The Hidden Heir (ignore the cover)

The Reluctant Farewell

Chapter Ten: The Reluctant Farewell

The cool night air of the Red Keep's corridors felt like a soothing balm after the intensity of the earlier commotion. Alicent Hightower guided Aegon back toward his nursery, her hand gently resting on his small shoulder. The young prince's steps were slower than usual, and his expression was one of reluctance and quiet determination.Aegon had been calm and obedient when Daemon and Viserys had spoken to him, but now, as Alicent led him away from Lyanna's nursery, his demeanor changed. His gaze kept drifting back toward the door they had just left, a subtle but unmistakable sadness in his eyes.Alicent sensed her son's distress and gently squeezed his shoulder. "Aegon, you need to go back to your room now. It's late, and you need your rest."Aegon's bottom lip quivered slightly. "But... I want to stay with Lyanna. She's so small and alone."

Alicentknelt down to be at eye level with her son, her expression softening as she looked into his eyes. "I understand, darling. Lyanna is very small and needs to be cared for, but it's not safe for you to be alone with her. You're still very young, and we need to make sure that everyone is safe and comfortable."

Aegon's brow furrowed as he clutched his blanket tighter. "But I was just trying to keep her safe. She looked so peaceful, and I didn't want to leave her."Alicent's heart ached at her son's earnest words. She took a deep breath, searching for the right words to ease his worries. "Aegon, you did a very brave thing. You were looking out for her, and that's very kind of you. But there are rules to keep everyone safe, and we need to follow them so that everyone is protected."Aegon's eyes filled with tears. "I just wanted to help."Alicent reached out and gently brushed a tear from Aegon's cheek. "I know you did, sweetheart. And your intentions were very good. But right now, it's important that you stay in your nursery. We'll make sure that Lyanna is well cared for, and you'll have a chance to see her again very soon."

Aegon's lower lip trembled, and he nodded reluctantly. "Okay, Mother. But I don't want to leave her alone."

Alicent stood and gently guided Aegon toward his nursery, her heart heavy with the weight of his sadness. As they walked, she continued to speak softly, trying to comfort him. "We all want to make sure that Lyanna is happy and healthy, and that includes making sure you get your rest. I promise, we'll make sure she's well looked after."As they reached Aegon's nursery, Alicent paused at the door and turned to face him. "Why don't you choose a favorite toy to keep by your side tonight? It might help you feel a bit better."Aegon's eyes brightened slightly at the suggestion, and he nodded. "Okay. I'll get my dragon."Alicent watched as Aegon selected a small, stuffed dragon from his toy chest, holding it tightly as he climbed into bed. She tucked him in, smoothing the blankets around him and placing the dragon securely at his side.

"You're a very good boy, Aegon," Alicent said softly, brushing a kiss on his forehead. "You took great care of Lyanna today. We'll make sure she's safe and happy, just like you are."

Aegon's tears had dried, and he looked up at his mother with a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Mother."Alicent stood and gave him a reassuring smile before turning to leave the room. As she closed the door gently behind her, she couldn't help but reflect on the complexities of her son's emotions and the challenges of navigating the delicate balance between protection and independence.In the quiet of the hallway, Alicent made her way back to her own chambers, her mind swirling with thoughts of the day's events. The bonds between the Targaryen children, even at such a young age, were already showing signs of intricate connections and potential conflicts. She knew that navigating these relationships would require careful attention and understanding.

As she entered her chambers, Alicent's thoughts turned to the broader implications of the day's events. The unexpected moment between Aegon and Lyanna had highlighted not just the innocence of childhood affection but also the potential for future complications. For now, her focus was on ensuring her children's well-being and maintaining the stability of their world.

As the night settled over the Red Keep, Alicent prepared herself for the challenges ahead, knowing that the path to harmony and security for her family would be a complex journey. The first steps had been taken, and though they were fraught with uncertainties, Alicent was determined to guide her children through the intricate web of relationships and responsibilities that lay before them.