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People say that hatred, fueled by many years full of thirst for revenge, is a feeling much stronger than love.
Aemond's hatred gave roots at a very young age. It was lit up with a sharp pain in the left side of her face. It flowed through his veins like the warm blood that streamed from a terrible cut across his skin. It appeared at the place of the missing eye and every year became stronger alongside its owner.
His hatred lived in the little creature that dared to lift a knife at him all those years ago. His hatred lived in curly dark hair, a bloody snub nose and eyes burning with wild fire.
His hatred lived in Lucerys Velaryon.
***
Many years have passed since that damned day. The wound healed, leaving behind only a hideous scar. An empty eye socket was now filled with a heavy sapphire pressing on his skull, reminding of an unpaid debt owed to him. A thick leather eyepatch covered it from prying eyes.
Aemond has changed greatly over the years. Platinum hair has grown out, falling below his shoulder blades down his back in straight strands. His shoulders have widened, he'd outgrown his older brother and was now taller than almost all the men in the Red Keep. Countless training sessions did not go without a trace, rewarding him with enough muscle mass to defeat any enemy in a duel. His well-defined cheekbones and chiseled facial features made him look several years older than he actually was. Compared to his brother, who wanted to do absolutely nothing but drink and have fun, he was almost perfect. But it wasn't enough. Aemond knew that all this training would not extinguish that feeling inside of him. He couldn't look in the mirror without remembering his mother's desperate words. “An eye for an eye.” He knew he wouldn't rest until he took what was rightfully his. So he waited.
And when, after many years, he made out the dark crown and curious green eyes out of the corner of his eye, he was not at all surprised by the feeling that ignited inside him. The last time Aemond saw the boy, he was still a child. And although it was still impossible to call him a man now, Lucerys Velaryon had changed. His face had almost completely lost all the baby fat, leaving room for more defined, albeit soft, facial features. He had grown up, but was still shorter than his brother, behind whose back he was hiding as he watched Aemond at the training grounds. His hair was still dark and curly, not Velaryon at all, and his pug nose made him look even younger. All this, together with thin neat eyebrows and rosy cheeks, created a pretty image suitable for a young prince. Lucerys was a charming and beautiful boy. Not even slightly resebling his uncle's image: cruel, frightening, repulsive. Mutilated.
Aemond felt his teeth grind with a sudden surge of anger. How dare this pup present his untouched cute face after forever spoiling someone else's. It is not at all difficult for him to imagine this pretty face bloody, with a terrible cut on one side of it, the remaining eye wet with tears. The thought made Aemond smile.
“Nephews, have you come to train?” he said at last, almost completely ignoring Jacaerys and fixing his gaze on Luke, who immediately looked away in fright and moved closer to his brother.
Aemond's fun increases threefold when the attention of his nephews is taken over by the arrival of Vaemond Velaryon. He had almost forgotten the reason why his half-sister and her puppies had come to King's Landing. Finally, the bastard will be put in his place.
Looking at the frightened look with which Lucerys' eyes followed his great-uncle, Aemond felt the fire inside him flare up more and more.
The longer he watched his nephew, the more his frustration grew. At night he dreamed of a bold and brave boy who was not afraid to lift a knife at him just to protect his brother. Listening to Vaemond Velaryon's speech in the throne room, he expected to see the same defiant fire in the eyes of the grown-up Lucerys. But the only thing he saw in them was fear. He was standing there, clutching his mother's hand tightly, constantly lowering his eyes to the floor, trying not to attract attention to himself in any way, which was stupid, because he was the reason for today's audience. Aemond saw the boy flinch at the word “bastard” that rang loudly throughout the throne room, as if trying to get away from a blow. And then he squeezed his eyes shut, pursing his lips so as not to cry out in horror the moment his great-uncle's head was cut into two parts.
“He can keep his tongue.”
Aemond watched in fascination as thick, almost black blood spread across the floor. Somewhere behind him, his mother was trying to calm Helaena down, but Aemond didn't pay them much attention. Instead, he fixed his gaze on Daemon, who calmly put away his sword, and then back at his nephew. Lucerys opened his eyes, now staring at the corpse sprawled on the floor. His face had turned so pale that it was almost green. The boy's eyes darted from the severed head to the dead body and back again. He looked like he was either going to cry or faint.
Aemond felt anger fill him again. How dare he stand with such an expression on his face after he has crippled a person for life. It was as if he had not cut open the left side of his face with one swing of the knife, depriving him of his eye and leaving behind a hideous scar. And after that, he also dared to look scared, hiding behind his mother's skirt and pretending to be a victim when he was asked to pay the debt. How dare he act as if he has never seen blood before.
Luke briefly raised his doe eyes, noticing Aemond's gaze on him. For a while he looked at him with an incomprehensible expression on his face, his long eyelashes fluttering in confusion. He was distracted almost immediately by his brother, who abruptly took his hand and turned his back to the hall, furiosly whispering something in his ear. Aemond just grinned, finally turning to his sister to calm her down.
He never liked this kind of family gatherings. No, he just hated them.
He was sick of all this show-off. The way everyone tried to pretend that they were a close-knit family, as if no one wanted to kill or maim anyone. Collect the debt, so to speak.
Aemond chuckled, looking up at his nephew sitting across from him. Lucerys caught his eye and immediately looked away, swallowing nervously. Throughout the dinner, he did his best not to look at his uncle, trying to engage himself in a conversation with Rhaena and not to betray his disquiet. He feels it, Aemond thinks. He knows that he will not be left alone so easily. Aemond feels strangely satisfied at the thought.
He looked around at the rest of his relatives. His brother, as usual, had already managed to get drunk and was now climbing up to Jacaerys, who was restraining himself with all his might so as not to give his older uncle a punch in the face. His mother and half-sister were clearly trying to pretend that they didn't hate each other. The only one who seemed to really enjoy the family gathering was Healena, who laughed happily and clapped her hands, looking at everyone with such love in her eyes that Aemond felt sorry for her. His poor, naive sister.
Suddenly his ears caught a sound of giggling coming from the other side of the table. Aemond raises his head, turning to face Luke, glaring at his laughing image. The boy didn't even bother to hide his amusement, looking Aemond straight in the eye with obvious mockery in his eyes. Why is he… Then Aymond's gaze fell on the table. Right in front of him was a large, roasted, pink pig.
Memories of the biggest humiliation of his life immediately surfaced in his mind.
Aemond, we have a surprise for you.
Something very special.
The Pink Dread!
Children's laughter rang in his ears. He remembered that feeling of terrible humiliation. Remembered how tears of resentment welled up in my eyes. He revived in his memory the deafening roar of Vhagar, children's screams and insults, a heated fight, cries and blood on his face.
The dishes on the table rang with the impact of a fist on the table. Lucerys flinched, his smirk disappering immediately from his face. He shrank into his chair, averting his gaze once againg. There was no trace of his former mirth. Too late did he come to his senses, Aemond thought and raised his glass.
He knew he shouldn't say that. His mother would definitely be unhappy if this peaceful family dinner would end in a fight. But he couldn't restrain himself as the words poured out of his mouth.
He glares at Lucerys, whose nostrils flare indignantly when he hears his words.
“Strong boys.”
To be honest, he completely forgot about the presence of Jacaerys in the room. All his attention was focused on Luke, so he was slightly surprised to hear his older nephew's angry voice.
He wasn't in the mood to fight today, but the bastards asked for it. Out of the corner of his eye, Aemond noticed his own brother pinning Lucerys to the table, who was struggling against the tight grip. Involuntarily, he imagined that he was the one pressing little Luke to the table, taking out his dagger and running it over his tender cheek, watching large tears fall on the wooden surface while he plunged the blade into the eye socket. He would do it slowly, so that the boy would suffer, and then leave him bleed.
However, everything ended as quickly as it began. Aemond knew there was no point in continuing as soon as Daemon stepped between him and his stepsons, sending the boys to bed, making it clear that the dinner was over.
Before leaving the hall, Lucerys gave him a fleeting glare. Aemond chuckled, looking at him even after the boy turned away. Today he saw a glimpse of the child who had gouged out his eye without a single echo of regret on his little face. He saw fire in those eyes. And heat pooled in his stomach at the thought that he was the one responsible for it.
“Does sleep elude you, nephew?”
Lucerys spun around, immediately recognizing the voice that had called him. His doe eyes widened in surprise, fixed on Aemond's face. The hallway was empty and dark and the only thing he could see in the darkness was silver hair and the white of his uncle's single eye, but he knew that his expression at that moment was anything but friendly.
“I...” Luke tried to calm the tremor in his voice. “I'm already going to my chambers. Good night, uncle.”
He was already backing away, but Aemond was faster. Luke didn't even have time to cry out before his back painfully hit the stone wall, and a strong hand closed around his throat, squeezing hard enough that the boy couldn't break free, but not depriving him of air. The other hand covered his mouth, not allowing him to make a sound.
“Did you really think that I would let you go so easily, taoba?" Aemond hissed in his ear, pressing harder on his throat. “First you and your whore mother show up at my house and act as if you own this place. Then you openly laugh at me in front of the whole family. And now, you didn't even think that it could be dangerous to walk around the castle alone, knowing that I would be waiting for you at every corner. Or are you challenging me, Lord Strong-”
A sharp pain in his groin forced him to relax his arm, allowing Lucerys to free himself from the tight grip and run down the dark corridor towards his chambers. Aemond felt his mind fog up with anger. Thar vile bastard dared to kick him…
Catching up with the boy was harder than he imagined. Lucerys was fast and agile, making Aemond put much more effort than he intended. They had almost reached the rooms when Aemond managed to grab Luke by the scruff of his neck and with all his might topple him onto his back, causing him to howl in sharp pain.
“Let me go!” He cried. “You're crazy! Ja-!”
But he immediately quieted down, feeling the cold metal at his throat.
“If you scream again, I'll slit your throat.” Aemond whispered calmly, weightlessly dragging the knife from his throat to his cheek. “Right or left?”
“What?” Luke breathed out uncomprehendingly. Aemond held the knife higher, the sharp end resting on the lower eyelid of Luke's right eye. Green eyes widened in horror.
“No." The boy whispered almost inaudibly. “No, no, please, I-”
“The right one it will be." Aymond replied coldly, ignoring the frightened babble. His heart beat faster when he saw the drops of tears glisten in his nephew's eyes. He raised the knife, already savoring the taste of the returned debt, fascinated by the dilated pupils in front of him…
The knife fell to the ground from a sharp blow on his arm. Aemond hissed from the pain in his fingers and immediately froze as he felt cold metal now on his own throat.
“Don't move if you don't want to lose your other eye." Jacareys said in a firm voice, pressing the tip of his sword harder against Aemond's chin, allowing a few drops of blood to fall on the stone floor.
Lucerys gave his brother a fleeting glance, quickly getting to his feet and wiping away the tears. He froze in place, not knowing where to put himself and doing his best not to look at Aemond. Aemond, on the other hand, only looked at him, not sparing Jacaerys a glance.
“Go to your chambers." Jacaerys ordered sternly, looking at his younger brother. “We'll talk later.”
Luke didn't budge, looking from his brother to his uncle and stopping at the sword between them.
“But you-”
“Go!”
He flinched at the harsh tone, but obediently turned around and walked briskly to the rooms. Jacaerys watched him go until the boy disappeared behind the heavy doors and only then turned his gaze to his uncle, who was still sitting motionless on the floor, not even trying to move away from the sword.
“You can't always protect him." Aemond finally broke the silence of the night, paying attention to his eldest nephew for the first time that evening. Although Jacaerys resembled his younger brother, they were completely different. His facial features were sharper, cheekbones more pronounced, his nose long and hooked, and his hair completely straight. His brown eyes were steady and fearless.
“I can if I have to.” He replied resolutely, without showing any signs of weakness. “You should find an opponent of your own age.”
“Are you nominating your candidacy?”
“Maybe.” He pressed the sword harder into the skin under his chin. “Leave my brother alone. If you want to repay the debt, take it from me. I'm the reason you lost your eye. Not him.”
“The knife was in his hand, not yours. You didn't cripple me, you're not the one to pay." Aemond retorted, abruptly intercepting the sword with his hand, not caring at all about the blade splitting open the skin on his palm. He slowly got up from his knees, letting go of the sword and taking a step back, looking at his nephew with a curious look. After all, the two strong boys were completely different. “Your brother owes me a debt and I will be at peace only when he pays it. Someday, you won't be there to protect him.”
He turned around and walked back down the corridor, making it clear that the conversation was over.
“If you ever lay a finger on him again, I'll make sure to cut your other eye out.”
Aemond chuckled, not turning around and continuing to walk into the darkness of the long corridor.
Princess Rhaenyra and her children set off back to Dragonstone the next morning.
***
“He's dead.”
Aemond turned to the voice, meeting his brother face to face, a satisfied smile spread across his face.
"Who?"
Aegon laughed.
“The King."
Father, Aemond thought. He couldn't tell if he could feel the bitterness of loss or not. On the one hand, he had never been close to his father. He couldn't remember the last time his father had spoken to him. He had always been indifferent to Alicent's children. However, he was still his father.
“And why are you so happy?” He said, looking at his brother with a contemptuous look.
“From the fact, my dear brother, that our sister will arrive here in the evening. The coronation will take place very soon.”
Aemond froze in place, staring at Aegon.
“Are you-”
“I don't claim the throne, no.” He laughed again, jumping up and down with joy. “I disclaimed it. Mother doesn't want a war anyway. Rhaenyra will be the queen, and I will be free. The next in line to the throne will be Jacaearys, and if something happens to him, Rhaenyra has enough spare sons. I have nothing to fret about.”
Rhaenyra will be the queen.
Aemond clenched his fists, trying to calm the storm of emotions in his chest. His brother not only deprived himself of a chance to the throne, but also him. He had an opportunity to be second in line. Now Rhaenyra will arrive here with her entire pack of puppies, who will have a much better chance of sitting on the Iron Throne than he does. It's always been like this: he was a second son with nothing to claim. His brother has had a chance to inherit the throne as the first son. His sister always had the possibility of becoming the queen if her husband ever sat on the throne. Now, his oldest nephew Jacaerys is next in line and until he has children, Lucerys will stay on the third place. And even if he never gets to sit on the throne, he still had his claim on Driftmark. It was furiously unfair the way his bastard nephews had a stronger claim to the throne than he did. He never had anything aside from Vhagar and he had to pay for her with blood and tears. He never had anything given to him solely by his birthright.
He wanted to strangle his brother right there for taking the only thing he had slight hopes for. Aegon was foolish for giving away the throne so easily. Aemond would have never done that. And now their home will be once again inhabitant by their bitch half-sister and her pups. But he composed himself, only giving his brother one last dirty look before silently walking away, living him be in his foolish mirth.
He was deep in thought on his way to the training grounds. He was thinking about what would happen with their family now. Will his grandfather remain the Hand? Will they even be allowed to stay in the Red Keep? Of course, Rhaenyra wouldn’t kill them but she’d probably wouldn’t want them around. Or maybe his own mother wouldn’t want to stay here after Rhaenyra is crowned. But if they remain here, he will be living alongside his nephews just like he did long time ago, when they were children…
A sudden thought occurred to him, making him stop in his steps. Lucerys would be here, with nowhere to run. He will not be returning to Dragonstone and will only leave to Driftmark after his so-called grandfather Lord Corlys dies. That would mean that…
Aemond chuckled quietly, startling a maiden who was walking past his in the hallway. Mayhaps, he still had something to claim. His sister’s coronation didn’t seem to be so terrible anymore.
A week passed since Rhaenyra was crowned and Aemond was starting to lose his patience.
His family decided to stay in the Red Keep for as long as the Queen allows, meaning that they were living side by side once again. Despite that fact however, Aemond could almost never catch a glimpse of his nephew in the castle grounds. He only saw Lucerys briefly at the coronation and once at a family dinner. He was hoping he’d be able to catch him alone in the evenings, but the boy seemed to be always accompanied by someone. And if Jacaerys didn’t seem to be much of a problem for Aemond, he was smart enough to not touch the boy at the presence of his stepfather. He saw Daemon in action and he knows what he’s capable of and, giving the fact that he was always in the background whenever his eye caught a sight of Lucerys, he was forced to wait.
His luck returned to him on the ninth day of Queen Rhaenyra’s reign. Aemond was on his way back from his training when he noticed a lone figure sitting under the tree in the garden. It didn’t take much time to recognize Lucerys: his thick brown curls and red clothes have made him quite noticeable. For Aemond, at least.
“Such a solitary place you chose for reading.”
He was highly amused by the way the boy’s whole body flinched from the sound of his voice. Lucerys looked around, as if only now realizing that he was left all alone in the garden. He swallowed nervously, trying to move back when Aemond sat down next to him, but was stopped with a tight grip around his ankle. He sighed, putting down his book and looking up to catch his uncle’s violet eye with his own green ones.
“Uncle.” He breathed out, trying to suppress the shudder in his voice.
“Nephew.” Aemond replied, without letting go of him.
“I- I apologize but I truly need to go. I told Jacaerys I’ll be back soon-” Luke mumbled, while unsuccessfully trying to get away from the tight grip on his leg only to wince at the way Aemond’s hand squeezed it stronger, making sure to leave a bruise.
“I wouldn’t worry about that, dear nephew. We’ll make it quick.” He said calmly, reaching for the dagger he’s always carried around with him. Lucerys’ eyes caught his movement, widening in panic at the realization. His own hand reached under his red cloak faster than Aemond could register and suddenly his eye caught a glimpse of shining metal right next to his face. He only had a second to back away, letting the blade slightly graze the skin on his right cheek, drawing little drops of blood.
His hand relaxed, letting go of the boy’s ankle and giving him the opportunity to break loose and run away, but Lucerys only moved back a little, staring in shock at his uncle, still holding a small dagger in his hand, now speckled with little drops of blood.
Aemond looked at him incredulously, slowly lifting his hand up to wipe off the blood from his cheek. His right cheek. He felt rage boiling in him at the realization. The little shit was aiming for his remaining eye.
“Uncle, I-” He yelped at the sudden hit on the face, falling on the ground from the impact of the blow. His right cheekbone swiftly reddened and he cried in pain as his fingers touched the damaged skin. Before he could come back to his senses, he felt a grip around his throat.
“Fucking bastard!” Aemond hissed, so close to his face that Luke could feel the warmth of his breath. “Insatiable beast, just can’t get enough, huh? Are you not content with taking my one eye? Do you strive to take the other to? To blind me forever?!”
His grip around the younger’s throat tightened with every word, making Lucerys gasp for air. He wrapped his hand around Aemond’s wrist, digging his nails into the white skin with enough forse to draw blood in a futile effort to make him let go. He could feel his lungs burning with the lack of air, his mind getting bleary with every word his uncle spoke.
“U-Uncle…” He wheezed, desperately trying to draw back from the hand on his throat.
Finally, when he started to feel like he was about to die, Aemond loosened his grip, letting him go. Lucerys rolled on his stomach, coughing and wincing from the pain in his throat, trying to catch his breath. He didn’t have much time to relax, almost immediately hissing from the sting on his roots as Aemond pulled him by the hair, making him look him in the eye. A second later he felt familiar cold metal pressing under his right eye.
“You have no idea how much I hate you, Lucerys Velaryon.” Aemond whispered in his ear, making an accent on his last name in a clear mockery. “I hate the way you act so innocent, making everyone believe that you are oh so harmless. As if you aren’t the same boy who mercilessly took my eye!”
“It was an accident!” Luke groaned at the way his hair was pulled back even harder.
“Was it, my dear nephew? How could it be an accident? Didn’t you sway the dagger at me right after you blinded me with sand in my eyes?”
“Don’t you say it as if you were innocent!” Luke hissed in return, his hand once again reaching out to grab Aemond’s wrist. “You attacked Baela. Broke my nose. You were going to kill Jace!”
“Is this what helps you sleep at night? Do you truly believe it was self-defense? Do you think I had enough strength to kill someone that night? I was ten!”
“And I was five!”
His retort was followed by a sharp blow at Aemond’s side, making him release his grip and kneel on the ground with a coughing fit. Lucerys moved, his back hitting the tree behind him but once again, he didn’t make any attempts to run off. Instead, he kept looking at his uncle with his eyes full of fury and fire, his chest rising from the way he was breathing heavily from the short fight.
“Stop acting as if you were the victim.” He finally said, his voice dripping with venom as Aemond finally recovered from the punch. “You gained a dragon. You said it yourself: “an eye for a dragon”. It was a fair exchange!”
“How was it fair?!” Aemond screamed, losing his temper. “None of you had to give your eye to gain a dragon. You were born with a dragon egg ready for you. And even that wasn’t enough. You’ve always had everything. You never asked for it but they gave it to you anyway. You have a bright future waiting for you. I never had anything to claim! Is that fair, nephew?!”
He didn’t realize how close he had moved to the boy, now shouting the words right in his face as Luke squeezed his eyes and tried to move back only to be met by a thick tree behind him. He reached out his hand, pressing it against his uncle’s chest in an attempt to keep him away. Aemond’s anger seemed to be ceased a little and he took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down. His eye met his nephew’s once again but this time he didn’t see fear in them.
“What do you want from me, uncle?” Lucerys spoke quietly, his voice thin and tired, deprived of fear or resentment.
“You know what I want.” Aemond answered, without breaking their eye contact.
Lucerys was quite for a while, looking at his uncle’s face with a strange look in his eyes. Then his hand moved across the grass and he picked up his own dagger. Before Aemond could react, Luke pressed the blade’s hilt to his hand, still looking in his eye.
“I know that I don’t have the strength to do it myself.” He whispered, voice trembling. “But please, make it quick.”
Aemond took the dagger, staring at it with a puzzled expression on his face.
“What?-”
“Please, uncle.” Lucerys’ eyes filled with tears. “Do it while I still have the courage.”
Aemond squeezed the dagger, his heart beating hard against his ribcage. Finally, after all those years of burning desire, he can get what he wants. He can have what’s always been rightfully his.
He raised the dagger, once again pressing it against the boy’s cheek. Luke’s breath hitched, he squeezed his eyes, his grip on Aemond’s shirt tightening. Aemond could feel his body trembling under his touch. The boy seemed to be gathering all his courage not to cry.
“I’ll have my head on a spike for that.” He mumbled absentmindedly, the sharp end of the blade ghosting on the thin skin of the eyelid.
“I’ll tell them it was an accident. I promise.” Lucerys whispered, not opening his eyes and not making any attempt to move away from the dagger.
“Why?”
“Just do it, uncle.”
“Why are you letting me?” He felt his grip tightening on the shaft. He only needed to make one swift motion and it will be over. His vengeance will be fulfilled. But his hand didn’t listen to him. He couldn’t make it to press the dagger further.
Aemond threw the dagger on the ground with a groan. Lucerys opened his eyes, looking at him with a confused look on his face.
“Uncle, what-”
“Get out of here.” Aemond hissed, not looking up at his nephew.
Lucerys didn’t move, his breathing the only sound in the silent atmosphere of the garden. Then he moved closer, stretching out his hand that was quickly swatted away.
“Get. Out!” Aemond raised his voice, his own body trembling with fury.
Luke flinched, scrambling to his feet. He looked at Aemond for a few more second. Then he slowly moved back, breaking into a run few steps after. Soon Aemond was the only person left in the garden.
He gripped his hair and screamed from frustration. Luke’s dagger was still lying in the grass next to him.
“Where did that come from?” Jace’s hand gripped his chin, making Luke look up at him. His rough fingers followed the line of a new bruise already forming on his cheek.
“I fell. Nothing serious.” He tried to ward off his brother’s hand but Jace gripped his arm instead.
“It was him again, right?” He took Luke’s silence for an answer. “I told you not to go alone. You will never walk around the castle alone ever again.”
Luke groaned.
“Jace, seriously, I’m not a child. I can take care of myself.”
“You can’t, clearly. Otherwise, you wouldn’t have bruises blossoming on you face and neck.”
Luke felt his cheeks redden with embarrassment. He didn’t think there’d be bruises on his neck as well. Although the force with which Aemond gripped his throat was quite strong, so it’s not that surprising. He’ll need to try and hide them from his mother.
He shuddered at the memory of how close their faces were at that moment. Luke felt heat course through his body at the thought of his uncle being so close to him, their chests almost touching. He was thankful no one has found them there in that position, because the consequences would be unpleasant for his uncle. His words still ran in his ears. You’ve always had everything. How is that fair?
Absentmindedly, Luke realized that he missed half of his brother’s tirade.
“-dares to touch my brother. Does he have no respect to the Queen? He shall wait until I tell Daemon-”
“Don’t.” Luke interrupted him, startled. “Don’t tell Daemon, brother, please.”
Jacaerys looked at him, thoroughly confused at his little brother’s sudden disagreement.
“What? Why not?”
“Daemon will kill him.”
“Yes, he will.” Jace nodded, his expression stern and firm, as always. “That is exactly why I should tell him.”
Luke felt himself shudder at the thought. He never wanted his uncle dead. Never had any hatred towards him. And now, after what he had heard from him, he couldn’t help but feel sorry. The feeling of guilt, which he though had died a long time ago, came back to him like a massive tide, making his head spin from the memory of the sickening scent of blood on his hands.
“Don’t tell Daemon, I beg you.” He pleaded. “If you love me, you won’t.”
Jace looked at him, dumbfounded.
“How are these things connected? I want to tell Daemon because I love you. Because I want to protect you.”
“And I don’t want you to tell him.”
Jacaerys sighed, looking up at the skies as if saying Gods, have mercy on me. My brother is fucking stupid.
“What did he want from you, anyway?”
“He had no intentions to kill me.” Did he not, Luke thought, unconsciously raising his hand to touch his sore throat. Aemond did almost kill him after all. But Jace didn’t need to know that. “He wants my eye.”
“Same old story.” Jace muttered, running a hand through his hair. “And how did you get away?”
“What do you mean?” Luke frowned.
Jace gestured at his face.
“I see both of your eyes intact. How did you get away from him?”
Luke fumbled with his sleeve. He didn’t know how to answer to that question because he didn’t even know himself. Why did Aemond let him go? He had an opportunity to finally get what he always wanted and then suddenly just released him. Luke didn’t understand the sudden change in his uncle’s emotions but was relieved that he changed his mind. He couldn’t recall why he decided to give his eye voluntarily but was happy that it didn’t come to that eventually. He would like to keep his eye for himself. He wasn’t sure if his uncle will leave him alone now. Maybe he let him go so that he could see Luke suffer few more times before finally being done with it. Luke didn’t know his motives and that made him feel uneasy.
Jace was still looking at him with prying eyes, waiting for the answer.
“I-” Luke stammered, trying to come up with a cogent answer. “I punched him.”
That was half true. He did punch him, not once, but not hard enough to release himself from him. Jace also didn’t need to know that. He didn’t want his brother dragging him into the training grounds right after he was almost killed just to be scolded by him once again.
Jace didn’t seem to be convinced with his answer, although he didn’t say anything, probably realizing that he won’t be able to get much information from Luke anyway.
“Fine.” He drawled, ruffling his hair, making it look even messier than it already was. Luke made a sound of protest, trying to back away from his brother’s hand. Jace chuckled. “At least it seems like it was a good punch. I won’t tell Daemon, if you wish so. But I won’t let you wander around by yourself anymore, you understand?”
Luke suppressed an exasperated sigh. Ever since they arrived at the Red Keep, Jace wouldn’t leave him alone, not even for a second, becoming a little too paranoid about their uncle, fearing that he’ll be waiting for him at every corner (and he turned out to be right, which was even more annoying). Luke was grateful for that, of course. His concern was endearing. But he was also tired of his company. He wanted to be alone at least for a little while. It took him so much persuasion for Jace to let him go to the gardens alone and this is how it’s ended. Now he will never leave him alone.
Jace continued to look at him, waiting for Luke to say that he understands what he’s saying. Luke rolled his eyes.
“Yes, brother.” He muttered, looking at the ground in defeat.
“Good.” Jacaerys beamed at him, standing up and dragging Luke to his feet along with him. “Now let’s go to the training grounds.”
Luke groaned in despair.
***
Lucerys couldn’t sleep. It’s been three days since his encounter with Aemond and he hasn’t seen his uncle ever since.
No matter what he was doing, he couldn’t stop thinking about his uncle’s words. He never would’ve thought that that was how Aemond truly felt. He saw him grow into a confident and strong man, nowhere resembling the boy he used to be. He was tall and skilled. Handsome. A real Targaryen. A real dragon. Nothing like Luke with his dark curly hair, small height and pug nose.
He never would’ve thought that someone could be jealous of him. He wasn’t good at anything. He wasn’t smart or brave like Jace. He wasn’t even strong enough to protect himself. He didn’t even want to be the Lord of Driftmark. He would happily give this privilege to someone else if he had the chance. The only thing he was truly good at was riding Arrax and he couldn’t do that often, considering that his dragon was still way too young for long flights. No one could call Luke a dragon rider, not yet at least.
All these years he thought that Aemond just wanted revenge. To take his eye and make him suffer, just like Luke did to him long time ago. But Aemond didn’t do it. Luke was ready to let him get his revenge but he didn’t take it. Luke spent so many years fearing that his uncle will come after him only to learn that his eye wasn’t an issue. The resentment that Aemond felt for him had far deeper roots than he thought.
Luke has always thought that they were quite similar, both being second sons and everything. But Aemond was right, Luke did have more than he did. He had a loving family, a kind and protective older brother, supportive grandfather and Driftmark promised to him. His bond with his dragon was much stronger than it could ever be with Aemond and Vhagar, because Arrax was put in his cradle right after his birth. They grew up side by side, knowing each other better than anyone else could ever do. He couldn’t imagine living without Arrax by his side. If one of them was to die, they’d die together.
Aemond didn’t have the privilege of a dragon. He didn’t bond with Vhagar in the way she bonded with her first rider. He’ll never feel what it’s like to have such a loyal friend by his side. And now that he was thinking about it, Luke imagined how hard it must have been for Aemond growing up, seeing all the other kids having their own dragons.
Lucerys’ mother was a queen now, depriving Aemond of the last thing he could possibly have a claim on – the throne. And even though he knew that the throne was his mother’s by right, he couldn’t help but feel bad for his uncle.
It was a stupid feeling, he was aware of that. How could he have any sympathy towards the man who had tried to kill him just three days ago and spent most of his life dreaming about cutting out his eye. But he couldn’t get rid of the dull guilt he felt at the very thought of his uncle. Damn his stupid, soft heart.
Lucerys sighed, lifting himself up from the bed. The night was young, the stars shining brightly far above, not hidden behind any clouds, like drops of milk on the silky dark blue sky. Chilly night air breezed at his face as he approached the window, taking a look at the landscape of the capital displayed beneath him.
This place was so much different than Dragonstone. Even though Luke spent the first few years of his life here, he didn’t remember much of it. Dragonstone has become his home after all the years his family had lived there and he felt like he was truly missing it. He didn’t know when he’ll be able to go back but was sure that he’ll never get an opportunity to live there once again. He’ll stay at King’s Landing until his time comes and he will be ought to move to Driftmark, leaving his family behind. He has long been dreading that day. But he knew that he couldn’t run away from it. So, he decided to enjoy the time he’s got to spend with his family while he still can, even if it means leaving Dragonstone.
King’s Landing was way to loud and big to his taste. It didn’t feel like home but he was hoping that he’ll get used to it. His complicated uncle was definitely not helping with it.
He looked at the closed doors of his chambers, undecisive. He could feel that if was a bad idea. But he couldn’t sleep and all the thoughts in his mind didn’t let him relax. Jace’s chambers were close though, so he needs to be careful with not making any unnecessary noises so that he won’t wake him up.
Luke tiptoed to the door, wincing at the creak that it made as he tugged at the handle. He stood there for a while, listening to the silence of the sleeping castle. He looked into the dark corridor, wondering if he won’t get lost there. He was pretty sure he knew the way, but it was dark and he’s been here for only more than a week, so…
He shook his head. He needed to stop being a coward and be done with it once and for all. He took a deep breath and stepped into the darkness.
Aemond closed the door to his chambers with a loud slam, not worrying about the late hour. He’s been training most of the day without a break and didn’t even notice how late it was until his sister had come and sent him to bed. He didn’t know how long he’d stay there if it wasn’t for Helaena. Only now did he realized how tired he was, starting to feel the pain in his muscles.
He’s been in a weird mood the last few days. Ever since the day he decided to let Lucerys go, not being able to raise a knife at him, he’s been awfully angry. At himself, at his nephew, his brother, his step-sister, everyone. He felt like he was going to murder someone if they crossed his way right now. He knew he was being unreasonable. It wasn’t anyone’s fault that things turned out this way. But what infuriated him the most was that this time it wasn’t even Luke’s fault. Foolish boy did everything to give Aemond what he wanted. It was him who didn’t have enough strength to do what must be done.
He makes a move to take of his shirt when a familiar voice cut through the silence of the night.
“I think it’s better for you to acknowledge my presence before you undress yourself.”
Lucerys was standing in the doorframe of the balcony, leaning on the threshold, his body relaxed, a smirk on his lips.
Aemond crossed the distance between them in three big steps, throwing out the hand in front of him to grab his nephew in a familiar motion, but Lucerys ducked, taking two steps back and raising his hands up in a peaceful gesture.
“Please, don’t grab me by the throat or I will have to explain the bruises to Jace once again.”
Aemond took a step forward, Luke took another step back. They continued until the boy’s back pressed against the railings and Aemond was forced to step out into the chilly air of the balcony. For a moment none of them made a move, just staring into each other’s faces, not saying a word. Then Aemond let out an exasperated sigh.
“What are you doing here?” He finally asked, glaring at his nephew, who was still smirking at him. His fist was starting to get heavy with a desire to punch that pretty face of his so hard, he’ll never be able to smile again. But Aemond restrained himself.
“Can’t sleep.” Lucerys shrugged.
Aemond gritted his teeth.
“What are you doing here?”
“I wanted to speak with you.” Luke’s voice quivered, slowly losing his confidence. The smile on his face faltered.
“About what?”
Luke looked up at his uncle once again, staring in his single lilac eye, before turning around and letting his hands rest on the railing, his gaze now fixated on the city. He was quite for a while, absentmindedly tugging at the sleeves of his shirt in an obvious attempt to calm his nerves. Aemond didn’t know what to make out of it, caught completely off guard by his nephew’s behavior, so he didn’t speak, letting Luke compose himself for whatever he was about to say.
“I’m sorry, you know.” He finally mumbled, his voice small and sad.
“What?” Aemond asked once again, feeling stupid from all of the confusion he has suffered during this short conversation.
“About your eye, I mean. I’ve always been sorry.” His voice was barely audible. Aemond couldn’t figure out his expression as he still stood with his back turned to him.
“Sorry won’t bring back my eye.” Aemond finally retorted as the silence stretched again between them, letting malice run through his words.
“I know.” Luke answered calmly, not affected by his uncle’s reluctance to accept his apology. “I just wanted you to know that I am truly sorry. It haunts me still, you know. That night. I guess the whole situation was quite thrilling for my mind, because it’s one of the first things I remember. I was five, so my memories are a bit cloudy, but I remember the emotion. The sounds, the smell. It’s quite memorable, the horror of the realization that you permanently hurt someone. I had no intentions to do so when I grabbed that knife. I was scared and wanted to protect Jace and… I didn’t even realize what I had done at first. Only when your mother spoke of the debt did I see that you’ve lost your eye to me.”
He took a deep breath, stopping for a moment and letting his words sink in before continuing with his shrift.
“I’ve always been a peaceful soul. I hate violence and I despise hurting people. Ever since that day I feel sick at the thought of holding a sword. Every time I train with my brother, I feel hot blood on my hands. I don’t want something like that to ever happen again. I know that I have your blood on my hands and for that I am terribly sorry. But I don’t regret doing it.”
Aemond felt his blood boil with rage at these words.
“Shut up, taoba.” He hissed, threat obvious in his voice. But Lucerys didn’t seem to be affected by it.
“I don’t regret it.” He repeated firmly, finally turning around to look at his uncle’s eye. “I don’t regret protecting Jace or myself. I don’t know what would happen have I not grabbed the knife. None of us will ever know. But things turned out to be the way they did and I can’t undo it. You must rather take my apology and leave me alone once and for all or finally fulfill your promise and take my eye, because I can’t do this anymore!”
He took a step forward with each word he said, moving closer to Aemond until they stood face to face. Lucerys was trembling but he did his best not to show his fear. He tilted his head back, his eyes full of determination and boldness. He didn’t flinch nor did he break the eye contact when Aemond reached out and cupped his face with one hand, his thumb stroking the skin under his right eye almost gently.
“How I wish to take this pretty eye of yours.” Aemond muttered to himself quietly, although Luke heard him, his body shuddering at the words. “I’d take it from you with my bare hands, watching blood mix with tears on your face and listening to your screams of agony. It is extremely painful to lose an eye, believe me. And the healing process is no more pleasurable. It feels like half of your face have been set on fire and then once again, when they stitch it together. I’d visit you while you recover. I’d give you an eyepatch myself. And a ruby.”
He kept muttering like a madman, continuing to stroke Lucerys’ eyelid as he spoke. Luke felt frozen, his breath hitching in his throat as his uncle’s words settled in slowly.
“Ruby?” He whispered, clearly confused at Aemond’s track of thoughts.
“Yes, ruby would be perfect.” His thumb pressed harder, making Luke squeeze his eyes shut and hold his breath.
For a brief moment he thought that Aemond would finally do it. Rip his eyeball right from his skull, showing him no mercy of doing it clean and fast with a knife. He braced himself, ready to feel the worst pain he has ever felt and…
Suddenly, Aemond’s hand left his face and Luke could feel his uncle stepping back, allowing him to breath once again. He didn’t realize how close their bodies were until that moment. He opened his eyes, once again looking at his uncle with a confused look on his face. Aemond looked angry and annoyed.
“I can’t.” He whispered, dropping his head, his voice low with defeat.
Luke blinked, uncomprehending of his uncle’s behavior.
“Why?”
Aemond didn’t answer, clearly refusing to look at his nephew, his fists clenched and face retorted with anger.
Lucerys took a deep breath and made a step forward. When Aemond didn’t react, he moved a little further until they were as close to each other as they were a moment before. He raised his hand, moving it to his uncle’s face. A firm grip on his wrist made him stop.
“Please.” He whispered, his voice small and shaky.
Aemond looked up, meeting his eyes with his own again.
“What do you want?”
“I want to see.”
They stood like that for a while, holding each other’s gazes until the grip on his wrist loosened and Lucerys cupped his uncle’s cheek just like he did to him a few moments ago. He grazed the line of his cheekbone, feeling the sharpness of it on the tip of his fingers. Then he moved his hand up, tracing the leather of the eyepatch. Without meeting any resistance, he teared off the eyepatch in one swift motion.
The sapphire in the empty socket shone brightly in the darkness of the night, casting blue on Aemond’s cheek. Luke looked at him with an unreadable look in his eyes. Then he reached out once again, caressing the skin under the sapphire eye with his thumb, much gentler than his uncle did to him.
“A ruby.” He muttered to himself, remembering Aemond’s words.
“Yes.” Aemond’s rough hand covered his own. “You’d wear a ruby.”
“I would.” He whispered, his mind spinning and heart beating rapidly in his chest.
Aemond bent down a little so that their faces were on the same level now. Luke could feel his breath on his lips, his eyes never darting away from the sapphire. Aemond moved his face closer, their lips almost touching and…
“Go back to your chambers, Luke”
Luke ran to the doors as fast as he could.
***
The strong wind ruffled his hair as he soared high in the clouds, blue waters glistening on the sun beneath him. Arrax flapped his wings, making a noise full of joy as he speeded up, making Luke laugh in return.
It was a perfect weather to fly, so Lucerys decided not to waste it by sitting in the Red Keep and went on a ride for the first time in a month. Arrax was more than happy to finally have some fun with his rider, tired from staying on the ground for so long.
Luke didn’t have any particular destination. He just wanted to fly around a little, clear his head from all the worries and breath some fresh air, which he lacked while staying at the capital. His mother, the Queen, didn’t allow him to go too far, but Luke got a little lost in the feeling and only realized where he was when King’s Landing became a small spot in the horizon. He was about to order Arrax to go home when a massive shadow fell on both of them.
At first, he thought it was a cloud, but the sky was clear before, with no sign of rain. Then, as he lifted his head, he saw a giant, scaled belly of a beast right above his head. His heart skipped a beat. Arrax whirred, clearly sensing his fear and terrified of the much larger dragon himself. Luke yelped as his dragon took a sharp dive down.
“Arrax, lykirī!” He commanded, trying to calm himself as well.
A malevolent laugh rang in the morning air, making him shudder as Vhagar moved, blocking Arrax’s path. His young friend dodged deftly, turning around at the maximum speed.
“Soves lenton! Adere!”
Arrax obeyed, flying in the direction of King’s Landing. But no matter how fast he was, he could feel Vhagar’s breath behind him, the beast’s size making it hard to differ it from the wind. But Luke knew it was her. And him.
“You can’t run!” His uncle’s voice reached his ears, making him shudder. “Jēmela gēlȳni enkā, taoba!”
“You’re mad!” Luke screamed in return, anger coursing through his veins. He couldn’t understand what was wrong with Aemond. He had given him two chances to pay his debt and he didn’t use them. And now he decides to chase him down on that beast of the dragon of his to do what? Take his eye?
He realized way too late that his emotions have transmitted to Arrax, filling him with anger as well. Before he could do anything, his dragon veered around, facing Vhagar and breathing hot fire in her face.
“Daor, Arrax!” He screamed, trying to regain control. “Dohaeris!”
His heart beat rapidly in his chest as he heard Vhagar’s rageful roar behind him, silently praying for Arrax to fly faster. His mind span, making him feel dizzy from fear but he tried his best not to let Arrax feel it. He could hear Aemond screaming commands to his dragon but couldn’t distinguish the words as the wind roared in his ears.
Arrax was gaining altitude, his size and dexterity making it easier for him to set a larger distance between them and Vhagar. Soon, Luke stopped hearing her breathing and Aemond’s voice. He turned around, realizing that they have gotten away. Arrax also felt it, slowing down and letting his wings flap with less force, resting. Luke let out a sigh of relief, his heart rate calming down a bit as the feeling of safety settled in him.
Suddenly, he saw something big out of the corner of his eye. Before he could react, a harsh blow to Arrax’s side made him fall out of the saddle.
The last thing he saw before falling into the darkness was Arrax’s body plummeting down next to him at a terrifying speed. His consciousness escaped him with the last wail from his dragon.
He felt like he was floating. His senses came back to him slowly. At first, he saw the light through his closed eyelids. Then his fingers touched something soft and fluffy. He heard fire crackle somewhere near him. He felt warmth around him and tried to open his eyes, squinting from the dull lighting of the room.
He stared at the ceiling, then moved his head to the side, noticing a window on the wall next to him. He was lying in bed, covered with soft furs, completely naked. When he finally started to feel his whole body, he realized something. He was alive.
The last thing he remembered was falling, Arrax’s pained cry ringing in his ears. His body froze in horror. If he was here, then…
“Arrax…” He croaked, his throat sore as if he was drinking liquid fire.
Suddenly he heard movement and turned his head to another side. There, next to a fireplace, was standing a man, poking the hot coals with a fire iron. He was shirtless, his hair falling gracefully down his shoulder blades, his shoulders broad and strong.
Luke felt a new wave of anger surging through him. He tried to stand up but was quickly pushed back with a firm hand on his shoulder.
“Let me go!” He squirmed, digging his nails deep into the skin on his uncle’s wrist.
“Lykirī.” Aemond said, his voice calm as he forced Luke down on the soft bed. “Your dragon is fine, just got a little bruise on the right wing. It’ll heal.”
Luke let out a sigh of relief. He knew Aemond wasn’t lying. Now that he has calmed down, he could feel the string of connection between him and his dragon. He felt his presence in the world, his life in his own heart. He felt fear and pain but he didn’t know if it was his or Arrax’s.
“Here, drink.” A flask was pressed against his lips. He looked at his uncle with suspicion in his eyes but the thirst he felt was stronger. As soon as cold water touched his lips, he couldn’t hold back a pleasured hum from the way the liquid soothed his burning throat. He didn’t even realize that he had drank the whole flask before there was simply nothing else to fall on his tongue. He put the flask down on the bed, looking up at his uncle who was staring at him attentively.
“Are you alright?” Aemond asked with a weird look on his face. He reached out to touch his bare chest but his hand was swiftly swatted away.
“Daor!” Luke screamed with indignation, glaring at his uncle. “You chased me down on that beast! Injured my dragon and made me fall! I almost died!”
“I saved you.”
“Whose fault is it that I needed saving in the first place, huh?! It was your fault that I fell. You could’ve killed me. Have you thought of the consequences that my death would bring on you, kepus?”
“I never wanted you to die!” Aemond retorted, looking tense. “It was just a game. I only wanted to scare you a little. Mess with you. It was your dragon who attacked first!”
“Yes, because he was terrified! I was terrified. You might not know it, uncle, but your dragon feels what you feel. He was trying to protect me, because Vhagar is a real threat. You don’t mount the biggest war dragon in the realm just for playing tag! That old beast is a monster and you don’t seem to have her under your control. Maybe the gods were right by not giving you the dragon in the first place!”
Aemond growled, his rough hand catching Luke’s face in a tight grip.
“Careful with your words, taoba.”
“Or what?” Luke sneered, completely unperturbed by the glare of his uncle’s single eye. “You will take my eye? You want my eye, you could’ve taken it when I gave you the chance. Or did you decide that it would be more fun to terrify me by hunting me down and only then taking my eye. Why didn’t you do it, then? I was unconscious long enough for you to have your sweet time with me. Or were you waiting for me to wake up so that you could see my pain? Do it now or I swear to all the gods that I will cut it out myself, because you don’t seem to have the balls to do that.”
Aemond loomed over him, menacingly. His grip on Luke’s jaw tightened, making him gasp in pain. His face was barely three inches away.
“I’m warning you, nephew.” He whispered in his ear. Luke shuddered at the way his lips almost touched his ear. “Don’t provoke me. I might ask for something much more valuable than an eye.”
Lucerys let out a shaky breath, backing away a little to look in his uncle’s eye. His hand caught his uncle’s wrist, taking it away from his face.
“What is it you want from me?” He asked, his voice small and uncertain, losing all of the previous bravado. “You don’t desire to take my eye. Not anymore. I see that there’s something else but I can’t figure out what it is. Tell me, uncle. I’ll do whatever you want from me if it’ll make you forgive me.”
Aemond chuckled, dropping his head on Luke’s bare shoulder.
“You’ll never agree to give it to me.” He answered, his fingers trailing along the skin of his forearm.
“You’ll never know if you don’t tell me.”
“Believe me, taoba. You’ll regret even asking.”
“Maybe I won’t.”
Aemond lifted his head, looking in Lucerys’ eyes again. His fingers touched his chin, not gripping but guiding him closer. He contemplated his face for a few long moments before leaning forward, catching Luke’s soft lips with his own.
Lucerys froze in place, his eyes wide open as he felt his uncle kissing him. Aemond gave him a few moments to let the realization of what he was doing sink in and, as he didn’t feel any resistance, let his tongue part the boy’s soft lips and sneak into the warmth of his mouth. Luke let out a shaky moan, his hands gripping Aemond’s shoulders, not to push him away, but to have some reliance. He opened his lips, letting his uncle in with no fight, closing his eyes at the pleasurable feeling when his own tongue touched the other. One of his hands moves from Aemond’s shoulders to his hair, gripping it tight as he felt a bite on his lower lip. His back hit the soft furs again and Aemond loomed over him, one of his hands sneaking down his torso and lower, making Luke moan when it touched his bare cock.
Aemond broke their kiss, breathing heavily as he looked at Lucerys.
“I want to consume you.” He whispered, his hand moving faster on the other’s cock, making him jerk his hips up and mewl at the sensation. “I want to take your innocence. I want to ruin you and have you only to myself. This is what I want. Will you give it to me?”
Luke shuddered at his voice, unable to think straight with the hand caressing him between his legs. He knew that what his uncle was asking for was a lot but couldn’t find it in himself to be repulsed by it. He felt heat in his stomach at the thought, although he was unsure of how it will happen.
“Will it hurt?” He asked, unintentionally letting the fear be heard in his voice.
“Kessa.” Aemond answered, looking him straight in the eyes. “It will. But it will also feel good. Nyke jāhor mazverdagon ziry sȳz.”
Lucerys moaned a little too loud when the rough hand touched one particularly sensitive spot under the head of his cock. He thrusted his hips, chasing the pleasure Aemond was giving him.
“Alright.” He said, running his hand through the long silver hair. “I’ll give it to you if this is what you want. Take me, if that’s what it takes to make you feel at peace. I’ll give it to you, kepus.”
Aemond growled, his hand moving faster, making Luke spread his legs a little wider and move his hips with him, chasing his release.
“That’s a promise.” Aemond said firmly, his violet eye fixed on Luke’s flushed face. “You can’t take it back.”
“I don’t want to.” Luke moaned, feeling a knot tie in his lower abdomen as he approached his release. “Kessa, kessa, please. I want it, uncle, kostilus-”
He came with a loud moan, Aemond stroking him through it as he thrashed his hips, pleasure taking control of his body. When he came back to his senses, Aemond was untying his own breeches, his movements swift and sharp. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small vial of oil.
“What’s that for?” Luke asked, his breath still ragged.
“You’ll see.”
He threw the duvet aside along with his breeches and settled down between Luke’s trembling thighs. He grabbed his knees, making him spread his legs further as he dipped his finger into the oil, smearing it whole and then lowering his face to kiss the boy’s neck. He sucked in the sensitive skin right under his chin and moved his lips down, stopping at his nipple to lightly bite it, making Luke let out a shuddered breath. Aemond moved his hand down his hips, stroking his inner thigh and down to his crotch.
Luke opened his eyes, wide with shock as he felt his uncle’s finger probing at his hole.
“Are you-”
“Shh,” Aemond shushed him, kissing his cheek. “Don’t worry. I told you already, didn’t I? It will hurt at first but I will make sure you feel good.”
He pushed his finger in to the first digit, feeling his own cock twitch at the tightness around it. He couldn’t imagine how good it would feel to be inside of that tight heat.
Luke’s breath hitched, his hips instinctively backing away from the intrusion but he was stopped by a firm hand around his thigh.
“Don’t run from me. Relax.”
He obeyed, taking a deep breath and doing his best to relax his tense muscles, hissing at the sting between his legs as Aemond pushed his finger deeper, almost till his knuckle. He wiggled his finger a little, letting Luke get used to the feeling, before pushing the second finger in.
Second finger felt much more vivid, his muscles reluctantly giving in to the intrusion. Lucerys squeezed his eyes, letting a few teardrops fall onto the pillow, trying to get his mind away from the pain. Aemond moved his fingers inside, spreading them and pushing deeper. Luke sobbed at one hard thrust, unable to keep it down anymore. He felt like he was burning and it wasn’t a pleasurable type of burning. He wanted Aemond to pull out his fingers but he made a promise. He needed to be fucking strong and endure it.
Aemond moved his lips to his neck again, kissing and sucking the soft skin, distracting him from the pain. He moved his fingers, probing them inside and searching for that one spot that he knew would…
Luke cried out as a sudden wave of pleasure hit him hard, making him see stars. He jerked his legs, trying to make Aemond do that again. He whined when his long fingers found that spot again, pressing on it now instead of thrusting.
“There it is.” Aemond drawled, a pleased smirk on his face. “Good boy.”
He continued fingering him, slowly adding a third finger alongside with the first two. Luke barely noticed the sting of the stretch now, lost in pleasure, pressing his hips down on the deft fingers. When his thighs began to tremble and his moans grew louder, Aemond pulled his fingers out, making Luke whine in protest.
“Lykirī, taoba.”
He stroked the boy’s curly hair, lifting himself a bit and wiping his fingers on the sheets. Positioning himself between Luke’s trembling thighs, he gripped his own cock in one hand, smearing the precum over the head and then pouring some oil on it and on Luke’s hole.
Luke looked down, staring intently at the other’s cock and swallowing nervously.
“It won’t fit.” He muttered bashfully, his cheeks reddening even more.
Aemond leaned down, kissing him passionately and sliding his hand down the boy’s stomach, grabbing his cock and giving it few pumps before pulling away.
“Of course, it will. You’ll be a good boy for me and take it, won’t you, Lucerys?”
Luke shuddered at the way his uncle said his name. He almost never called him by his full name, always referring to him as nephew, or taoba, or sometimes even Luke. But never Lucerys. He could swear that he never heard it from Aemond.
He slowly nodded, lying back down on the pillows and obediently spreading his legs. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, preparing himself for ensuing pain.
Aemond pressed his cock against his rim, stretching his hole with only the head before slowly pushing in, inch by inch. Luke felt only weird pressure at first but then came pain. He couldn’t hold the scream in his throat at the burning sensation between his legs. It was nothing like fingers. Aemond’s cock was big and warm, making Luke feel like he was about to be ripped in two halves. The pressure was almost impossible to endure, so overwhelming that Luke thought he'd faint. Tears streamed down his cheeks and he sobbed when Aemond pressed against his hips, now fully inside.
A rough hand caressed his cheek and Luke opened his eyes, meeting Aemond's violet one.
“That’s it.” Aemond stroked his inner thigh, soothing. “You did it, the worst part is over.”
Luke took a deep breath, wiggling his hips a little and wincing at the dull pain below. Aemond was still, his hands continuing to stroke his thighs, waiting for him to adjust. After what felt like an eternity, Luke felt the pain subside, making him sigh with relief.
He looked up at Aemond, taking his hand into his own and moving his hips down a little.
“I think you can move now.”
The first thrust was still painful. Luke screamed, squeezing Aemond’s hand, new tears welling up in his eyes. Aemond took his hand, moving it to his face and kissed his palm. He then placed it on his shoulder.
“Hold on to me. Scratch me if you want.”
He started off slowly, thrusting in deep and careful, waiting for Luke to stop wincing in pain. When his grip on Aemond’s shoulder relaxed a little, he quickened his pace. Luke’s breath became faster, his hands squeezing his shoulders hard with every thrust, digging his nails into the pale skin. Soon, his lips parted, letting out a quiet moan. Aemond moved his hips, trying to find that pleasurable spot once again.
He pressed on Luke’s chest, making him fully lay down on the bed, his hands letting go of the broad shoulders, gripping the pillow instead. Aemond took his leg, lifting it and kissing his ankle. He put it on his shoulder, leaning down and almost making Luke bend in half. Then he made a hard thrust, grinning when Luke screamed from pleasure. He started moving fast and rough, making sure to touch that special spot inside of him with every thrust.
Luke was now thrusting back, meeting his movements and arching his back. He moaned so loudly Aemond was afraid he’d lose his voice when they’re done. His dark curls were scattered on the pillow, his cheeks and shoulders red, eyes wet with tears, but now they were not from the pain but from pleasure.
Aemond lowered his head, sucking at the pink little nipple and making the boy cry from the feeling on that sensitive spot. He moved his hand to the other nipple, scratching and twisting it between his fingertips. Luke sobbed, his hips moving frantically as he seemed to be close to his release.
Aemond groaned as Luke tightened around him, unable to fully relax now that the pleasure was too much. His thrusts have started to become less steady, heat pooling in his stomach more and more. He gripped the boy’s waist hard enough to leave bruises, pounding him harder, chasing his own release.
He felt the body under him tense and Luke screamed as thick white spurts colored his stomach, his orgasm hitting him hard. He arched his back as Aemond fucked him though it, making sure to milk every single drop out of him until the boy sobbed from overstimulation.
Aemond moaned when he spilled deep inside him, dropping his forehead on his sweaty shoulder and trying to catch his breath. When he finally pulled out his softening cock, Luke winced at the feeling of hot semen leaking out of him. Aemond held his face to place a soft kiss on his lips before flopping down on his back next to him, staring at the ceiling as his chest moved up and down with every breath he took.
“I can’t move my legs.” Luke muttered, his voice almost gone from all the moaning and screaming. Aemond chuckled, moving him closer to his chest and sneaking his arm around his shoulders.
“Yes, that can be one of the outcomes of such activity.” Aemond mused, ruffling his soft locks. “I’d eagerly take you again but I don’t think you’ll endure it.”
Luke grunted, resting his chin on Aemond’s chest. He looked at the window, noticing how dark it was already.
“Do you think my mother has been worried? I’ve told her I’d go for a quick flight.”
“She’s probably already sent troops to search for you.”
"We should go back soon. Jace has probably suspected something already. He'll kill you if he finds out". Luke said, drawing circles on Aemond's chest.
"He did tell me that he'll blind me if I ever lay a finger on you. Though I laid much more than a finger on you tonight."
Lucerys chuckled, blushing, but then turned to look at him with confusion.
“Where are we?”
Aemond couldn’t hold back his laugh.
“You’re asking this question only now?”
“Well,” Luke shifted, clearly embarrassed. “I didn’t have much time to think about it before.”
“True,” Aemond shrugged. “Don’t fret, we’re not far from King’s Landing. We’ll fly home together so you need not to worry about getting lost. It’s just one of my secret places.”
Luke raised his brow.
“One of your secret places?”
“Yes. I have many that I will show you next time, my dear nephew.”
Luke smiled.
Next time. For some reason, that sounded nice.