Chapter Text
Rhaenyra had just returned from Driftmark after her father, the king, had asked of her to delivery Lord Corlys a letter. He could have asked any of the men in his service of course, but dragons are much faster and the matter seemed to be rather urgent.
Upon entering her chambers she noticed a fruit bowl placed atop of her table, it was decorated with lemons and oranges, grapes and figs and almonds. The room was also filled with a strong fragrance, flowery. Her brows furrowed in confusion until she was able to place the source of aroma, a small bunch of lilies on her desk. Her books were also in order, something quite odd. She had given all of her chambermaids strict instructions to not touch her desk. Rhaenyra was studious, trait that she shared with both her parents.
Then she remembered, new servants were to start working around the castle. How could she forget? She had just handpicked her new lady-in-waiting. Not that she was enthusiastic about it but her father had insisted that wonderful candidates were waiting and that it was her duty to choose at least one.
She moved toward the desk, her fingers lightly tracing the edges of the fruit bowl in the process and grabbing a handful of grape beans. Her eyes fell on the unfamiliar arrangement of her desk. She had not seen the actual wooden surface in forever, her books were always somewhat organised in messy piles, scattered all over. Whoever had decided to tidy up had surely benefited from a good education for the books were organised strategically and on categories.
She picked up the small vase and studied it and the flowers. Was the container in her chamber all along or had the new mai procured it specifically for the lilies?
A knock at the door interrupted her thoughts "Enter" she called, turning to face the entrance. The door opened to reveal a young woman, her new lady-in-waiting, who curtsied deeply upon entering.
"Princess" she began "I am Elys, your new lady-in-waiting. I hope everything is to your liking"
Rhaenyra smiled "Thank you, Elys. No need to be formal with me" she offered warmly, the princess was known to not follow protocol ever "I appreciate your efforts in making my chambers more pleasant. However, I have certain preferences regarding my personal space, especially my desk. Please ensure that it remains untouched in the future"
Elys scanned the room confused "Your Grace, the lady-in-waiting does not tend to the chambers. But I could ask around and find which servant dared cross your orders"
The princess waved her hand dismissively "That won't be necessary. Come, tell me more about yourself and I will try my best to pretend that I am interested in the conversation"
From then on the Princess' relationship to her lady-in-waiting only continued to see a decline as the two could not be more different, never seeing eye to eye and always poking at each other to entice a confrontation. The Princess was more direct, often dismissing Elys regardless of the surroundings, whilst Elys was very subtle with her jabs, she was addressing the future heir to the throne after all. It didn't take Rhaenyra long to learn that all of the ladies-in-waiting came from noble houses that her father wished to strengthen his alliance with. Worst of all, the one she had chosen happened to be a distant cousin from Queen Aemma's lineage, therefore Elys simply could not be dismissed for good when Rhaenyra suggested it.
One day as she entered her chambers looking for some respite from the relentless court life, Rhaenyra found a young girl already there, arranging flowers in the vase. She turned around as if caught red-handed and clutched her chest with her hand.
"Your Grace" she rushed to curtsy almost losing her balance "I was told to come in and clean your chambers" she explained, looking down the entire time she spoke "Had I known you would be here I would have come later"
Rhaenyra, taken aback by the young girl's evident fear softened her stance. She had expected Elys, she seemed to have a knack for being in the wrong place at the wrong time as if her entire purpose was to annoy her, but this was someone new "What is your name?" she asked, her tone gentle.
"Alicent, Your Grace"
"You can look up at me" Rhaenyra said amused.
As soon as the girl looked up, Rhaenyra's face contorted into a much too obvious fascinated expression. She was captivated by the young girl's quiet beauty and grace, her eyes were a striking green, like two emeralds. She quickly recovered, clearing her throat.
"Are you the one responsible for that?" she pointed to her desk but her tone was not demanding, just curious.
Alicent nodded, she had her hands together, fidgeting and she was obviously trying to keep her gaze up as the princess had asked of her "I have been told to stay away from it from now on. My deepest apologies for taking the liberty of organising your possessions, Your Grace. It was stupid of me-"
Rhaenyra held her hand up and smiled "Stop" she ordered before the girl would run out of air and collapse on her floor "I prefer my chambers to be left as they are unless I request otherwise, but I also appreciate your diligence"
Alicent only nodded, her head slowly leaning forward, perhaps a habit that Rhaenyra hoped would be fixed soon.
"Now tell me, do you know how to read?" the girl nodded "Who taught you?"
"My father, Your Grace"
Rhaenyra was impressed and even more curious "Your father reads too?" another nod "An intelligent man, a rare breed" she laughed "Did you come with the new bunch of servants?"
"Yes, Your Grace"
"You're also very well-spoken. Did you work for any other house?" Rhaenyra could take a seat at the table and enjoy a cup of tea over this conversation, she was deeply invested.
Alicent shook her head at the question "No, Your Grace"
Rhaenyra rolled her eyes playfully "Am I frightening you? I didn't think I was so unnerving"
Alicent's eyes widened "N-no, Your Grace! Absolutely not. You are... sublime"
Rhaenyra laughed once more "I appreciate the choice of words. I also appreciate the little gifts you keep leaving around the chambers" she gestured towards the flowers and the fruits "My diet has improved considerably" she picked a bright red apple and took a bite "Oh and the perfume is very inviting. It helps combat the stench of dragon"
The corners of Alicent's mouth turned slightly upwards, into a small smile. Rhaenyra felt proud of herself for earning the reaction.
"I always kept flowers in my room" she explained softly, her voice was as smooth and sweet as honey, Rhaenyra decided "They emanate positive energy and brighten up the space"
Rhaenyra agreed "You're spoiling me"
The doors opened and Elys walked in, followed by two handmaidens holding a red and black gown "Your Grace" she curtsied "His Grace, the King, is expecting you in the dining hall in the evening. Lord Corlys and Princess Rhaenys will be joining"
Rhaenyra was visibly irritated "Thank you Elys, always so kind to remind me of all of the events I do not wish to attend" she faked a smile for the sake of the three girls witnessing the tension "That will be all for today" she turned to Alicent "If you need anything, do not hesitate to ask"
Alicent nodded, returning a tentative smile "Thank you, Your Grace. I will remember"
Rhaenyra watched as Alicent curtsied again and left the room, as did the other two women, leaving her alone with the one person she actually wanted gone.
As Elys helped her get dressed, her thoughts drifted back to Alicent. She found herself intrigued. She was always this way, whenever something stirred her curiosity she would not give it a rest, always eager to know more, often borderline obsessed with whatever earned her attention so much.
The evening was long and filled with the usual political discussions that Rhaenyra found tedious. Lord Corlys and Princess Rhaenys were gracious and engaging, Laenor and Laena had grown quite a bit since they had last visited the Red Keep.
*
The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow over Rhaenyra's chambers. She was supposed to have already left to choose a new personal guard, but she found herself lingering, her eyes frequently darting to the door in the hope that Alicent would appear.
Finally, the door opened and in walked a girl, one that Rhaenyra didn't recognise at all. Her shoulders slumped slightly in disappointment, though she quickly masked it.
The girl looked panicked for a second then she curtsied "Your Grace, I thought you have already left. I shall come back-"
"No need. I will be out soon, you may carry out your duties"
As the chambermaid busied herself with the morning tasks, Rhaenyra dressed and prepared for the day ahead. Elys waltzed through the door as soon as she was finishing up.
"Oh good, you're all set to go. We were starting to believe that you have fled on dragonback to escape your duties" Elys poked and looped her arm around Rhaenyra's "Your Grace" she remembered the formalities later.
"Oh wouldn't you like that" she muttered under her breath.
She made her way to the training grounds, where several knights awaited her arrival. The Hand of the King stood with them, along with Ser Harrold Westerling, the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard.
She surveyed the knights standing before her, each one eager to prove their worth.
Ser Harrold stepped forward "Your Grace, these are the finest knights available. Skilful and loyal"
Rhaenyra remembered one of them from the tournament that had taken place a week before, where he had defeated all comers, including her uncle Daemon. She had been impressed by his skill ever since.
After considering her options, Rhaenyra turned to the Lord Commander "I choose Ser Criston Cole"
Both the Hand and Ser Harrold tried to convince Rhaenyra of rethinking her choice, but she was pretty set on it and dismissed their complaints easily.
With the formalities completed, Rhaenyra returned to the Red Keep. Though she was satisfied with her choice, a small part of her couldn't help but feel distracted, wondering about Alicent and when she might see her again.
Her wish was granted fast when she noticed a small and familiar figure struggling with a heavy load.
It was Alicent, carrying a large basket filled with linens. The sight of her straining with the weight immediately caught Rhaenyra's attention. She quickened her pace and approached the young girl.
"Alicent!" Rhaenyra called out, concern evident in her voice.
Alicent looked up startled, nearly dropping the basket "Your Grace!" she exclaimed, trying to regain her balance.
"What are you doing carrying such a heavy load by yourself?"
Alicent blushed, her gaze dropping to the ground "I was asked to bring these linens to the laundry, Your Grace. It's my duty"
Rhaenyra frowned. "Where are the other servants? You are much too frail for this"
"They were occupied with other tasks" Alicent explained, her voice soft.
Rhaenyra shook her head "You should not be burdened with such heavy work"
Alicent looked up, a flicker of gratitude in her eyes "Thank you, Your Grace, but it's my responsibility. I don't mind"
Rhaenyra smiled warmly "Well, I mind. Come, let me help you"
Alicent shook her head and took a step back, removing the basket out of Rhaenyra's reach as soon as the blonde attempted to grip it.
"I apologise Your Grace, but I cannot let you exhaust yourself by carrying a servant's basket around" she swallowed hard "I would be greatly punished"
Rhaenyra didn't like that, her brows were furrowed. She looked around and saw the knight she had just anointed to be her guard. He was standing a few considerable feet away from her, protocol.
"Ser Criston, help the lady!" she ordered and watched carefully as he obediently took the heavy object from Alicent's hands. She almost attempted to put up a fight but orders were orders.
They started walking towards the laundry "How have you been?"
Alicent glanced at her, a small smile playing on her lips "I've been well, Your Grace. Thank you for asking. How was your day?"
Rhaenyra chuckled "Eventful"
"I can only imagine, Your Grace"
As they reached their destination Rhaenyra's guard handed the basket over to one of the laundresses, who looked surprised to see the princess. She bowed and grabbed the basket.
"Make sure Alicent doesn't have to carry such heavy loads on her own in the future"
The laundress nodded quickly "Of course, Your Grace"
As Rhaenyra and Alicent walked back through the castle grounds, Rhaenyra turned to the young girl "Will you tend to my chambers on the morrow?"
"If you wish me to, Your Grace" she bowed her head.
"I do. And the day after. And the day after that" she laughed, her mood lightening.
The two continued walking, the warmth of the sun and the gentle breeze making the journey back pleasant. Rhaenyra glanced at Alicent, noting how the girl seemed to fit so naturally into the castle's surroundings, despite her initial nervousness. She was as gracious as any noble lady that had come and gone.
"How are you finding the rest of your duties so far?"
Alicent thought for a moment before replying "It's an honor to serve in the Red Keep, Your Grace. I am grateful for the opportunity"
Rhaenyra nodded, satisfied with the response "Good. I've taken a liking to your presence in my chambers. You have a calming effect"
Alicent's cheeks flushed "Thank you, Your Grace. It means a great deal to hear that"
As they reached the entrance to the Grand Hall, Rhaenyra paused, turning to Alicent "I look forward to seeing you, then"
She squeezed her arm and they parted ways, Rhaenyra heading to her chambers with a lighter heart, Alicent heading to the servants' quarters. The long corridors of the Red Keep felt like a maze to her. The quarters were simple and not as tidy as she had hoped, but they provided a place of rest and a roof above their head, many of the women working there didn't have any other place to go to.
Finding a quiet corner, Alicent sat down and allowed herself a moment to reflect. She thought about how Rhaenyra had asked for her specifically, not just for the morrow, but for the days to come. When she was first told to clean the Princess' chambers she was scared and silently praying she would not have to face her for she didn't have the backbone to be yelled at by high authority figures. And now there she was, smiling at the prospect that she would see Rhaenyra again.
Alicent couldn't deny the flutter of excitement that she felt. She had always known her place within the castle hierarchy and not only, but her interactions with Rhaenyra made her feel seen in a way she hadn't expected. The Princess's genuine smile and playful laughter had left quite the impression on her, one that she found both comforting and exhilarating.
Rhaenyra's kindness was a rare sight, she determined.
As Alicent was preparing for bed, carefully folding her dress and tucking it away, the door to the modest shared room swung open with a creak. Mistress Cedra, the stern overseer of the servants, stood in the doorway.
"Flowers!" Cedra's voice was cold and commanding "Come with me. Now!"
Alicent's heart sank. She knew better than to question the authority of Mistress Cedra, and the tone left little room for argument. She quickly slipped on her shoes and followed the older woman out of the servants' quarters and down a dimly lit hallway. They moved in silence, the only sounds being the faint echoes of their footsteps and the distant murmur of the castle settling for the night.
Mistress Cedra led Alicent to a small, cramped room at the far end of the servants' wing. Inside, a single candle flickered on a table, casting long shadows on the stone walls. Cedra turned to face Alicent, her eyes narrowing with accusation.
"I've heard troubling reports, Alicent" Cedra began, her voice low and menacing "It seems you've been causing a stir in the laundry, and now you've gone and whined to the princess about it"
Alicent's eyes widened in surprise "Mistress Cedra, I would never-"
"Silence!" Cedra snapped and slapped her hard across the face "I do not need your excuses. It was made clear to you that your place is to work diligently and keep your head down. Yet, here you are, gaining the favor of Princess Rhaenyra and stirring up trouble among the other servants"
Alicent felt a rush of fear wash over her "I never intended to cause any trouble. The Princess spoke to me of her own accord, and I merely answered her questions, my lady"
Cedra stepped closer, her face inches from Alicent's "You are here to serve, not to seek attention. The other servants are beginning to talk, I'm sure your father would not be happy to hear of it"
Alicent lowered her gaze, her heart pounding "What do you want me to do?"
Cedra's lips curled into a cruel smile "You will scrub the floors of the Great Hall tonight, and you will do it alone. Perhaps some hard labor will remind you of your proper place"
Alicent nodded, knowing there was no point in arguing "Yes, Mistress Cedra"
Without another word, Cedra turned and left the room, leaving Alicent to collect her thoughts. She felt shame and anger. She had done nothing wrong and yet she was being punished for simply catching the princess's attention.
Alicent made her way to the Great Hall. The vast, empty space loomed around her, silent and dimly lit by the moonlight streaming through the high windows. She found a bucket and an old cloth, filled the bucket with water from a nearby basin, and knelt down to begin her task.
Hours passed, and Alicent worked tirelessly, her hands raw and her knees aching. She focused on the rhythm of the scrubbing, letting it drown out her frustration. Finally, as the first light of dawn began to seep into the hall, she finished her task.
Exhausted but resolute, Alicent returned to her quarters. As she lay down on her cot, the harsh clang of the morning bell echoed through the quarters, signaling the start of a new day. Her muscles screamed in protest, and her eyes stung with exhaustion. She forced herself to sit up, knowing that any delay could bring further reprimand from Cedra.
Meanwhile in her chambers Rhaenyra was being attended to by another chambermaid. The girl's unfamiliarity with Rhaenyra's preferences and routines grated on her nerves. She had specifically requested Alicent, and the continued absence was becoming intolerable. Her patience, already thin from the pressures of her royal duties, snapped.
"Where is Alicent?" she demanded, her voice sharp.
The chambermaid fumbled with a brush, eyes wide with fear "I-I don't know, Your Grace. I was sent in her place"
Rhaenyra's frustration boiled over. She left her room at once with Ser Criston Cole following rapidly behind. The castle staff hurried out of her way as she moved with purpose through the corridors, she even dismissed Elys when they crossed paths.
"Not now" she growled and continued her quest.
Reaching the servants' quarters, she ignored the startled looks and curtseys from the other women. Her eyes scanned the room until she found Cedra, who immediately stiffened at the sight of the princess.
"Your Grace" Cedra began, curtsying deeply "How may I assist you?"
Rhaenyra's voice was cold "I am here for Alicent. I have requested her presence multiple times, yet she has been kept from me. This will not continue"
Mistress Cedra paled, her eyes flickering nervously "Your Grace, I assure you, there has been a misunderstanding. Alicent has been fulfilling other duties-"
"Bring her to me now. And let it be known that she is to tend to my chambers every day from now on"
Cedra bowed her head "Of course, Your Grace. Right away"
Alicent, having just pulled herself together, appeared from a nearby corner, her eyes widening at the sight of Rhaenyra. She looked tired, her movements slow from the previous night's punishment.
"Your Grace" Alicent curtsied, struggling to keep her exhaustion from showing.
Rhaenyra's expression softened at the sight of her "Come with me"
*
"Why have you been kept from my service?" Rhaenyra asked, her tone gentler now.
Alicent hesitated, she knew she would pay for the havoc that Rhaenyra wrecked in front of the other servants. She didn't need to give Cedra an extra reason for the punishment that was sure to come.
"Forgive me, Your Grace" she began, her voice faltering slightly "I had a restless night and woke feeling unwell. I am truly sorry for not being able to attend to your needs this morning"
Rhaenyra studied her face from where she was sitting at her desk while Alicent changed the bedsheets. She could sense that she was being lied to but she chose not to press further.
“It's quite alright, Alicent. Your health is of utmost importance. Please, rest and take care of yourself. We can attend to my chambers another time" she gave a warm smile.
Alicent shook her head violently. She couldn't bear the thought of leaving her responsibilities unattended, even if it meant disobeying the Princess' orders.
"Your Grace, I appreciate your concern" Alicent began "But I cannot simply abandon my duties. I am here to serve you, and I intend to do so to the best of my abilities, regardless of my condition"
Rhaenyra sighed, recognizing that she wouldn't be able to convince Alicent otherwise. With a resigned nod, she relented "Very well. If you insist on staying, then I won't stop you" a smirk started playing on her lips "On the condition that the entire time you're here you will entertain me"
"As you wish, Your Grace" she smiled.
She decided to start with something simple "Tell me, where do you come from?"
Alicent paused momentarily, then continued arranging the pillows on the bed "Oldtown, Your Grace"
Rhaenyra leaned forward slightly, intrigued "Oldtown? I should have known by the way you carry yourself" she always protested against the many hours she had to spend learning the map of all Westeros and beyond but even so she absorbed all of the knowledge like a dry sponge "Do you miss it?"
Alicent shrugged and moved to dust the bedside tables and replace the burnt candles "The place, no. But I do miss... certain aspects of it"
Rhaenyra arched an eyebrow, sensing there was more to Alicent's words than met the eye "Such as?" she prompted gently.
"I miss my family" she admitted softly.
Rhaenyra nodded understandingly "Family has a way of grounding us, no matter where we are" she remarked, her tone sympathetic "Your family, are they well?"
"Yes, Your Grace. As far as I know, they are all in good health"
“Good, that is good to hear. I have not been in the Reach in a long time" she changed the topic, not wanting to drain the poor girl "Father used to lure me into joining him on his campaigns by letting me ride Syrax" the fond memories were slowly engulfing her and she wished she could somehow put them into Alicent's own head so she would understand better what Rhaenyra was talking about, so she could get a good glimpse into her life before it all went to shit "I remember the Citadel. Have you been?"
Alicent shook her head "No, Your Grace. I have heard many stories about it, though. My father used to tell me tales"
Rhaenyra's eyes sparkled with nostalgia "It is an incredible place. So much history and learning. Perhaps one day you will see it for yourself"
Perhaps.
*
For the next few days Rhaenyra was swept away by the relentless duties of a princess. From dawn until dusk, she attended council meetings, oversaw preparations for an upcoming feast and met with various lords and ladies of the realm. Her father, King Viserys, had insisted on her presence at each event, believing it essential for her to understand the intricacies of governance and court politics.
“You are my heir, Rhaenyra" he would always scold when she tried to slip away.
One late night Rhaenyra sank onto a cushioned chair, running a hand through her hair. The day had been long and tiring and the absence of the one person who had brought her some measure of comfort was keenly felt. She leaned back, closing her eyes for a moment, trying to summon the patience and resilience her position demanded.
The following morning, Rhaenyra sat in her chambers with Elys, discussing the upcoming feast that was causing quite a stir in the castle.
"And what of the musicians?" Elys asked, her quill poised above the parchment "Do you have any specific requests?"
Rhaenyra thought for a moment, tapping her fingers lightly on the armrest of her chair "I would prefer something lively to start with, to set a joyous tone. Perhaps some Dornish tunes. And later, something more soothing and melodic as the evening winds down. Just make sure the musicians know not to play any songs that might put our guests to sleep" she quipped, a wicked grin playing at the corners of her lips.
Elys rolled her eyes, her tone dripping with sarcasm "Of course. We wouldn't want anyone nodding off into their soup and blaming it on Your Grace's choice of entertainment"
Rhaenyra ignored the invitation to a quarrel "And make sure the wine flows freely. We wouldn't want anyone to accuse us of being stingy, now would we?"
Elys smirked, her retort sharp "As if anyone could ever accuse you of being stingy, Your Grace. Your generosity knows no bounds, especially when it comes to spending the kingdom's coffers on frivolous extravagances"
Elys was being formal just for the pure sarcasm of it all, they had dropped the curtsies at that point. Despite the everlasting tension, the two shared a begrudging respect for each other's wit and cunning.
Just then, the door creaked open and Alicent walked in carrying a bundle of clean bedsheets. Her usual grace seemed overshadowed by a certain hesitance and she kept her eyes lowered, avoiding direct contact with Rhaenyra.
“Good morning, Alicent" the blonde greeted from across the room.
Alicent curtsied, holding the sheets up "Your Grace, my lady" she responded and got to work right away.
"And the floral arrangements? Shall I ensure they are to match the banners and tapestries in the hall?" Elys pulled Rhaenyra out of her thoughts.
Rhaenyra nodded, her eyes briefly flicking to the person speaking "Yes, that would be ideal. I want everything to feel cohesive and elegant"
Alicent seemed more reserved than Rhaenyra had ever seen her, was it Elys' presence?
When Elys finally concluded their discussion and left to attend to her tasks, Rhaenyra stood and approached Alicent, who was now smoothing the sheets on the bed.
"Alicent" Rhaenyra began softly, ensuring her tone was gentle and non-threatening "Is everything alright?"
Alicent paused, her hands stilling on the fabric. She took a deep breath, then turned to face the princess, her eyes briefly meeting Rhaenyra's before looking away again "I am fine, Your Grace. Just a bit tired, perhaps"
It was then that Rhaenyra's sharp eyes caught sight of something out of place, a faint bruise marring the delicate skin around Alicent's eye. At first, she thought it might be a trick of the light, but as Alicent turned slightly, the bruise came into clearer view.
The princess' gasp was so loud that it gave Alicent a fright "What happened?" she grabbed her face a little rougher than she had intended "Who did this to you?" her thumb started caressing Alicent's cheek soothingly, hoping that this gesture would make up for the fright she had just involuntarily caused.
Alicent didn't know where to look, anywhere would have been a better alternative than looking Rhaenyra in the eyes, she had always been afraid of eye contact. Rhaenyra noticed her fidgeting, it wasn't the first time. She had also noticed the bloody cuticles but could not bring herself to inquire Alicent about it.
Her protective instincts kicked into overdrive. She reached out to touch Alicent's arm gently, intending to comfort her, but Alicent flinched away, her reaction sending another surge of fury coursing through Rhaenyra's veins.
Her voice grew sharp "Who did this to you, Alicent? You will tell me and you will tell me now"
Alicent's eyes widened with fear, and she took a step back "Please, Your Grace" she pleaded, her voice barely above a whisper "I-I can't..."
"You can't what?" she demanded, her voice rising with each word "You can't trust me? You can't tell me the truth?"
Alicent shook her head, her breaths coming in shallow gasps "I'm sorry, Your Grace" she whispered, her voice trembling with fear "I can't... I can't..."
Rhaenyra's heart ached at the sight of Alicent's distress, she wished she was better at comforting people and at talking them through their anxieties. All of her senses were telling her to take a step back, give Alicent enough space to steady her breath.
And yet, without thinking much about it anymore, she wrapped her arms around Alicent's small body, careful not to cause her any more physical pain. She could feel the tension slowly melting away, her breathing steadied and her trembling subsided.
*
Rhaenyra tasked Ser Criston with finding out who had inflicted the injuries on her favourite servant. Truth had always a way of coming out within the castle walls, especially when coins and favours, as well as threats were involved.
The guard returned to her chambers as soon as he had a name.
"Cedra Rivers, Your Grace" he informed and left, allowing the princess to decide the fate of the lowborn woman over the night.
Rhaenyra was furious, she spent the entire night thinking of ways to avenge the abuse that Cedra had caused Alicent. She always had such a bad temper, whenever someone got on her bad side, there was no going back. Some would say she was the perfect mix of King Viserys and Prince Daemon, her uncle. Calm at times, a thunder storm at others.
She thought about stripping Cedra of her position of authority, banishing her from the castle and ensuring that she would never again have the opportunity to inflict harm upon anyone. But how could she be so sure that whoever replaced her would not be the same if not worse? She knew she could not protect Alicent at all times, the duties of being heir were starting to pile up. She was three and twenty and she had to wed someone soon, before the King and the Hand would take the liberty of choosing for her.
“Mistress Cedra" Rhaenyra's voice dripped venom as she stood in the doorway of the servant's humble office "It has come to my attention that you have been mistreating our servants, yes?"
The colour drained from Cedra's face. She tried to muster a defense, but the words caught in her throat. Rhaenyra's piercing gaze left no room for lies or excuses.
"Your Grace, I-"
"Silence" Rhaenyra cut her off sharply, stepping into the room with an intimidating presence. "You dare to lay a hand on one of my servants, on Alicent no less? Do you think I would overlook such cruelty? Do you think I would allow you to continue your reign of terror?"
Cedra, the ever so dramatic, fell to her knees, grovelling "Please, Your Grace, have mercy. I was only ensuring that these girls adhered to the rules of the castle-"
"From this moment on, you are freed of your rank and responsibilities. You will remain within the castle as a common servant, and you will answer to the new overseer, Lady Elinda Massey" She turned on her heel and as she was about to make her exit, she remembered one more thing "Alicent is to be in my service exclusively, please do make it known to everybody that might request her assistance"
"Of course, Your Grace"