Driftmark, High Tide – 122 AC

As expected, the moment Rhaenyra and Laenor departed on their Royal Progress, the court at King's Landing erupted into a flurry of activity. Alicent and the Greens wasted no time in trying to regain the pull and power they once held, scheming and plotting behind closed doors. It was all rather amusing to me, if I'm being honest. The Greens seemed to believe that Rhaenyra was the puppet behind the Black Faction, but in reality, they couldn't be more wrong. They were all fools, blinded by their own arrogance and ignorance.

The Greens planned to use Aegon as a puppet king, but they failed to consider the fact that House Velaryon had similar ambitions for Rhaenyra. My niece may not have been raised for rulership, but she possesses all the qualities of an excellent leader. Yet, Viserys's indulgence and foolishness have left her ill-prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. Despite the lessons that Corlys and I have been imparting to her, I know that Rhaenyra will need guidance and influence to make the right decisions.

If left to her own devices, Rhaenyra would undoubtedly make choices that would only serve to further destabilize the realm. I've seen the way she looks at Harwin Strong, her secret paramour, and I know that if given the chance, she would cast aside Laenor and marry him without a second thought. Such a decision would only fuel the rumors of her children's bastardy, further complicating an already precarious situation. Which is why Corly, and I decided to try and influence Rhaenyra as much as we could during her ruling, all while training Jacaerys to be a good king. Let's hope he becomes the first great king of Westeros, because until now House Targaryen have only birthed great conquerors, weak kings, cruel princes, or grand queens that never got the chance to rule.

As I watch events unfold at court, I know that I must tread carefully. As much as Alicent and her Greens tried to expand their influence, they found themselves thwarted at every turn. With Corlys and me at court, and all our bases covered, they were left scrambling to gain a foothold in the corridors of power. Despite their best efforts, they simply could not match our cunning and resourcefulness. At the Small Council, only the Master of Laws remained loyal to the Greens, a lone voice amidst a sea of opposition. Even when Alicent attempted to place her brother Gwayne at the City Watch to spy for their cause, it ended in tragedy. Gwayne's untimely demise was not orchestrated by any of us—it was a simple twist of fate, a cruel irony that left the Greens reeling in disbelief.

The Gods, it seemed, were playing their own game, favoring one faction over the other with capricious abandon. At one time, it had been the Greens who held sway, their influence spreading like wildfire throughout the realm. But now, it was our turn to bask in the favor of the gods, to seize the opportunity that lay before us and cement our place at court. We had come so far, endured so much, and now, victory was within our grasp. But we could not afford to become complacent, not when the stakes were so high, and our enemies lurked in every shadow.

No, we would need to remain vigilant, to always stay one step ahead of our adversaries. For the game of thrones was a treacherous one, and only the strong and the cunning would emerge victorious in the end. There was a reason why Old Town had survived this long, even with their treacherous nature. So, I was not surprised when House Hightower was willing to use the death of one of their one to expand their power. After the funeral of Gwayne Hightower, which had brought Otto Hightower back to King's Landing, Alicent wasted no time in trying to influence Viserys to allow Otto to remain at the Red Keep. She claimed that she needed his company after the loss of her brother.

I was not going to allow that to happen, without putting a stop to it. I requested a private dinner with the king, a chance for us to reminisce about our family and discuss matters of importance. As two of the three remaining grandchildren of King Jaehaerys, we had much to discuss, and I knew that Viserys would be eager to oblige.

When Viserys eagerly accepted my invitation, a pang of guilt tugged at my heart. Manipulating my cousin in such a way didn't sit right with me, but then I remembered the mess he had made of the political situation we found ourselves in. This was his mess to clean up, and if a little manipulation was what it took to set things right, then so be it.

As I prepared for the dinner, a sense of determination filled me. This was my chance to sway Viserys to our cause, to ensure that he remained steadfast in his support of Rhaenyra and the Blacks. I couldn't afford to let sentimentality or guilt cloud my judgment, not when the fate of the realm hung in the balance. And so, as I sat across from Viserys at the dinner table, savoring the fine food and wine, I knew that I had to tread carefully. Every word, every gesture had to be calculated, designed to sway him to our side without arousing suspicion. It was a delicate dance, but one that I was willing to perform if it meant securing victory for our cause.

During the dinner with Viserys, I carefully planted the seeds of doubt in his mind, subtly weaving my words to provoke a reaction. When the topic of our shared grandchildren arose, I slyly remarked how relieved I was that the rumors of their bastardy had finally been put to rest. I knew it would strike a nerve with Viserys, and sure enough, his anger simmered just beneath the surface.

But I wasn't finished yet. I seized the opportunity to voice my discomfort with Otto's presence at the Red Keep, citing his past accusations against Rhaenyra as evidence of his unsuitability. It was a risky move, but one that paid off when Viserys acquiesced to my request the following day, sending Otto back to Oldtown.

Alicent was undoubtedly displeased by my actions, and I could feel her icy glare burning into me from across the throne room. But I knew that I had done what was necessary to protect Rhaenyra and our cause. Otto's influence over Viserys was too great to be ignored and allowing him to remain at the Red Keep would have posed a significant threat to our plans. As I watched Otto depart, a sense of satisfaction washed over me. Despite losing the favor I had recently earned from the Queen, I knew that I had made the right decision. The safety and security of our family were paramount, and if that meant sacrificing my own standing with the Queen, then so be it.

In the end, the good outweighed the bad. Otto's departure had removed a significant obstacle from our path, bringing us one step closer to victory in the struggle for the Iron Throne. Though, it did come with rapid consequences. It came as no surprise to me when I learned that Alicent had attempted to sow discord between Aemond and me. But her efforts were in vain, for the bond that had formed between Aemond and me during our time together in the Stormlands would be hard to break.

Despite Alicent's best efforts, I continued to spend time with Aemond, taking him and Daeron flying with me on Meleys, as their hatchlings were still young to take the boys into the skies. In those moments, all thoughts of politics and intrigue faded away, replaced by the simple joy of flight and the bond shared between dragon and rider. No matter how hard Alicent tried to tear us apart, she could never break the bond that united us. But Aemond and Daeron were not the only ones with whom I shared the skies. I also flew side by side with Helaena on Dreamfyre, her blue scales shimmering in the sunlight as we danced through the clouds. And on occasion, I joined Aegon and Sunfyre on their flights, the wind whipping through my hair as we raced across the sky.

Poor Aegon, he was a mess that someone needed to fix, and I was more than willing to take on the task. It was clear to me that Aegon had no desire for the crown, nor for the burdens that came with it. All he wanted was to be left alone with his wine, and I could certainly arrange that.

I had observed Cassandra Baratheon closely. The girl was as strong-willed as any Baratheon, with a fierce determination to carve out her own path in life. She had no interest in being anyone's lady-wife or queen-consort—she wanted power and autonomy, to be a regent in her own right with no man dictating her actions. And with Aegon by her side, she could achieve just that.

No one would dare challenge Cassandra's claim as the first Lady Paramount of Storm's End, not when she held the royal decree of a king declaring her as the rightful heir. And with Aegon as her husband, she would have the backing of a prince of the realm. Anyone foolish enough to oppose her would have to face the wrath of Sunfyre, and few would be willing to risk such a confrontation. Moreover, Aegon would enjoy a life of ease and comfort, free from the burdens of rulership. And with his children's bloodline diluted, they would have no claim to dragons, sparing them from the dangers that often accompanied such power.

It was a solution that seemed to satisfy all parties involved. Cassandra would get the power she desired, Aegon would be spared the responsibilities he dreaded, and their children would be free from the burdens of being used as future puppet kings and princesses. Corlys and I had a heart-to-heart about the plan. We agreed it was the best course of action to betroth Cassandra to Aegon. After all, Borros and Cassandra Baratheon owed Lucerys a life debt. They wouldn't dare raise their swords against the Blacks, not even if Cassandra married Aegon. So, we decided to run it by Rhaenyra and Leanor when they return from the Royal Progress, before approaching the King.

Speaking of Rhaenyra and Leanor, their Royal Progress was going off without a hitch. I couldn't be prouder of what I was hearing and the letters my son and grandchildren had been sending me. It warmed my heart to see them thriving, especially in such uncertain times. After Riverrun, Rhaenyra's Royal Progress continued towards Stone Hedge, seat of House Bracken. Then to Raventree Hall, seat of House Blackwood.

As expected, House Blackwood wasn't thrilled that House Bracken was visited first. There was always tension between them, given their long-standing rivalry. But Leanor, with his silver tongue, worked his charm and managed to smooth things over. He befriended a cousin of Lord Blackwood, which eventually led to both houses pledging their allegiance to the Blacks.

However, I couldn't help but wonder about the nature of the relationship between this cousin of Lord Blackwood and my son. But it wasn't something I wanted to delve into—I had no desire to pry into my son's personal affairs. The last thing a mother wants is to know who their son takes to bed. As long as our alliances were secure and our goals were being met, that was all that mattered to me. And my family's happiness, of course.

As the updates poured in from Laenor's letters, I couldn't help but feel a mix of anticipation and concern. The Royal Progress was forging ahead, weaving its way through the Riverlands with each stop bringing its own set of challenges and triumphs. The news of the final leg of their journey through the Riverlands brought a sense of closure. Seagard, Oldstones, and Lord Harroway's Town.

With the Riverlands behind them, the Royal Progress set its sights on the next destination: the Vale.

As then they took the High Road towards the Vale. Their first stop in the Vale was The Bloody Gate, a formidable entrance that guarded the path to The Eyrie, seat of House Arryn. Rhaenyra's decision to stay in The Eyrie for a whole moon raised a few eyebrows, including mine. But any murmurs of favoritism were quickly silenced by the court, who saw it as a touching tribute to her late mother, Queen Aemma.

From Laenor's detailed letters, I learned that Rhaenyra's time in The Eyrie was indeed meaningful. She had the opportunity to explore the castle where her mother was born and raised, immersing herself in the stories of Aemma's childhood. They even stayed in the very bedroom where Aemma once slept. As I read Laenor's accounts of their time in The Eyrie, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride that Rhaenyra was finding solace and closure in the embrace of her mother's house.

After departing from The Eyrie, their journey through the Vale continued with visits to Heart's Home, Snakewood, Longbow Hall, and Old Anchor. But it was at Runestone, seat of House Royce, that they encountered an unexpected twist. According to Leanor's letter, the new Lord Royce was firmly entrenched in the Green Faction—a revelation that struck me as more amusing than frustrating. The notion that Daemon had no involvement in Rhea Royce's death was almost comical to me. After all, my cousin Daemon was certainly capable of stirring up trouble, but it seemed this time he was innocent of the accusations hurled his way.

As I read Leanor's words, I couldn't help but find irony in the situation. It appeared that House Royce's allegiance to the Greens was more a reflection of personal agendas and rivalries than any genuine belief in their cause. It was a reminder that politics in the Vale could be as fickle and unpredictable as the winds that swept through its mountains.

Despite the new Lord Royce's affiliations, I remained unfazed. The support Rhaenyra had garnered during their time in the Vale was undeniable. Her warmth and charisma had won over the hearts of the Vale lords and ladies, and it was clear that their loyalty lay firmly with her and our cause. It also helped that Rhaenyra had Arryn blood and was the daughter of a valewoman Queen. The Vale had never forgiven the King nor the Hightowers for the disrespect they showed to the memory of the deceased and still very well-loved Queen Aemma.

After Rhaenyra and Laenor's journey to Runestone, Corlys and I eagerly awaited the arrival of our family in High Tide. It had been a while since we last saw them, and the anticipation tingled in the air as we prepared for their arrival. Gulltown, Rook's Rest, and Claw Isle had been mere stops along the way, but High Tide held the promise of reuniting with our son and our precious grandchildren.

When the time finally came for us to meet in High Tide, it was as if the world lit up with joy. The smiles on our faces mirrored the happiness in our hearts as we embraced our family once more. Lucerys, Jacaerys, and Joffrey rushed into our arms, their laughter like music to our ears. Corlys and I couldn't contain our excitement as we showered our grandchildren with hugs and kisses, eager to spoil them rotten during our time together.

High Tide was abuzz with celebration, with Corlys pulling out all the stops to make it a truly unforgettable occasion. The extravagant banquet at High Tide were like something out of a fairy tale. The halls were adorned with shimmering tapestries and flickering candles, casting a warm glow over the assembled lords and ladies from across the Narrow Sea. It was a sight to behold, with the air filled with laughter and music, and the scent of sumptuous food tantalizing our senses.

As I looked around the room, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the grandeur of it all. Lords and ladies mingled, their finery shimmering in the candlelight, while servants bustled about, ensuring that everyone's glasses were full and plates overflowing with delicious delicacies.

Among the guests were familiar faces and some unexpected ones too. The Prince of Pentos had graced us with his presence, and then there was Daemon, Laena, and their daughters. Corlys and I were, of course, delighted to have both of our children and all our grandchildren under the same roof.

I couldn't help but notice the subtle tension that hung in the air when Daemon's gaze fell upon Lucerys. When Daemon caught sight of Lucerys wearing the jade tiara he had once gifted Rhaenyra, I saw a flicker of something in his eyes. For a moment, it seemed as though time stood still as Daemon took in the sight before him. Lucerys, oblivious to the significance of the tiara, wore it with the grace of a princess, her youthful innocence shining through. And yet, there was a hint of sadness in Daemon's eyes, as if he had been reminded of a past, he would rather forget. But to his credit, Daemon said nothing, keeping his composure in front of the assembled guests. It was clear that the young girl had him wrapped around her finger, and perhaps it was for the best that he didn't make a scene.

As the young children played and danced, their laughter echoing through the hall, the adults at the high table engaged in a lively conversation in High Valyrian. It was a rare sight, seeing so many tongues wagging in the ancient language.

As Rhaenyra's words danced on the air, her voice carried a hint of sharpness, her jest laced with a vindictive pleasure. " Āeksio Hightower tepagon ondagon, dārys, (Another Hightower meets their end, it seems)," she quipped, her gaze sharp as she glanced around the table. " Skorobnyssa emilun ondilun avy syt ūndan. (Funny how they seem to be dropping as flies lately.)" She continued, a sly smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Āeksio syt Ōtō, ēngoso arlȳñīrī jevi bē pirtra korio syt drējagon. Sȳz daor Hightowerī syt mirre vāedar issa. (And poor Otto, kicked from King's Landing like a stray dog. Seems the Hightowers just can't catch a break these days.)"

Her words elicited a smattering of chuckles from those gathered, but beneath the laughter, there was an undeniable tension. Rhaenyra's sharp wit was a double-edged sword, capable of both amusing and unsettling those around her. The only one who seem to be feeling as pleased as her was Daemon, who looked as bloodthirsty as his dragon.

As Rhaenyra continued to speak, I couldn't help but exchange a glance with Corlys, a silent acknowledgment passing between us. We kept our thoughts to ourselves, allowing the conversation to flow on. In moments like these, it was best to tread carefully, to navigate the delicate balance between diplomacy and defiance.

The problem with Daemon and Rhaenyra, who possess charming qualities, that would make them great rulers, was the fact that they also had the bad habit of holding into grudges. Unlike Corlys, who could use that grudge to push him further in life, Daemon and Rhaenyra's dragon blood could be their ruin. Luckily, our children's sea-blood was there to balance it out.

I simply hope that will not end up with neither of my children dead because of them.