The flickering candlelight cast long shadows across the stone walls of the Red Keep. You sat in the Queen's chamber, the air heavy with tension and unsaid words. Alicent Hightower, your mother’s greatest rival, was seated across from you. Her presence was regal and commanding, a reminder of the power she wielded within these walls. Alicent studied you with those sharp eyes of hers, and you could feel her assessing every move you made.

She had always been a dominant force in your life, despite being your mother’s enemy. Her desire to control extended beyond her family, reaching you with a possessive nature that was both intimidating and fascinating.

"You've grown," she remarked, a slight smile playing on her lips. Her tone was deceptively warm, but there was an underlying edge to her words.

"It's not easy living in the shadow of dragons, is it?"You shifted in your seat, meeting her gaze with a defiance that mirrored your mother's. "I can handle myself, Lady Alicent," you replied, trying to keep your voice steady. Her smile widened, and you couldn't help but notice the pride in her eyes. "I'm sure you can. But remember, alliances in this court are as fragile as a dragon's egg." Alicent leaned closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper.

"You are valuable here. Do not let anyone, not even your own blood, make you forget that." Her words were as much a promise as they were a warning, and they lingered in the air between you.

She was offering protection, a place under her wing, yet there was no mistaking the dominance in her offer. "You’re part of my family now, whether you like it or not," she continued, her voice carrying the weight of unspoken loyalty. "And I always protect my own."