章 35: Chapter 35
A murmur rippled through the council. Otto Hightower, the Hand of the King, leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "Your Grace, who have you considered for this crucial role?" he asked, a hint of trepidation in his voice.
Viserys let the question hang in the air for a moment before responding. "I have chosen someone I trust implicitly, someone of royal blood, capable, talented, and very resourceful—my son, Aerion."
A collective gasp filled the room. Otto's worst fears had been realized. Before he could voice his concerns, Grand Maester Mellos interjected, "With all due respect, Your Grace, Prince Aerion is neither a knight nor has he come of age. It is unprecedented for a child to command the City Watch. What will the kingdom and the people think if such news got out?" he questioned.
The other council members nodded in agreement, their expressions ranging from disbelief to disapproval.
Viserys, expecting their reaction, remained resolute. He did not fully understand what Aerion hoped to achieve by taking over the City Watch, nor how he intended to convince its men to follow him. Nonetheless, he was determined to pave the way for his son as Aerion had requested.
Otto seized the moment, his voice rising with conviction. "Your Grace, with all due respect, Prince Aerion is but a child. No knight worth their salt would consent to be commanded by one so young and inexperienced."
"Lord Hand speaks the truth, Your Grace. I think you should reconsider this decision," Lyonel Strong added.
Viserys remained silent, allowing the wave of objections to wash over him. When the clamor finally subsided, he stood firm, his expression resolute. "I have not summoned you here to debate my decision," he declared. "I am informing you of my will. Whether or not you support it, Aerion will assume command."
The council members exchanged uneasy glances, their desire to protest warring with their loyalty to the crown. They were all silently waiting for Otto Hightower to object first, to pave the way for their own dissent.
Otto, sensing the futility of further argument, retreated into the shadows, his frown concealed by a well-timed stroke of his beard. He knew that further confrontation would only weaken his position.
As the meeting adjourned, the councilors filed out, their whispers echoing off the stone walls. Viserys remained at the table, his gaze lingering on the empty seats. He knew the path ahead would be fraught with challenges, but he was prepared to face them—for his kingdom, for his children.
Meanwhile, Otto left the hall with a confused expression. He did not understand what the king hoped to achieve by appointing Aerion as Commander of the City Watch. Other than adding more trouble, this decision seemed unlikely to have much impact.
However, due to the recent events surrounding Aerion, Otto decided to look deeper into this previously quiet and almost invisible prince of House Targaryen. He also resolved to create trouble for Aerion, hoping to protect his own influence and the future he envisioned for his family.
In the days that followed, whispers about Aerion's appointment spread through the Red Keep like wildfire. Many doubted the young prince's capability, while others speculated about the king's motives.
But one thing was certain: King Viserys had made a bold move, and Aerion would be the next cammonder of the Citywatch.
Viserys worked diligently, wrapping up the necessary preparations and formalities with impressive speed. Within weeks after the small council meeting, everything was set.
As the sun rose over the horizon, heralds announced the king's decree. The court of Westeros buzzed with whispers and gasps as King Viserys named his young son, Aerion, Commander of the City Watch. Lords and ladies exchanged incredulous glances, their faces a mix of shock and curiosity.
In the great hall, Aerion stood calm and composed. He moved with a grace that belied his years, accepting the heavy mantle of responsibility as if it were no more than a feather. The ceremony unfolded with pomp and circumstance, yet Aerion's eyes remained focused, his mind already on the tasks ahead.
As he knelt before his father, the king's voice filled the hall. "Do you swear to uphold the laws of this land, to protect its people, and to serve the crown with honor?"
"I do," Aerion vowed, his voice steady and clear.
After the oath and the ceremony, followed by a celebratory banquet arranged by his father, Aerion wasted no time. Instead of seeking the comfort of a carriage, he strode out of the Red Keep towards the stables where his horse awaited. Mounting his steed, he rode towards the City Watch garrison, the weight of his new title settling upon his shoulders.
At the garrison, the men of the City Watch were not known for their easy acceptance of change, especially from one so young. Aerion knew the challenge that lay before him; respect was not given freely—it had to be earned, especially from seasoned knights. And he intended to earn it, by any means necessary.
As he approached the garrison, Ser Harwin Strong, the captain of the City Watch, stepped forward, his eyes narrowing slightly at the sight of the young prince. "Prince Aerion," he greeted with a mix of formality and skepticism. "You here so early?"
"I've come to assume my duties, Ser Harwin," Aerion replied, dismounting gracefully. "The king's decree will be followed, and I intend to start immediately."
Ser Harwin nodded, though his expression remained guarded. "Very well, Your Grace. The men will be assembled shortly."
Aerion walked through the garrison, observing the men at their drills and exercises. His presence drew curious glances and murmured comments, but he remained unfazed. He approached a group of guards sparring in the yard.
"Form up!" Ser Harwin barked, and the men quickly lined up, their eyes fixed on Aerion.
"I know my age might make some of you question my capability," Aerion began, his voice strong and confident. "But know this: I am here to lead, and I will earn your respect through my actions. We will work together to make this city safer and stronger."
The men exchanged looks, some skeptical, others intrigued. Aerion's determination was evident.
Back at the Red Keep, King Viserys stood beside Queen Alicent, watching their son disappear into the distance. His brow furrowed with concern, and he whispered a silent prayer for Aerion's safety and success in the days to come.
Queen Alicent placed a comforting hand on his arm. "if you are unsure of his success why did you allow it ?," she asked softly, though her own heart was heavy with worry.
Viserys looked straight, though the unease in his eyes remained. "This was what he asked for and as a father I think I should believe in my children," he replied, his voice filled with hope.
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