She laid in silence, her mind consumed by Maester Gorman's words.
I'm with child.
Rhaenys sat still, her body feeling unusually heavy as the shocking revelation left her utterly drained. It was a marvel that she had managed to maintain her composure when facing Rhaegar and Aegon.
Thank the God's they are gone now.
Eventually, with a huff, she pushed herself up and rose from her bed, no longer being able to lay still despite her body screaming at her to rest. Everything ached, her feet and back screamed at her to lay down again, but she stubbornly remained standing.
Her father and brother had just left, yet their presence seemed to linger in her room. I should have kicked them back out the second they entered.
Restlessness gripped her as she paced back and forth her room, her hands running through her hair, and she nervously nibbled on her lip.
Rhaenys reflected on her father's reaction to the news of her pregnancy. He didn't appear overly upset, she convinced herself.
He seemed somewhat bothered, but it was only natural. He still seemed to think of her as a little girl, the way he spoke to me all sweetly, like he used to do back on Dragonstone, so long ago.
She reassured herself that any man would be at least a bit upset by the idea of his daughter carrying the child of his enemy, especially when that enemy was dead.
A soft chuckle escaped her lips as she mused, even beyond the grave, you still find ways to torment my father, husband.
She pondered what her father might do if he ever learned the truth.
No, she quickly shook her head, admonishing herself for such thoughts, do not think of that.
Placing her hand on her belly, she whispered to herself, "This is Robert's child."
She was determined to protect her unborn child from any potential consequences that may befall it. She knew she had to be careful, to ensure that the paternity of the child remained a secret. Rhaenys had always been a fighter, and now her maternal instincts were driving her to protect this innocent life growing inside her, even if she had to lie to everyone.
Her thoughts wandered into the uncomfortable territory of what might happen if the truth about her unborn child's father were ever discovered, particularly by her father, Rhaegar. The mere thought of it sent shivers down her spine.
"I must be clever," she whispered to herself, her voice filled with determination.
Rhaenys felt some relief in the shared blood between Robert and the true father of her unborn child. It was a prospect that could protect her secret, ensuring that no one would ever uncover the truth. She was determined to keep this knowledge well-guarded and hidden from the prying eyes and ears of those around her.
As Rhaenys continued her restless pacing, a sense of resolve began to emerge within her. The weight of her secret was heavy, but she was determined to protect herself and her children. Each step she took brought a renewed sense of purpose. Her nerves settled down as the seconds passed by.
"No one will know," she repeated to herself like a mantra.
Rhaenys rested her hand gently on her belly, her gaze drawn to the large mirror in front of her. As she looked at her reflection, she noticed her belly through the reflection of the mirror. Her fingers traced the slight bump beneath her dress, barely noticeable to anyone else, but to her, it was undeniable.
"I can't believe I never even noticed," she murmured to herself in wonder.
A gentle smile graced Rhaenys' face as the thought of another child filled her with warmth.
Her mind drifted to Edric, this time wondering how he would react to the news.
Will he be upset? She shook her head, no he might be concerned and confused but not upset.
As she pondered this, the sound of shuffling feet and joyful commotion reached her ears from the hallway. Rhaenys recognized the lively footsteps that belonged to her children, and her heart swelled with affection.
The noise grew closer, and she heard the soft voices and the faint knocking at her door. Eagerly, she opened the door, revealing Edric and Talya, her two beloved children standing there, their presence filling her with happiness.
"Muña," they chorused in unison.
With a tender smile, Rhaenys knelt down to give each of her child a loving kiss on their cheek. Standing up again, she was met with the concerned gazes of Edric and Talya.
"Princess, are you alright now?" Talya inquired, concern lacing her words. "Your uncle told us you were feeling better,"
The mention of her uncle puzzled Rhaenys for a moment. My uncle?
Her uncle had gone to the Riverlands to deal with some of Robert's loyalists who had been rummaging and attacking the towns.
Who is Talya talking about?
"Are you alright, Rhaenys?" Edric repeated the question, worry written on his face.
She smiled warmly, trying to ease their concerns. "I'm fine, you needn't worry about me," she assured them, casting a pointed look at both Edric and Talya.
Talya nodded in response, but it was clear that Edric had more he wanted to say. Rhaenys sighed and looked back down to her children, who gazed up at her with bright eyes and innocent smiles.
With another smile, she stepped aside to let Cassian and Elia enter her room. The children eagerly went to their favorite corner, where their toys were kept.
As Cassian and Elia played with their toys, their gleeful laughter filled the room, and the tension that had hung in the air began to dissipate. Rhaenys watched her children with affection, grateful for their presence.
Edric moved closer to Rhaenys, and in a hushed tone, he asked, "Are you sure you're all right, Princess?"
Rhaenys nodded, her gaze still fixed on her children. "I'll be fine, Edric. Today's events were—unexpected, but I'll manage,"
Edric's concern didn't diminish, and she could see it in his eyes. She offered him a reassuring smile and said, "I promise, Edric, I'll tell you everything later,"
Rhaenys dismissed Talya, who left the room with a lingering look of concern. Once they were alone, she closed the door.
Edric turned to face her, his expression was one of worry and curiosity. "What happened, Rhaenys? What did the Maester say?"
She shook her head. "It's nothing of concern, Edric," she assured him.
Edric's concern persisted, and he pressed on, "If it's nothing, why did you collapsed?"
Rhaenys took a step closer to him, her fingers gently lacing with his as she looked into his eyes.
With a deep breath, Rhaenys finally decided to reveal her secret to Edric. "Edric," she began softly, "I'm with child."
Edric stood there, completely speechless for a moment. His blue eyes widened.
Silence passed through them.
Unable to bear it any longer, she speaks up.
"My father and Aegon know," she said softly, her voice trembling. "They think it's Robert's—" Rhaenys paused for a moment, her eyes searching Edric's for understanding, "child,"
Edric's expression shifted, and he looked deep into her eyes. "How many moons?" he asked.
Rhaenys took a deep breath, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "The Maester said at least three moons,"
Edric's brows furrowed in thought. "Robert only came to King's Landing in the first moon of this year, after which he left, and—he never came back,"
Rhaenys nodded, concern etched on her face. "The Maester is wrong. I can't be three moons pregnant. I didn't bed your father during that time, and with him around, neither did we," she explained. "I must be four moons pregnant,"
"Rhaenys," Edric warned, "If someone figures out how far along you really are—"
She interrupted him, determination in her eyes. "No one will, Edric. I promise,"
He sighed, still worried. "They best not, my love. I'm not sure if you will be able to explain how you got pregnant when your husband was in Riverrun,"
Rhaenys nodded, the weight of the situation pressing on her. "I know, Edric, it would ruin me if anyone were to find out that this child—," she stopped herself.
"Was a bastard," Edric finished for her, giving her a small, strained smile.
Rhaenys sighed, her concern still evident in her eyes. "Let us not speak about this anymore," she said, gently pulling Edric to where her children sat playing, entertaining themselves with their wooden toys.
Edric said nothing as she pulled him down with her, and they sat on the floor, watching Elia and Cassian play. They sat in peaceful silence.
"You said your father and brother knew?" Edric asked, turning to her for confirmation, and she gave him a nod.
"They were there when the Maester told me, they just barged in," she said with annoyance, her eyes rolling at the memory.
Edric couldn't help but chuckle at her clear irritation.
"Does anyone else know?" he inquired after a moment.
Shaking her head, she replied, "No one but you, my father, brother, and the Maester,"
"And you think Aegon will keep quiet on this," Edric raised an eyebrow.
"If it were up to him, he would scream from the top of every tower about how I'm with the usurper's child again," Rhaenys said with bitter humor, "But he won't. I'll know it was him if word of me being with child spreads around court,"
"And that would stop him?" Edric inquired, intrigued.
She gave him a playful smile, "No, but as I said, only him, father, and the Maester know. Maester Gorman is no gossip, so it wouldn't be him, but my father doesn't know that. I told Rhaegar that if word spread of me being pregnant, then it was Maester Gorman, and that would mean he couldn't be trusted. I don't think Aegon would risk getting the poor old man into trouble over something he did, so he'll keep his mouth shut,"
Edric chuckled. "You've got this all figured out, haven't you?"
Rhaenys grinned. "You have to when you live in this place. It's a game of politics and secrets, my love,"
Edric chuckled. "I suppose I still have much to learn about this game,"
Rhaenys squeezed his hand. "We'll learn together, my knight,"
Edric smiled warmly. "I look forward to every lesson, my Princess,"
Leaning over, Rhaenys pressed her lips gently against Edric's, sealing their unspoken promises with a tender kiss.
Their kiss lingered for a few heartbeats, a wordless exchange of affection, trust, and understanding. When they finally pulled away, Rhaenys rested her forehead against Edric's, her eyes locking onto his.
Edric whispered softly, "I love you, Rhaenys,"
Her lips curled into a heartfelt smile. "And I love you, Edric,"
Edric pressed his lips against Rhaenys' forehead, his voice soft and reassuring. "We'll get through this together, Rhaenys. I promise,"
Rhaenys closed her eyes, feeling the warmth of Edric's embrace. "I know we will,"
As the morning sun's gentle rays pierced through the curtains, Rhaenys stirred from her slumber. Her eyelids fluttered open, and she yawned, stretching her limbs beneath the comfortable blankets. A soft, contented sigh escaped her lips as she basked in the warmth of her chambers.
To her right, Balerion, her loyal black cat, lounged gracefully on the chair. He arched his back and let out a low, rumbling purr as he greeted her. Rhaenys smiled at her feline companion.
Balerion, ever so attuned to her emotions, sensed her warmth and affection. He gracefully jumped from the chair and padded over to her. With an elegant leap, he settled onto the bed next to Rhaenys. There, he nuzzled against her gently, purring contentedly.
Rhaenys chuckled, her fingers running through Balerion's fur as he snuggled against her stomach. It was a comforting feeling. She appreciated the silent companionship of her little black dread.
My dear Balerion, my trust love, she giggled at the childish thought.
As the minutes passed in her quiet sunlit chamber, Rhaenys enjoyed the warmth of Balerion's presence. Though she was soon interrupted by a soft, gentle knock on her door. She looked in that direction and called for the visitors to enter.
Two maids entered the room, curtsying respectfully upon arrival. One of them, named Dira, approached Rhaenys with a warm smile.
"Good morning, Your Grace," Dira greeted, her tone soft.
Rhaenys returned the smile and inclined her head in acknowledgment. "Good morning,"
The other maid, Freya, stepped forward and answered, "We've come to prepare your bath,"
Rhaenys nodded in approval and slowly sat up in her bed. Balerion hopped off the bed, moving to the windowsill, where he continued to watch over his mistress.
The two maids worked together with practiced efficiency. They brought in a large, intricately carved wooden tub, filling it with warm water drawn from a nearby basin. The room soon filled with the comforting scent of lavender and other fragrant herbs that would be added to the bathwater.
Rhaenys watched them attentively, aching to be in the water.
Once the bath was ready, Dira turned to Rhaenys and curtsied again. "Your bath is prepared, Your Grace."
Rhaenys thanked the maids with a gracious nod, they left and began to rise from her bed, ready to enjoy a refreshing bath.
Rhaenys gracefully stepped toward the waiting bath. The warm steam rising from the water enveloped her as she approached, and she appreciated the comforting embrace of the fragrant herbs and oils.
She paused for a moment to take in the delicate aroma before gracefully lowering herself into the soothing bath. The warm water caressed her skin, loosening any lingering tension from her muscles.
She took the time to cleanse herself thoroughly. Her deft, practiced hands moved gracefully over her skin as she washed away the residue of sleep and the cares of the previous day.
Once she felt refreshed and invigorated, Rhaenys slowly rose from the bath. Water cascaded off her, forming rivulets that clung to her skin for a few moments before succumbing to gravity and falling back into the tub below. She stepped out gingerly.
Rhaenys moved to the chair beside the bath, where a clean towel was neatly laid out for her. She took it in her hands and began to dry herself meticulously.
Once she had finished placed the towel back on the chair.
Rhaenys moved to the wardrobe, selecting a gown for the day's activities. Her hand glided over the row of garments, each one neatly arranged by her maids. After some contemplation, she chose a pale blue gown with silver embroidery.
With care, she slipped the gown over her delicate frame, the fabric draping elegantly around her figure, she made certain that the gown was loose enough around her belly.
Completing her outfit, Rhaenys fastened the necklace she had taken from Visneya around her neck, with her mother's ring fitting perfectly on her finger.
With a final glance in the mirror, she left her room.
Walking in step with Edric, they made their way across Maegor's Holdfast. Her feet knew the path well, guiding her through the familiar corridors.
As they walked, she contemplated if she was making the right decision.
It has been a while since I last saw Varys. Will he still prove to be somewhat useful to me? Or will he refuse to be of any help to me?
Rhaenys had asked her cousins just days before about the former Master of Whispers and learned that he had returned to King's Landing. There were murmurs that Rhaegar intended to reinstate Varys in the council. During the war, Varys had served as a spy for Rhaegar's forces. Rhaenys had harbored suspicions, ever since he had taken her to the Godswood and revealed her father's plans to reclaim the throne.
Her suspicions went ignored by the Small Council, and Jon Arryn was too occupied with keeping Robert in King's Landing to heed Varys and his ploys.
And now, that old man bastard is locked away somewhere in the black cells.
Arriving at the door, she knocked, waiting patiently. It took a moment before the door creaked open, and the eunuch himself greeted her with feigned surprise and a smile.
"Oh, Princess," he exclaimed, as if taken aback by her presence.
Rhaenys responded with an equally feigned smile. "My Lord, I had not expected to see you again,"
Varys shook his head, offering her a small, calculated smile. "Well, I always believed our paths would cross once more. After all, King Rhaegar was destined to reclaim his throne,"
Rhaenys forced a laugh. "Yes, indeed,"
"Please, come in," Varys invited, stepping aside to allow her entry.
If Varys was unsettled by Edric entering the room, he gave no indication of it. Edric dutifully closed the door behind him and remained near the entrance.
Rhaenys surveyed Varys' chamber, finding it just as plain and devoid of warmth as she remembered. She had visited Varys' quarters on multiple occasions, and each time, the eerie stillness and austerity of the room had made her uneasy. It was difficult to feel secure when sharing space with a striking viper.
"Princess, please forgive my curiosity, but may I ask why you have come here?" Varys inquired, his eyes shimmering with intrigue as he took a seat at the table, pouring himself a glass of wine.
"Do I require a specific reason to visit an old friend?" Rhaenys responded with a playful tone as she settled into the seat across from him.
Varys raised an eyebrow, humor twinkling in his eyes. "Ah, so we remain friends," he remarked. "I must confess, I had concerns that our friendship had waned, considering my role as a spy for your father against Robert,"
Rhaenys offered him an insincere smile, dismissing the concern with a wave of her hand. "That is in the past, My Lord," she reassured him.
Varys chuckled softly. "It pleases me to know that your fathers conquest of the throne has not saddened you," he commented.
Rhaenys responded with a false laugh. "Of course not, how could it?" she replied. "My father has freed me from the Usurper's grip," she spoke untruths confidently.
Varys regarded her with a knowing expression but chose not to press further on the matter.
Rhaenys sighed, letting her expression reveal a hint of sadness. "Though, I must admit that I am saddened that my son will not be King,"
"I believe any mother would feel the same," Varys empathized.
Rhaenys offered him a feigned smile.
Clearing her throat, she posed a question, although she already knew the answer. "Have there been any new tidings of Renly?"
Her husband's younger brother had been missing since the Battle of the Trident, and his whereabouts remained unknown to all, to all except me .
"I'm afraid not," Varys replied, sighing deeply before taking a sip of his wine. "It appears that the three Baratheon brothers are truly gone,"
Good , she thought to herself, Cassian will inherit Storm's End then.
"How unfortunate," she uttered with feigned sorrow. "I had hoped that my son would at least have one man with Baratheon blood to guide him now that Robert is gone,"
Varys' eyes sparkled with curiosity as he glanced at the door where Edric stood. "The boy still has his brother, a bastard, yes," he responded with a tinge of disappointment, "but still, a man with Baratheon blood,"
Rhaenys's gaze met Edric's, "Yes, I suppose you're right," her expression displaying a hint of uncertainty. He has never acknowledged Edric's presence before.
Varys raised his wine glass, peering at Rhaenys intently. "Indeed, dear Princess, you have your son's best interests at heart. But might I inquire further, I know you too well to know that you aren't just here to ask about your good brother, so, what brings you to my humble chamber today?"
Rhaenys contemplated how much she should reveal. "I have concerns, Lord Varys. Concerns regarding the recent rumors in King's Landing. Your presence has been missed, and I felt it necessary to consult you,"
Varys nodded sagely, his fingers tracing the rim of his wine glass. "Rumors do have a way of swirling in the shadows, and sometimes they can be as dangerous as any blade. You have my ears, Princess, and my undivided attention. Please, speak freely,"
Rhaenys leaned forward, lowering her voice as she lied to the man. "My concern, Lord Varys, is the potential unrest that may fester within the court. There have been whispers of discontent among the nobility. The lords and ladies who were once loyal to Robert Baratheon may not take kindly to my fathers rule. Some might still harbor dreams of a Baratheon restoration, and may seek opportunities to undermine us,"
Varys listened attentively, his expression unreadable. "I see your apprehension, Princess. It is true that the realm is filled with divided loyalties, and there are those who may use this time to sow discord,"
Rhaenys continued, "My father trusts you, Lord Varys, and so do I. I believe your talents are invaluable in these uncertain times. If you would be willing to assist us in keeping the peace and ensuring the stability of my father's reign, your efforts would not go unrewarded,"
Varys offered a half-smile. "You honor me with your trust and your fathers confidence, Princess. Rest assured, I shall do what I can to serve the realm and your family,"
Liar, you said those words to Robert and still you betrayed him.
"Is that all?" Varys inquired after a moment of silence.
"Yes," Rhaenys replied as she stood up, "But I may require your assistance should the need ever arise," she told him.
Varys nodded, his bald head gleaming under the dim light. "Of course."
Rhaenys offered him a noble smile before turning to leave. Edric opened the door, and just as she was about to slip out, the eunuch called her name.
"Rhaenys," he began, "It gladdens me to know that you wish to protect your father's reign from those who seek to destroy it," he let out a giggle that unnerved her. "It wasn't that long ago that you were begging me to ruin your father," he said with amusement.
Rhaenys stiffened, her expression unreadable, "I've changed, Lord Varys. We all change as time goes on, adapting to the shifting tides of power. We must changed to survive,"
The eunuch offered a knowing smile, and there was something unsettling in the gleam of his eyes. "Indeed, Princess. We must all adapt to survive."
With that, Rhaenys left the room, Edric following her. As the door closed behind them, she couldn't shake off the eerie feeling that Varys' knowing look and words had left her with.
Rhaenys had been making her way through Maegor's Holdfast when she suddenly heard the commotion further down the hall, filled with hisses and shouts. Her curiosity piqued as she followed the sounds down the corridor, eventually turning a corner. Drawing closer to the source of the noise, she saw a figure crouching down. His silver hair cascaded loosely over his shoulders, adorned with woven braids. Her brother let out a curse as he cupped his left hand closely to his chest.
She recognized the hissing and, once Rhaenys came closer, she had a clear view. Noticing the black fur with white streaks standing in front of Aegon. "Balerion," she called out.
In response, her cat meowed, making its presence known.
Balerion, recognizing Rhaenys' voice, swiftly padded over to her. He gently leaned against her legs, looking up at her with his gleaming feline eyes. Without hesitation, Rhaenys stooped down and scooped up her beloved companion, cradling him in her arms like she often held Elia and Cassian. She nestled him close to her chest, her fingers idly scratching behind his ears.
"What are you doing here, huh?" she whispered playfully to Balerion, who responded with a soft purr, relishing the attention from his mistress.
She shifted her attention to Aegon, narrowing her eyes at him as he straightened himself up. He glared at both Rhaenys and the cat.
"Of course, that's your damned cat," he spat out.
Rhaenys scowled at his words.
"He scratched me," Aegon said as he held his left hand up. Indeed, Rhaenys saw the blood slowly dripping from the numerous scratches that adorned his hand.
"I see," she said, unable to suppress the small smile that crept across her face.
"You think this is funny," Aegon said, his frustration evident in his voice.
Rhaenys only shrugged.
"Well, it's not," he said, "you need to train your feline better,"
Rhaenys rolled her eyes, petting the soft fur of her cat. "I'd say I've trained him perfectly fine," she responded, casting a glance at the scratches on Aegon.
Aegon huffed. "Next time your cat scratches me or anyone else, I'll have him fed to Cannibal,"
"You will do no such thing," Rhaenys replied angrily. The image of a dark and big dragon came to mind, like the one she had once seen in her dream so long ago.
She shivered as she thought about that dragon coming anywhere near her Balerion.
"I will," he said with assurance in his tone.
"Do that, and I'll—," she began angrily but was cut off by Aegon.
"You'll what?" he challenged.
She pursed her lips, "I'll tell father," not knowing what else to say.
There was a brief silence before Aegon let out a breathless chuckle.
"You'll tell Father?" he repeated, "And pray tell, why would father care about your little demon cat," he suggested with teasing.
Rhaenys thought for a minute before speaking, "He gave me the cat, you idiot," she revealed, "I don't think he'll take kindly to you killing the only gift I kept from him,"
Aegon's lips tightened at that. He rolled his eyes and walked towards her.
Edric stepped closer to her as Aegon approached. Her sworn protector had a hand on the hilt of his sword, ready to strike her brother down.
Aegon stood right in front of her now. She waited for him to speak, but he just stared at her. Their purple eyes locked in a defiant gaze, each challenging the other to look away.
The fool thinks he can scare me, I am of the blood of Nymeria and Aegon, I am not frightened by a man child.
Rhaenys had no idea how long they stood there, simply locking eyes, when they heard footsteps approaching down the hall. Both Aegon and Rhaenys quickly turned their attention toward the hallway to see who was approaching.
A man with short silver hair strolled down the hall, his pace slowing as he caught sight of Rhaenys and Aegon. Rhaenys furrowed her eyebrows, faintly recognizing the newcomer.
The man was slender, possessing a pretty face much like Aegon's, though his features were even more refined and delicate. He exuded an air of self-assuredness as he moved closer. Rhaenys' gaze focused on the Targaryen sigil brooch adorning his chest.
Her breath hitched ever so slightly as she spotted the familiar scar just above his lip. He came to a halt just a few feet away from her.
"Uncle," Aegon greeted him, his voice holding no hostility, like the one he often directed toward Rhaenys.
Their uncle ignored Aegon's greeting, his gaze fixed on Rhaenys' face. She, too, couldn't help but study him.
Viserys, a small voice whispered within her.
He had changed significantly, no longer the vague memory of a young boy. He stood before her now as a grown man.
Rhaenys remained silent, unsure of what to say to him. She hadn't thought of him much in the past, and when she did, there had never been any anger or resentment toward him. Her anger had always been reserved for Rhaegar and Lyanna, never her uncle.
As Viserys' intense gaze bore into her, Rhaenys finally yielded, looking away from his piercing eyes.
All four of them stood in silence, Rhaenys felt the heavy gaze of all three of them on her and she clutched Balerion tightly to her chest at their scrutiny.
Aegon's question eventually pierced the quiet, and Rhaenys, of all people, was grateful for her brother's arrogant voice. "What are you doing here?"
"Rhaenys," Viserys spoke slowly, as if he could not believe that she was standing in front of her. Their eyes briefly met before she shifted her gaze away, choosing to look over his shoulder.
"Rhaenys what?" Aegon's annoyance came through in his words.
Rhaenys felt the urge to smack her brother for the way he was speaking to her uncle but she refrained from doing so. I don't know Viserys well, he could be just like those spoiled twins, or worse, like Aegon. She couldn't afford to regret defending someone like that.
"Rhaenys," Viserys repeated.
"Yes, it's Rhaenys. Stop gawking at her like a fool; you've already seen her yesterday," Aegon's tone dripped with annoyance. "Now, why are you here?"
Rhaenys puzzled over it. Viserys had seen her yesterday? She tried to recall but couldn't. Maybe it was when I fainted.
Viserys glared at her brother, effectively silencing Aegon as he recoiled slightly.
"Niece," he greeted, this time offering a faint smile. The smile didn't ease her much, but she responded with politeness nonetheless.
"Prince Viserys," she responded courteously, matching his smile.
"You've grown," Viserys observed, his eyes scanning her form. Both Edric and Aegon seemed to tense at his words and his action.
Rhaenys fought the urge to frown and maintained her smile. "As have you," she replied gracefully.
Her uncle chuckled, "Indeed, so I'm told,"
Viserys' gaze shifted between Edric and Aegon before settling back on her. "Rhaegar wanted me to come and get you," he revealed, briefly casting a scrutinizing look at Aegon, "and you as well,"
Rhaenys couldn't help but ask, "About what?"
Viserys' reply was rather uninformative. "He didn't specify,"
Her thoughts raced as she wondered, Why would he want to see me? Could it be related to the child growing in my belly? Has someone told him? Anxious and curious, she nervously nibbled at her lip. However, she quickly remembered that she was being watched. With an effort, she halted her nervous habit and pushed her concerns to the back of her mind, for the time being.
"I cannot," Rhaenys politely informed her uncle, observing his raised eyebrow. "I have pressing matters that require my attention,"
Aegon, with chilled arrogance, chimed in, "The King wishes to speak with you. I'm certain your affairs can wait,"
Rhaenys turned her body to face Aegon once more. "Unlike you, Aegon and father, I take my responsibilities very seriously," she asserted firmly. She didn't miss the flash of anger in her brother's eyes.
"Excuse me, uncle," she added as she walked away from both of them, still holding Balerion.
Rhaenys had covered a fair distance before Baleron let out a meow, indicating his desire to be released. She complied, gently placing him on the ground, and watched as her black cat scampered off to parts unknown.
Edric's voice broke their shared silence. "The Hand's tower?" he inquired, sounding puzzled as he appeared to grasp where she was taking them to.
"Yes," she replied absentmindedly, gathering her gown's skirts as she started ascending the tower's steps.
"Why?" Edric inquired further, his curiosity evident in his tone.
"The girls are there, I haven't seen them since father arrived in the city," she explained, her heart heavy with guilt as she realized how frightened they might be. I should have gone to them sooner.
Upon reaching the landing, they found two guards posted at the door to the far right. She recognized the House Hightower sigil on their chests.
Baelor Hightower's men.
The guards had been conversing but stopped abruptly upon noticing Rhaenys and Edric.
"What are you doing?" the shorter of the two men demanded, his tone sharp.
"I am here to see Lady Sansa and Arya," she informed them with a hint of authority.
The two men took notice that she did not ask permission; instead, she was letting them know that she would see the girls.
"No one is to see them," the taller man grumbled.
Fools, both of them, they don't even know who I am.
Rhaenys moved closer toward the two men, Edric not far behind her.
"My father asked me to see how the girls are faring," she lied, her tone laced with cunning. "You wouldn't want to upset the King, would you?" she added slyly.
Realization quickly dawned on their faces. They stumbled over their words, with one apologizing for not having recognized her and the other for having initially denied her access to the Stark girls.
Rhaenys raised her hand to silence them. "It matters not, now please move out of my way."
Both men promptly moved aside, allowing her access to the door. Edric stepped forward, gallantly pushing the door open for her.
They exchanged brief smiles.
The room was fairly spacious, marked by a stone archway that divided it into two separate areas. Further down the room, a closed door suggested it led to the bed chamber.
As Rhaenys stepped further inside, a voice that she recognized as Arya's called out, and the sounds of approaching footsteps grew louder. The door to the bedroom opened, and out stepped the younger Stark girl.
"Arya! Get back here!" Sansa's voice followed, as she hurriedly followed her sister into the common area.
"It's only me," Rhaenys announced her presence, continuing her approach.
"Rhaenys!" Arya's voice carried a mixture of surprise and delight as she ran toward her, coming to a stop in front of her with a smile that tugged at her lips.
Rhaenys returned the smile warmly, pleased to see Arya looking well.
"Princess," Sansa greeted her with a look of astonishment.
With gentle strides, Rhaenys moved closer to the sisters, Arya and Sansa, and she deftly pushed them together, enveloping them in a tight and comforting embrace. She held them securely in her arms, providing a haven of warmth and safety.
It didn't take long for Sansa, the older of the two sisters, to start sobbing into Rhaenys' arms, her tears of relief and pent-up emotions flowing freely. Arya, displaying her characteristic feistiness, managed to extricate herself from Rhaenys' embrace, allowing her to redirect her focus towards soothing Sansa and cradling her gently in her arms.
"Stop crying, all you do is cry," Arya mumbled softly, offering words of comfort to her sister in her own unique way.
As Rhaenys continued to hold Sansa, she tenderly broke the embrace and, placing her hands on Sansa's face, she leaned down to meet the girl's gaze. "There's no need to cry, Lady Sansa," she reassured her with a soft smile.
The pale-faced girl nodded in acknowledgment, her sobs softening, with only a few sniffles heard in the otherwise quiet room. Rhaenys, still holding Sansa's hand, gestured towards the chairs and the nearby sofa. "Come, let us sit," she offered. She led Sansa to the sofa, Arya following along.
Seated comfortably on the chairs and sofa, with Edric standing watchfully by the door, the two Stark girls couldn't contain their curiosity and concern any longer. They unleashed a barrage of questions in Rhaenys' direction.
"Where's father?"
"Is Robb here?"
"Are they okay?"
Rhaenys began answering their questions.
"Your father is being kept in the black cells for now," Rhaenys began, choosing her words carefully, "Robb is being held somewhere in Maegor's Holdfast. As far as I know, both are unharmed," she reassured them.
"Can we see them?" Sansa pleaded, her blue eyes filled with longing. "Please, we haven't seen our father since he left for the Trident,"
Rhaenys gently held Sansa's hand, her touch warm and comforting. "I don't think so, my sweet girl,"
"Can we go home?" Arya's voice trembled as she asked.
Rhaenys offered Arya a sympathetic smile, her fingers gently caressing the young Stark's hair. "Not yet,"
Both girls fell into a contemplative silence, their young hearts heavy with concern for their family.
Rhaenys took a moment to survey the room, her eyes keenly observing every detail. She quickly noticed the absence of the girls' direwolves.
"Where are Nymeria and Lady?" She inquired, her curiosity evident.
"They took them away!" Arya's voice was laced with anger. "After you brought us here, they came and took them," she explained bitterly.
"I see," Rhaenys mused, understanding that the direwolves were probably being kept in the kennels, far too dangerous for the girls to have with them. Who knows what Arya would do if she had
Nymeria with her.
She would have certainly used them on the guards, even gentle Lady would surely attack them if Sansa felt desperate enough to leave.
"Can we see them?" Sansa implored, her eyes pleading for a positive answer.
Rhaenys regarded them both and replied sincerely, "I'll see what I can do."
The rest of her visit with the girls was dedicated to asking them about their well-being. Rhaenys listened to their concerns and tried to reassure them.
"I don't want to stay here," Arya grumbled, Sansa gave a sad nod in agreement.
"I'll make an appeal to the King," she promised with a warm smile. "I'll ask him to consider letting you both return to your old rooms."
After a heartfelt hug, Rhaenys bid them farewell and left their chamber.
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