chapter 41

The morning sun filtered through the curtains of William's chamber, casting a warm and inviting glow. Rhaenyra stirred, her eyes fluttering open as she found herself nestled in the embrace of her new husband. She smiled softly, feeling a sense of contentment wash over her.

William's eyes met hers, and he offered her a tender smile. "Good morning, my love."

"Good morning," she replied, her voice carrying a mixture of affection and a touch of shyness. It still felt surreal to wake up beside him, as husband and wife.

As they rose from their slumber, the reality of the day ahead settled in. They were no longer just Rhaenyra and William; they were husband and wife.

After a quiet moment shared between them, they readied themselves for the day. Rhaenyra donned a gown that blended Targaryen crimson with Baratheon gold, symbolizing the union of their houses. William dressed in regal attire that exuded his newfound status.

As they left the chamber, hand in hand, they made their way to the dining hall where the morning feast awaited. The halls of the Red Keep were alive with the bustle of servants preparing for the day.

Upon entering the dining hall, they found King Viserys and Queen Alicent already seated at the head of the table. While Aegon was being fed by the handmaids. Rhaenyra gazed at her father and then her gaze passed over to Queen Alicent just for a second.

Before it returned to Viserys, and she said: "Good morning, Father."

"Good morning, my dear," King Viserys replied, his gaze warm and proud as he looked at his daughter. "William."

William offered a respectful bow. "Your Grace."

As they took their seats, a servant appeared, pouring goblets of wine for the table. The breakfast spread was fit for royalty, an array of delicacies fit for the royal court. Silver platters held a colorful assortment of fruits, from succulent grapes to ripe pomegranates, their vibrant hues a testament to the richness of the land. Freshly baked bread, still warm and fragrant, sat in baskets alongside dishes of honey and butter, inviting indulgence.

Bowls of creamy porridge, steaming and rich, were flanked by pitchers of spiced milk and fragrant teas. Plates of smoked fish and cured meats added a savory note to the feast, while trays of cheeses from across the realm promised a taste of diversity. And, of course, there were pastries, delicate and ornate, each one a work of culinary art.

William, had to admit that this was quite impressive. 

"Your wedding was a splendid affair," Queen Alicent remarked, while eating. "The realm will remember it for years to come."

"We're honored that you could join us," Rhaenyra replied, her gaze meeting William's for a moment before turning back to the queen.

It seems Rhaenyra hasn't forgiven Alicent. Even after the talks William and Rhaenyra had. William couldn't help but contemplate this as he observed, his eyes narrowed in thought.

King Viserys leaned back in his chair and said: "It was a day of unity, my children," he began, his eyes moving between Rhaenyra and William. "And unity will be our strength as we face the challenges that lie ahead."

During the meal, William switched his attention to alicent. As Rhaenyra and her father were chatting.

Willaim couldn't bring himself to blame her for what she did and will do in the series.

He knows that her father, Otto Hightower. Is the one who manipulated her into marrying Viserys, so he can put his own bloodline on the throne.

But that still doesn't mean he will allow her or anybody to harm Rhaenyra.

When the meal finally came to an end, King Viserys rose from his seat. "My dear children, there is much to be done today. So, I will excuse myself."

"Alright, Father," Rhaenyra responded with a measured tone, her eyes meeting her father's.

William then nodded and added, "We appreciate your presence, Your Grace."

With that, the couple were left in the dining room. After Alicent left with her son.