Led By Fiery Passion (currently being revised)

Part 54

They stood at the edge of the beach . The wind whipped through Aenyra's hair, but it was the icy tension between her and Daemon that truly chilled her. He approached with measured grace, his expression a mask of composure, yet she sensed the storm brewing beneath the surface.

"Aenyra," he began, his voice low and steady, "we've not talked much since returning from King's Landing. I hope that when you get back, we can change that."

A small part of her longed to forget the betrayal and return to the days when they were a father-daughter duo, united in their ambitions. But since the truth had come to light, she saw him in a different light. The man she once admired and aspired to emulate now felt more like a stranger—someone who concealed deceit behind a perfectly composed facade. "I'd like that, Father."she said, forcing a smile.

They both noticed Rhaenyra approaching, and the conversation came to an abrupt halt. "Fly safe, little dragon," Daemon said, stepping back to stand behind her mother so she could say her goodbyes. The moment he called her that, Aenyra felt a genuine smile break through her facade. "I will."

Rhaenyra drew closer to Cannibal, masking any hint of fear. "You'll fly safe, won't you?" she asked in a hushed, concerned tone, gently moving Aenyra's braided hair over her shoulder. "You don't need to worry, Mother. I promise I'll fly safe."

"It's crucial that we gain the North's support, but something tells me I don't need to be concerned," Rhaenyra replied, sharing a knowing smile as she fluffed Aenyra's braid one last time. Then, pulling her into a warm hug, she whispered, "Keep my grandchild safe, hmm?" Aenyra nodded, smiling into the embrace, feeling the weight of her mother's words.

"Give Aegon a hug for me, and please tell him I'll be back as soon as I can," Aenyra asked earnestly.

"I will. You know he wanted to come, but Elinda just put him down for a nap. I'll make sure to pass on your message," Rhaenyra replied, stepping back to join Daemon.

Aenyra took a last look at her family before waving goodbye to Rhaena, Baela, and Joffrey, who remained at the steps. Her gaze shifted from them to her two brothers, who were now mounted on their dragons.

"Fly swift, brothers." she called out over her shoulders.

"Fly safe." Jace returned, already climbing onto Vermax.

"Fly smart." Luke added, smirking slightly as he reached Arrax.

And with a synchronized roar, the dragons took to the skies, three messengers bound for three different corners of the realm, carrying the hope of a queen and the fate of a realm on their wings.

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Aenyra's journey was long, but she managed to arrive just before evening gave way to darkness. Landing Cannibal in the open field, just as she had done years ago.

Aenyra smiled, overwhelmed by a wave of nostalgia. The air was freezing, yet excitement warmed her as she climbed down from Cannibal, her feet sinking into the thick snow below. The crisp cold bit at her throat and nose.

Aenyra ran her gloved hand along Cannibal's snout, kissing the tip affectionately. "Kírímvōse syt se kípagōn, jikagon find aō mírríhavōr yn úmbagōn qrīdrughagon hen se vīllages," she said in high Valyrian, thanking him for the long ride and instructing him to hunt while avoiding the nearby villages. Cannibal nudged her gently, letting out a contented purr.

She laughed, stepping back to give him room to fly.

As Cannibal ascended into the sky, Aenyra watched him go until a voice called out to her from behind.