We Light the Way.

The waves crashed against the sea as the boat rocked back and forth. Rhaenyra looked at her father, feeling pity as she saw him once again vomit. He had never been one to travel by boat, as he had always gotten seasick by the waves, but Corlys refused to come to King's Landing, which left them with no choice but to visit High Tide themselves.Lyonel had replaced Otto as hand, as it was her only condition to marry Laenor; she was happy to finally have that viper out of the dragon's nest. She called home. Although Alicent had been in tears, she felt no mercy for her, and she watched with glee as Otto surrendered his pin and made his journey back to Old Town.Despite being here for a marriage pact, Rhaenyra was overjoyed to see her cousins again. It had been many years since they were together and flew on dragonback. Syrax flew above them, but as they drew closer, the golden dragon roared, picking up her speed before taking off over the cliff's edge. Soon, Rhaenyra heard the roar of Seasmoke and Vhagar as the three dragons flew together around the castle in a playful chase.Upon the gates opening, she was greeted by her cousin training with his squire. Laenor had grown in the years since they had seen each other, and when Laena came to join them, she realized how long it had been since they had gazed upon each other. As her father was escorted into the Hall of Nine, Rhaenyra remained outside the castle walls."Cousin!" Laenor greeted her, dropping his sword. Upon reaching her, they shared a quick embrace. Pulling back, he scanned her over. "You have grown.""As have you." Rhaenyra responded, a smile forming on her lips.Rhaenyra and the two cousins had been close when Corlys was the Master of Ships on her father's Small Council, and despite the consequences of their meeting, she was excited to see a friendly face as she found herself not having many friends as of late."I guess I know why you're here." He said this, signaling to his partner that he was done.Rhaenyra nodded her head. As the cousins entered the Great Hall arm in arm, they were met with Laena, who quickly hugged her."Cousin, I'm so happy to see you; it's been so long." She said, excitement evident in her voice.Rhaenyra chuckled. "It has."Laena gazed at her before pulling her down the hall. "Come, cousin. Let us discover what might be had for breakfast."As the three of them sat, eating breakfast together, old stories were shared, and laughter could be heard from within the walls. As they finished, however, Corlys and Rhaenys came around the corner, as did her father.She offered a tight smile to Rhaenys and a nod to Corlys. Her hands were still intertwined with Laena's underneath the table. Who gazed at her reassuringly "Father, I was just telling Rhaenyra that we should go on a dragon ride together."Rhaenys chuckled. "I'm afraid you're going to have to wait. As your father and I have come to an agreement with the King, Laenor will be leaving for Dragonstone with Rhaenyra.""What for?" She asked; already, her head was beginning to ache."We thought it would be best that you two spent some time together, alone," her father answered."But I am comfortable here." She stated, her eyes narrowing in a challenge. "Unless you do not wish to have me?"Viserys sighed, and Laena was quick to interject. "Come on, dear cousin, we can go dragon riding when you get back, plus someone needs to beat my brother."Rhaenyra opened her mouth to respond, but a look from her cousin told her that she had a plan. Very well." She said, gazing at Laenor, a playful smile returning to her face. "I hope you're ready to lose, cousin."***The two dragons raced side by side; Seasmoke was larger, but Syrax was faster and more agile given her smaller size. As they touched down on the beach, Rhaenyra dismounted with a smug grin on her face."It seems you've lost, dear cousin."Laenor laughed, shaking his head. "You are far more dragon than I am." He said, truthfully.As the two riders started down the beach, the dragons gave a roar before lifting into the air and circling the castle above."That is true, or perhaps you just need to get better at riding." She jest."I fear no amount of time on dragonback can compare to the bond you and Syrax share, much like Daemon and Caraxes."Rhaenyra glanced out across the sea. "Let us speak of what is to become of us."Laenor sighed. "We are to marry in three weeks' time."Rhaenyra nodded, watching as the waves crashed on the shore. "But you and I both know that nothing will come of it."Glancing at him, she felt pride take over her features at his expression. Though she knew his preferences about men more than women, it still seemed surprising to him that she knew."You know?""I have known the longest since we were children." Rhaenyra replied, "You have always been different."Laenor gripped her hand, stopping her. "And you would still willingly marry me?""It is not my choice to marry you." She said it plainly. "I refused everyone else's hand, and now my father's patience has run out."Laenor looked at her, surprised, before nodding. "Then we have come to speak of something else.""Indeed, I believe it's a matter of taste." She resumed walking. "I love lemon cakes, but you may not.""Then what do you suggest?""You and I shall agree to find pleasure elsewhere in our marriage and happiness where we cannot find each other."***Although she wanted nothing more than to return to Driftmark on dragonback, her father had made it clear that he could not go any farther and had to return to King's Landing as soon as possible. As the ship departed, she couldn't help but look at the castle of Dragonstone. Even though her time on the island was brief, she felt the island called to her.She would be back one day, for the island was the place of the chosen heir. Her Golden Lady seemed to share her reluctance in leaving, as continuous roars and grumbles were heard. The creaking of wood behind her made her turn. Ser Criston was still her sworn shield, but they had barely spoken since the night that had taken place a month and a half ago.He looked just as tired as she felt. Watching as he slowly approached her, she turned back to the water. "Did sleep flee you as well this morning?" She asked, trying to fill the awkward silence."I needed to see you, Princess.""I confess, I had a similar desire," she told him. Truthfully, she wanted to speak of what she and Laenor had come to an agreement on."You have confided in me now and then over the years of our acquaintance." He started, "I feel, forgive me, that I know you... a bit."Rhaenyra snorted, "You know more than a bit.""I've heard you say so many times how you loathe the lot of your position, that you are to be married off at your father's whim with no thought given to the yearning of your own heart, and now the day comes. Ser Laenor is a good and decent man, but you did not choose him. He was chosen for you." Criston continued."That's true." Rhaenyra looked at him puzzled; she couldn't help but feel this conversation was going somewhere she didn't want it to.If there were another path—one that led to freedom—would you tread it? He asked her hesitantly, but before she could respond, he continued. "Rhaenyra, before I came here, I was a knight in the Stormlands. I have deep knowledge of the port at Sunspear, where I've seen the ships of Essos setting sail with their hulls full of oranges and cinnamon, and I've always wished to see where they went.""Are you asking for leave?" She demanded."I'm asking you to come with me, away from all of this." He looked at her pleadingly, grabbing a hold of her hand. "From the burdens and indignities of your inheritance, let us leave it all behind and see the world together, where we'll be nameless and free to go where we like and to love as we like. In Essos, you could marry me. A marriage for love, not for the crown."Rhaenyra gazed at him. He wanted her to run away with him. Give up everything she had fought for and everything she had to earn?But you don't want it. A voice in her mind was clear as day whispered, and she had to suppress the urge to shiver. It did not matter if she wanted to or not. It was out of her hands now; she was the heir to the Iron Throne and the Seven Kingdoms."I am the crown, Ser Criston." She told him blankly. "Or I will be. I may chafe at my duties, but do you think I would choose infamy in exchange for a bushel of oranges or a ship to Asshai?" Turning back to look across the sea, she continued. "It is my duty to marry a nobleman from a great house, and Ser Laenor will make a fine husband." Rhaenyra gave him an awkward smile. "But my, um, my marriage... does not have to be the end. Ser Criston, Laenor, and I have an understanding. I've granted him leave to pursue his own interests, and in turn, he's granted me the same."Angar and confusion flashed in his eyes. "So you want me to be your whοre?"Rhaenyra chuckled. "I want us to continue as we began, with you as my sworn protector, my white knight.""I took an oath as a knight of your Kingsguard." He rasped, "An oath of chastity. I've broken it.""I won't tell anyone..."She began."I've soiled my white cloak. And it's the only thing I have to my fսcknng name!" Ser Criston raged. "I thought if we were married, I might be able to restore it.""The Iron Throne looms larger than me, larger than anyone in my family." Rhaenyra explained that her patience was running thin. Though it was true, she had come to care for the knight who guarded her and protected her. He wasn't the man she truly loved, and for him to think that she would give it all up for him? It was preposterous."Aegon the Conqueror united the Seven Kingdoms and put them on a path..." She began, but Ser Criston only looked at her with anger and resentment before turning and storming away. "Ser Criston."***The ride to the Red Keep was quiet; no one spoke. Rhaenyra looked to her father, concerned, eating away at her. He looked far worse than he had been when they left, and her fears were confirmed when he collapsed upon exiting the carriage and was immediately brought to his chambers.Bile rose in her throat as she watched her father lay sickly on his bed. Turning away quickly, she stormed away. She was vaguely aware of Ser Harold asking where she was going, but she didn't stop. Calling for her horse to be brought to her, she quickly raced to the Dragon Pit.Dark, thick clouds hung above, but it didn't stop her despite the Dragonkeepers protests. She quickly readied Syrax."Princess, it isn't safe. A storm is coming."She looked at the elderly man before her. "A dragon does not fear a storm." She said with an edge to her voice that gave no room for argument.Syrax growled beside her, swinging her head from side to side. Rhaenyra guided her hand down her golden scales. "lykirī." She whispered.Syrax purred, her green eyes focused, and she lowered her shoulder to the ground. Climbing into the saddle, they quickly took flight.Rhaenyra sighed, laying back in the saddle. She missed this—flying had been a favorite thing of hers since she was first placed on Vhagar when she was two. Her grandsire had taken her then, and it drove her mother mad.Her grandsire Baelon had begun braiding her hair and entertaining her with tales of old. Her grandmother, Alyssa, had been a subject of great emotion and would always bring sadness to his heart. Viserys and Daemon never spoke much of her or the brother they once had.Syrax grumbled beneath her, and Rhaenyra sighed. "I know."Syrax dipped low, cutting through the clouds. Calling out, she twisted into a spin. Rhaenyra gripped on to the saddle. The waves crushed on the shore as they flew across the water. The wind rippled at the waves. Overhead, the sky rumbled, promising rain, and she rejoiced in the feeling. For a long while, they raved against the sea surface, the clouds getting darker and heavier. The thought of visiting Sunspear crossed her mind; Rhaenyra had chosen Talon to be king in her absence.The thought of everyone she left behind made sadness settle deep within her. She had chosen to be her father's heir rather than a queen who was respected and loved by millions. Even though she was no longer acting queen in a sense, she still got letters and reports of what was going on in the realm. She took great comfort in that fact. With Lyra here, one of their most experienced healers, she was concerned that Sunspear, although in great hands, could fall apart.***Before she knew it, days had turned into weeks, and now it was the day before the Velaryons were set to arrive. Her father had organized a seven-day feast to celebrate and honor the marriage between their great houses, and as it grew darker, Rhaenyra wanted nothing more than to smack her head into the wall beside her and flee across the sea.Lyra had insisted that she was being overly dramatic, but, to be honest, who could blame her? She was supposed to enter a false marriage with a man she knew would rather have men. Zara had also been there to help her, as they picked out a beautiful white gown with gold touches and a lot of jewelry."You're going to be the spotlight of the show." Zara declared, sitting beside her.Rhaenyra hummed in acknowledgement. She was currently watching as rain fell against her window. It had been raining non-stop for two days, and many prayed that the rain would stop in time for the wedding."Rhaenyra, did you hear me?" Zara called, waving a hand in front of her face.Shaking her head, she cleared her throat, turning back to her friend. "What did you say?"Zara snorted, "Honestly, have you ever listened to me?"As she opened her mouth to reply, the door to her chambers flew open, revealing Nimbus, Elena, and Talon. Before she could even think, Nimbus had crossed the room, pulling her into his arms. Pulling back, he studied her face."I missed you so much, sister." He told her, pulling her tightly against him."What are you doing here?" She mumbled, trying to break out of his iron hold."Well, a little bird told us that you were getting married tomorrow." Talon said smoothly, gazing around the room with a frown. "Why is your room so dreadful?"She arched a brow at that, ready to spit fire, but before she could, Elena smacked him on the head, telling him to be polite. "Aren't you a prince? shouldn't you have manners?" She scolded before offering a small smile and making her way towards her."I do!" He defended, "It's just that her chambers are so bland and boring and ever so small."Rhaenyra pulled back from where she was hugging Elena, giving him a pointed look. "You've been here before."Talon shook his head. "I've only been in the main hall and the throne room." He turned his red-blooded eyes on her and said, "I have never been in your chambers.""Speaking of, how did you even get in here? People will surely spot you for your silver hair and red blood eyes.""Not when you have magic on your side, dear." He said, flicking his finger against her nose. "Something this castle would benefit from."Nimbus huffed, pulling Rhaenyra against his chest once more. "Do you have anything better to do than mock my sister's ancestry?"Talon turned his sharp gaze on them but offered his hands in surrender. "Fair enough, I guess we are here for celebration rather than..." He paused. "Depicting tastes.""Enough, you two." Elena said it quietly. "We are here to celebrate Rhaenyra and nothing else."Rhaenyra smiled, feeling relieved to see her friends and her most loyal companions. As the evening dragged on, she was enthralled with tales of how the kingdom was prospering and how Elena and Talon seemed to be doing everything they could to continue her legacy.Close to the hour of the wolf, Nimbus led her out of her chambers, using his magic to conceal them so as not to be interrupted. Rhaenyra took comfort and linked her arm with his. Nimbus led them to the gardens."So." He began, "I hear you are to be married on the marrow."Rhaenyra nods, stopping to pick a rose. It smelled sweet as she held it to her nose. Nimbus smiles, taking her hand."I must say, sister, you've grown."Rhaenyra smiled and said, "Indeed, brother.""Ranix misses you, you know." He says. "He would've loved to come."Rhaenyra felt guilt eat at her, and she had to suppress the bile that made its way into her throat. Ranix had been the sort of comfort she had wanted all of her life and, in many ways, had been the father she never had. He had spent the majority of his time training her in the art of war and politics. He had taken her on many adventures throughout Sunspear, getting her to see the life that many people chose to live.What is the life you live now? she wondered. Do you miss your son the way I do?"Lyra mentioned you are marrying Leanor.""A choice you do not approve of." Rhaenyra muttered.Nimbus shook his head, pulling her to face him. "It does not matter if I approve of it. He told her, pressing their foreheads together. "As long as you are happy with your decision, then I am happy for you."Would I ever be happy? She mused, for happiness seemed to be out of the question.As if reading her thoughts, Nimbus slowly stroked his thumb down her cheek. "You don't have to do this.""I must." She insisted gently. "There is far more to lose if I don't."His green eyes flashed with recognition. "It wasn't your fault.""I'm not doing this because of him." Rhaenyra said, bitterly. "I have to do this to ensure that I'm the heir to the Iron Throne.""It is a loveless marriage."Rhaenyra paused, for his word was true. Their marriage was indeed a loveless one, but she had no choice in the matter.Meeting his eyes, she took a deep, calming breath and said, "We have come to an agreement."She had expected him to be disgusted, for he knew what she was implying, but instead he only looked at her with a gentleness that she couldn't bear. "I know.""And you have not come to steal me away before I am married?" She asked, nearly laughing at the thought.Nimbus shook his head once more. 'I am only here to offer you comfort and guidance for as long as you may need it."Rhaenyra hugged him tightly, as this was most certainly the last time they were ever to hug without prying eyes."I love you, brother." She whispered.***Soon, the next day came. Nimbus, Talon, and Elena stayed true to their word and got her ready for the wedding. Rhaenyra had yet to see Alicent or Ser Criston, but she paid no mind. Ser Criston had long disappeared after they both arrived in King's Landing; Alicent, on the other hand, hadn't spared a glance in her return.Perhaps she's still mourning her father? She thought. Although she herself was more pleased to see Otto Hightower go, he was still her father, no matter how manipulative or annoying he may be.Her gaze shifted to where Talon stood, looking out her window, a goblet of wine in hand. He, much like Nimbus, had remained quiet, only speaking when spoken to. Rhaenyra could see the unspoken question on his face every time he looked at her.It was the same question she kept asking herself up to this point. Lyra tucked her hair into intricate braids before pinning them on top of her head. They had fought for hours over what dress she would have picked, as Lyra and Zara wanted her to wear something of Targaryen colors, but she knew she couldn't.Instead, she wore a white gown with gold embroidery throughout. She had long since taken the Valyrian steel necklace off, and now it was replaced with a thin chain of gold. No matter how angry she was, she couldn't bring herself to throw the piece of jewelry away; thus, it stood in one of her many drawers where all of her previous jewelry from the years had been placed, not really seeing the light of day ever again."You look beautiful." Lyra offered, setting her in front of the mirror."Thank you, Lyra."Talon was quick to look in her direction; he had also disclosed that he'd preferred her in red and black, as it was her primary color, rather than white and gold. "You do not look like a dragon," he had told her, "you look like a glorified princess."Rhaenyra had snorted at the comment, finding it funny, but as she stared into the mirror, she didn't recognize herself. She had always worn braids that were down in intricate styles and black leathers with gold and red to embroider Syrax and Caraxes. But now, as she stared at herself, she wondered if she had made the right choice.She was a dragon made from fire and blood, not some polite little princess who submitted to everyone's rules. After about another hour, the Kingsguard came to escort her into the throne room. As the giant doors opened, her name was announced. Rhaenyra scanned the room.Many Lords and Ladies from around the realm were in attendance. Lyonel and her father sat at the banquet table along with many members of the small council. Her eyes narrowed as she noticed that Alicent was not in attendance. She turned, her gaze falling on Zara.Zara shook her head, turning to whisper in Nimbus's ear. Nimbus narrowed his eyes before placing a smile on his face and facing Rhaenyra with a shake of his head. He lifted his chin, indicating for her to continue.Rhaenyra took purposeful yet slow steps; many whispered as she passed—some about her marriage, others about her beauty. She smiled at her father before taking her seat. Lyonel offered her congratulations."Thank you, Lord Hand." She lifted her cup, her gaze washing her friends in the crowd."You look beautiful, daughter." Viserys raised his cup, downing it in one go."Thank you, Father."***"It is with great pleasure that His Grace, King Viserys, announces the start of the royal wedding celebrations." Ser Herold announced, "House Lannister with their lord, Jason Lannister. Lord Paramount of the West and Master of Casterly Rock."Rhaenyra smirked as Jason Lannister approached; her annoyance only grew as he offered a small smirk and bowed, respectively."Congratulations, Your Grace; you have made a fine match for the Princess."Visery chuckled lightly. "Thank you, Lord Jason. I could think of no better man than Ser Laenor."Jason scoffed. "Well, if this is only the welcome feast, I admit, I cannot imagine what you might have planned for the wedding."Rhaenyra arched a brow at the mockery of his tone. She knew he was cross with the crown for refusing to marry her off to their house for dragons and her blood."My daughter is the future queen." Viserys sighed, "I wanted this to be a wedding for the histories.""Where is the Queen?" Jason asked, gazing around. "I had hoped to pay my respects."Viserys offered a tight smile. "I understand the Queen is still readying herself for the celebrations.""This is why men wage war because women would never be ready for the battle in time."Rhaenyra glared at the two men as they began to chuckle. There had been many warriors in their house, including Visenya and many others, such as herself. In fact, she knew many women who could best any man in combat."Your presence is always such a pleasure, Lord Jason." Rhaenyra said flatly.He dipped his head, "Princess, Your Grace."She let out a breath of relief while watching him go, but the tightness in her chest soon returned as Ser Gerold from the veil approached. Although he was her kin through her mother, she couldn't help but see this interaction going terribly wrong, as Rhea Royce had just died of a tragic accident, as they called it."Your Grace, Princess Rhaenyra, congratulations are in order." Rhaenyra relaxed upon hearing his tone; it was clear that he did not think the crown was responsible for her death.A smile broke out on her father's face. "We are very honored to have you as a guest, Ser Gerold. I must say, I was most distressed to hear of the Lady Rhea's tragic passing." He paused, his tone turning sorrowful. "I'm very sorry for your loss.""Lady Rhea was a unique character." Ser Gerold commented, "Her kind is not soon to be seen again.""If there is anything the crown might do to aid House Royce..."Her father's voice became drowned out as the sounds of drums could be heard throughout the entire hall. She could feel a rumble in her chest. The arrival of the Velaryons was further proven as Ser Harold announced their arrival."Lord Corlys of House Velaryon. Lord of the Tides, Master of Driftmark. And his lady wife, Princess Rhaenys Targaryen. And their son and heir, Ser Laenor Velaryon, the future king consort."Thunderous amounts of applause echoed around the room as Rhaenyra stood, greeting her cousins. "My Betrothed." She greeted, offering her hand."My Betrothed." Laenor brought her hand to his lips and kissed it gently.Rhaenyra chuckled and smiled before leading them to take their seats. Viserys stood ready to make his opening speech, and Daemon appeared with confident and eager steps. Whispers and murmurs filled the room, but Rhaenyra couldn't see anything but Daemon.Daemon bowed his head, his eyes locking onto her. Her father signaled for a chair to be brought, and she found little relief as he was placed on the far end of the table. Laenor raised an eyebrow. Rhaenyra shook her head, placing her hands in her lap, and played.Her father cleared his throat. "Be welcome, as we join together in celebration. Tonight is only its beginning. We honor the crown's oldest and fiercest ally, House Velaryon. Reaching back to the days of Old Valyria and the Age of Dragons. With House Targaryen and..."Suddenly, the doors open to reveal Alicent, dressed in dark green, the color of war. Rhaenyra gazed at Talon, who started moving through the people. Nimbus and Zara glared as she walked to the high table.Rhaenyra shifted in her seat. Alicent's gaze was cold and sharp as their gazes met. "Congratulations, stepdaughter." Alicent said cruelly, "What a blessing this is for you."Rhaenyra gulped, her eyes following Alicent as she took her seat. She twisted her rings, and her father continued with the speech. She turned to look beyond Alicent, for her gaze was locked once more on Daemon. She could see within his gaze the barley-untamed desire as they stared at one another.Laenor placed a hand on her shoulder that bolted her from her thoughts. She stared at Laenor, slightly uncomfortable."Well, this," Laenor began, "is an unexpected event. First Daemon, then Alicent. What next, a dragon running through the halls?"Despite the nervousness settling in her belly, she couldn't help but chuckle. "Let's hope not. For our dance begins soon."Just as she finished speaking, the music played, and it was time for their first dance. Laenor smiled, getting up and offering his hand."I was never much of a dancer." She whispered as they descended the stairs, hand in hand."It's not much different to combat." Laenor assured her,"Hmm. I shall hope for a different outcome." She jested.As soon as their dance began, it finished with them bowing to each other. Many different couples joined them on the floor, dancing and conversing with one another. Rhaenyra Look to where Alicent was conversing with her grandfather, the Lord of Old Town. Daemon was nowhere to be seen, as he had abandoned his chair at the high table.Laenor hadn't left her side yet. Even when his knight and close friend Joffrey came forward, Although she knew they were much more than friends, Rhaenyra gazed around, her eyes finding Ser Criston.Before she could, Talon came into view. He quickly found her in the mass of people and smiled as he came beside her. "If I may?" He said, offering his hand.Rhaenyra nodded, taking his hand. As Talon pulled her away from Laenor, she caught Daemon dancing with Laena. They both laughed and smiled at something Daemon had said. Rhaenyra felt a fire rush through her.Is this the only reason you came, uncle? She wondered bitterly. To find yourself a bride after yours met her demise?Talon stopped abruptly, turning sharply to face her. "Alicent has declared war.""You think I haven't noticed?" She spat, her hand coming once again to play with the rings on her fingers.Talon grabbed her hand; his grip hurt, but she didn't care. There was a fire in his red eyes—one of anger and one of promise. "She has declared war, and you're doing nothing!""What would you have me do?" She challenged, "She won't try anything here.""Prepare yourself for war!" Talon raged, his grip becoming tighter. "She has made it clear that she no longer wishes for friendship or to support your reign as Queen.""Let her go." Elena said coming to join them.Talon's nostrils flared, and he turned his head abruptly, gritting his teeth. Rhaenyra winced slightly as his grip continued to increase."Talon, you're hurting her!"As quickly as Elena had uttered those words, he snapped his gaze at her, releasing her hand within a second. Guilt overtook his features, but before he could speak a word, Rhaenyra raised her hand and shook her head."Where are the others?" She asked, searching the crowd for Nimbus or Zara."They've gone to see how Alicent became aware of your lie." Elena said, looking around the room to make sure that they weren't overheard. "Zara's sure it was your knight."Rhaenyra's eyes snapped to meet Ser Criston; he stood at the other edge of the ballroom. Even from here, she could see his clenched fists and his tight jaw. She turned back to Elena, her anger undeniable, and the feeling of guilt and betrayal settled within her heart."What would you have us do?" Elena asked calmly, but Talon only snorted."That knight has broken his vows." Talon started with as much venom as he could muster. "He has dishonored you, and for that, I will have his head."Elena looked sharply at him before locking her arms around his. "You cannot start a war here; if you do, you will be no better than Alicent."Rhaenyra looked between her two closest allies. "I will not have blood spilled tonight." She said, lifting her chin. "Elena, you and Talon will stay with me during the festivity and see what is happening around this ballroom.""And what will you be doing?" Talon asked."I must keep up the appearance of a happy newlywed." She replied, "You will report to me what you find tonight."After discussing a plan, the three of them went separate ways. Rhaenyra gossiped with the Lords and Ladies, remaining cordial and joining in dances with those who asked. Soon she found herself in the company of none other than Harwin Strong, the Commander of the City Watch."You look beautiful, Princess." He said as they circled one another."You don't look too bad yourself, Ser Harwin." She said, making both of them smile.Despite being given the title of Breakbones, she found that she quite liked Harwin. He was kind but firm, strong but gentle, and offered loyalty that could not be found within most men. As they were conversing, Daemon cut in."May I, Ser Harwin?" Daemon's words came from behind her as she turned mid-step in the dance. She faced him; she was seething with anger, but for some reason her body was singing with anticipation."Of course, my Prince." Harwin dipped his head, retreating into the crowd. Rhaenyra silently cursed under her breath, fighting the urge to glare as the last of him disappeared. She turned to face her uncle. Surely he could have said no and left her uncle to dance with Laena? He had left them alone together. Damon didn't hesitate, immediately grabbing her wrist and pulling her away from the high table towards the grand doors."Iksis bisa skoros jaelā?" He said the Valyrian slipped off his tongue like molten honey. He spun on his heels, circling her, before finally coming to stand in front of her, their faces inches apart.(Is this what you want?)"Īlen daor aware bona skoros nyke jeldan mattered naejot ao." She sneered, her blood boiling.(I was not aware that what I wanted mattered to you.)"Bisa iksis daor syt ao," he added, gazing behind them. "Laenor iksis iā sȳz vala se iā sȳz azantys. Kessa bore ao senseless.(This is not for you; Laenor is a good man and a fine knight. He will bore you senseless.)Rhaenyra glanced at her cousin, knowing there was more than truth to Daemon's statement. She turned back to Daemon, a knowing smirk playing on his lips. Making her fire burn even hotter."Dīnilūks iksis mērī iā political arrangement nyke rȳbagon." She spat back, remembering his previous words.(Marriage is only a political arrangement, I hear.)"Ñuhon iksin recently dissolved." He said with a cunning grin, showing just how little his wife truly meant to him.(Mine was recently dissolved.)Anger, like she had never felt before, rose within her skin; it was as if she were dumped in a pool of molten lava. A roar sounded deep in her chest, and as she turned her cold and piercing eyes on her uncle, the dragon seemed to grow even angrier."Sīr gūrogon nyke, pār." She challenged in a mocking tone. The surprised, wide-eyed look that flashed across the space conveyed how truly he was surprised at her reaction. "Ēza bona daor issare aōha purpose?" She asked, stepping even farther into space. They were so close they could feel each other's breath under the heat rating off their bodies in waves. Her heart hammered in her chest as she continued to challenge him. "Iksan daor yet married. Yn se hours rēbagon swiftly." She paused as she looked into his eyes. "Iksā surely armed." She carried on, "Nektogon rȳ ñuha kepa's Dārotiazantyr. Gūrogon nyke naejot Zaldrīzesdōron se mazverdagon nyke aōha ābrazȳrys."(So take me, then. Has that not been your purpose? I am not yet married. But the hours pass swiftly. You are surely armed. Cut through my father's kingsguard. Take me to Dragonstone and make me your wife."Daemon looked at her with so much intensity, suddenly he wrapped his hands around her neck, forcing her to look up. The act was beyond threatening, but his thumb stroked her skin with tenderness that made her insides twist.Then his lips were on hers. Cashing down before she could even speak. Within seconds, her whole body was a blaze, a fire stroking within her so powerful and so hot that she thought even she would burn.Suddenly they were thrust apart as people clambered out of the way as screams could be heard. Rhaenyra screeched, looking for Daemon in the now unpredictable crowd. She was shoved against the high table, her head banging against the wood. She groaned, falling to the floor."Talon!" She screamed as she pushed her way through people. She couldn't find Daemon, Laenor, or anyone else."Rhaenyra!" Talon's voice sounded far away; as she was shoved again, she suddenly felt strong, powerful arms wrap around her, hoisting her up over his shoulder.Ser Harwin."Put me down." She demanded as he made his way to the doors. She could see Talon now fighting to get through the crowd to her. Anger and betrayal also filled her as she watched as Daemon was protecting Laena.Rhaenyra felt Syrax roar within her chest. It was as if the ground was visibly shaking from her anger. She wanted to scream, she wanted to hurt him, and she wanted blood.***After a few hours, the chaos had subsided, and most people were now in the hall. Nimbus and Zara flanked her sides, not wanting to leave her unprotected again. Talon leaned against the wall, his eyes closed, and his head perched on the ceiling.When she had first asked what had transpired in the throne room, nothing could have prepared her for the answer. Ser Criston had suffered a mental break and attacked Joffrey, beating him to death. Zara had also confirmed that he was the one who told Alicent about what had transpired that night, for when Otto had left, Larys had joined her in the Godswood and told her about the tea that Rhaenyra had taken that night.She was beyond angry—first Alicent, then Daemon, and now the death of Joffrey. Laenor was beyond distraught. His eyes were full of laughter and joy just a few hours ago, and now all that remained was sadness and a vacant expression. Rhaenyra couldn't help the guilt that rose in her throat, for it was her that caused Ser Joffrey's death because she refused to marry Ser Criston.When she and Lenore entered the throne room again, they were the only ones present. Blood still lingered on the floor, and food plates and glass lay everywhere. Besides their parents and the Meester, they were the only ones in the throne room.At first, she was confused when her father said that they were getting married. He had organized a week-long celebration, but now all they wanted to do was marry them off and forget this night ever happened.Bile rose in her throat as she said her vows and kissed Laenor on the cheek. She had seen many things worse than this, but knowing that this was single-handedly her fault made guilt swarm in her like bees about to defend their hive.She was relieved, however, when her father told her that they weren't expected to consummate their marriage tonight but still had to sleep in the same bed as was custom.She and Laenor left for her apartments in silence. When she arrived in her chambers, she found Lyra already waiting for her with a bath full of lavender oils and tea to help her relax for the evening.Rhaenyra was thankful, and before the night truly ended, she wished Elena, Talon, and Nimbus a safe journey home. With them promising to send letters every once in a while and keep her updated on the situations within Sunspear,.When she finally returned to her apartments, she found Leonor already asleep on one side of the bed. Rhaenyra silently walked over before changing into a night dress and laying down on the bed. As she covered herself with the covers, she sent the silent prayer to her mother, asking for her to look after Joffrey and to forgive her for what she had done."I'm sorry." She whispered. Closing her eyes, she let darkness swallow her.