Alicent Hightower | HOTD

Chapter 28 Rhaenyra?!

The tensions continued to simmer between Vanyx's faction and Rhaenarr's family, the atmosphere within the castle walls remained fraught with uncertainty. Despite the efforts to maintain a facade of unity, the underlying rifts threatened to tear the court apart, casting a shadow over the once-glamorous festivities.

The party, though extravagant in its decor and offerings, felt hollow against the backdrop of whispered conspiracies and veiled accusations. Guests mingled cautiously, their smiles strained and their conversations laced with undertones of suspicion.

In the midst of the strained atmosphere, Rhaenarr's sister, Maera, made her grand entrance, her radiant smile failing to fully mask the weariness in her eyes. Accompanied by her husband, Thilde, Maera's presence added a touch of bittersweet joy to the occasion. But the sight of her swollen belly, a testament to her pregnancy, only served to further highlight the divisions within the court.

As Maera exchanged pleasantries with the guests, Rhaenarr and Alicent approached her, their expressions a mixture of concern and affection. "Maera, it's wonderful to see you," Rhaenarr greeted her warmly, though his eyes flickered with worry as they rested on her burgeoning belly. "How are you feeling?"

Maera smiled, her hand instinctively resting on her belly as she replied, "I am well, brother. The babe grows stronger each day."

Alicent's heart swelled with tenderness at the sight of her sister-in-law's gentle demeanor. "We are overjoyed for you, Maera," she said softly, her voice tinged with emotion. "May the Gods Above bless you and your child with health and happiness."

"Thank you," Maera uttered with a smile, her eyes scanning the surroundings. "Where are the children?" she inquired, her voice filled with concern. "Visevar is in the company of his betrothed. Maelyx is indulging in a meal, Naena has retired to her slumber, and Rhaerion remains elusive," she lamented, a tinge of sadness evident in her words.

Maera's expression turned into a frown as she listened. "Fear not, dear friend, you shall reunite with your son." Alicent smiled at her before excusing herself.

As the night wore on and the revelry continued, Rhaenarr and Alicent watched from the sidelines, their hearts heavy with concern for the future of their kingdom. But amidst the turmoil and uncertainty, they found solace in the bonds of family and the unwavering support of their loyal allies.

"I must seek an audience with the Lord Hand," Rhaenarr disclosed to her, assuring that he would return. She acknowledged his words with a nod, patiently anticipating his exit from the room. Alicent released a sigh of resignation, fully aware that she had to continue entertaining their distinguished visitors.

As Visever, danced gracefully with his betrothed, Cayra of House Cheswright, the grandeur of the occasion seemed momentarily to overshadow the weight of looming tensions within the court. The strains of music filled the air, intertwining with the soft rustle of silk and the gentle murmur of conversation. Yet, beneath the façade of celebration, a sense of unease lingered, like a shadow lurking in the corners of the opulent ballroom.

Meanwhile, in the secluded confines of Rhaenarr's office, Elaena poured over the notes she had clandestinely gathered, her heart racing with anticipation as she delved deeper into the intricate web of intrigue that surrounded Vanyx and Selena. Each scrap of parchment and every cryptic message seemed to offer a glimpse into the clandestine machinations that threatened to upend the delicate balance of power within the kingdom.

But her clandestine investigation was abruptly interrupted when she heard the telltale sound of footsteps approaching. With a quick glance around the room, Elaena darted behind a nearby tapestry, her breath caught in her throat as Rhaenarr and his Lord Hand entered the chamber, their voices low and urgent as they discussed the brewing tensions with Vanyx and Selena.

"We cannot allow them to continue undermining our authority," Rhaenarr declared, his voice tinged with frustration and anger.

The Lord Hand nodded gravely, his brow furrowed with concern. "Indeed, Your Majesty. I will dispatch scouts at once to track their movements and ascertain their intentions."

As they spoke, the distant sound of a roar echoed through the castle walls, causing them both to pause in surprise. Without hesitation, they rushed outside to investigate, their hearts pounding with anticipation.

To their astonishment, they were greeted by the sight of a four majestic dragons soaring through the sky, its iridescent scales glinting in the moonlight. And trailing behind it were 4 figures that sent shockwaves through the assembled crowd.

Rhaenarr's breath caught in his throat as he beheld the figures of three people with white silver hair like his family and a boy with brown hair. Their sudden appearance sent murmurs rippling through the gathered nobles, their eyes wide with awe and disbelief.

As Rhaenarr and his family approached, the mystery landed their dragons, folding their wings as they settled on the ground. The air crackled with tension as the two groups faced each other, their gazes locked in a silent exchange of recognition and understanding. Alicent looked and recognize who two of them were.

"Rhaenyra!?"

This was a very short chapter, I didn't really know what else to write.

I am officially done with this season, the next season will be out when the show is out. See you in the next.