LAENYS VELARYON, Lady of the Tides, princess of Dragonstone, youngest daughter of Corlys Velaryon-Lord of the Tides-and Rhaenys Targaryen-the Queen Who Never Was.
No one in all the realms believed that Rhaenys was with child when she announced it pu...
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(gore, themes of violence)
Laenys stood on the balcony of Dragonstone, her eyes fixed on the sky as Meleys, her mother's dragon, took flight. The crimson scales of the seasoned dragon shimmered in the dying light of the day, a stark contrast against the darkening sky. Rhaenys had left without heeding a single word of argument, her parting words echoing in Laenys's mind: "It is high time for me to fight, my dear. You stay here and protect my granddaughter."
Laenys's hands shook as she gripped the stone railing, her knuckles turning white. She nibbled on her bottom lip, anxiety gnawing at her heart. The thought of her mother facing the possibility of an ambush from Aemond or Aegon and their dragons filled her with dread. The cool night air did little to calm the tempest of worry within her.
She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't notice Cregan until he was standing beside her. His presence was a steadying force, a reminder that she was not alone in this.
"Laenys," he said softly, his voice a deep rumble that brought her back to the present. She turned to look at him, her eyes wide and filled with fear.
"She just stormed off," Laenys whispered, her voice trembling. "She didn't listen to me, didn't let me argue. What if... what if Aemond or Aegon...?"
Cregan placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Your mother is strong and experienced. She has faced danger before and emerged victorious. We must have faith in her."
"Surely you understand why I have my doubts. The last person I sent on their dragon from Dragonstone never returned, Cregan... I have faith in my mother's abilities, but I know the power the Greens wield. This sudden move from Criston Cole is fraught with mystery. He wants Rook's Rest for a reason," she said thoughtfully. Cregan Stark nodded in agreement.
"Aye... we should send my men-at-arms behind Rhaenys. They won't reach Rook's Rest nearly as quickly as your mother, but they could strengthen our forces. Cole doesn't know I'm here at Dragonstone. He wouldn't expect northern men in the South," he suggested, making Laenys turn her head to look at him. He was right; no one besides those within these walls knew of Cregan Stark's presence in the South.
"Send them as swiftly as possible," she said, placing her hand on his forearm. "I trust this to you... Cregan."
Cregan nodded with determination before turning on his heel and leaving the balcony. He headed straight to his chambers, shutting the door behind him. He approached his writing desk, taking a seat in the cushioned chair before beginning to write on a piece of parchment, the ink staining his fingernails.
Aemond,
Meet me at Rook's Rest, near the creek. We will discuss matters of peace you have offered.
