The first rays of dawn began to illuminate the opulent chambers of the Red Keep in King's Landing. The grand bedchamber of Aelys Targaryen, now 34 years old, was bathed in a warm, golden light that spilled through the large, ornate windows. Her chamber, adorned with rich tapestries and fine furnishings, reflected the grandeur of her station as a high-ranking Dragonkeeper.
Aelys stirred awake, stretching gracefully before rising from bed. The soft clink of her dragon-themed jewelry and the rustling of her silken nightgown accompanied her movements. She approached the window, drawing back the heavy curtains to reveal the bustling city below. The early morning light cast a golden hue over King's Landing, illuminating the maze of cobblestone streets and towering structures.
Her personal maids entered, carrying garments and accessories for the day. As they began preparing her attire—a deep violet gown adorned with intricate dragon motifs—Aelys reflected on her role as a Dragonkeeper. Despite the grandeur of her life in King's Landing, her heart remained tied to the dragons she cared for.
As the maids finished their work, Aelys stepped into her gown, which was both elegant and functional, designed for both courtly duties and dragon care. Her hair was styled to reflect her noble status, but she kept it practical enough to manage her interactions with the dragons.
Just as she was about to leave her chamber, Verdant, her loyal dragon, made his entrance. The large, green-scaled dragon was a majestic presence, his scales shimmering in the morning light. He had grown accustomed to the castle's grandeur, but his bond with Aelys remained a comforting constant in her life.
"Good morning, Verdant," Aelys greeted, her voice filled with warmth. She approached him and stroked his snout, the bond between them evident in their shared, silent understanding.
Verdant responded with a low, rumbling purr, his large eyes reflecting his affection for Aelys. Despite the palace's opulence, his presence was a constant reminder of her roots and her responsibilities as a Dragonkeeper.
As Aelys prepared to leave her chamber, her mind turned to the day's tasks. She had a busy schedule ahead, balancing the demands of court life with her responsibilities to the dragons. Her duties included overseeing their care, ensuring their well-being, and managing their interactions with the court and visitors.
Descending the grand staircase of the Red Keep, Aelys was greeted by the familiar sights and sounds of the castle. Servants and guards moved about their duties, and the bustling atmosphere of the palace was alive with the energy of a new day.
Upon reaching the courtyard, Aelys found herself at the entrance to the dragon roost, a specialized area of the Red Keep where her dragons were housed. The roost was a blend of practicality and elegance, designed to provide the dragons with comfort while maintaining the grandeur befitting the capital's high society.
As Aelys entered the roost, she was greeted by the sight of her dragons, each with their own unique personalities. Verdant followed closely, his presence a reassuring constant. Aelys took her time checking on each dragon, ensuring they were well-fed and in good health. Changing into more practical yet elegant attire suited for dragon-riding—a fitted leather tunic with reinforced dragon-scale patches, sturdy riding breeches, and high boots—Aelys mounted her dragon, Verdant. The emerald-scaled dragon crouched beside the stables, his muscular frame ready for the flight. His eyes gleamed with a familiar, playful spark as Aelys settled into her saddle.
"Ready, Verdant?" Aelys asked with a soft smile, patting his neck. Verdant responded with a low, contented rumble, his wings fluttering in anticipation.
With a powerful thrust of his wings, Verdant lifted off the ground, carrying Aelys high above the sprawling city of King's Landing. As they soared through the crisp morning air, Aelys felt the exhilarating freedom of flight, her hair whipping around her face. The cityscape below gradually gave way to the rugged terrain leading to the dragon roost, a specialized area where her dragons were housed.
The roost was situated on a prominent ridge overlooking the surrounding landscape. As Verdant approached, the massive forms of Aelys' dragons became visible, their majestic shapes casting long shadows over the rocky ground. The dragons' scales glittered in the sunlight, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Morghul, now 100 years old, lay basking in the sun. His immense frame, stretching an impressive 108 feet, was a sight to behold. His scales, a deep blend of obsidian and sapphire, glinted ominously. His molten gold eyes tracked Aelys' approach with a gaze that spoke of ancient wisdom and power. His colossal wings, folded but still formidable, and his sleek, dark-spined tail, highlighted his commanding presence.
Syraxia, also 100 years old, stood nearby. Her scales, a shimmering mix of sapphire and stormy silver, sparkled as she adjusted her position. Her eyes, like Morghul's, glowed with molten gold, and her wings, though slightly smaller than Morghul's, spread out with a graceful, majestic air. Her smooth, streamlined tail flicked gently, reflecting her elegance and strength.
Valyra, the eldest at 121 years old, was a grand figure. Her length of 140 feet and wingspan of 300 feet made her an awe-inspiring sight. Her scales, a dazzling blend of gray and silver, shimmered in the morning light. Her vast wings created an impressive display of shadows and light as they unfolded, and her molten gold eyes conveyed the depth of her accumulated wisdom. Her regal spines and the soothing rhythm of her breath completed the picture of her formidable presence.
Verdant landed smoothly beside his fellow dragons, and Aelys dismounted with a practiced grace. Her presence was immediately acknowledged by the dragons. Cerulea, Inferna, Solaris, and Lunara, now 20 years old, approached with energetic curiosity having also experienced significant growth. Each dragon has grown to about 50 feet in length, with wingspans reaching 90 feet.
Aurus and Nyria, the 10-year-old offspring of Cerulea and Inferna, played together, their smaller forms darting in and out of the shade as they practiced flying now being 25 feet long with wingspans of 40 feet long.
Their scales, reflecting their names, have developed more distinct and vivid colors: Verdant's rich green, Cerulea's deep blue, Inferna's fiery red, Solaris's bright gold, and Lunara's cool silver. Their youthful energy is evident in their playful behavior, but their size and strength are becoming more apparent, indicating their continued growth and maturation into powerful dragons.
As Aelys made her way to the center of the roost, she was greeted by the affectionate nuzzles and gentle roars of her dragons. Each dragon had its own way of expressing their bond with her, from Morghul's deep, resonant purr to Syraxia's graceful, respectful bow.
Aelys moved among them, checking on their well-being, feeling the familiar surge of pride and love for these magnificent creatures. The dragons responded to her presence with a mixture of reverence and playfulness, each interaction a testament to their deep bond.
Aelys took a moment to reflect on how much had changed over the years. The dragons had grown into their roles as majestic creatures of power and grace, while she had continued her role as a Dragonkeeper, balancing the demands of her responsibilities with her love for the dragons. The roost had become a sanctuary, a place where both dragon and keeper could find solace and strength.
With a final pat on Verdant's neck and a soothing word to each of her dragons, Aelys prepared to return to King's Landing. Her heart was full, and she was ready to face whatever challenges awaited her in the city, knowing that her dragons were a constant source of strength and support.
As she mounted Verdant once more and took to the skies, the city below seemed a little less daunting, buoyed by the knowledge that, no matter the trials ahead, she had the unwavering support of her dragon companions.
Her father, Viserys had gotten progressively worse over the years and instead of going to Dragonstone like her sister and the others, she decided to remain in King's Landing to take care of him. As Viserys Targaryen's health declined, the realm found itself on the brink of uncertainty. The King, once a vibrant and strong ruler, was now confined to his chambers, his body ravaged by age and illness. His absence from the throne left a power vacuum, one that Alicent Hightower, his queen, swiftly filled. With Viserys bedridden, Alicent began to rule in his stead, taking charge of the realm's affairs, making decisions, and guiding the council with a firm hand.
Aelys Targaryen, despite her deep connection to her dragons and her role as a Dragonkeeper, found herself increasingly involved in the political machinations of the court. While her heart remained with her dragons, she could not ignore the growing tension within the Red Keep and the realm at large. As one of the few remaining Targaryens closely tied to both Rhaenyra's and Viserys' bloodlines, she was thrust into a precarious position.
Aelys was known for her wisdom and neutrality. While others were embroiled in the escalating conflict between Alicent's greens and Rhaenyra's blacks, Aelys endeavored to maintain peace and stability within the court. Her approach was diplomatic; she worked tirelessly to mediate disputes, counsel those who would listen, and protect her family's interests without outright choosing sides. She attended council meetings when required, offering insights that were often overlooked by those blinded by ambition and fear.
However, Aelys' influence was not without its limits. Alicent, while respecting Aelys' position, did not always heed her advice. The Queen's focus was on securing her children's future, especially her son Aegon, as the rightful heir to the Iron Throne. Alicent's actions became increasingly bold as she prepared the realm for the inevitable conflict that would arise once Viserys passed. Aelys, despite her efforts, could see the storm brewing, but she was determined to protect her family, particularly her nephews Jacaerys and Lucerys.
During these turbulent times, Aelys found solace in her dragons. While the court was rife with plotting and scheming, the roost remained a sanctuary for her. She continued to care for her dragons with the utmost dedication, ensuring they remained strong and ready for whatever the future might hold. The bond she shared with Morghul, Syraxia, Valyra, and the younger dragons like Verdant, Cerulea, Inferna, Solaris, and Lunara deepened. They were her confidants, her protectors, and in many ways, her only true allies.
Despite the growing tension, Aelys made it a point to visit her dragons daily, flying with them over the skies of King's Landing and the surrounding countryside. These flights were not only a way to maintain her connection with them but also served as a reminder to the realm of the power that still lay within the Targaryen bloodline. Her presence in the skies was a symbol of the old Valyrian might, one that could not be easily dismissed
As Viserys' health worsened, so did the relationship between Aelys and Alicent. The two women had never been close, but as the stakes grew higher, their interactions became more strained. Alicent saw Aelys as a potential threat, a Targaryen who could sway the balance of power against her children. Aelys, on the other hand, viewed Alicent's increasing control with suspicion and concern, particularly when it came to the decisions being made on behalf of the King.
Aelys often found herself at odds with Alicent during council meetings, where they clashed over issues of governance and the treatment of Rhaenyra and her children. Aelys did her best to remain respectful, mindful of her position and the need for diplomacy, but there were times when her temper flared, particularly when Alicent made decisions that Aelys believed would lead to further division and bloodshed.
Understanding the precarious situation, Aelys began to make preparations of her own. She fortified her alliances within the court, cultivating relationships with those who might support her should the need arise. She also took steps to ensure the safety of her dragons, knowing that in the event of conflict, they would be both her greatest asset and her greatest liability.
Aelys also spent more time with her nephews and nieces, particularly Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Baela. She trained them in the ways of dragon-riding and combat, imparting her knowledge and experience to ensure they were prepared for what was to come. She knew that the peace they had known for so long was fragile, and that they would need to be ready to defend their birthright.
In her quieter moments, Aelys would visit her father's bedside, offering what comfort she could. Viserys, though weakened and often delirious, would recognize her, and she would sit with him, speaking softly of the past and the future. These moments were bittersweet, a reminder of the father she had known and the kingdom he had built, now teetering on the edge of chaos.
Throughout these years, Aelys struggled with her inner conflict. She was a Targaryen, born of fire and blood, and the dragons were her kin. She had always been taught that the Targaryens were destined to rule, but now, she saw the darker side of that destiny—the ambition, the betrayal, and the inevitable war that loomed on the horizon.
Aelys did not desire power for herself, but she felt the weight of her family's legacy pressing down on her. She knew that whatever came next, she would be forced to choose a side, and that choice would define not only her future but the future of the realm.
Aelys dismounted from her horse, the cool breeze of the evening brushing against her face as she looked around the familiar courtyard. It had been six long years since she had last seen her family, and though the place felt the same, everything else seemed different. Her dragons had already flown ahead, perching themselves in the Dragonpit, while she made her way back on foot.
As she approached the entrance to the Red Keep, she saw them. Rhaenyra, Daemon, Jace, and Luke stood waiting for her. The boys, no longer boys, but young men, stood tall beside their mother. The sight of them caused her heart to swell with both pride and a bittersweet pang of time lost.
"Aelys!" Rhaenyra's voice was the first to break the silence, filled with joy and relief. She hurried forward, embracing her cousin tightly, the years of separation melting away in that moment.
Aelys returned the embrace with equal fervor, a smile breaking across her face. "Rhaenyra, it's been too long."
Daemon, standing just behind Rhaenyra, gave a nod of acknowledgment, a rare, genuine smile on his lips. "You've been missed, Aelys. It's good to have you back."
Aelys turned her gaze to Jace and Luke, who had both grown considerably since she last saw them. Jace, now tall and broad-shouldered, had a seriousness in his eyes that spoke of the weight of his responsibilities. Luke, though still carrying a hint of the mischievous boy she remembered, had matured into a confident young man.
"Jace… Luke…" Aelys stepped toward them, her voice soft with affection. "You've both grown into such fine men. I can hardly believe it."
Jace smiled, stepping forward to embrace her. "And you, Aelys. You haven't changed at all."
Luke followed, wrapping his arms around her in a hug that was both warm and familiar. "We've missed you, Aelys. It's not been the same without you here."
Aelys laughed softly, ruffling Luke's hair in a gesture that felt natural despite the years apart. "I've missed you both too. So much."
Rhaenyra stepped back, her eyes bright with unshed tears. "You've been gone too long, cousin. We've all been waiting for the day you'd return."
Aelys glanced at Daemon, who was watching the reunion with a rare softness in his eyes. "And you, Uncle Daemon. How have you been?"
Daemon shrugged slightly, his tone dry but affectionate. "Surviving, as always. The boys have kept me on my toes, as you might imagine."
Aelys chuckled, nodding in understanding. "I'm sure they have."
As they all stood together, the warmth of family enveloping them, the weight of the past six years seemed to lift. Aelys felt at home again, surrounded by those she loved, and she knew that despite all that had happened, despite the dangers that still loomed, this moment was something to be cherished.
Jace, always observant, noticed the faint scar on Aelys' abdomen, barely visible beneath her tunic. His brow furrowed in concern. "Aelys… your scar… are you alright?"
Aelys glanced down, her hand brushing over the healed wound as she smiled reassuringly. "I'm fine, Jace. It's an old wound now, and I've had plenty of time to heal. Nothing to worry about."
Luke, with a trace of his old playfulness, nudged her gently. "You've always been tough, Aelys. Not even a dragon's fire could burn you."
Aelys laughed, shaking her head. "Let's hope we never have to test that theory, Luke."
Rhaenyra, still holding Aelys' hand, looked at her with a mix of pride and concern. "You've done well, Aelys. The dragons, the duties of a Dragonkeeper… you've made us all proud."
Aelys squeezed her hand in return. "And I'll continue to do so, for as long as I can. We have much to catch up on, but first, let's enjoy this moment. It's good to be home."
Otto Hightower's face was etched with frustration, the lines of age deepening as he rubbed his temples. His usually calm and calculated demeanor was fraying, the weight of his frustrations bearing down on him as he turned to the man standing in the shadows of the chamber.
"We've tried everything," Otto muttered, his voice low but laced with anger. "Poison, arranged accidents, even subtle political maneuvers to turn her allies against her. But every attempt has been thwarted—by sheer luck, divine intervention, or her blasted dragons."
The man in the shadows, a loyal follower of Otto, stepped forward, his face partially hidden by the hood of his cloak. "Aelys Targaryen is no ordinary woman, my lord. Her bond with those beasts… it's unnatural. They sense danger, protect her even when she doesn't know it's there."
Otto stopped pacing, his green eyes narrowing as he considered the words. "Those dragons have grown far too powerful. Morghul, Syraxia, Valyra… even the younger ones, Verdant, Cerulea, Inferna, Solaris, Lunara. They're not just dragons—they're weapons, the likes of which the realm hasn't seen in centuries."
He clenched his fists, the knuckles whitening with the pressure. "Aelys has become a symbol of power, of resilience. As long as she lives, and as long as those dragons follow her command, she's a threat to our hold on the throne. A threat to my daughter's position, and to everything we've worked for."
The follower nodded slowly. "Indeed, my lord. Each time we've tried to isolate her, her dragons have thwarted our plans. The attempt to weaken her supply lines failed because Morghul set the entire shipment ablaze before it reached her. The poison we slipped into her wine was detected by Syraxia, who refused to let her drink it. And the ambush…"
Otto's face twisted with disgust at the memory. "The ambush was supposed to be foolproof. Men placed at strategic points, with archers ready to take her down the moment she was separated from the dragons. But no sooner had the signal been given than Valyra appeared out of nowhere, decimating the entire squad. Those men were seasoned fighters, and they didn't even stand a chance."
He slammed his fist on the table, the candle wobbling from the impact. "This is intolerable! How is it that one woman, one single woman, can so effortlessly thwart every attempt to remove her?"
The follower hesitated before speaking. "Aelys is beloved by the smallfolk, my lord. They see her as a protector, a symbol of the old Targaryen strength. Her bond with the dragons only reinforces that image. To kill her would risk a rebellion, one that even the crown might not be able to quell."
Otto's eyes burned with cold fury as he stared into the flame of the candle. "Rebellion or not, she must be dealt with. I will not allow her to become a rallying point for those who would see my daughter deposed. But we must be smarter. We must find a way to sever her connection with those dragons—or at the very least, isolate her from them."
He leaned closer to the follower, his voice dropping to a dangerous whisper. "We need to find a weakness, something we can exploit. If we can't kill her outright, then we must find a way to undermine her influence, to strip her of the power that makes her such a threat."
The follower nodded again, his mind already racing with possibilities. "There are rumors, my lord, of ancient methods—rituals, perhaps—that could weaken the bond between rider and dragon. It would be risky, and difficult to obtain such knowledge, but…"
Otto's eyes gleamed with the flicker of hope. "Do whatever it takes. Find this knowledge, and bring it to me. If we can separate Aelys from her dragons, she will be vulnerable. And then…"
He trailed off, a cruel smile curving his lips. "Then, she will be ours."
The follower bowed his head. "As you command, my lord."
Otto straightened, his frustration now tempered by a renewed sense of purpose. "This isn't over, not by a long shot. Aelys Targaryen may have her dragons, but even they are not invincible. And neither is she."
As the follower slipped back into the shadows, Otto returned to his pacing, his mind churning with plans and contingencies. The game was far from over, and he was determined to be the one holding the winning hand.
Aelys Targaryen stood in the center of the training yard, her feet planted firmly on the worn stones. She wore a simple tunic and breeches, her usual royal attire set aside for the sake of freedom of movement.
Before her stood Daemon Targaryen, her uncle, his expression a mixture of intensity and pride. He was dressed similarly, his dark tunic loose but cinched at the waist, allowing for swift movements. In his hands, he held Dark Sister, his famed Valyrian steel sword, the dark metal glinting in the sunlight.
In Aelys' hands was a sword that had been crafted especially for her by Daemon. The blade was forged from Valyrian steel, like Dark Sister, and had a unique design that reflected Aelys' connection to both her dragon heritage and her role as a Dragonkeeper. The blade was slightly curved, resembling a dragon's claw, with a dark, almost black sheen that shimmered in the light. The hilt was adorned with intricate carvings of dragons, their eyes set with tiny sapphires that matched the stormy color of Aelys' own eyes. The grip was wrapped in black leather, worn and softened from use, fitting perfectly in her hand.
Daemon circled her slowly, his eyes assessing her stance. "You've improved, Aelys," he remarked, his tone both approving and challenging. "But don't think I'll go easy on you just because of that."
Aelys smirked, her confidence hard-won from years of training. "I wouldn't have it any other way, Uncle."
With a sudden burst of speed, Daemon lunged forward, Dark Sister slicing through the air with deadly precision. Aelys parried the blow with her sword, the clash of Valyrian steel ringing out across the yard. She shifted her weight and countered with a swift strike aimed at Daemon's side, but he was quicker, deflecting her attack with a practiced ease.
"Good," Daemon grunted, his eyes gleaming with pride. "But you need to anticipate, not just react."
He pressed the attack, forcing Aelys to give ground. She met each of his strikes with growing confidence, her movements fluid and controlled. The sword felt like an extension of her arm, responding to her every thought and instinct. As they continued to spar, she began to push back, her strikes becoming more aggressive, her movements more daring.
Daemon's grin widened as he felt the shift in their battle. "That's it, Aelys. Don't be afraid to take the fight to your enemy."
Aelys feinted to the left, then spun to the right, bringing her sword down in a powerful arc. Daemon barely managed to block the blow, the force of it sending a shockwave through his arms. He let out a bark of laughter, exhilarated by his niece's progress.
"Well done!" he praised, but his words were cut short as Aelys, not missing a beat, followed up with a swift kick to his chest, sending him stumbling back.
For a moment, they stood still, both breathing heavily, a thin sheen of sweat on their brows. Daemon straightened, wiping a hand across his mouth, still grinning. "You've been holding back," he accused, though there was no malice in his tone.
Aelys lowered her sword slightly, a small smile playing on her lips. "Only because I wanted to surprise you."
Daemon chuckled, sheathing Dark Sister as he walked over to her. He placed a hand on her shoulder, his gaze softening. "You've grown strong, Aelys. Not just in body, but in spirit. Your father would be proud."
Aelys looked down at the sword in her hand, the weight of it comforting. "You've taught me well, Uncle. I only hope I can live up to our family's legacy."
Daemon's expression became serious, his hand tightening on her shoulder. "You carry the blood of the dragon, Aelys. You are a Targaryen, and you will forge your own legacy, one that will be remembered for generations. Never doubt that."
She met his gaze, the weight of his words settling in her chest. "I won't," she promised, her voice steady. "I will protect our family, our dragons, and our name. Whatever comes, I'll be ready."
Daemon nodded, his expression one of quiet pride. "I know you will. And when the time comes, you'll have me by your side."
Aelys smiled, a fierce determination burning in her eyes. "Then let them come."
Aelys stood by the window, gazing out at the city below.
"You were just a teenager when I last saw you," a soothing voice broke the silence.
Aelys turned to see Princess Rhaenys Targaryen approaching her, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "Well, I'm not a teenager anymore," Aelys replied with a soft chuckle.
Rhaenys smiled warmly at her, the years of separation evident in the emotion behind her gaze. "No, you've grown," she said, her voice filled with a mix of pride and sadness.
Aelys returned the smile, though it was tinged with melancholy. "I missed you, Rhaenys."
"And I missed you," Rhaenys responded, stepping closer and placing a comforting hand on Aelys' shoulder.
Aelys sighed softly, her thoughts drifting to the past and the family she longed to see. "How's my mother? And everyone else at Driftmark?" she asked, her voice tinged with both hope and fear.
"They're well," Rhaenys answered, her tone reassuring. "House Velaryon has been doing business with the Sorren Bank, which has grown greatly over the years."
Aelys turned back to the window, her gaze distant. "I wish I could be with them," she confessed, the longing in her voice unmistakable.
Rhaenys gave her a sympathetic look, her hand gently rubbing Aelys' back. She understood the struggle Aelys faced, being bound to King's Landing and the duties that came with it. "You could've stayed at Driftmark. I'm sure the King would have allowed it, especially with all that's happening at court."
Aelys looked at Rhaenys, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "Yes, I'm sure, but I didn't want to get caught up in the court's politics. Especially with Corlys' ambitions for the Iron Throne."
Rhaenys nodded, understanding her niece's reluctance. Corlys had always been ambitious, driven by his desire to see House Velaryon ascend to greater power. While he claimed it was for Rhaenys, she knew his ambitions ran deeper, fueled by his own desires.
"And how is Lord Corlys?" Aelys asked, noticing the subtle change in Rhaenys' expression. "How are you?"
Rhaenys looked at Aelys, her composure faltering slightly. It had been a long time since someone had asked about her well-being, especially in a court where politics overshadowed personal concerns. She felt a wave of emotion she had been suppressing for too long. "I've been doing well," she said, though her voice lacked conviction. "Thank you for asking."
Aelys gave her a compassionate smile, reaching out to take Rhaenys' hand. She could see through the princess's brave facade. The toll of losing her children and now watching her husband battle a life-threatening fever weighed heavily on her. Aelys squeezed Rhaenys' hand gently, offering silent support.
Rhaenys held Aelys' hand tightly, drawing strength from the simple gesture. The burden of the past years, the losses, the fears, all felt slightly more bearable in this moment of shared understanding. For the first time in a long while, Rhaenys felt seen not as the Princess Who Never Was or the wife of the Sea Snake, but simply as Rhaenys, a woman who had endured much and still stood strong.
Aelys, sensing the depth of Rhaenys' pain, spoke softly, "I can't imagine what you're going through, but I'm here. Whatever happens tomorrow, we'll face it together."
Rhaenys nodded, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "Thank you, Aelys. It means more than you know."
The two women stood in silence for a moment longer, the bond between them strengthened by their shared hardships.
One Week Later
The early morning sun is just beginning to filter through the heavy drapes, casting a dim light across the room. Aelys woke with a start, her instincts sharp from years of being a Dragonkeeper. She sat up in bed, her mind already focused on the day's duties on Dragonstone. But before she could fully rise, the door to her chambers burst open with a sudden, violent force.
Two shady men, their faces hidden in the shadows of their hoods, rushed at her with alarming speed. Before Aelys could react, they had her pinned to the ground, her arms wrenched painfully behind her back. She struggled fiercely, her heart pounding, but their grip was ironclad.
"What is this?!" Aelys demanded, her voice a mix of fury and confusion.
From the doorway, a slow, deliberate clapping echoed through the room. Aelys turned her head as much as she could, and her blood ran cold when she saw Otto Hightower stepping into the light, a smug smirk plastered across his face.
"Good morning, Lady Aelys," Otto greeted her with a mocking tone, his voice dripping with satisfaction. He stepped closer, looming over her as she lay helpless on the cold stone floor.
"Release me at once!" Aelys snarled, her eyes blazing with anger as she glared up at him. "What's the meaning of this, Hightower?"
Otto crouched down to her level, his smirk widening. "Your only protection here has finally passed away," he said slowly, savoring each word. "King Viserys is dead."
The world seemed to tilt beneath Aelys as the weight of his words sank in. Viserys, the one man who had always shielded her from the dangers of court intrigue, was gone. Her heart clenched with grief, but she refused to show any weakness in front of Otto.
"Liar," she spat, her voice low and trembling with fury. "You lie! Viserys would never allow this."
Otto's smile turned cold and sinister. "Believe what you wish, but it's true. And now, with your dear protector gone, the path is clear. I've advised Queen Alicent that her son, Aegon, should be King. Aegon, not Rhaenyra."
Aelys's eyes widened in disbelief. "You expect me to believe Alicent would betray Rhaenyra so easily? You're more delusional than I thought."
Otto chuckled darkly, rising to his full height. "You've always been a thorn in our side, Aelys. Your dragons, your strength, your stubborn refusal to bend to our will—you've been a threat to our power from the beginning."
Aelys's breath hitched as memories from years ago surfaced, memories of the night she was nearly killed in her own room. The assassin who had come for her in the dark, the cold steel of the blade that had nearly ended her life—it all made sense now.
"You," she whispered, her voice shaking with realization. "It was you. You sent that assassin."
Otto's eyes gleamed with satisfaction as he saw the horror and anger in Aelys's expression. "Yes," he admitted without hesitation. "But you survived, unfortunately. You've been a resilient little problem, but no more."
Aelys's anger boiled over, her body trembling with the effort to free herself from the men holding her down. "You'll pay for this, Hightower," she growled. "I swear it."
Otto only laughed, a cold, mirthless sound. "Such spirit. But I'm afraid you'll have little opportunity to make good on that threat. Guards, take her to the dungeon. Make sure she's well secured, and see to it she receives no food or water. We wouldn't want her to cause any more trouble."
Aelys glared at him, her voice filled with unwavering conviction. "My dragons won't let you harm me," she declared. "They'll come for me, and when they do, there won't be a place in the Seven Kingdoms where you can hide."
Otto's smirk deepened, his eyes narrowing with cold calculation. "Oh, your dragons," he said with a mock sigh. "They are indeed impressive, but don't fool yourself into thinking they're invincible. Dragons can be killed, and I've made certain preparations to see to that."
Horror flashed in Aelys's eyes, quickly followed by disgust. "You would dare?" she hissed. "You would slay dragons—creatures of such majesty and power—for your petty ambitions?"
"For the good of the realm," Otto replied smoothly, though his tone was devoid of any sincerity. "You see, as long as those beasts live, they represent a threat to the rightful order I seek to establish. And so, they must be dealt with, just as you will be."
Aelys's heart pounded with a mixture of fear and rage. The thought of her dragons—Morghul, Syraxia, Valyra, and the others—being hunted down and slaughtered was unbearable. The beasts she had raised, bonded with, and protected, now under threat from this cold, calculating man.
The guards dragged Aelys to her feet, forcing her towards the door. She struggled, but their grip was unyielding. As they hauled her away, she cast one last burning glare at Otto, her mind racing with thoughts of escape and vengeance.