Alicent stared at him. “The babe should be brought to me.” “No.” The answer came so quickly that even Otto seemed taken aback. Aegon continued, “The babe will remain with its parents.” “Aegon, I am its grandmother,” the queen defended. “And Visenya is its mother!” Alicent's lips parted and she looked startled by her son's harsh response. For a moment she seemed genuinely wounded. “I would never take the child from her,” she assured him. Aegon shook his head and pointed at her, “You sent a servant to do precisely that.” “I wished only to hold my grandchild.” “Then hold it there.” His voice rose again, “You need not take it from Visenya's arms to do so.” Alicent stood. “You do not understand.” “I understand perfectly,” he told her, “I have watched children be born into this family only to see you use them to humiliate others.” Alicent fell silent. Otto rose. “Enough.” Aegon turned toward him. “No,” the word was soft. But final. His grandsire's face hardened. “You will show your mother, the queen, respect she deserves.” “I am.” “You accuse her of–” “I am telling her what will happen.” Aegon looked back at Alicent. “The child stays with Visenya and Aemond.” Alicent's eyes glistened. “You would deny me my grandchild?” “No,” Aegon's voice softened, “I would deny you the right to decide when and how his mother must surrender him.” Alicent stared at him. Aegon swallowed then the memory returned. Rhaenyra walking down the corridors of the Red Keep, helping herself against Ser Laenor, while holding little Joffrey Velaryon. She had left a trail of blood from the birthing chambers to Alicent's solar. Alicent had feigned worry but in private she stood proudly. Smiling. Watching. Making certain that everyone knew who possessed the power. He had never understood why Rhaenyra had looked so humiliated. He understood now. His jaw tightened, “I will not let Visenya be treated as our sister Rhaenyra was.” Alicent's expression froze. #targaryen #aemondtargaryenfanfic #houseofthedragon #danceofthedragons #aegoniitargaryen - @star_dust7x