Aelys returned to her room, her mind racing with thoughts of the dragon eggs. The ornate chamber, decorated with rich tapestries and elegant furniture, seemed to hold its breath as she carefully laid out the six eggs on her desk. The room was filled with the soft glow of candlelight, casting warm shadows on the walls lined with books and curiosities of Valyrian lore.
She placed Silverwing's five eggs, each with its unique hue, alongside Prince Baelor's egg. Her fingers lingered over the delicate shells, her resolve firm as she prepared to transport them to the Dragonpit for the ritual. The need to ensure the eggs' survival was pressing; their successful hatching would be vital to the strength of her dragons.
Just as she was about to secure the eggs for transport, the door to her room creaked open, and Daemon Targaryen's imposing figure filled the doorway. His gaze was sharp and calculating, and his presence immediately sent a jolt of alarm through Aelys.
"What are you doing?" Daemon's voice was low and edged with suspicion.
Aelys froze, her heart racing. She tried to mask her anxiety with a casual demeanor, but Daemon's piercing eyes saw through her facade. "Just... preparing for a little project," she replied, her tone too nonchalant to be convincing.
Daemon's eyes narrowed as he stepped into the room, his gaze fixed on the eggs. "When I visited Silverwing, I noticed a clutch of eggs missing. It didn't take long to piece together what you're up to."
Aelys's breath hitched. She had hoped to keep her actions a secret, but now that Daemon had discovered them, her mind raced for a solution. "It's not what you think," she said quickly. "I'm just—"
"Keeping secrets from the family?" Daemon interrupted, a sly smile creeping across his face. "Or are you trying to hide the fact that you're planning to hatch these eggs again?"
Aelys's eyes flashed with frustration. "It's not about secrecy. I just want to ensure these dragons thrive and survive. I don't care about power or politics."
Daemon's smile faded slightly, replaced by a more thoughtful expression. "You may not care about power, but having more dragons could be of great significance. If I were to expose this, it would have repercussions."
Aelys's face hardened. "I don't want you to tell anyone. This is for the dragons, not for the throne or any political games. I need them to be safe and healthy."
Daemon regarded her with a mixture of curiosity and amusement. "Very well. I'll keep your secret. But know this: I'll be watching. More dragons mean more power, and power cannot be ignored."
Aelys's frustration softened into a resigned acceptance. "I understand. Just keep in mind that my priority is their well-being. That's all I ask."
Daemon nodded slowly, his eyes assessing her with a newfound respect. "I'll keep my distance but remain observant. And I'll ensure no one else learns of your little project. For now."
As Daemon turned and exited the room, Aelys let out a relieved sigh. She quickly gathered the eggs, preparing them for the journey to the Dragonpit. Her thoughts were a whirl of determination and concern as she carefully placed the eggs in a secure carrying case.
With the eggs in tow, she left her room and made her way down the familiar corridors to the Dragonpit. The weight of Daemon's scrutiny lingered in her mind, but her focus remained on the task at hand. The ritual to hatch the eggs was crucial, and she would not let anything stand in her way.
It was now the year 117 AC, four years after Viserys married Alicent and one year after the royal hunt in the Kingswood. Aelys entered, her heart swelling with pride and anticipation. At eighteen, she had grown into her role as a dragonkeeper, her bond with her dragons deepened by the years. In the Dragonpit, the air was thick with the rich, earthy scent of dragons and the faint, smoky aroma of old fires as she went down to her dragons areas.
Morghul, the imposing Nightwing, lay coiled comfortably in his favorite corner, his midnight-black scales shimmering with a subtle, ethereal glow. At 84 years old, he had grown to a staggering 82 feet in length, his vast wingspan of 184 feet making him a formidable figure in the cavern. His eyes, gleaming like molten gold, followed Aelys as she approached, a low, rumbling purr resonating through the cavern.
Syraxia, Morghul's mate, rested beside him. Her scales, a beautiful blend of iridescent silver and blue, caught the light in a mesmerizing dance of color. She was equally majestic, her size matching Morghul's with a length of 82 feet and a wingspan that mirrored his own. Despite their impressive size, their demeanor was gentle as they regarded Aelys with calm, affectionate eyes.
The younger dragons, Verdant, Cerulea, Inferna, Solaris, and Lunara, were now the size of small ponies, their scales reflecting the vibrant colors they had inherited from their eggs. Verdant's emerald green hide gleamed with a vivid, almost translucent quality; Cerulea's pale gray scales shimmered with a subtle, silvery sheen; Inferna's molten gold body flickered with a warm, radiant glow; Solaris's vibrant blue scales sparkled with a twinkling effect; and Lunara's rich, dark purple hue gave her a mysterious and enigmatic presence.
Aelys walked among them, her steps light and confident. She had prepared a special treat for them today—a mixture of meats and treats she knew they enjoyed. The young dragons eagerly gathered around, their eyes bright with anticipation as they recognized her.
Nearby, Silverwing's clutch of five hatchlings were nestled in their own corner of the Dragonpit, each one now well into their fourth year and beginning to show their individual personalities. Aelys had given them names that matched their unique appearances:
Aurora: The pale silver dragon, with a smooth, lustrous surface and a gentle, ethereal presence. Her calm demeanor was matched by her graceful movements.
Mist: The muted gray dragon, whose iridescent, mystical quality hinted at a reserved yet wise nature. Mist's subtle shimmer gave her a unique, almost spectral quality.
Shadow: The dark charcoal dragon, with a velvety texture and enigmatic presence. Shadow's dark spots and matte finish suggested a mysterious and brooding temperament.
Ember: The bronze dragon, whose warm, molten appearance and fiery temperament were evident in her energetic movements and playful interactions.
Starlight: The deep blue dragon, whose silvery flecks and vibrant hue gave her a serene yet powerful presence. Starlight's calm and measured approach contrasted with the lively energy of the other hatchlings.
As Aelys approached the clutch, her eyes softened with affection. She reached out to gently pet Aurora, who nuzzled her hand with a soft purr. "You're all growing so fast," Aelys murmured, her voice filled with pride and tenderness. "I'm so proud of all of you."
Over the past four years, Aelys and Morghul had continued to nurture and grow their bond with the dragons, their connection deepening with each passing year. The evolution of their relationship was marked by numerous significant moments, particularly their frequent visits to Dragonstone, where they maintained ties with the dragons that had once been part of their family's legacy.
From the beginning, Aelys had made it a priority to keep the link between her dragons and their ancestors strong. With each journey to Dragonstone, she brought her dragons to see Vermithor and Silverwing, allowing them to reconnect with their lineage and heritage. These visits were more than mere excursions; they were rites of passage, opportunities for the dragons to experience and learn from the dragons that had shaped their lineage.
The initial trips to Dragonstone were filled with excitement and awe. The majestic Vermithor, with his immense size and fiery temperament, served as both a mentor and a figure of inspiration for Verdant, Cerulea, Inferna, Solaris, and Lunara. Aelys would observe the younger dragons as they watched in reverent silence while Vermithor demonstrated his might and grace, his presence a testament to the strength and grandeur of their lineage.
Silverwing, whose own hatchlings had been nurtured by Aelys, was a more gentle and nurturing influence. Her interactions with her offspring were filled with a motherly affection that the younger dragons emulated. Aelys took great care to ensure that her dragons understood and appreciated this lineage, watching with pride as her dragons learned from Silverwing's calm wisdom.
As the dragons grew, the frequency and purpose of these visits evolved. They were no longer just opportunities for the young dragons to see their ancestors but had become part of a larger ritual of education and growth. Aelys and Morghul made it a point to take the dragons on these journeys not only to reconnect with their family but to solidify their own understanding of the dragons' heritage and role within the Targaryen legacy.
These trips were also marked by moments of profound connection between Aelys and her dragons. During these visits, Aelys would often find herself reflecting on the bonds between her dragons and their ancestors. She spent time with each dragon individually, understanding their unique needs and helping them forge their path. The visits provided her with insights into their behaviors and needs, which she would later use to ensure the health and happiness of her dragons in King's Landing.
The passage of time saw the dragons develop their own personalities and strengths, influenced by the legacy of their forebears. Aelys took special care to document these changes and growth, ensuring that each dragon's unique qualities were preserved and celebrated. The experiences gained during these visits were instrumental in shaping their development, and Aelys took pride in the role she played in nurturing their growth.
Her attention shifted as she noticed the entrance of the Dragonpit, where Morghul and Syraxia had stirred from their rest. Morghul let out a low, rumbling growl of recognition, his dark eyes catching the light as he moved toward her. Syraxia followed, her golden scales catching the last rays of sunlight and casting a warm glow around her.
Aelys smiled as she saw her dragons gather around, their powerful forms and majestic presence filling the space with an air of ancient strength. The bond she had with them was undeniable, and as she prepared to lead them out for their evening flight, she felt a deep sense of fulfillment. "Don't worry guys...I'm not gonna let anything happen to you...I promise." she vowed, loving her dragons very much. Now I have to check on mothers' dragon. I'll be back soon."
Morghul and Syraxia gently purred as Aelys exited their Lair and came into the sunlight where of course she found Daemon looking at her, "Hello Uncle." she said curmudgeonly.
After the night when Daemon Targaryen uncovered Aelys's secret with the dragon eggs, their relationship evolved in ways that were both complex and strained. The revelation had created a rift between them, but it also led to a new understanding of each other's motivations and desires.
Daemon, with his keen intellect and ambitious nature, had recognized the significance of Aelys's actions. While he was initially intrigued by her secret, his motives were not purely personal; he saw potential in the additional dragons that could be leveraged for power. Daemon's fascination with dragons and their potential for dominance and influence was well-known, and this discovery only intensified his interest.
Despite his initial curiosity, Daemon respected Aelys's dedication to the dragons. He admired her commitment to ensuring their survival and prosperity, even if he didn't fully understand or agree with her methods. The secrecy surrounding the eggs was a point of contention, but Daemon recognized that the dragons' well-being was Aelys's primary concern.
In the months following the discovery, Daemon kept a watchful eye on Aelys, though he maintained a careful distance. He understood the value of keeping her trust while remaining vigilant about her actions. This led to a complex relationship where Daemon would occasionally drop hints or offer advice, subtly steering Aelys toward considerations he deemed beneficial. Their interactions were often marked by a blend of guarded respect and unspoken tension.
Aelys, on her part, became increasingly wary of Daemon's motivations. She valued the privacy she had fought hard to maintain for her dragons and feared that Daemon's curiosity might lead to consequences she wasn't prepared to face. Despite his assurances, she couldn't shake the feeling that his interest in the dragons was tied to his broader ambitions for power.
The tension between them occasionally flared into disagreements, particularly regarding the handling of the dragons. Daemon's insistence on the strategic value of the dragons clashed with Aelys's belief that they should be cared for and protected without ulterior motives. Their conversations often revolved around these themes, with Daemon pressing for more openness and Aelys resisting his encroachments on her secretive domain.
Despite these tensions, there were moments of genuine camaraderie and mutual understanding. Daemon, with his extensive knowledge of dragon lore and history, occasionally offered insights that Aelys found valuable. These moments of collaboration, though infrequent, helped bridge the gap between them and fostered a sense of shared purpose.
Daemon's influence over Aelys was not without its complexities. He respected her determination and resourcefulness but often found himself at odds with her methods. Their relationship became a balancing act of mutual respect and strategic maneuvering, with each trying to navigate the other's expectations while pursuing their own goals.
Ultimately, the dynamic between Aelys and Daemon was marked by an uneasy truce. They both recognized the value in each other's perspectives, even if they couldn't fully reconcile their differing approaches. Daemon remained a watchful ally, while Aelys continued to protect her dragons with a fierce dedication, all while trying to navigate the shifting sands of their relationship.
"Hello niece. How's your army of dragons coming along?" he asked.
"They are not weapons, they are creatures of fire and flesh." Aelys sighed as she made her way to the Red Keep.
"Everyone knows that but they can also be weapons of war." Viserys stated.
"Hence why most of them don't live to be as old as Balareon the Dread."
"Dragons aren't only to be used for please try flights you know." Deamon called to her as she entered the Red Keep.
"Oh Shut up!" Aelys barked before slamming the door behind her.
Rhaenyra, in her dragon riding clothes, was in the godswood sitting under the weirwood tree reading a history book, while a mummer was singing about Princess Nymeria and how the legendary woman came to Westeros with her ten thousand ships. Alicent came to the godswood and approached Rhaenyra as the mummer stopped singing to give respect to the queen.
"Did I tell you to stop?" Rhaenyra asked, not looking at her friends, mainly Alicent. She was still angry by the turn of events of Alicent marrying her father. "From the beginning", she said as she flipped through the pages of her book as the murmur slowly sat back down and played again.
"Rhaenyra?" Alicent called her friend, who was also her stepdaughter.
"Yes, my Queen?" Rhaenyra asked, not looking at Alicent.
"Your presence is wanted in the outer courtyard." Alicent said, "The royal hunt readies to depart."
"I've decided to remain here and read instead." Rhaenyra dismissed rudely to the queen.
Alicent, not wanting to be ignored, told the murmur, "You may go Samwell."
"You are to stay by order of the Princess." Rhaenyra demanded. The murmur looked back and forth to the queen and princess, not sure what to do.
"The Queen commands you to leave the godswood at once." Alicent commanded with more authority in her tone as Leah cringed slightly from her pulling the rank card. The murmur, having no choice but to obey the queen, bowed his head and left the women alone.
"The king wishes you to join us." Alicent said as she walked a few steps closer to Rhaenyra.
"The king has much to celebrate." Rhaenyra said, still looking at her book, "He does not need me."
"Perhaps the hunt could be fun." Alicent added, nervously.
"Is it the kings command?" Rhaenyra asked.
"Yes, but it-"
"Then at once, Your Grace." Rhaenyra replied as she shut her book closed and got up to walk away to get dressed for the hunt.
"But it shouldn't be. None of it needs be this way in truth, Rhaenyra," she tried again, but Rhaenyra ignored her as she passed by her,
"I don't know what to do." Alicent sighed.
Hours later, the entourage was leaving King's Landing as they made their way to the Kingswood.
It was a forest that was besides the city which allows nobles and the royal family to hunt and hawk for celebratory occasions. The royal family were in the royal carriage as they were waiting to reach their destination. Viserys and Alicent were sitting in the back seats with their son in between who was being entertained by his nurse. Meanwhile Rhaenyra was sitting in the front seat.
"Well isn't this splendid," Viserys began to say, "The whole of our family off to celebration and adventure in the Kingswood." Everyone in the carriage smiled as he said those words, except for Rhaenyra who gave a halfhearted smile.
"Where's Aelys?" Alicent asked.
"She wanted to stay in King's Landing and keep attending to the dragons." Viserys informed.
"Sometimes I wonder what's going on through that girls' head." Alicent stated. "She seems to like the dragons more than her own family."
"That's a bit of an exaggeration." Rhaenyra assured on her sisters' behalf.
"So annoying," Aelys grumbled to herself as she walked through the Red Keep to the secret passages underneath to the lair of one very special dragon. Almost as special as Vermithor, Silverwing, their children, Morghul and Syraxia and their children.
Aelys made her way through the dimly lit corridors beneath the Red Keep, her footsteps echoing softly against the cold stone walls. The air grew cooler as she approached the chamber where her father had revealed the ancient dragon. She could see the faint glow of torches flickering from within, casting long shadows across the floor.
As she entered the chamber, Aelys's breath caught in her throat. There, nestled in the shadows, lay Valyra, the great dragon of her mother's past. The dragon's mottled gray and silver scales gleamed softly in the torchlight, the subtle glimmer adding to the creature's ethereal presence.
The discovery of Valyra, the ancient dragon living beneath the Red Keep, marked a profound moment in Aelys's life. The dragon's presence had been a closely guarded secret, revealed to Aelys by her father, King Viserys. As Aelys stood before the slumbering giant, she felt a deep sense of connection to her mother and her family's storied history with dragons.
Valyra, with her mottled gray and silver scales, was a living testament to the Targaryen legacy at 105 years old making her older that either of her dragons.
The dragon's grandeur spoke of a past filled with both majesty and reverence. The subtle creases in Valyra's scales were evidence of a long life, one that had seen the rise and fall of many eras. The serene repose of the dragon was a stark contrast to the vibrant energy of Aelys's own dragons, yet it resonated with a calm and ancient wisdom.
Viserys's explanation of Valyra's significance deepened Aelys's understanding of her family's bond with dragons. "This dragon," Viserys had said, "was your mother's companion, one of her greatest loves." The revelation about Valyra's age—born in the Year 12 AC—highlighted the depth of the Targaryen connection to these majestic creatures. Valyra's longevity was a testament to the enduring nature of the bond between Targaryens and their dragons.
As Aelys reached out to touch Valyra's ancient scales, she could almost feel the echoes of the past. The dragon's scales were cool and smooth, yet carried a weight of history and affection. "I never knew," Aelys murmured, her voice filled with awe. "It's beautiful."
Viserys's gentle smile held both pride and nostalgia. "Your mother loved Valyra deeply. The dragon was her constant companion, and they shared a bond similar to the one you have with your own dragons. I wanted you to see Valyra because she represents a part of our heritage that is often forgotten."
In the months that followed, Aelys found herself increasingly drawn to Valyra. The dragon's presence became a source of solace and inspiration. She would visit Valyra often, sitting quietly beside the dragon and reflecting on the legacy of her mother and the Targaryen line. The ancient dragon's calm demeanor offered a sense of continuity and stability in a world that was ever-changing.
Aelys's relationship with Valyra grew from mere curiosity to a profound sense of connection. She saw in Valyra not just a symbol of her mother's love but also a mirror of her own journey with her dragons. The experience deepened Aelys's commitment to caring for her own dragons, reinforcing her belief in the sacred bond between Targaryens and their draconic companions.
In secret moments, Aelys would share stories of her adventures with Morghul, Syraxia, and the hatchlings with Valyra, believing that the ancient dragon could somehow understand and appreciate the tales of the new generation. Valyra's presence became a grounding force for Aelys, a reminder of the enduring legacy of her family's dragon-riding heritage.
Viserys's revelation about Valyra also fostered a sense of responsibility in Aelys. The dragon's enduring presence was a constant reminder of the importance of preserving the Targaryen connection to dragons. It reinforced her resolve to protect and nurture her own dragons, ensuring that their legacy would continue for generations to come.
As Aelys grew older, the lessons she learned from Valyra and her interactions with Daemon became intertwined in shaping her approach to the dragons. Valyra's presence was a silent testament to the importance of honoring the past while forging ahead into the future. The ancient dragon's legacy continued to inspire and guide Aelys in her journey as a dragon rider and guardian.
Aelys turned from Valyra's resting place with a sense of solemnity, but her mood was abruptly shifted when she caught sight of Daemon standing in the shadows of the corridor. His presence was unexpected, and Aelys groaned softly, her frustration evident.
"Daemon," she said, her tone carrying a mix of weariness and annoyance. "I should have known you'd be lurking around. You've been keeping a close eye on me."
Daemon smirked slightly, crossing his arms as he leaned casually against the stone wall. "Indeed, I have. I must say, I'm quite intrigued by what I've seen."
Aelys sighed and rubbed her temples. "What do you want, Daemon? I've had a long day, and I need to get some rest. Can't this wait?"
Daemon's expression turned serious. "It's not just a matter of curiosity anymore. What you're doing with the dragons—keeping them, raising them, hiding them—it could have significant implications."
Aelys frowned. "I'm aware of that. They're my dragons. I'm not doing anything wrong. I'm trying to protect them."
Daemon shook his head, his gaze intense. "It's not just about protection. If war were to come, those dragons could become a crucial asset—or a dangerous liability. Imagine the power they represent. If word got out about your collection, or worse, if they were used by the wrong hands… it could shift the balance."
Aelys stopped in her tracks, her shoulders tensing. "I don't care about power. I care about their well-being. They're not tools for war. They're living beings with their own lives."
Daemon's eyes softened slightly, but his tone remained firm. "I understand that. But you must see the bigger picture. We're living in precarious times. Every advantage counts, and every secret has potential consequences."
Aelys's frustration bubbled over. "So, what is it you're suggesting, Daemon? That I should just let them go? That I should stop caring for them?"
Daemon's gaze was steady, and he took a step closer. "No, I'm suggesting that you be cautious. Keep your secrets, but also be prepared for the realities of our world. You're doing well by them, but remember, not everyone will see them as you do."
Aelys's eyes narrowed as she met his gaze. "I don't need you to lecture me about my choices. I'm fully aware of the risks. What I need is to be left alone to do what I believe is right."
Daemon raised an eyebrow. "Fine. I'll respect your wishes. But remember, Aelys, I'll be keeping an eye on things. Not to intrude, but to ensure that whatever comes, we're prepared."
Aelys took a deep breath and started walking toward the exit, her steps echoing in the corridor. "I'll keep that in mind. For now, I need to get some sleep. I'll see you around, Daemon."
As she made her way back to King's Landing, Aelys felt a mixture of relief and unease. Daemon's words weighed heavily on her mind, but she remained resolute in her commitment to her dragons. The balance between secrecy and responsibility was delicate, but she was determined to navigate it with care and dedication.
In the quiet of the night, the moonlight filtered softly through the curtains of Aelys's room, casting a serene glow across the furnishings. Aelys lay peacefully asleep, her chest rising and falling with each breath. The room was a sanctuary of tranquility, with shelves lined with books, a sturdy oak desk cluttered with papers, and a large, comfortable bed draped with rich fabrics.
Without warning, a shadowy figure slipped through the door, his movements silent but deliberate. The intruder's face was obscured by a hood, but the glint of a dangerous dagger was unmistakable in his hand. His steps were purposeful as he approached Aelys's bed.
Aelys stirred, sensing a disturbance. Her eyes fluttered open, and she immediately registered the looming threat. Her heart raced as she took in the sight of the man standing ominously by her bed.
"What—" Aelys began, but before she could fully react, the man lunged at her with the dagger.
Instinct took over. Aelys scrambled out of bed, narrowly avoiding the blade as it sliced through the air where she had been. She quickly grabbed a nearby bedside lamp and swung it at the intruder, shattering it against his shoulder. The room erupted into chaos, furniture overturning and objects crashing to the floor as they fought.
The man was relentless, slashing at Aelys with a furious intensity. She dodged and countered, using every ounce of her training and resourcefulness to stay one step ahead. Her breathing was ragged as she parried his blows, her mind racing to find a way out of the deadly confrontation.
The noise of their struggle echoed through the halls of the Red Keep, rousing the occupants from their sleep. Daemon, Viserys, Rhaenyra, Alicent, and Otto Hightower, alerted by the commotion, rushed toward Aelys's room.
As they reached the door, Verdant and Starlight, sensing their beloved human was in grave danger, burst into the room. The two dragons were a formidable sight, their eyes glowing with fierce determination. Verdant, with his rich emerald scales, and Starlight, with her silvery-blue sheen, moved with powerful, fluid grace.
Without hesitation, Verdant launched a surge of green flame toward the intruder, while Starlight swooped in with a thunderous roar. The man barely had time to react before the dragons overwhelmed him with a combined assault. Their fiery breath and swift claws made short work of the intruder, who fell to the ground, defeated and lifeless.
Daemon, Viserys, Rhaenyra, Alicent, and Otto Hightower burst into the room, their faces a mix of shock and horror at the scene before them. The room was in disarray, with broken furniture and scattered debris. The dead intruder lay crumpled on the floor, while Verdant and Starlight hovered protectively near Aelys.
"By the gods," Viserys exclaimed, his voice filled with concern. "What happened here?"
Aelys, still catching her breath and visibly shaken, looked up at her father and the others. Her eyes were wide with fear and relief as she tried to steady her voice. "There was an intruder. He tried to kill me. I don't know who he was or why he came, but he had a dagger and..."
Rhaenyra stepped forward, her expression a mix of anger and worry. "Are you alright, Aelys?"
Aelys nodded, though her hands trembled. "I'm fine. Thanks to Verdant and Starlight. They sensed the danger and intervened."
Daemon's gaze was sharp as he looked at the lifeless body on the floor. "This wasn't a random attack. Someone wanted you dead. We need to find out who sent him and why."
Alicent's eyes were filled with a mix of shock and disbelief. "This is alarming. We need to increase security immediately."
Otto Hightower, ever pragmatic, nodded in agreement. "We must investigate this thoroughly. There are many who would seek to use such an attack to their advantage."
Viserys looked at Aelys with a mixture of concern and relief. "We'll make sure you're safe. No one will harm you while we can help it."
Aelys glanced at the dragons, who had resumed a more relaxed stance but remained vigilant. "Thank you. I don't know what would have happened without them."
In the dimly lit confines of Otto Hightower's private chambers, the atmosphere was tense. Otto, seated behind a large mahogany desk cluttered with documents, tapped his fingers impatiently as he waited for his informant to arrive. The flickering light of a single candle cast long shadows on the walls, adding to the gravity of the conversation about to unfold.
The door creaked open, and a cloaked figure stepped inside. Otto's eyes narrowed as he recognized his trusted follower, a man known for his discretion and efficiency. He gestured for the man to approach.
"Report," Otto commanded, his voice low and controlled.
The follower bowed slightly before speaking. "My lord, the assassination attempt failed. The dragons intervened before the assassin could complete his task."
Otto's expression darkened. "I suspected as much. Those infernal beasts are becoming more of a nuisance by the day. And Aelys—how is she?"
"She's unharmed, my lord. The dragons were quick to act. They killed the assassin on the spot. It seems her bond with them is stronger than we anticipated."
Otto scowled, his irritation evident. "Aelys is becoming a problem. Her constant trips to the Dragonpit, her growing influence among the Dragonkeepers... It's all too suspicious. She's maneuvering herself into a position of power under our noses."
The follower nodded in agreement. "Indeed. The Dragonkeepers of King's Landing have been consulting her frequently, which only strengthens her position. It's becoming clear that her aspirations go beyond mere curiosity."
Otto leaned forward, his fingers steepled as he contemplated the implications. "Her desire to be a Dragonkeeper, and the way she's managing to gain their trust... It's a threat to our plans. She could very well become a powerful figure if left unchecked. We cannot afford to let her continue on this path."
"What do you propose, my lord?" the follower asked.
"We must find another way to eliminate her," Otto replied, his tone resolute. "The dragons were an unexpected complication, but that doesn't change the fact that she needs to be removed. We cannot let her ambitions disrupt our control."
The follower's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "Perhaps we could orchestrate an accident or frame her for a crime. That way, we avoid direct confrontation and keep our hands clean."
Otto shook his head slowly. "No. We need to ensure that any attempt on her life is executed flawlessly. We cannot afford another failure. And we must be cautious. The more she entangles herself with the dragons, the more vigilant we must be."
He paused, considering the next steps. "Arrange for another attempt, but this time, ensure it is foolproof. We must also investigate her recent activities more thoroughly. Her daily trips to the Dragonpit, her dealings with the Dragonkeepers—it all points to something more than mere interest."
The follower nodded. "Understood. I will make the arrangements and gather more information."
"Good," Otto said, dismissing the man with a wave of his hand. "See to it that this matter is handled discreetly. We cannot afford any more setbacks."
As the follower left the room, Otto stared into the flickering candlelight, his mind racing with calculations and contingencies. The failed assassination attempt had only heightened his resolve. Aelys's growing influence was a threat he could not ignore, and he was determined to neutralize it before it became an insurmountable obstacle.
The morning sun streamed through the windows of the Hightower residence, casting long, golden rays across the richly decorated room where Otto Hightower waited. His demeanor was solemn as he approached Alicent, who was seated at her vanity, her fingers deftly arranging her hair.
"Alicent," Otto began, his voice tinged with urgency. "We need to discuss a matter of great importance."
Alicent glanced up, her expression one of mild curiosity mixed with fatigue. "What is it, Father? It's early, and I have many duties to attend to."
"This is no ordinary matter," Otto said, taking a seat across from her. "It concerns Aelys Targaryen."
Alicent's eyebrows furrowed slightly. "Aelys? What about her?"
Otto leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "I have reason to believe that she poses a significant threat to our family's position."
Alicent looked puzzled. "A threat? Aelys is just a young woman with a fascination for dragons. Surely, you cannot be serious."
"I am serious," Otto said firmly. "Consider her recent behavior. Her frequent trips to the Dragonpit, her deepening bond with her dragons, and the way the Dragonkeepers seem unusually pleased with her presence. It's more than mere interest."
Alicent's skepticism was evident. "She's merely pursuing her passion. How could this possibly threaten us?"
Otto's expression hardened. "Alicent, you must understand the full scope of the situation. Her growing influence with the dragons and the Dragonkeepers could be a precursor to something far more dangerous. We've seen how power shifts within the Targaryen family can destabilize the entire realm."
Alicent shook her head, struggling to reconcile Otto's concerns with her own perception of Aelys. "I still don't see how this one girl could be so threatening."
Otto's voice grew more intense, his patience wearing thin. "You must see the bigger picture. Viserys's health is failing. When he dies, Rhaenyra will likely seize the throne. If that happens, your children's lives will be at risk. Rhaenyra will not hesitate to eliminate anyone who might threaten her claim, including your own offspring."
Alicent's face paled slightly as the gravity of Otto's words sank in. "What are you suggesting?"
Otto's gaze was unwavering. "You have two choices. You can start plotting to secure your position at court against Rhaenyra, ensuring that your children's lives are protected. Or you can fully commit to ingratiating yourself with Aelys, hoping that this will make Rhaenyra more merciful when she comes into power."
Alicent's eyes widened in realization. "You're saying that if I align with Aelys, it might save my children?"
Otto nodded gravely. "It is a possibility, but it's a gamble. You must decide where your loyalties lie. Your naivety could cost you dearly if you do not act decisively."
Alicent's voice wavered as she grappled with the implications of Otto's words. "But, Father, you speak of betrayal and manipulation. Is that truly the only way?"
Otto stood, his face etched with concern. "The world of politics and power is harsh and unforgiving. Love and loyalty often take a backseat to survival. I only wish to protect you and your children."
He reached out, pulling Alicent into a brief, desperate embrace. "I love you, Alicent. I only want what is best for you."
Alicent's eyes glistened with unshed tears as she clung to her father, her heart torn between his advice and her own values. "I understand, Father. I'll… I'll think about what you've said."
Otto gave her a final, poignant look before turning and striding purposefully towards the door. "Be vigilant, Alicent. Time is of the essence."