Claiming the Dragon

Chasing Secrets and Shadows

As they landed in Storm's End, Rhaenyra gnawed on her bottom lip, ignoring the tangled knots that writhed in her stomach like a den of vipers. Daemon had sent word that they would be returning but had written nothing more before they departed the Stepstones. The princess knew it was because the prince wanted to gauge Lord Boremund's authentic reaction to the news of his son's betrayal.

"Princess Rhaenyra, Prince Daemon! I didn't expect to see you both back so soon, but it gladdens the heart! I expect the Stepstones went better than we had hoped?" The Round Hall had been prepared with food and drink for their return, lively music playing as they entered the keep.

"Indeed, they did, Lord Boremund." Rhaenyra replied politely.

"That's wonderful. So, I can expect my son to be back soon, as well?" he asked, smiling. The trio standing in front of them did not return his grin. Harwin tensed behind her, preparing for any mishap that may occur, his hand instinctively flexing toward his sword. Before the sensitive subject of his son could be discussed, the princess asked Lord Boremund to clear the hall, think tension filling the room as the servants departed.

"Borros will not be returning, Lord Boremund," she finally told him. "He was killed in the Stepstones." The smile fell from his face.

"I see—"

"He was killed by Ser Harwin, Lord Boremund." She could see anger flash in his eyes, but also confusion at her words.

"Princess, what—"

"Your son tried to kill the heir to the Iron Throne, Lord Boremund." Daemon finally sneered. "He is lucky Ser Harwin witnessed the act, and not myself, for his death at my hands would have been neither quick nor painless." As her husband spoke, Rhaenyra watched Lord Boremund's reaction; the shock and dismay that crossed his face. Of course, he hadn't been a part of it. She regretted that she had doubted him, however briefly.

"You're sure? There has to be some mistake—"

"There is no mistake, Lord Boremund. You see my face, yes?" she asked quietly. While she was healing well, stitches and bruising marred her once pristine skin. "Your son said that he had given someone assurances, and then he threw me face-first into a cave wall."

"Princess, you know I would never—"

"Yes, I know," she reassured him with a soft smile. He crossed the hall slowly, kneeling down in front of her.

"You have my sincerest apologies, princess. Had I any inclination, I would have never allowed him to accompany you." he assured her sincerely.

"Yes, I know," she repeated, offering her hand, bidding him to stand. "I also know you won't be opposed to Daemon and Ser Harwin searching your son's quarters..."

"Of course not, princess. You have full permission to investigate anywhere you need. The castle is at your complete disposal." Daemon seemed comfortable with his answers and gave Rhaenyra a nod of approval.

"Thank you, Lord Boremund. I will join you for supper and Daemon and Ser Harwin will conduct their search, lest anyone in the keep manage to destroy something of importance before they can get to it." Rhaenyra declared in a firm tone. He agreed without hesitation and the princess joined him at the table.

"Princess, I wish to assure you—"

"Lord Boremund, I've known you for years. I've been a guest in this castle more than once. I know you are trustworthy. Someone, however, planned to have me killed, and your son agreed. We are eager to gain some insight as to who that might be." Rhaenyra swallowed. Deep in her gut, she knew that Otto Hightower had to have been behind it. But what did that mean for Alicent? The thought that the queen could have been feigning friendship and plotting against her... It made her sick to her stomach. Rhaenyra's plan had started the same way: play nice, and keep her enemies close... But she had thought Alicent's acceptance genuine. She thought they were rebuilding their relationship. And now she didn't know what to think.