TO LOVE A KING || Maegor II Targaryen [SLOW UPDATES]

018▪️ VEINS OF GREEN & GOLD

Seven days passed in a blur of preparation and ceremony. Ser Garlen Tyrell's kin arrived in waves, green-cloaked nobles of the Reach from Highgarden and its surrounding bannermen.

The great halls of Oldtown thrummed with festivity. Hightower banners were sewn anew, and Tyrell colors were flown high alongside them.

A bride price of twelve golden stags, rare Arbor wines, a mare with pearl-white mane, and a box of Essosi silks had been presented by the Tyrells an extravagant display that pleased Lord Hightower greatly.

The two families met formally in the Hightower solar. Toasts were raised, old bloodlines discussed, and alliances solidified through smiles that concealed ambition.

Lady Rosaline Oakheart bonded quickly with Lady Lynesse Hightower over embroidery, wines, and mutual pride in their children's union.

Now, the final day had arrived.

The Grand Hall of Oldtown was alight with candles, draped in gold-threaded banners. Tables groaned under the weight of roasted meats, honeyed cakes, and spiced cider. Laughter rang, minstrels played, and nobles whispered as they awaited the appearance of the bride and groom.

Howbeit, Olivia Hightower stood before a tall silver mirror, radiant in her wedding gown of ivory silk and green velvet, embroidered with golden roses and Hightower flames. Her hair was coiled in intricate knots, crowned with a circlet of jade and pearls.

Alicent and Naomi entered, cloaked in flowing gowns of soft green and silver. Alicent's was sheer-sleeved and elegant, Naomi's draped and sharp at the shoulders, their curls pinned high with subtle jewels.

"Come to wish me well cousins?" Olivia asked, turning slowly, admiring herself. "It must sting, watching me wed first."

Naomi raised a brow. "If I recall, Ser Garlen was originally promised to Alicent."

Olivia scoffed, smoothing the folds of her skirt. "And yet... he chose me. There's a difference."

Alicent gave a small smile, folding her hands. "You're lucky, Olivia. To be the future Lady of Highgarden..."

Olivia's chest lifted with pride. "Yes, I am." She stared at her reflection, lips parted slightly as if imagining the future.

"But at what cost?" Alicent murmured, her voice almost lost to the rustle of Olivia's silks. "I only hope you find happiness... and that you aren't made a pushover."

Olivia rolled her eyes, turning toward them. "Well, I wish you both the best at King's Landing. I hope you find... whatever identity you're looking for, Alicent. And Naomi?" She paused dramatically, folding her hands. "Let's pray your father treats you better than he does Charlotte. I hear Lord Boremund Baratheon's son is courting her... and Lord Euron Greyjoy too."

Alicent and Naomi shared a glance.

"Life in King's Landing isn't for the weak," Olivia added, adjusting her bodice with sharp fingers. "Court gossip. Scandal. Expectations. You'll see. Mama says Uncle Otto has already found husbands for you both at Kings Landing."

They blinked. "What?" Naomi asked, incredulous.

Before the question could bloom, the doors opened. Lady Lynesse Hightower stepped inside, her aurburn hair weaved on a southern updo, she was dressed in an lemon gown with a long trailing train. She smiled thinly at her daughter Olivia, then her eyes landed on Alicent and Naomi, and then the smile faded.