Red Keep ― Small Council chambers…

Otto Hightower sat at the head of the long table in the small council chamber. As the Hand of the King, it was his responsibility to oversee the realm's affairs in the king's absence. The weight of the Seven Kingdoms rested on his shoulders while Aeonar was away, and he knew that every decision he made would have far-reaching consequences. However, as the meeting progressed, Otto became increasingly overwhelmed by the sheer volume of reports flooding in from every corner of the realm. The Seven Kingdoms were vast, and each region had unique challenges and concerns. The reports painted a complex and often grim picture from the North, ravaged by the arrival of winter and threats beyond the Wall, to the Reach, where the most fertile region in the realm was embroiled in political intrigue and routing the remnants of the Caltrops. Otto prioritized these reports to discern which issues required immediate attention and which could be delegated to others. However, the constant influx of information made it difficult for him to focus.

"The reports coming in are staggering," William Royce said, his face contorted with a mix of dismay and disbelief as he read them. The figures and statistics presented within were disturbing, leaving him uncertain about what to do next. He couldn't help but wonder how such a situation had arisen and what could be done to prevent it from happening again.

"The realm would tear itself apart if men do not remember the oaths sworn to King Viserys, and to his rightful heir," Jacaerys informed. After losing his dragon Vermax at the Battle of the Gullet, he would remain in King's Landing to learn the ways of Velaryon sailing. He was learning from experienced men such as his legal paternal grandfather, Lord Corlys, and his cousin's best friend, Ser Alyn of Hull. Although he was inexperienced with Driftmark's ways and had not been raised on the island, he had much to learn. Despite this, Jace pays attention and comes out like the little dragon that he is. "However, I agree that what I see here is… unsettling. It's as if my uncle will not stop until he has the head of every traitor or those he suspects of treason mounted on a spike."

"More than that, young prince," Farrier stated. "I've learned that His Grace executed Beatrice before he departed for battle—not by the King's Justice… but rather by wildfire."

"Wildfire?"

"A highly volatile substance invented by these pyromancers called 'wisdoms' that allegedly can burn for a long time once set on fire. Not many details have been made public, but there's a rumor that wildfire is a distant cousin to dragonflame. The substance burns so hot that not even water can put it out."

"How were we not informed about all this?" Corlys demanded.

"Information regarding recent events must be verified before this council is informed, Lord Corlys. And with the current pace of this war, my agents are stretched too thin."

"That's not execution… it's cold-blooded murder," Jacaerys uttered in disbelief.

"What happened to Prince Daeron was murder, horrid as it is," Farrier reminded the youth. "I believe the words His Grace used after Beatrice met her end was 'Plot against the king, and I will pay it back a hundred times over.'"

Rhaenyra occupied the seat at the opposite side of the council table, seated beside her son. Syrax was at a suitable size for battle, yet any remaining dragonriders were assigned to protect the capital in case the war reached its gates. The Blacks were determined to emerge victorious in this war, but even Rhaenyra couldn't ignore the fact that her relationship with her brother had soured significantly. She discerned a significant shift in her brother's demeanor during the past year, which was not for the better. In fact, it steadily got worse with each passing day the longer the Dance of Dragons dragged on. The Dance had taken its toll on both sides of the conflict. The bloodshed and loss had left scars that ran deep, not only on the physical landscape but also on the hearts and minds of those involved. "I fear what Aeonar has become," she said silently under her breath. The once close bond between her and her brother, Aeonar, once believed to have been repaired after many years of estrangement, had soured significantly since Daeron was killed, poisoned by the bitter taste of suspicion and resentment from the former.

"He wishes now not for the good of the realm, but for the satisfaction of vengeance," Otto said with resignation. The path to peace would be assured, yet the only way to do that since negotiations failed and the tragedy over Shipbreaker Bay was one of violence. Otto had promised the late King Viserys I that he would do everything in his power to ensure his son would be a worthy successor. Now? Now, doubts crept in. As more reports from the frontlines came in, Otto believed his son-in-law was on the verge of becoming not just another Maegor the Cruel but perhaps something much worse.

Alicent, on the other hand, maintained an unexpected silence. Despite her efforts to reason with Aeonar, he had crossed a line during the Battle of the Gullet. The queen's perception of him changed drastically when his dragon Vaelor's fire not only caused extensive damage to the remnants of the Triarchy but also put their son Aegon in danger without showing any concern. She had always been a faithful and loyal woman, but now she felt a deep sense of betrayal and heartbreak. Despite her fervent prayers, hoping it wasn't true, Alicent had sadly come to terms with the painful possibility that Aeonar Targaryen, the man she had grown up with and married, might be lost to her forever. The man she had loved and trusted had become a stranger to her, consumed by maliciousness and vengeance. The realization weighed heavily on her, threatening to crush her spirit. Clutching the Seven-Pointed Star necklace in her left hand, she closed her eyes as if seeking solace in the silent prayers that escaped her lips. She had always been a woman of strong faith, turning to the Gods in times of need. And now, in this moment of darkness, she prayed with all her might. She prayed for her children's safety, for an end to the nightmare that had befallen her family, and for the Gods to restore the man she had once loved. But deep down, Alicent knew that her prayers may go unanswered. The gods seemed distant, their presence elusive.

As they spoke, one of Farrier's attendants approached him with a sealed message, its wax seal unbroken. Farrier carefully opened the parchment and scanned the contents, his eyes intent on the words written within. "Seven hells…"

"What is it?" William insisted.

"It's His Grace. He's… he's…"

"He's what?"

"He's killed Ser Criston."

Rhaenyra was on the verge of standing up from her seat as the news reached her ears. Aeonar had managed to defeat Criston in battle? It was a shocking revelation, considering Criston's reputation as one of the most skilled warriors and knights in the Seven Kingdoms. With his expertise in swordsmanship and cavalry tactics, honed through years of combat experience as a footsoldier in the Dornish Marches, Criston was a formidable opponent. Moreover, he had even emerged victorious against her uncle/husband, Daemon Targaryen, in the joust and melee many years ago. As Rhaenyra processed the news of Criston's death at the hands of her own brother, she couldn't help but feel a sense of guilt and regret wash over her. She had always been impulsive and headstrong, often acting without considering the consequences of her actions, leading her to manipulate and deceive those closest to her. It stirred a deep pang of sorrow within her chest, not only for Criston's fate but also for her part in destroying the friendship between Aeonar and Criston during her reckless youth. She had turned them from close friends to bitter enemies. As she sat there, lost in her thoughts, Rhaenyra couldn't help but wonder what could have been if she had chosen a different path. Would Criston still be alive? Would Aeonar and Criston still be friends, fighting side by side for their shared cause? Knowing what she knows now, Rhaenyra yearned to turn back time and prevent herself from committing those regrettable actions. However, she was painfully aware that such a feat was impossible. Choices had been made, fates sealed, and Aeonar had made his final move by taking Criston's life.

"Wha… He killed him?" Jacaerys said with a surprised look on his face.

Corlys nodded with a huff. "Good. With the Caltrops leaderless, the head of the beast has been crushed," he said with approval.

"Not quite, my lord," Farrier shook his head.

"What do you mean?"

"The agents we sent after Prince Aemond… have failed. It was an utter disaster. Every single one of them was wiped out."

"How?! The Lykirī Mēre are stated to be the best assassins in Old Valyria's history; not even the Faceless Men of Braavos can hold a candle to them in the ancient ways, no matter how depleted the order's numbers are! How could the attempt fail?"

"Jay…" Alicent finally broke the silence with her words, mentioning Jaehaerys's nickname, her voice trembling with a mix of shock and disbelief. The queen had always prided herself on raising her children to care for each other and become independent, but this revelation had blindsided her completely. She hadn't been aware that her eldest son was part of the Lykirī Mēre's assassination team dispatched to infiltrate Harrenhal and eliminate Aemond Targaryen. Alicent's heart sank with fear when Farrier reported about the group's destruction. The words on the parchment seemed to blur before her eyes as the weight of the news settled upon her. The realization that her son, her flesh and blood, had been involved in such a dangerous and treacherous plot was almost too much to bear. The pain of grief still lingered within her, a constant reminder of the void left by Daeron's death.

"However… my little birds whispered more songs to me," Farrier continued. "One survivor managed to make it out alive."

"Who?" Corlys asked.

"Prince Jaehaerys."

"He… He lives?" Alicent said, hope in her voice rising.

"Yes, Your Grace. Your son's alive and well. He's currently resting at Maidenpool after stocking up on supplies at Duskendale."

Alicent's heart fluttered with relief as she placed her hand over it. Oh, thank the Gods… Jaehaerys was her first child. She had feared the worst when she received news of the failed attempt on Aemond's life, knowing that her son was in the thick of it all. The thought of having to bury another child was almost too much to bear. Hearing that Jaehaerys made it out alive lifted a great weight off the queen's shoulders. And as she closed her eyes and offered a silent prayer of thanks to the Faith of the Seven.

"That's a relief," Rhaenyra implied.

"I knew Jay was tough, but this is something else entirely," Jacaerys suggested.

"Yes, he's defeated Aemond, but Cole's men intervened, preventing the final blow from being struck, so he was forced to withdraw," Farrier finished.

"What about the others? Aegon and Viserys? And Luke?"

"My agents informed me that Prince Aegon and the dragonseed Nettles have taken Bronzegate and have the Baratheon host bogged down in a nasty ground war near the Kingsroad, though not without sustaining casualties. Lord Elmo Tully was slain, but his sons Kermit and Oscar have taken command of their father's men. I'm told they're both capable young lads, though Kermit Tully is more the brains and his brother Oscar the muscle."

"And the others?"

Farrier remained silent, unsure how to answer. "There hasn't been any word from Prince Viserys or Prince Lucerys yet. My agents have reported strange activity near Tumbleton, though we're working as fast as possible to find out what's going on over there," he finally replied. "As soon as I find out, the council will know."

Jacaerys hated being left behind and yearned to prove himself as a Velaryon and prince of the Targaryen dynasty. Although skilled at arms, he felt overshadowed by his cousins and believed he'd only get in the way. This constant feeling of inadequacy gnawed at his soul, driving him to prove himself in any way possible.

Rhaenyra, meanwhile, was consumed with thoughts of Lucerys, pondering his well-being and the lack of information regarding his whereabouts. All she knew of was the strange activity reported near Tumbleton, leaving her anxious and uncertain. Despite the reassurances that her nephew Viserys was with him, Rhaenyra, being a mother, couldn't help but worry about Luke. She had almost lost him over Shipbreaker Bay, and it was solely due to Daeron's selfless sacrifice, giving up his own life to ensure Luke got away from Aemond and Vhagar, that he managed to return to King's Landing alive. As she stood up from her seat in the council chambers, Rhaenyra noticed Alicent leaving with her ladies-in-waiting. The sight further added to her concerns.

Observing Alicent leaving the council chambers, she knew that her best friend/sister-in-law was deeply troubled.

Alicent…

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Alicent was seated by the window in her chambers, gazing out at the world beyond. Her mind was consumed with thoughts of her children - Jaehaerys, Aegon, Viserys, Aemma - all of them caught up in the turmoil of a civil war she had desperately hoped to avoid. Despite being young adults, they were still her babies in her eyes, and the queen fretted over their safety every waking moment. As her husband Aeonar descended further into the depths of Targaryen madness, the stress etched lines of concern onto her face, making her appear slightly older than her years. Though the urge to pick at her cuticles was strong, Alicent resisted the temptation. When she heard the door creak open, it came as no surprise to the queen that Rhaenyra had come to visit her. "Did I do the right thing, Rhaenyra?" she questioned.

"What do you mean?" Rhaenyra inquired.

"Only a year ago, Viserys was alive… and the realm was at peace. He was a good man, but he could do only so much on his own before he died. Haaah… the Caltrops believed whatever they wished from the beginning, but His Grace wanted his son to succeed him." Alicent looked down in shame. "All my life, I've endeavored to serve both my house and the realm. Raise my children as best I can. Be a supporting wife and mother as mine was. But now? Somehow, it feels as if none of it ever mattered…"

Alicent's unexpected confession took Rhaenyra aback. It was as if a bolt from the blue had struck her. There was a palpable sense of sadness and self-doubt in her words, as if Alicent had poured her heart and soul into her efforts, only to be met with disappointment and despair. No matter how much she exerted herself, her endeavors seemed destined to be in vain. The lines etched on her face seemed more profound, her once vibrant eyes now clouded with the weariness of emotional exhaustion. It was as if the weight of the world had settled upon her shoulders, aging her beyond her years. Alicent looked older, a woman who had been pushed to her limits that seemed to come from years of carrying the expectations and responsibilities of a royal consort on her shoulders. At that moment, Rhaenyra realized that Alicent had been carrying a heavier burden than she had ever imagined. Alicent's vulnerability, hidden beneath a facade of grace and radiating regality, never allowing anyone to see the cracks in her armor, was now laid bare before Rhaenyra's eyes.

"You have poured your heart and soul into this journey," Rhaenyra said, her voice filled with conviction. "Every late night, every sacrifice, every moment of doubt you overcame, they all add up to the incredible person you have become today. You are stronger than you realize."

Alicent's eyes glistened with a mixture of gratitude and uncertainty, but Rhaenyra's unwavering belief in her abilities shone through. She emphasized that despite the challenges that lay ahead, they were always aware of what was required of them. The knowledge they had acquired, the skills they had honed, and the experiences they had gained were all invaluable assets that would guide them through any obstacle.

"Remember, we have faced countless trials before, and each time, we have emerged stronger and more resilient. We have proven time and again that we are capable of overcoming anything that stands in our way. We owe it to ourselves and those who believe in us to keep pushing forward."

Alicent remained exhausted from enduring numerous challenges throughout the years. However, the fact that Rhaenyra stood by her side was a testament to their enduring friendship, which began thirty-two years ago when they were young girls. When Prince Baelon Targaryen passed away and Otto Hightower took his place as Hand of the King to Jaehaerys I, Rhaenyra and Alicent formed an instant bond akin to that of sisters. They grew up together, facing numerous trials and tribulations, and despite occasional disagreements, they always managed to overcome their personal and political struggles. As the years went by, their friendship only grew stronger. Alicent, always the more cautious and diplomatic of the two, often found herself at odds with Rhaenyra's bold and impulsive nature. But through it all, they remained loyal to each other. They were each other's confidantes, advisors, and most trusted allies. Their enduring friendship symbolized hope and strength in a dark and unforgiving world. They were a testament to the power of loyalty, trust, and love in the face of adversity. As they stood side by side, facing the challenges ahead, Alicent found solace in having Rhaenyra, a friend who had been with her through it all and who would continue to stand by her no matter what.

However, Farrier soon arrived. "Your Grace, Princess," he addressed Alicent and Rhaenyra, his face grim. My agents have received word about your sons—both of them."

Alicent and Rhaenyra rose to their feet, their attention caught by Farrier's mention of Viserys and Lucerys. The expression on the Master of Whisperers' face spoke volumes, causing both women to sense that something was terribly wrong. As Farrier relayed the information gathered by his spies regarding the situation in Tumbleton, Alicent and Rhaenyra felt as though their entire world had been upended. The weight of it all became too much for Alicent to bear, her knees giving way beneath her. In the past, when she had received news of Daeron's death, she had unleashed her grief through anguished screams that left her voice hoarse and broken. But now, the strength to scream or even stand eluded her. Alicent's tears flowed freely as she clutched her chest, feeling as though her heart had been ripped from her chest. She crumpled to the floor, overcome with sobs, while Rhaenyra stood nearby, her body trembling with a mix of anger and sorrow. In a silent gesture of support, she placed a comforting hand on Alicent's shoulder. It was a small gesture, but it spoke volumes of the unbreakable bond between them. Her anger burned fiercely, fueled by the injustice of it all. How could fate be so cruel as to snatch away two innocent lives, two promising futures, in such a senseless manner?

In that moment, the world outside seemed to fade away, leaving only the two women and their shared grief.

Red Keep ― Maegor's Holdfast…

Rhaenys remained in a coma for more than a year after the Battle of Rook's Rest. As the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, Lord Corlys tirelessly attended to his wife and granddaughters, providing them with the support they desperately needed. Months turned into a year, and still, Rhaenys remained in her comatose state. The maesters continued to care for her, tending to her every need and providing updates to Corlys. They cared for the Queen Who Never Was and constantly emphasized that even if she were to regain consciousness, Rhaenys would be unable to walk. Despite their doubts regarding her chances of survival, Lord Corlys refused to allow them to take any action without his consent. His wife and their granddaughters were the only family the Sea Snake had left following the deaths of their son Laenor and daughter Laena.

"Mmmm…"

And then, one fateful day, she stirred…

…and when the arrival of storm clouds eclipsed the sun…

…Princess Rhaenys Targaryen…

…finally opened her eyes.

Chapter End

Author's Note: We're re-introduced to the other characters following the Butcher's Ball and their reactions to the battle. However, someone had to be the bearer of bad news as Farrier informs the council, Alicent, and Rhaenyra of what happened next. When we get back to Tumbleton, someone is gonna be on the war path? Care to guess who it'll be?

Dante 101: Aeoner is killing worms left & right. So what happens when there's none left to slay?

The SC is losing faith in Aeoner as King but how long until they decide he has to go?

C.E.W: So the Small Council has learned of Beatrice Peake's execution after all followed by the death of Ser Criston Cole. While the Council does not mourn the deaths of enemies of the crown, they are disturbed by the manner of how it was done. Beatrice executed by wildfire as a prisoner, and Criston Cole and his army being massacred brutally and mercilessly. The council being worried about this is of no surprise, as Rhaenyra and Alicent are equally worried, if not more so.

Alicent realizes what Aeonar has become is bad for the realm in the long run, and he seems to have little to no regard on who gets hurt or killed. She fears Aeonar is too blinded by madness and vengeance to see that, in fact, she fears that he might be beyond redemption at this point.

Rhaenyra mourning for what has become of her family, and her relationship between her and her brother. Before their father died, they were finally reconciling after years of estrangement and being a family, and then the war happens, Daeron gets killed and Aeonar becomes consumed by mad vengeance.

Aeonar is losing his family, and he's too blind to see that, or he just doesn't care... in either case its bad. And if his son Viserys is indeed dead, then it may only get worse.

Speaking of, the question is whatever or not Viserys and Lucerys are dead. 'How could fate be so cruel as to snatch away two innocent lives'. Not a good sign, and from the way that Alicent is grieving I'd say Prince Viserys being dead is very likely, either that or he is seriously injured to where he is not expected to survive. What knows for sure.

Rhaenys finally awoke after over a year of being in a coma, no doubt she is going to be overwhelmed by what she has been sleeping through. Her ability to walk one, her dragon gone, the Battle of the Gullet. The counter-attack of the Blacks, capture of the Caltrops' leadership, execution of Beatrice and more recently the death of Ser Criston Cole and his army. And not to mention Baela being pregnant which means Rhaenys is going to be a great-grandmother.

That might bring up old memories about her grandmother Alysanne the Good Queen. Her not being able to fly her dragon Silverwing due to being too old, and her being a great-grandmother when Aeonar, Laenor, Laena and Rhaenyra were born.

Questions:

Will Jaehaerys proceed to King's Landing after resting up in Maidenpool?

—No

If Hugh Hammer and Ulf White have won the Battle of Tumbleton, what do they plan to do from there? Occupying one town is not going to win them control of the realm.

—Ulf White wants Highgarden for himself, Hugh Hammer wants the throne.

I take Aeonar will still go for Aemond first before Tumbleton?

—Not yet

Where does Ferrier stand in regards to Aeonar's madness? Like, how does he feel about it?

—Conflicted; everything he has, he owes to Aeonar - but he knows he's crossing the line

randomdude24: The council is starting to lose patience with Aeonar. While they had no love for Beatrice, she was a queen, killing her in that fashion has only created more problems for the Blacks. Alicent is losing hope the Aeonar she loves and married is forever gone.

Farrier brought news on Viserys and Lucerys, whatever that news is has left, both Alicent and Rhaenyra struck with grief. However, Rhaenys has finally woken from her coma remains to be seen if her spirit is standing after Rooks Rest.

Questions,

Are both Viserys and Lucerys dead? Or is that information being saved for a later chapter?

—That info's being saved for a later chapter

So, what is the current status in the stormlands? Tully forces have joined up and are currently trying to bring Borros to heel.

—The fight is slowly making its way to Storm's End bit by bit

TruthOnlyReader: Oh... this is going to be very destructive.

rogerlopez99: Well all I can say this title fits very well this new chapter, it been a while since we see the small council there feeling for how the status of the seven kingdoms is in turmoil and how Aeonar actions are causing lots of rifts, so they found out about Beatrice execution some say it justice while other says it cold blood murder.

Seeing Alicent and Rhaenyra again was great and both girls are sadden for what Aeonar has become especially Alicent the man she once love is now gone.

The news of Cristian Cole death shock the council, especially Rhaenyra because her action cause Cristian and Aeonar friendship to end and have him become an enemy, They also learn Prince Ameond is alive and that the assassination's had failed but they learn that Prince Jaehaerys is alive and resting

The scene with both Alicent and Rhaenyra was great, Alicent has carry a huge burden because all she wanted to do was serve the realm and her house but know it in chaos and wonder if the decision she made was right but Rhaenyra reminds her of the challenges they have overcome

But just like the title chapter Fate is cruel, because Farrier has come with bad news, both women are in tears however it seems that Princess Rhaenys has awaken

So the news it seems that something has happen to Aegon Visery and/or Lucery, either one of them died, two of them or all three of them were killed

question
1. Has the news of Tumbleton reach Aeonar or any of the other children's

—Not yet, but they'll find out soon enough

2. Since they learn of Beatrice death would they discover Tyland Lannister being tortured

—Yes

3. How far is Jaehaerys location to Tumbletown

—Quite a distance since he was resting in Maidenpool