A Doe in a Lion's Den

Disclaimer: I do not own Game of Thrones


Chapter 52: Autumn Times

One Year Later

A toddler was running through the orchards filled with excitement. I chuckled, seeing how excited Derek was for apple picking. Willas and I agreed, our children will not be spoiled. They need to rely on themselves, and for Derek being the heir of Highgarden, the people need to see him as a hands-on leader. Not a man who sits and gives the command. So here we are, plucking apples for the harvest.

Since Summer ended, it has been long autumn. Almost two years, since the Citadel sent the white raven for the end of a long summer. Although, there is a saying a long summer means a more extended winter. The Reach has been taking this warning seriously. All over grain have been in harvest along with other plants that have longevity. For now, all the autumn fruits and vegetables were being collected. Therefore the apple picking. Willas managed to catch up to Derek underneath a tree. Picking him up, Willas guided Derek to fruit and tell him to pick it. Derek small hands grabbed, yanking with all his might until the stem could no longer resist and pop. Derek grinned, presenting the red apple with triumph.

I chuckled, the past year has been something. In the Reach, it has been peaceful, yet parenthood was a struggle. Derek started as an easy baby until the teething came. I don't think anyone had much sleep on our floor. After the teething, things were well. A few tantrums, and fits but nothing we couldn't handle. Also, the family was expanding. Garlan and Leonette had finally given birth to their first child. A daughter they have named Alerie, after her grandmother. She resembled much like her father, brown hair and blue eyes. Garlan made a joke to Willas, saying he is being surrounded by blue eyes everywhere since only he, and Lady Olenna has brown eyes. Although, a tragic loss did occur several months ago. Queen Margaery gave birth to a son prematurely, she've named him Henry. But because the child was born so early, he would not last. Three months later he died, as Maester Pycelle declared his vital organs did not develop properly. Margaery and Tommen were devastated, yet there were rumors someone had poisoned the queen to induce early labor. Whispers going about that Margaery had dinner with Tommen and the Cersei, drinking wine that Cersei recommended, the following day she was in labor. No one would know for sure if that was true. But tensions were high in King's Landing. It came to the point that on Derek's first name day an unexpected visitor arrived, Cersei.

Lord Mace arriving was expected, but not my mother. She was still clad in black, giving a motherly hug, and gushed over when seeing Derek. She presented many toys and clothes to her grandson, hardly putting him down unless it was feeding, changing, or bed. Three weeks of anxiety I shall tell you, having my stags standing by Derek's door, ensuring he was never alone with his grandparents. Lady Olenna I trusted, but Cersei and Lord Mace...never. Lord Mace, jolly as a man, he can be oblivious at times, even though Derek enjoyed tugging his beard. As for Cersei, hearing what happened to Prince Henry...I fear she would take my son away. During her stay, when not spoiling Derek, Cersei would be accompanying me.

"Why are you truly here, mother?" I asked.

"I've come to mend the bond torn by pride," Cersei answered.

"Torn by pride," I repeated.

"I know I haven't been a fair mother to you," she explained. "Not being there when preparing for your wedding. Or missing the birth of Derek. I made that promise to be there, and I failed."

"You had the opportunity to be there for his baptism," I said.

"You are upset with me," she murmured.

"It's been over a year," I countered. "I've sent you letters, ravens, and not once have you replied."

"Margaery was pregnant; I had to do my duties for my daughter in law too," Cersei said, her hand came up cradling my cheek. "I swear, I'll be there for all your children next time."

I had to suppress so much of my furry not to hit her. To not scream and shout, to accuse her of all the horrible things she has done to me. After three years of abuse, betrayal, she decided to be a mother. And yet, I merely nodded. I wish I could lock her in a prison cell so she wouldn't harm society. To protect Tommen and Margaery from her, since she was now living in King's Landing. Ever since Henry's death, Tommen was grieving that Cersei was given a place in the Small Council, representing the king.

By the time the visit was over, and Lord Mace and Cersei returned to King's Landing was a breath of fresh air. A bit annoyed, before Cersei got into the carriage she expected more grandchildren in a year. Willas and I have been careful of not immediately having a second child. Much as we want more children, we wanted time to spoil Derek and a break for my body. If a child was conceived by accident, then it is a blessing. But right now one is enough. I have twenty more years of bearing children, so there is no need to rush.

Many houses were rushing. Already Lord's from the Reach have been sending marriage proposal, offering their daughters or granddaughters for my son. One day, Willas had me come to his study to witness a pile of letters about marriage. Just five weeks after Derek's first name day. I hardly met all the houses, so reading letter lords I never attended, pursing my son, offering their girls like cattle...was unnerving. Willas was overwhelmed as I. The worse marriage proposal was from the Riverlands, from House Frey. Lord Walder Frey had the audacity to propose his granddaughter and great-granddaughter to marry Derek. Willas read the letter twice before hovering it over a candle and burned it. Both of us agreed, to not let an exact traitor house marry our son. We will not smear our son with the corruption of greed. Nor risk another Red Wedding. If I were to choose a bride, she rather be from a house we trust. Would it be wrong for me to wish it was House Stark if Sansa were to have a daughter?

The Thorns were extremely helpful in finding the whereabouts of Lady Sansa. She was currently hiding in the Vale of Arryn, at the Eyrie. A part of me was relieved that she was safe, being with her family, her cousin Robin Arryn and her aunt, Lysa. Although, Lady Lysa was a bit of an odd fish. Last I saw her; she was still nursing Robin when he is past toddler age. But the one I am a bit concern with is Lord Baelish. He and Lady Lysa are currently married. A part of me questions how long that will last. Willas and I were planning to get our revenge. With a man known for greed and pleasure, we will strike the moment he has reach success and tears him down.

There was more news in the North. Lord Stannis continue his claim to be the true king of the Iron Throne. He and his family were up North aiding the Night's Watch on the invasion of wildlings. Let alone; word has it he plans to lay siege onto Winterfell to overthrow the Boltons. Lord Roose Bolton took an extreme measure and legitimized his bastard son Ramsay as his heir. There are dark rumors about Ramsay Bolton. One from nightmares of torturing his prisoners and having his extreme hunts with humans. Poor women being chased through the forest, get shot by an arrow and fed alive to his dogs. If I were queen, I would put the rabid beast down.

Back in reality, I came over to my boy.

Derek presented the apple to me, "Mama. App, app."

"Yes sweetie, that is an apple." I praised. "Did you get the apple?"

Derek nodded, as he tried to take a bite. Willas quickly grabbed it, "Let's wash it first."

Our son pouted for he wanted to bite the apple. A few of the staff who were picking from the same tree chuckled. A girl came over pulling out a canteen offering to wash it. Willas allowed it, as the girl cleansed the fruit and returned it to Derek. Derek grabbed hold of the apple and attempted to take a huge bite. Unfortunately, having a small mouth made it difficult.

"Small bites, son" Willas chuckled.

Derek pouted and did what he was told, taking small bites. Willas handed him over, so he could use his cane as we walked through the orchards.

"So where is this shipment going to this time?" I asked.

"To King's Landing again," Willas answered.

"Wouldn't the fruit rot by the time it gets there?" I asked.

"Some will, that is why we are collecting apples that are near ripe. By the time it reaches, King's Landing two-thirds will be edible."

"And the one-third?" I asked.

"The farmers will take the rotten apples and feed it to the pigs or take the seeds to start apple farms."

True, Willas has informed the Small Council to prevent extreme independence from the Reach, farms need to establish on the boards around the city. We may be the season of autumn, but winter could arrive any moment now. Willas has done so much over the past year too. He has created a new scorpion, more advanced than it's a predecessor. The new rendition was easy to use, as the marksman can load, crank, and aim with ease. Even a reloading mechanism that arrows can be set into place to save time. Garlan approved, and when the samples were given in King's Landing. They've tested on the dragon skulls, and based on uncle Kevan's report that the scorpion was a success. The metal arrows penetrating through the dragon skull. Although Willas was proud it could damage dragon bones, he questions about dragon scales. So far, all the cities have a copy of the blueprints in assembling the Scorpion. Thorns in Meereen have sent word that Daenerys Targaeryn has continued to remain there as Queen. You got to give her credit, a year of keeping the peace and abolishing slavery. A part of me and most of the realm have one concern...when will the madness start poisoning her mind. As Ser Barristan has stated, great people slowly lose themselves to the madness. That is why Westeros is preparing for battle if dragons were to arrive.

Staying positive, my family focused on the apple picking. Derek watched, cheering the farmers on and munching on apples. I joined in on the harvest, climbing ladders and plucking the fruits and dropping them into the bucket or a girl who had her apron wide open to catch. I give the farmers much credit in the hard work. All day we apple pick. When it was getting late, we made do towards the castle on a wagon. Once we were home, we enter our apartment, as Derek went straight to his toys. Willas joined him, sitting on the lounge as Derek brought toys over. I smiled, seeing a bond the two share.

A knock was heard announcing Ser Wensington. I opened the door to let him in. Ser Wensington gave a sight bow before handing me a letter. It wasn't a raven, but an actual message.

"A letter arrived from King's Landing," Ser Wensington said.

"Thank you, Gareth," I said.

After a year of Ser Wensington being my guardian, I decided to call him by his first name. All of my Stags were going by their first same except for Wensington, so it was time for a change. A lot has happened to him. He was actually courting a lady here in Highgarden. He continues to be obligated to his duty. If only Lamar and Forrester does take to much advantage of their privilege of being able to marry. How many times those two received a slap...I will never know.

Examining the letter, to see it was the seal of the king. Breaking the seal, I read the letter curious what Tommen has written.

"What has the king written?" Willas asked.

"He has received word from Prince Doran suggesting that Princess Myrcella and Prince Trystane should be wed. Tommen agreed, but needs a family member to represent House Baratheon for the union."

"He asked you?" Willas asked.

I nodded, "I did promise Myrcella I'll be there for her wedding."

It would make sense that Ibe, the representative for this wedding. Tommen was king and needs to remain in King's landing. Ser Jaime is still Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, if not a Lannister. Also Cersei, she wouldn't dare set foot in Dorne. She would hate the heat, and no doubt try to poison Prince Trystane. Rereading the letter, Tommen wanted me to check on Myrcella, to be sure she was happy with the match and discuss politics with Prince Doran. If I see our sister being mistreated, he advises I take Myrcella home. If all is well, to sign the contract and witness the union.

"Are you all right with this?" I asked. "Me heading off to Dorne?"

"No," Willas answered.

"Oh," I replied.

Willas took my hand, "We as a family are heading off to Dorne."

I chuckled softly from his small prank, "You had me there a moment ago."

Willas chuckled, " I did promise Oberyn and Ellaria that we would visit. Derek is at the age to travel without complications. It would be a good experience for him."

"He won't even remember," I reminded.

"So," He shrugged.

"You're not just saying that so you can give him a lemon again," I asked.

When Derek was one year old, a shipment of lemons arrived from the border of Dorne and Reach. Willas, being a man of curiosity cut a lemon slice and gave our son a sample. Derek's face cringed that everyone laughed.

"Guilty," Willas said and pecked my cheek. "I'll make the traveling arrangements. You write to your brother."

I nodded and pecked his lips. Willlas left to make the arrangments while I went to the desk to write a letter. Derek came over and climbed onto my lap.

"Wha ya do?" Derek asked.

"I'm writing a letter to your aunt," I answered.

Derek nodded. He hasn't met Myrcella yet since she was a ward to Prince Doran. The only thing Derek has known of her was through letters. Myrcella and I try to keep letters, yet they arrive once every two months. Showing him a portrait that was recently sent.

"Oo leave-in?' He asked.

"Yes, we are leaving," I answered. "We are going to Dorne to see Auntie. She's getting married, and you'll have a new uncle. He's a prince."

Derek grinned.

"But it will be hot, so you need to listen to Mama, Dada, and Nanny. You need to tell us if you are thirsty. No wandering off, and if you see any animals do not approach without any of the guards." I warned,

Sadly Derek was not listening. He was playing with his wooden sword. I sighed, why do I even bother giving warning to a toddler. A habit I suppose. I know Dorne will be challenging to adjust. Yes, I grew up in King's Landing dealing with nine years of summer, the Reach was warmer than King's Landing. I remember visiting Dorne to meet my betroth Prince Quentyn. The weather was dry, hot, and humid. Lord Jon Arryn was my guardian at the time, and he made sure I was hydrated, lather in lotions, and kept under the shade. I was in pre-adolescents, the weather for a toddler would be severe. My primary fear is that Derek would see a snake and try to come over to pet it. So my guards will be highly alerted to keep the curious boy away from trouble. I swear Derek was becoming like his father each day.

.o0o.

King's Landing

"I hope Elain says yes," Tommen said.

"I'm sure she will," Margaery said.

Tommen has been nervous when the envoy of Dorne arrived with a letter from Prince Doran suggesting it was time to unite their two houses. Tommen had a meeting with Lord Kevan, and he agreed it is time for Myrcella to be married and bring Dorne to the folds. With the caution about Lannisters and Martell feud, Margaery had recommended sending Elain and Willas to Dorne as their envoys. Willas being friends with Prince Oberyn and the Tyrell trade can make the marriage a success. Tommen agreed, relaxing. After a year of being married, Tommen was happy with his wife, even during their pregnancy. Although, he cherished Henry those three months. He will never forget how tiny he was. Hopefully, Myrcella can be happy by getting married and cherish her children.

Little did he know Margaery wanted Myrcella marriage to be completed, to get back at Cersei. The Queen Mother was a suspect in Henry's death. She may or may not have poison Margaery, but Cersei put so much stress on her that it killed her baby. She would have her grandmother be there to aid in the pregnancy, not Cersei. So taking away Cersei favorite daughter and marry her to her Houses enemy is an act of perfect revenge. Margaery has Tommen, is now queen, and is the beauty in the Crownlands. No more control can Cersei have on her children.

Cersei, on the other hand, was furious. She felt like she was losing everything, let alone those terrible rumors about killing her grandson Henry. The Queen Mother would have her guards kill people for her, she was willing to deny the massacre of Robert's Bastards when Joffrey gave the order, but she would never ever kill her children or grandchildren. Someone was trying to frame her of this horrendous scandal. The gods were good since there was no proof since they all drank from the same pitcher. However, other than these rumors, she was angry at the marriage between Mycrella and Prince Trystane. She had intended to break the match, except got distracted by all the deaths going around. Now she was losing her only child. Her little Cella. Joffrey was dead, Tommen was married to a harlot, Elain is distant happy with her cripple and her only child...Myrcella is going to marry a snake. The worse was Trystane not the Heir of Sunspear, not the intended Warden of Dorne. No, all that power goes to Princess Arianne Martell.

She went to Jaime telling her struggle. Ser Jaime said it was best for Myrcella to be married.

"Our daughter's alone in Dorne surrounded by people who hate our family is a threat," Cersei seethed. "They blame us for the death of Elia and every other tragedy that's befallen their cursed country. I will burn their cities to the ground if they touch her!"

"Shh, softer, not too loud," Jaime warned.

"Our daughter is in danger, and you're worried I'm speaking too loudly," Cersei seethed.

"The world can't know she's our daughter," He reasoned.

"Then don't call her your daughter," Cersei growled. "You've never been a father to her. "

"If I were a father to any of my children, they'd be stoned in the streets," Jaime reasoned quietly.

"I can't lose her, Jaime." Cersei pleaded.

Jaime paused seeing how desperate his sister has become. So much has happened, and with the rumor of accusing Cersei of inducing Queen Margaery early labor resulting in Prince Henry's death...she could not leave the Keep. There were so many deaths. The assassins still out there, never knowing when the Faceless Men would strike.

"I'll make things better," Jaime promised.

"You've never made anything better," She disagreed.

"I'm going to Dorne and bringing our daughter home."

Cersei scoffed, "You can't just ask Prince Doran to give her back. She's promised to his son."

"I'm not going to ask him anything," Jaime said.

"You go down there with an army, it's an act of war," Cersei reminded.

"No army," he assured. "Do you know where they are keeping her?"

Cersei paused trying to remember the conversation she had with Prince Oberyn. " Oberyn mentioned the Watergardens. "

"I'll find her," Ser Jaime promised. "Is there anything else, your grace?"

Cersei stared at him then snorted, "You're going to Dorne. A one-handed man. Alone."

"I never said I was going alone," Jaime said.

"You will need to hurry. Tommen already sent a letter to Elain. She is one bound by duty. She will make sure her sister is married."

"Challenge accepted," Ser Jaime said,

Cersei watched her brother leave. She was surprised Jaime would do this for her. At first, she stopped loving him, when he ran away to not deal with Robert's wrath after challenging Ned Stark and his men. A year held captive to come home a changed man. Not only missing his sword hand but her cocky attitude of pride. Now her brother is trying to earn her love. She smiled, glad she had somebody on her side. She hopes Jaime rescue their daughter in time before Elain arrives to sign the marriage contract and give Myrcella away.


So, do you think Cersei killed Henry or not?

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