Fire and Blood

Chapter 71: Trouble on the Homefront (Part 1)

Red Keep ― Courtyard...

"All hail Princess Rhaenyra of House Targaryen and her royal consort, Prince Daemon Targaryen!" Ser Steffon announced.

As Rhaenyra stepped out of her carriage, she was surrounded by her three sons from her previous marriage, Princes Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Joffrey Velaryon. Her uncle-husband Daemon and cousin/stepdaughter Rhaena Targaryen were also with her. It had been six long years since they had last been at the Red Keep, and they were completely unaware of the changes that had taken place in King's Landing. As they approached the entrance, Rhaenyra was surprised to see a group of Lykirī Mēre lining up around the castle. "Those are my brother's men," she recognized. The Blacks had stationed their own men around the court, and all eyes were on her. It was clear that they had been anticipating her arrival.

"Is this... normal?" Rhaena asked nervously.

Jacaerys shook his head. "No. No, I don't think so. Something's not right," he theorized.

"It's like they were expecting us," Lucerys added.

One of the Blacks approached. "Welcome back to King's Landing, princess," he said. "We've been expecting you."

"An odd way of showing it," Daemon rolled his eyes, muttering under his breath.

As if on cue, Lord Allun Caswell, another member of the Blacks faction, stepped outside and approached. "Welcome back, princess," he greeted.

"Lord Caswell," Rhaenyra reciprocated. "Is my brother here? The Hand of the King, Prince Aeonar Targaryen," she inquired.

"He is, princess. But he regrets not greeting you sooner. As you can see, things have been... not pleasant."

"Unpleasant, how? Where is my brother?"

The Lord of Bitterbridge seemed to struggle to find his words. "Well, the Hand sends his regrets, but several matters require his undivided attention. Though he wished for me to assure you that he would make time to―"

"Where is the king?" Daemon interruptedly demanded, resting his palm on Dark Sister.

"Hi... His Grace the King is resting in his chambers."

"That'll be all, Lord Caswell. I'll take it from here," a feminine voice called out.

Lord Allun ceased and stepped aside.

As they approached the entrance, Rhaenyra, Daemon, and their children were met with an enthusiastic greeting from Princess Aemma. Rhaenyra couldn't help but notice how stunning Aemma looked, her Valyrian silver hair cascading in a chic side-swept style and a vibrant red gown that spoke to her elegance. It was almost like looking in a mirror or at a younger version of herself or even her late mother. The dress had a v-neck with long sleeves embroidered at the cuffs and a black yoke heavily embroidered with the red three-headed dragon on each side of her shoulders, with smocking on the bodice that looked like dragon scales and more embroidery with an abstract floral design. In addition to her stunning attire, she adorns a beautiful beaded collar necklace embellished with gold drop metal pieces. The necklace is expertly crafted with intricate beadwork, adding an extra touch of elegance to her ensemble. Large gold circular earrings complement the chain, featuring a unique hammer pattern and a lovely pearl set at the center. Three other pearls are placed above the centerpiece, adding to the earrings' overall beauty. The earrings are finished with a wire-wrapped pearl teardrop bead, which dangles delicately from the circular component, completing the look gracefully. The family couldn't help but be in awe of Aemma's beauty and elegance.

"Aemma!" Joffrey recognized his cousin immediately. Bolting from the pack, he ran up and embraced her, nearly knocking her over.

"Whoa, ho-ho! Easy there, little man," Aemma chuckled, lowering her eyes to her overly excited six-year-old cousin. "Good morning, Jace. You too, Luke." She greeted them as they both came to see her.