke up as you came upon your door, "don't be so uptight, ser harwin." You smiled at him and he had to admit that it made him melt a bit, "come in, join me for a drink or two."

With a sigh, he gave in. It's too easy, you thought but then again it takes little effort to convince someone to do something they desire. Its the matters of the heart at play here.

"Say commander," you start with a slight slur after sipping on your glass of wine as your companion settled in the seat opposite to you, "what was all that about?"

Harwin gulped down his initial words before speaking, "my apologies, princess. It was rude of me to interrupt your time with prince daemon,"

You rose from your chair, walking around the table and towards him, "Then why'd you do it?"

Shifting in his seat, harwin's eyes followed you, "You deserve better than him. Someone who isn't," resting your palms on the armrest of his chair, you leaned in close to his face, "a scheming scumbag, someone who didn't abandon his wife—" his breath hitched once you straddled his lap, you'd knees bracketing his thick thighs,

"sounds like you'd make a perfect candidate," you bring your hands up to cup his face gently and he's tempted to give in to your feather light touch. His eyes almost fluttering close when your thumb strokes along his jaw,

"I can't." He replies, his jaw clenched tight and his hands coming up to rest on your waist to hold you in place,

"I'm not a prince." There's a slight melancholy in his eyes as he says that, "you're a princess and you deserve a prince who will take good care of you, who will rule beside you—"

"I don't want a prince, I didn't choose a prince, i chose you," your words hush him up, putting him under a spell as he watched you close in the distance between, "ser harwin strong," you whisper against his lips, "I want you."

Your hips bucked against his to accentuate your words and it was his breaking point just as soon as the next words left your lips, "cause I love you and I refuse to be stick in a loveless marriage with some prince—"

harwin's huge palms were cradling the sides of your face and his lips were upon yours in an instance. All the restrained emotions broke through and poured into the kiss, letting you feel his devotion and him absorbing your desperation thoroughly.

Your fingers tugged on the strings of his vest in haste, letting the fabric loosen and expose his broad chest to you while your lips moved against his,

"I won't let that happen to you." Harwin's voice is a gentle whisper soothing your heart. He held your wrist in his larger hand, leading you to press your palm against his chest, where his heart is, "I pledge myself to you, y/n."

A smile crawled on your lips at his sincerity, "and I accept you, harwin." Your hand slid up to curl around the back of his neck, "you're mine as I am yours."

Your lips collide as he stands up with you tugging away at his clothes while his hands wasted no time in sliding your gown off of your body before they hooked under your thighs, "I love you," he whispers breathlessly as he carried you over to your bed effortlessly, dropping you gently on the luxurious cushions,

"my beautiful princess," his huge palms cupping the swell of your breasts fully, "all mine to claim," he managed to say before his mouth descended upon your breast, lips wrapping around your nipple while his hand paid attention to the other one, rolling the bud in between his fingers and relishing in the soft gasps he pulled from you,

"mine to worship," he whispered into your skin, leaving a trail of feathery kisses down your torso, "and mine to destroy."

Harwin's thumb glossed over your glistening cunt, his other hand settling on your thigh in an attempt to hold your legs apart. But seeing how easily his fingers slid inside, he couldn't help but chuckle, "you're soaking the sheets, princess." The thought of being the first one to see you like this, to make you go crazy with desire, had blood rushing to his cock.

"Just fuck me, harwin," you breathe with an air of need, "calm down, I need to prepare you or I'll break you apart." His snicker only added more oil to the fire,

"I can take you." You sniped, holding his gaze in a challenge till he pulled his fingers out with a smirk only to replace them with the head of his cock lined up at your entrance,

"Are you sure about this?" He asked again, "yes, need you inside me," your lashes fluttered as you looked up at him, "please, harwin," even though your voice was barely audible, he heard it.

And oh did it make his reign of control snap, "fine," harwin said just before shoving his cock inside your tight little cunt,

"fuck!" You cried out, nails digging crimson crescents on his back as his muscles flexed under your very touch, "you alright, princess?" Concern spiked his tone as he halted in his movements, "Do you want me to pull out?"

"No," your teeth worried your lower lip cautiously, "you're too fuckin' big, 's all." The short chuckle you're met with makes you huff and slam your fists against his chest softly, "perhaps it will not be an appropriate time to say I told you so."

"Fuck," you curse under your breath as he shifts slightly due to the fits of his laughter, the movement causing both of you to groan as his cock stroked against your walls,

"fuck you and your," you paused to bite back a soft moan, "stupidly big cock," Harwin grinned at your words, "that's what you're currently doing, princess."

He pulled out almost all the way, leaving just his tip inside before thrusting back in, your slick helping him slide in effortlessly while your back arched with his name on your lips as he fucked you, "for what it's worth, you're doing really well for your first time,"

The burn of being stretched set your nerves alight, "shut up and fuck me," you hiss, tears welling up in your eyes as your cunt clenched tight around him, desperate for more. The glassy look in your eyes made something snap inside your knight, "as my lady wishes,"

Rolling his hips into yours, he rasped, voice thick with lust, "I will fuck you till i am all that remains in your mind," he spoke in a deep grunt as he thrust inside your pussy, hard.

Your pussy flutters around his length with a breeze of moan falling from your lips. Harwin leans over to take your trembling lips in a kiss, "you're gorgeous."

His balls slapped against your skin while the wet squelches of your cunt sucking in his cock floods the room, "I cannot wait to see you coming undone beneath me," his hand grabs yours, intertwining your fingers with his as his hips snapped into yours at a steady pace.

Each drag of his cock settling heavy against your walls, the sheer girth of him making hot droplets of tears spill down your cheeks which harwin was quick enough to kiss away, "you are taking it so well," his whispers of praise had little moans rumbling at the back of your throat, "being so good for me,"

A strained chuckle was on his lips as you bucked up into his thrusts, "the princess wants more?" His inquiry was met with a hungry kiss as your fingers tangled in his brown curls and pulled him forward, "always." You whine, breathless, "I must abide by your order then," he picked up his pace, going deeper and harder with each thrust of his hips,

"You are mine," he couldn't help but grit out, the sudden image of daemon pulling you against his body with his hands all over you made his voice drop an octave, "not Daemon's, not anyone else's,"

"All yours," you comfort him, tugging on his hair and biting on his lower lip, "fill me up, harwin." His eyes widened in slight shock before a grin spread on his lips.

His forehead dropped on yours as his thrusts grew sloppy, deep grunts mixing with your moans as you both neared your high,

"harwin," you came with his name rolling off your tongue in a desperate plea while he almost growled, his chest vibrating with the animalistic sound as his hot cum filled up your twitching cunt. Dropping beside you, harwin heaved.

A silence dawning upon you two as you caught your breath before harwin turned towards you with a warm smile,

"marry me, princess."

Two little bundles

From the moment King Viserys first saw the interaction at the hunt at the Godswood between the knight, Ser Harwin Strong, and his second born daughter with his late wife Aemma, Alyssa, he knew that Ser Harwin would be a good match for his youngest daughter. After seeing them dance together at Rhaenyra’s wedding and after all the chaos that happened that day Viserys had summoned his Hand Lyonel Strong to his bed chambers later that night to discuss the betrothal between his youngest daughter and Ser Lyonel oldest son Ser Harwin Strong. Though it would seem both The Old and The New Gods were on their side as piversouly Ser Harwin had pulled his father to the side to ask him if he could speak to the King to ask permission if he could have the young Princess hand in marriage.Not wasting any time the young couple was married within two months in Kingslanding as even a blind person could see how taken they were with each other.

Even as the months pass by them it seems that they were still in that love bubble that surrounded them from the first moment they locked eyes on each other.Even now as Alyssa watches her Husband get ready to start his day as the commander of the city watch, she couldn’t help but let her eyes wander down her husbands fame. “I can feel your eyes on me, my little wife.” Harwin says with a grin as he looks over his shoulder at his wife who was lying down on their sheared bed who shylying looked away making Harwin grin grow as he loved watching her flushed. “I was only admiring what is in front of me as you would say, my husband.” Alyssa says with a grin before putting her hands on her side as she struggles to sit herself up, which becomes difficult over time as her stomach swells with the couple's first child. Seeing his wife struggle Harwin quickly runs to his wife’s aid and helps her sit up and adjust the pillows behind her so she could at least have the smallest amount of comfort as he knew that now that she due any day now she had the hardest time finding comfort.

“How is my little wife, and child faring this morrow?” Harwin asks as he rests a hand on the swell of her stomach while leaning in to steal a kiss from his wife. “We are doing well, though I must admit I would appreciate it if my husband would kindly tell his child it is quite rude to kick someone awake.” Alyssa wince as said childs divlers a hard kick to her side. Without any words Harwin lifts up the shirt she was wearing which was in fact his shirt to her breast to show off her bare round stomach. Placing his lips to her stomach he begins to talk to their unborn child as they have notice early on it was his voice that would help settle the down the child when they were particularly active. As Alyssa watches Harwin caress and love on her stomach she couldn’t help but thank the Gods for sending Harwin to her as she couldn’t have been luckier to have him as her husband as she thinks back to when she first found out she was excepting. Despite being over the moon about the pregnancy their was still apart of her that feared child birthing after what happened to her late mother Aemma. When Alyssa confinden in Harwin about her fears Harwin assured her he would always choose her in the end, because despite already loving his unborn child Harwin could never live in a world where he could never feel her touch again. To never hear her voice again, to never see her smile again would be a curse unbearable to live life without having his wife by his side. So yes if there is a choice to make he will always make sure Alyssa will be saved above their unborn child.

“I love you.” Alyssa blurts out taking Harwin’s attention away there as he looks up to see his wife already looking down at him with all the love she holds for him seem to pour from her eyes. Not missing a single beat Harwin leans up having his lips above her just barely touching. “As I love you.” Harwin tells her before sharing a passionate kiss between the two lovers as the world seems to fade that neither of the two notice the door opening. “Oh! Would you please allow my sister to breathe Ser Harwin.” Rhaenyra's teasing voice broke the two lovers apart as Alyssa couldn’t help but giggle at her older sister's words. “Hello Princess.” Harwin grumbles slightly annoyed as this isn’t the first time Rhaenyra has barged into the couple’s shared room unannounced. “Hello sister.” Alyssa greets her sister much more happily than Harwin had. “Now that is a much happier greeting, don’t you think good brother brother?” Rhaenyra teas as she moves to lay down next to her little sister while placing baby Jacaerys (who was born just a few months ago) in between them. “Hello baby Jace.” Alyssa coos softly as she picks up her first born nephew before placing a few kisses on his face casing to babe to laugh and coo happily back at his aunt. “He’s gotten bigger.” Harwin comments as he walk back to get gold cloak to attach it to his armor. “Yes, he seems to double his size in just a few months.” Rhaenyra says proudly as she gazes at her son. “He’ll make a fine knight.” Alyssa says as she looks at her sister with a bright smile. “I too believe so.” Rhaenyra says softly before leaning over to kiss her younger sister’s forehead.

“I must start heading out, my love.” Harwin says as he once again walk back to his wife side completely dressed in his armor. “Promises to come back home safely?” Alyssa ask the same question she’s always ask since they started courting even though she knew that Harwin knew Kings Landing like the back of her hand which brought some relief towards her but she can’t help but worry for her husband. “Always.” Harwin promises as he has done since Alyssa has asked him. Kissing her softly on her lips before kissing her forehead he swore to her that he will be back before lunch time so they could dine together. Leaning back from he quickly reaches over and pushes Rhaenyra roughly so she could fall off the bed without hurting her as punishment for interrupting them once again. “Fuck you.” Rhaenyra swears at her good brother while Harwin simply laughs at her.

Opening their bedchamber door he finds Rhaenyra’s sworn shield standing outside their door who suspiciously had the same hair and eye color as her son and how also had some of the same features as each other. Without saying a word to each they simply nodded their head in understanding of each before Harwin left for the day eager to finish his duties for the day so he could return home. “You shouldn’t tease him so much, sister.” Alyssa tells her sister as Rhaenyra rejoins her. “Then it would be so boring.” Rhaenyra wines as they share a look before laughing. Rheanyra despite their bickering with each other, Rheanyra truly sees Harwin as her brother and not just as a good brother, and she was thankful that their father chose Harwin to be Alyssa’s husband. “How are you feeling sister?” Rhaenyra questions as she watches her sister fawn over her son. “Tired.” Alyssa answered honestly causing the two sisters to laugh as Rheanyra remembers being in her position only a few months back. “How much did you sleep last night? Have you had breakfast, yet?” Rhaenyra questioned her little sister, not even letting answer before she asked her next question. Grabbing Rhaenyra’s hand Alyssa softly smiles at her. “I’m feeling quite well, thank you sister, though no I have not had Breakfast yet.” Alyssa promises her as she couldn’t blame her for worrying since she too was in her position when Rhaenyra was in hers, especially after what happened to their mother. Rhaenyra couldn’t help a smile softly at her before hugging her sister as they sat there for few moments in peace before Rhaenrya had ask one of her ladies in waiting who had just walked in to bring their breakfast her so that they could dine together as she opens all the windows to the room knowing how much Alyssa hated being kept inside at all times.

Seeing as it was now only the two sisters, Rhaenyra gave Jace to his wet nurse as he became hungry and it was closer to his nap time. They sat in comfortable silence, well Rhaenrya sat while Alyssa walked around her room still in Harwin’s shirt as she got tired of laying down but did not feel like getting dressed and leaving her bedroom either so she settled for walking around her room. A sharp grasp from Alyssa catches Rhaenyra’s attention as she looks up to see her sister’s face scrunch up in pain as she cradles her baby bump in her hands as she is leaning forwards from the pain. “ Sister, is it time?” Rhaenyra asks as she rushes to her sister’s aid, before Alyssa could answer she groans in pain once more as her water breaks and runs down her leg answering Rhaenyra’s question. “Come, I will send for the midwife and send one of your ladies to fetch Harwin and be at your side once again.” Rhaenyra walks Alyssa back to her bed. “Everything will be okay, I promise.” Rhaenyra swears as she holds her sister's gaze for a few seconds before sitting Alyssa on the edge of the bed and rushes towards the door where she tells her sworn shield the news and watches as he runs down the hall to where he saw the second Princess ladies go to tell them. Seeing all the ladies rush out the room towards Alyssa’s room while one runs the opposite way to find Ser Hawrin, Rhaenyra makes her way back to her sister's side.

Luckily, as it was almost noon time Harwin was already on his way back to his lady wife’s side so the Princess’s lady did not have to travel far as she caught sight of him. “Ser Harwin!” The lady yells catching his attention as he remembers her being a part of his wife’s ladies. “Ser, it’s the Princess, her labors have started!” The lady tells him loudly once she gets closer to him before she starts running after Harwin when he starts running to his bedchamber paying no mind to the whispers that started after hearing the lady’s words. Each step took him closer to their shared bedchamber where he was now able to hear his wife’s cries of pain, without another thought he quickly badgers into their bedchamber where he sees Rhaenyra sitting behind his wife supporting her as Alyssa as she leans back against her. “Harwin.” Alyssa gasps in relife when she sees her husband standing in front of their bedroom door. Hearing her voice he’s quick to take off his armor before taking Rhaenyra’s previous spot, while Rhaenyra settles for kneeling beside her sister while still holding one of her sister’s hands, as Harwin takes ahold the other while his right hand settles on top of her stomach. “I’m her my love, you are so strong, my little warrior.” Harwin mumbles into his wife's damp forehead before laning a gentle kiss to where her forehead and her damp hairline meets.

“Push Princess, push.” The midwife calls from in between Alyssa’s legs. Alyssa grip on her sister and Harwin’s hand tightens as she leans forward groaning in pain as she did exactly as the Midwife instructed her to do before falling back against her husband to try and have moment to breath before she has to push again. “Keep breathing, you're doing well, sister.” Rhaenyra tries to comfort her sister as kisses her sister’s hand. “Try again, Princess.” The midwife says as she keeps Alyssa’s legs from closing. ‘Mmm..” Alyssa cries in pain as she pushes once again. “You’re almost there, Princess, I can now see the head!” The midwife informs happily as she sees the child start to crown. “Just a little more, My love. You are doing so well.” Harwin says excitedly as so many emotions run through him as he watches his brave little wife go through labor to bring their child into the world. “I-i can’t.” Alyssa cries as she browles her face into her husband's neck. “Yes, yes you can. You are so strong, my love and I could never thank you enough for allowing me to love you, and now you are bringing our child into this world and they will never know how lucky they are to have you as their mother, but I shall tell them just how lucky they are every day that passes.” Harwin says as he caresses his beloved wife’s face while everyone is touched by Harwins words as he speaks to his wife. “I love you.” Alyssa says with a stained smile as tears gather in her eyes. “And I you.” Harwin says softly as he moves her damp hair away from her face before leaning down to bring her into a gentle kiss. Though, the kiss didn’t last long as Alyssa breaks the kiss as she cries in pain before she starts to push again. “One more push princess, just one more.” The midwife encourages her as the child's head breaks through. As Alyssa lets out one last cry as she pushes the midwife gently grabs the babe and helps pull the baby out. “It’s here Princess!” One of the younger midwives shouted happily while Alyssa collapsed against her husband as she breathed in relief. While the older midwife turns the babe around she slaps the babe’s back and loud cries soon follow allowing everyone to breathe in relief. “It’s a boy! Praise the Mother!” Ther older midwife infromes everyone as she hands the babe to his mother. Alyssa cries happily as she holds her son kissing his forehead not caring that there was still blood on him. “Is he healthy?” Alyssa questions the midwife worriedly as her son starts to setll in his mother’s arms. “He’s as strong as a horse.” The midwife tells her Princess happily.

Laughing happily Alyssa crovers her son’s face with kisses, happy to finally have him in her arms, before she suddenly stills before letting out a painful goran alerting everyone in the room. “It’s the afterbirth.” The midwife announced before kneeling in between the princess’s legs only gasping in shock, alarming Harwin and Rhaenyra as she was taking the babe from her sister's arms as she knew the after birth could be just as painful, while Alyssa was too busy groaning in pain. “What, what’s wrong?” Harwin demanded to know what’s happening as he feared the worst. “There’s another babe coming.” The midwife anounce shocking everyone. “I need you to push now princess, the babe’s head is already showing. Groaning loudly Alyssa pushes as arches her back. “Again.” The midwife commands as she gently cradles the babe’s head as it peeks through. Wrimpring Alyssa pushes once more as she finally delivers her second child. Alyssa cries in relief partly as another set of cries field the air and also as she can feel the pain lessen finally. “Another boy, Princess.” The midwife smiles as she quickly hands the second born to his mother weak arms, but Alyssa does not mide as she cradles her second son against her chest as she covers her second born son with kisses as she had done with the first one, laughing in disbelief as she stares at him. “Please tell me that he is the last one.” Alyssa pleads causing everyone to laugh but is soon interrupted. “Princess.” Everyone looked up at the new voice to see one of the ladies that belonged to the Queen. “The Queen demands that the child be brought to her.” The lady demands changing everyone’s mood in the room quickly.

(Don’t worry their will be a part two to this I hope you all enjoy this and sorry if there any mistakes with grammar or my spelling.)

second heir

pairing: harwin strong x targaryen!oc

synposis: tensions in the targaryen family rise when viserra targaryen, the youngest child of queen aemma and king viserys, gives birth to her second son with ser harwin strong. ser criston cole learns that picking on harwin strong's son is not the smartest decision.

warnings: graphic depiction of childbirth, swearing, violence, slight angst, fluff, ser cri*t*n c*le

notes: I usually do a reader insert but thought it would make more sense to use a targaryen-esque name - enjoy!

"Push Princess. Just one more."

A whimper escaped her lips. Her body felt like it was on fire. Or dipped in acid. Or both. In that moment, Viserra Targaryen was convinced there was no greater suffering on earth than that of childbirth.

"Push!"

"I'm fucking trying." Viserra seethed through clenched teeth as she pushed with all her might.

"Come on my love." The deep voice of her husband murmured in her ear as he knelt beside her. "Take my hand."

Viserra let out a groan of pain as she pushed once more, her hand clasping around her husband's as she squeezed with all her might.

"Why did you have to get me pregnant you fucking cunt, I swear I'm going to-" Her rant was cut off as she let out another scream of pain as the midwife behind her held open her legs.

"I think one more push will do it princess, I see the head!" The midwife announced from below her.

"Yes darling, tell me how much of a cunt I am come on." A gloved hand caressed her face, drawing her attention away from the midwife between her thighs. Her eyes locked with the deep brown ones of her husband.

"I love you, you stupid cunt- ah!" If he was not so strong she most likely would have pulverised the bones in his hand.

A breathy chuckle escaped Harwin Strong's lips as he squeezed her hand back.

"I am a cunt, a cunt that loves you very much." With that she clenched her eyes shut as she gave one last push.

She let out a moan of relief as the pain subsided, air filling up her lungs once more as the midwives gushed in praise.

"It's ok my love, it is over." Harwin murmured, kissing her damp hair as he held her closely.

"You are so strong, a brave mother." Viserra let out a silent sob as she clung to her husband, letting him pepper her face with kisses and praises as she fell limp in his arms.

"It is a boy, princess."

Viserra finally opened her eyes as crying filled the cavernous room. She was both crying and laughing with joy as she watched the midwife carefully bundle up her son.

Overwhelming love and warmth filled her as her son was placed into her outstretched arms. Almost as if those last few hours of pain had been erased, like she would do it all again now just to hold him like this.

"Healthy?"

"As healthy as one can be, princess." The midwife confirmed.

Viserra let out another sob as she cradled her son to her chest and placed a kiss to his forehead.

"Hi baby." She whispered to him, watching as he squirmed and flailed in her arms.

"Look how beautiful he is." She murmured, finally passing him to Harwin to hold.

"Well no wonder, look at his mother." Harwin smiled softly as he gently took his son in his arms. "I told you I knew it would be another boy."

Viserra felt her heart warm when she saw the tears rolling down her husband's cheeks as he spoke.

"He is perfect." She remarked, her eyes never leaving her son, completely entranced in the new life she and Harwin had just created.

"That he is." Harwin murmured as he carefully handed him back to Viserra.

"Princess." The sound of an unfamiliar voice made Viserra finally tear away her eyes from her son.

She felt a sense of dread course through her at the sight of the nervous handmaiden. She knew that could mean only one thing.

"The Queen has requested the child be brought to her. Immediately."

"Now? For what purpose?" Harwin's voice was demanding as he rose to his feet, a complete shift in his demeanour from only moments ago.

"I-I-" The handmaiden began to flounder, her eyes wide and fearful as she glanced between the commander and the princess.

"-it is fine." Viserra saved the handmaiden from her unpredictable fate.

"I will take him myself."

"You will do no such thing." Harwin snapped as Viserra began to push herself off the mattress. "You must rest."

"Your husband is right princess, you must stay in bed." One of the midwives agreed.

They were right, of course. Viserra wanted nothing more than to lay in bed with her husband and new son. But Queen Alicent Hightower had already ruined that perfect moment by sending her handmaiden in here. Just the mention of her name was poisonous enough to sour everything it touched.

The least Viserra could do now was ensure that she drip fed the Queen her own sweetly crafted poison while she met her grandson.

"Remove the cord and make sure the afterbirth has arrived. Then help me dress. Husband, you hold him."

Harwin eyed his wife for a few moments before nodding as he took his son once more. He knew his wife well enough to know that once she made her mind up, there was no changing it. Best to stand aside and let her run her course.

"It is done princess." One of the midwives announced after a few minutes.

Viserra gritted her teeth and wrapped a hand around one of the bedposts. She ground her teeth in an attempt to extinguish the grunt of pain she let out as she pulled herself off the bed and onto her feet.

"This is ridiculous." Harwin spat, his heart aching as he watched helplessly as his wife winced as the handmaidens cinched her dress around her waist.

"What could possibly be so urgent that she needs to see our son right away."

"I am sure the Queen has her very rationale reasons." Viserra drawled as the handmaidens stepped away from her.

"Let us just get this over with." She huffed as they opened the doors from their chambers.

"Run a bath for the princess for when she returns." Harwin murmured to one of the servants quietly so Viserra did not hear.

"Sister!" The sound of Rhaenyra's voice filled her ears the second they stepped into their main living quarters.

"A healthy boy, I heard." Viserra felt a smile form on her lips at the sight of her sister bounding towards her.

"Oh he is beautiful sister, congratulations." A rare true smile appeared on Rhaenyra's face as she stared down at her nephew.

"Thank you sister."

The smile was quick to fall from Rhaenyra's features when she noticed Harwin's grim features and the way her sister's smile did not meet her eyes.

Her brow narrowed when she watched her brother in law and sister begin to make their way towards the threshold of their quarters.

"What is wrong? Where are you going?"

"The Queen has requested to see him. Immediately." Harwin answered as they stepped into the hallway.

"She what?" Rhaenyra could hardly believe her ears as she walked alongside them.

"I know she did it with Joffrey but I never thought- she has gone too far. I cannot sit by and-"

"- you can and you will sister." Viserra cut her off, breathing deeply as pain rumbled through her.

"We will go and show her the child, let her feel powerful for a few moments. It might do her some good." Their voices were low as they made their way through the hallway. At a very slow pace at that given Viserra's state.

"I am coming with you."

"No." Viserra's voice was firm as she came to a stop to grab her sister's arm. "She will just find some way to villainize you or to get you to say something she can twist."

Rhaenyra's face morphed into one of sadness as she studied her sister.

"Let her torture us for a while." Viserra insisted.

"We can handle it." Harwin spoke, sending his sister in law a nod.

Rhaneyra glanced between them as she tried to reach a decision. She knew what the rationale one was. That her sister was right. As heir it was more strategic to leave it. But as Viserra's older sister, every part of her was screaming at her to march up those stairs and tear Allicent's hair from her scalp.

The look on Harwin's face was what made her decision for her. The look that said if anything happened to his wife, he would literally murder everything in sight. She knew her sister was safe with him.

"Fine." She relented. "But please try not to strain yourself too much sister." A hand reached up to gently brush Viserra's cheek.

"I will do my best." Viserra forced a small on her lips as she leant into her sister's touch.

With that Harwin and Viserra were on their way once more. Viserra let out a whimper as she clung to his arm. They had only made it a few metres when Harwin came to a stop.

"Alright that is it."

"Harwin what-"

"Hold him." Viserra opened her mouth in surprise as he passed their son into her arms.

"Harwin-" She let out a small yelp of surprise as he bent down and wrapped his hands under her back and legs and lifted her off the ground with ease.

She clung to their son as Harwin cradled her in his arms and began to march with a determined pace towards the Queen's chambers.

"Harwin-" She began for the third time.

"I will put you down before we go inside do not fret. We can let her think you scaled those steps on your own. But I am not letting my wife who just gave birth take another step if it can be avoided." He answered her as he passed by gaping onlookers without so much as a glance in their direction.

Her heart warmed at his words. She felt her anger subdue for a few moments as she studied her husband, with that look of loyal determination on his features. The face that she had fallen in love with as a teenager.

She remembered the day that he had taken up a position as a sworn protector of her family. The first time the pair locked eyes across the hall. The first time they spoke when he caught her trying to sneak out of the castle. The first time they unfurled their secrets to one another. The first time she took his hand and led him into her chambers.

While Rhaenyra was having her tryst with Criston Cole, Viserra was having hers with Harwin Strong.

But unlike her sister, Viserra did not have the weight of being their father's heir on her shoulders. Nor was her father as focused on marrying her off to the most politically strategic husband possible.

So when Viserra walked in one afternoon and informed her father that she was in love with Harwin Strong and was to wed him, what else was he to do but agree? He could never say no to his baby daughter, nor did he want to. He could see how in love she was and all he wished was for her to be happy. Besides, the rumours of their tryst and the ruining of her maidenhood had began to spread through the castle. This would quell those rumours.

It made sense politically too, given Harwin Strong was the son of the hand of the king and the heir to Harrenhal. It was the perfect strategic match for a second born daughter. That was how he had explained it to Alicent when she had questioned it anyway. Of course, that only deepened the queen's jealousy and resentment towards the Targaryen sisters.

Harwin came to a stop in front of the Queen's chambers. Viserra brought a hand up to caress his cheek.

"I love you husband."

"As I love you, wife." He answered, pressing a kiss to her palm as he gently placed her down on the ground. He captured her lips in a kiss. The usually frowned upon public display of affection caused the guards stationed at the door to divert their eyes.

"Give her hell." He whispered into her ear as the doors opened.

That she would.

Their son squirmed in her arms as they made their way inside. Neither spared Ser Criston Cole a glance as they passed him. Alicent was standing at the window, her back to them, her gaze fixed over the sea.

Viserra fought the urge to double over in pain as her insides burned. Her body was slick with sweat. Practically dripping from head to toe. Her blonde hair plastered to her face and back.

It was a comfort to her to know that even when she looked like this, Alicent's beauty would still never compare. A small comfort, perhaps a petulant one. But a comfort nonetheless.

"Viserra." Alicent's sickly sweet voice rung out through the cavernous room.

"What are you doing here? You should be resting after your labours." Her concern almost sounded sincere.

"I did not wish to disappoint you, your grace." Viserra answered as Harwin ushered her over to the couch.

"Oh yes, please sit." Alicent nodded, her dress swishing at her ankles as she made her way over to them.

She watched with intense eyes as Harwin guided his wife down to sit on the sofa. His gaze was so full of love and concern it almost made Alicent feel ill. Anger rippled through her as he placed a tender kiss to Viserra's forehead.

Such love, such intimacy. It was something that Alicent would never experience. At least Rhaenyra had to make some small sacrifices in the name of duty as heir. Viserra on the other hand did not even know the meaning.

Being the second born daughter meant the focus had always been off her. That she could run around and do as she pleased with no consequences. Alicent had known of her treacherous affair with the Strong boy, she had even gone to Viserys with the information. Yet nothing was done, she was brushed off once more. And after all that Viserra still got to wed the man that she loved.

"I cannot believe how long it has been since your last son was born. How old is Aemar now?"

"He will be six next month, your grace." Harwin answered her.

"Six." Alicent remarked. "Such a long space in between children."

"It was not for a lack of trying your grace." Viserra answered her as she raised a brow. "Believe me."

Harwin glanced down at his feet to hide his smirk as Alicent's mouth drew into a sharp line.

"Yes well, better late than never I suppose." She cleared her throat as she approached them.

"Let me meet him properly." It was a demand, not a question. Her arms extended expectantly. Viserra bit her tongue as she reluctantly handed the queen the small bundle in her arms.

"He was two weeks early I understand? Like his brother?"

"Ten days early, your grace."

Alicent let out a hum as she examined the child in her arms intently. "Do the maesters think it will impact him the way it has Aemar?"

Viserra could feel the fire beginning to build up inside her.

"I am not sure I understand, your grace." Harwin spoke for her, noting the way his wife's fists had curled up the material of the sofa.

"Well the boy is quite small for his age."

Criston Cole smirked in the corner.

"The maesters have assured us they are both strong and healthy. They do have Targaryen blood after all." Viserra answered, using every ounce of her strength to keep her voice calm.

"Unless you are questioning the quality of Targaryen blood, your grace. Which I am sure was not your intention."

Alicent looked up from the child, her eyes locking with Viserra's.

"Of course not. I suppose it would have to be the integrity of your husband's blood that caused such defects."

Silence fell over the room. It had been such an off handed remark. Said so casually and plainly for how great of an insult the words wielded.

Harwin and Viserra were no fools. They were aware of the Queen's suspicions around the lineage of Rhaenyra's three children. The rumours that they had been fathered by one of the knights in the city watch. They were true, of course. It was plain as day. The three boys had dark brown hair and pale skin. But nothing would extract that confession from Viserra.

It was only logical for Alicent to start questioning the lineage of Viserra's children too. If one sister was capable of adultry, why not the other? It did not help that Aemar had been born small and lean, particular in comparison to his father. But the maesters had assured Harwin and Viserra that he was merely a late bloomer, that he would grow into his build.

As Viserra stared at Alicent, she wondered how she had ever felt sympathy for her. Much less been her friend. She used to follow Rhaenyra and Alicent around wherever they went when she was a child. Hanging onto their every word like it was gospel.

Even after her father had announced his intention to wed Alicent, Viserra had still tried to be friends. She had seen how Otto Hightower had manoeuvred his daughter like a chess piece for his own gain. And she had felt sorry for her as she watched her churn out child after child, trapped in a loveless marriage.

But the moment she had started going after Rhaenyra, all hope was lost. And as the three women grew, Alicent's bitterness towards Rhaenyra spread to Viserra, entangling her up in her web of venom and lies and hatred.

There was no repairing the bond that had been broken.

"What did you say?" Harwin's voice was low, his eyes bright with rage.

He took a step towards her. The sound of Criston Cole's blade being unsheathed rang out behind them.

"Husband, relax." Viserra brought a hand up to grip his forearm.

She turned around in her seat and glared at Criston. "And sheath your blade Ser Criston, there is no need for such theatrics." She resisted the urge to smile at the sight of his glowering stare.

"The Queen did not mean any harm by her words." Her voice was scarily light and calm. She forced a chuckle up her throat and past her lips. Her face was the perfect portrait of calm.

She thought she might tear the Queen's head clean off her shoulders when she noticed Alicent's grip on her son tighten.

"You know that she is often left alone by father, sometimes he forgets to pass on things. Like what the maester's have told him about the health of his grandchildren."

Viserra could feel Harwin relax under her touch as she shot Alicent a smile.

"Right, your grace?"

If looks could kill, Viserra would be shredded into ribbons right now.

"Of course. I meant no offence." Alicent managed to force out, causing Viserra's grin to widen.

Viserra knew she should leave it at that. To not poke the beast. But Alicent's insult had ignited the flame within her. And once that flame was alight, it could not easily be extinguished.

"You know, you must get your boys to come meet their new nephew, your grace. Especially Aegon." Viserra spoke casually as Alicent handed her son back to her.

"Must I?"

"Oh yes. I mean with me as second heir and the birth of our son that would put Aegon now at... seventh in line?" Viserra feigned confusion as she glanced up at Harwin.

Harwin knew the nature of the game instantly.

"Eighth, my love. Counting our little nephew." Harwin responded, a smirk on his lips as he glared at the queen.

"Oh yes eighth of course, I almost forgot to count little Prince Joffrey. My mistake." Viserra chuckled.

"I know Aegon is not so... passionate about ruling as you or your father are, so I am sure that the knowledge he is now eighth in line would be most relieving for him to hear."

Viserra was not sure if she had ever seen Alicent so unhinged. Her bottom lip trembled and her face twitched as she stared at her step-daughter. Usually the perfect face of righteousness and dignity. The ever composed queen. She looked as if she might just step forward and scratch Viserra's eyes out.

"You dare-"

"What happy news this morning!"

Viserra felt her heart warm at the sight of her father making his way through the double doors. Viserys' eyes lit up at the sight of his daughter and his newest grandson.

"It appears your hunch was right Harwin, a healthy boy I have heard."

"Indeed your grace." Harwin smiled as Viserra extended out the bundle of cloth for him to take.

"Let me see my handsome grandson."

Alicent glared as she watched her husband take the child in his arms. He had never even looked that happy when holding their own children.

"Oh he is beautiful. He will make a strong knight I am sure." Viserys beamed as he rocked the babe gently.

"Has my grandson got a name yet?"

"We were thinking Edmyn." Viserra answered when Harwin glanced down at her questioningly.

A grin spread across his lips at the name. It was a traditional House Strong name. One that Viserra knew Harwin had been secretly dying for.

"Edmyn? That is an unusual Valyrian name." Alicent chimed in. Viserra had to resist the urge to roll her eyes.

"Because it is not one. Aemar has a Valyrian name, I think it only fitting we also pay homage to the Strongs."

"I could not agree more daughter. Edmyn suits him. I am sure your father will be proud of it Harwin."

"Indeed he will your grace."

This time it was Alicent's turn to not roll her eyes.

"You know, I think I can see a bit of his grandmother in him." Viserys remarked, his voice cracking ever so slightly. Viserra could feel tears threatening to pool in her own eyes at the mention of her mother.

Harwin cleared his throat when he noticed his wife's state.

"If it is ok with you, your grace, your daughter has been more braver than I could ever be, I think she deserves to rest."

"Oh of course." Viserys smiled as he glanced down at his daughter. "I know how draining your labours can be."

"Thank you father." Viserra grimaced as Harwin helped her back up onto her feet.

"We are hoping to bare you a granddaughter next." She continued as she studied Alicent. "And we have already picked out the name."

She was more than happy to twist the knife in further.

"Aemma."

This time Alicent could not fight the eye roll at Viserra's words, turning her back as she did so.

A tear rolled down Viserys' cheek as he brought his hand up to caress his daughter's cheek.

"We can only hope the gods may be so kind." Viserys smiled as he embraced her in a tight hug.

"Now go rest with your husband and new child."

Viserra winced as she slipped into the hot tub. She withheld a moan as the warm water surrounded her, melting into her skin and bones.

"I am sorry if I bled on you."

Harwin let out a small chuckle and shook his head as he knelt down beside the tub.

"I have seen the worst that mankind has to offer, the type of violence that no one should see. You really think a little bit of blood is going to offend me?" He mused as he brought a damp cloth up to her forehead.

His gaze softened when she did not reply, watching as her eyes fluttered closed.

"You should not have had to go through that today." He murmured as he tenderly cleaned her.

"No." She conceded. "I should not have."

"You would not have to if we left King's Landing. If we travelled to Harrenhal and lived with my family."

"You know I cannot leave Rhaenyra. Not with these spiders circling her ever tighter. She is surrounded. I am all she has." Harwin withheld a sigh at her words.

They were expected, but disappointing none the less.

"I know."

No more was said as Harwin bathed her and helped her dress. He picked her up and carried her to their bed, placing her gently on the satin sheets.

She was asleep before her head hit the pillow. Harwin smiled softly as he watched her sleep, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.

Viserra stirred but did not wake at the sound of a soft knock on the door. Harwin spared her one last glance before he crept to the door. He was greeted by Rhaenyra Targaryen on the other side.

"Is Viserra asleep?"

"She has had a long day." He answered quietly.

Rhaenyra merely nodded in understanding, her face tight with worry as she glanced over Harwin's shoulder.

"She will tell you all tomorrow, I am sure." He assured the princess.

"Was it bad?"

"Quite. Alicent grows more venomous each day." Harwin answered.

"I thought Viserra would be spared given she is not first heir."

"It appears that her resentment has spread to encompass your sister too, princess." Harwin could not hide the anger in his voice as he spoke. He hated feeling so helpless, like there was nothing he could do to protect his wife.

"You should leave, you do not have to stay here. Both of you and the boys should go to Harrenhal. Be spared from this torture." Rhaenyra whispered, desperation evident in her voice.

"You and I both know that Viserra will never leave you alone here."

Rhaenyra sighed and nodded in agreement. "I wish I had not taught her to be so stubborn."

A sad smile spread across Harwin's lips.

"As do I."

Harwin squinted as the sunlight hit his eyes. He stepped out into the training courtyard. The sound of wooden swords hitting sacks filled with barley filled his ears. The grunts of young boys exerting themselves as they practiced.

He glanced up to see Viserys watching from above. He gave him a nod and a smile in greeting. His eyes scanned the yard, counting four of his nephews. He was quick to spot his son. The smallest of the five children. And the only one skulking about in the corner.

A smile spread across his lips as he watched the way Aemar's eyes brightened at the sight of him. Aemar dropped his sword without a second thought and raced towards him, weaving between the other boys to reach him.

Harwin let out a small chuckle as Aemar smashed into his leg, wrapping his thin limbs around his thigh to cling to him.

"Is it supper time father? Is training over?" His son asked as he peered up at him through his thick head of dark hair.

"Not quite yet. I just came to see how you were getting along."

"Oh." Aemar's smile was quick to fall. He watched as his father crouched down to meet his eyes.

"Maybe I can finish training early today? Could you ask mother?"

"Your mother is sleeping with your brother. She is quite tired."

"Oh no do not disturb her then, mother deserves as much rest as she can have." Aemar's brow knitted together as concern flashed across his features.

Harwin smiled softly as he ran a hand through his son's hair. He had always been so considerate and kind of others. Something that worried Harwin slightly. That kind of compassion was a weakness here.

"How has your training been going?" Harwin's eyes drifted over to Criston to see Criston's gaze already locked onto his.

Aemar glanced down at his feet. "Fine."

A lie.

Harwin could see Criston speaking to Alicent's boys, Rhaenyra's children left to practice on their own. He had a feeling his son was being given the same treatment.

"Go on then, I will watch you train and then we can go get something to eat." Harwin shot his son a warm smile and patted him on the shoulder.

Aemar, never one to disappoint his parents, dutifully nodded before scurrying back to the centre of the yard.

Harwin rose to his full height and paced around the edge of the square. He could feel Criston's eyes on him as he walked but chose to ignore it as he watched the boys begin to spar.

Criston and Harwin were similar, some would say. Both knights, protectors of the royal family. Both had fallen in love with a Targaryen princess. Both had disgraced their sacred vows to bed them.

The difference between Criston and Harwin was that Harwin's infatuation was not one sided. A difference that both were acutely aware of.

Harwin had always found Criston's jealousy quite pathetic. And initially quite humorous. That was until Ser Criston had started taking out his anger on Viserra and Rhaenyra's children.

"Come on Aemar, weapons up." He encouraged when he saw his son hesitantly go to pick up his sword.

His small fingers had nearly reached the hilt when Criston's boot stepped on it, crushing it as he brushed past Aemar to speak to Aegon.

"It seems some of your younger pupils could do with a bit more attention, Ser Criston." Harwin could not control his tongue any longer. If he did not say something, it would be his fists that would talk instead.

"You question my method of instruction?" Criston answered him.

"No, I merely suggest that method be applied to all your pupils."

"With all due respect Ser, I doubt you can have an impartial stance on the matter."

Harwin barked out a humourless laugh as he locked eyes with him. "Humour me."

Criston eyed him for a few moments before an unreadable expression crossed his features.

"Very well. Aemar, you spar with Aegon."

Harwin gritted his teeth as he watched Criston grip his son's armour and yank him into the centre of the field.

"That is hardly a fair match."

Indeed, Aegon was at least twice his son's size and weight and even in age. Aegon, being the spoilt cunt that he was, seemed delighted at the opportunity to crush a weaker opponent.

"When steal is drawn a fair match isn't something anyone should expect."

Harwin glanced up at the viewing balcony at the king and his father. Neither seemed willing to say a word.

"Blades up." Criston continued.

Harwin could see Aemar was shaking, even from where he was standing. His son was not a fighter, at least not yet. He was small and skinny and his temperament was the most gentle he had seen. He may grow into one yet, but Harwin was certain that this type of combat would not help him get there.

Aemar glanced at his father, his eyes pleading as he shakily rose his sword up in front of his chest.

"Engage."

Aegon let out an unhinged scream as he hurtled himself at Aemar. Harwin was too far away to stop him from hitting Aemar across the face and pushing him down. Harwin reached him as Aegon raised his sword to bring it down onto Aemar's chest.

Harwin lunged forward and grabbed the older prince by the scruff of the neck. Aegon let out a scream of frustration, thrashing around against Harwin as he tried to attack his younger nephew.

"Aegon!" The King finally let out a weak reprimand from above.

Harwin simply shoved him away, sending him stumbling into Ser Criston.

Rhaenyra's children ran to crowd around Aemar who was still on his back. They were murmuring comforting and encouraging things to him as Harwin reached them.

"Son, are you all right?" Harwin crouched down, his heart hammering in his chest as he brought his son up to sit.

The wood had drawn blood, a small slice across Aemar's smooth cheek. It was still enough to make Harwin see red.

"I am ok father." Aemar's small voice wavered, his chin wobbling as he tried to keep a brave face.

"I am confused Ser Harwin. You wish for me to treat your son equally and yet intervene within mere seconds."

Harwin's jaw clenched at the sound of Criston's mocking voice behind him. Harwin rose to his full height, his fists bunched at his sides as he turned to glare at Cole.

"The prince could have been seriously hurt. That match up was not safe."

Criston let out a small chuckle as Harwin turned around once more to pay attention to his son. He needed to quell his anger before he could no longer contain it and did something regrettable.

"I am sorry you feel that match was not fair, Strong." Cole spoke as he eyed Harwin.

"But I am afraid due to your son's.... stature... none of his nephew's would be a fair match." Harwin glanced down at his son who's head hung in shame at Ser Criston's words.

He could hear Aegon and Aemond sniggering behind him.

"Perhaps I could ask one of the handmaiden's to volunteer. Or your new son. They are probably equal in strength."

The snap of broken bone hung in the air.

Criston stumbled back as blood began to leak from his nose. Harwin let out an animalistic growl as he knocked him to his feet and launched himself on top of him. He landed punch after punch, screaming as he let out his rage.

"Say it again! Speak that way about my son again!" He shouted as arms wrapped around him and forced him off the knight.

Criston's body was limp, his head lolling back as blood poured from his nose.

"You talk about him like that again and I will fucking kill you, do you hear me!" He bellowed as other knights dragged him away.

Viserys and Lionel watched from above, their faces grim as they watched the scene unfold.

"So much for that pleasant afternoon." Viserys sighed.

"I heard it took four knights to pull you off him."

Harwin winced as Viserra pressed an ointment into his blistering knuckles.

"I was a bit too preoccupied to count."

Amusement flashed across her features as she rubbed the ointment in gently.

"I wish I was there to witness it, would have got me all hot and bothered."

Harwin shook his head, trying to fight the smile on his face as he glanced up at his wife.

"What? It taking four knights pulling me off him, or watching Ser Criston being beat into a pulp."

"Can a woman not find both equally arousing?" She teased him as she placed the ointment on the table beside the bed.

She withheld a sigh when she watched the smile seep from his face. His eyes glazing over as he thought about today's events. She leant forward and captured his lips in a gentle kiss.

"You did nothing wrong, my love." She mumbled against his lips as she pressed their foreheads together. "

Cole should not have dared insult a prince like that. All the boys heard him say it, he has no way to talk himself out of it. He will be punished. I will see to it that you are not. You were just protecting your son." Viserra's voice was thick with emotion as she spoke, anger furling up inside her at the memory of her husband relaying the words that Cole had said to their son.

She could not think about it for to long. Or think about the small cut on Aemar's cheek that she touched when she kissed him goodnight. It made her sick with rage. Angry enough to burn the entire castle to the ground.

"I still should not have lost my temper. Not in front of Aemar. It sets a bad example." He mumbled as he glanced down at his bruised knuckles.

"It might have frightened him."

Viserra's gaze softened at her husband's words. She ran a hand through his thick hair before using her index finger to tilt his chin up and force him to meet her eyes.

"Aemar adores you. He could never be frightened of you. He knows that you would only act like that if our family was in danger."

Harwin smiled as Viserra leant forward to kiss her husband's forehead.

"I do not know what I would do without you." He mumbled against her skin as he embraced her in a tight hug and buried his head into her chest.

"Nor I you." She whispered to him as she let him cling to her, engulfing her frame as she wrapped her arms around him.

It was in that moment that Viserra's mind wandered back to the conversation they had yesterday when she was taking her bath. About leaving King's Landing. And for the first time, she felt herself seriously considering it.

A knock at the door made both of them pull apart. They exchanged glances before turning their attention to the entrance.

"Enter." Viserra called.

"Rhaenyra." Her sister's name slipped through her lips at the sight of her.

"Sister, Ser Harwin." Rhaenyra inclined her head as they both rose to their feet to greet her.

"What brings you here at such a late hour?" Viserra's brow knitted together as she studied her sister.

"I came to tell you." Rhaenyra swallowed as her eyes darted between them.

"My family and I are leaving. Tomorrow."

Viserra's lips parted in surprise, her eyes darting to Harwin before turning back to her sister.

"To Dragonstone?"

"I should have left years ago." Rhaenyra nodded.

"But what of your position. If that bloodsucking queen has father all to herself-"

"-I have been made a spectacle of sister." Rhaenyra snapped, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "They whisper about me in the corridors. I wish to leave them to it."

Rhaenyra sniffled as she held back her tears, her eyes moving from her sister to Harwin who was studying her warily.

"After the events of yesterday and today, I cannot stay here any longer. You and your family have been tarred with the same brush. I cannot let you be tried and punished for the crimes Alicent believes me to have committed."

"Sister." Viserra breathed out as she stepped forward to take her sister's hands in her own.

"I beg of you, do not do this for my benefit. We are on your side, in your corner. We can batter this storm."

Rhaenyra shook her head and squeezed her sister's hands tightly. "I know sister, I know. But this is a storm that we should flee from." She locked eyes with Harwin's once more.

"And I am not doing this for my benefit, I am doing it for both of our families."

Harwin came to stand beside Viserra as she released her sister's hands, confusion contorting on her features.

"Come with us." Rhaenyra continued as she glanced between the couple.

"We can be a family. Our boys can do as they like, play and train without us having to fear what Criston Cole might do to them."

Viserra dragged her eyes from Rhaenyra up to Harwin's. He was already staring down at her, his face muscles taught. In that moment, it was just the two of them together as they studied eachother.

"Your father-"

"My father does not matter." Harwin cut her off. "Our family is what matters. You know I have always championed us to leave this place."

"I cannot ask you to do this." She whispered, her voice wavering as she spoke.

"I go wherever you go. I would follow you to the end of the earth my love." He murmured back, squeezing her hand tightly.

"It would be nice to give birth and stay in bed for longer than thirty seconds." She murmured after a few moments. A soft chuckle escaped his lips as he nodded in agreement.

"Indeed."

For once Rhaenyra was unable to hold back her tears as she watched her baby sister and her husband.

"To Dragonstone then?"

The couple turned to her at her words. "To Dragonstone." Harwin agreed, squeezing his wife's hand once more.

"Maybe you can beat up Cole once more before we go. Just so Viserra and I can have a fond memory of this place to look back on."

A grin spread across Harwin's lips as Viserra chuckled beside him.

"That can be arranged."

I adore this fic and the little family I have created hehehe <3 p.s totally canon that Viserra and Harwin have a girl called Aemma. As always, feedback would be super super appreciated and you can give it back HERE!

laenor fussing over rhaenyra??!?! we love to see it!!!!