The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden glow over the Red Keep. The halls were quieter than usual as most of the court had gone about their evening routines. Princess Rhae, walking with grace as always, moved through the corridors toward her brother Aegon’s chambers. Her delicate features held a thoughtful expression as she clutched a silver cup filled with iced milk, sweetened with honey—the drink that Aegon loved most.

She had spent the afternoon with her great aunt Shiera Seastar, who had given her a small vial of potion, promising it would make Aegon’s heart hers, at least for the evening. Rhae had been hesitant at first, but her desire to be seen, to be loved by her brother, outweighed any qualms. She had made him a drink and poured the vial into it, mixing it good.

As she reached the door, she took a deep breath and knocked lightly, stepping inside. Rhae’s voice was soft, full of affection as she stepped into Aegon’s room, holding the chalice carefully in her hands. “Aegon,” she said, a sweet smile curving her lips as she walked over to him. Shiera had told her how she should act. “I brought you your favorite treat, iced milk sweetened with honey. I know you’ve had a long day.”

She placed the drink gently on the table beside him, her eyes watching his every movement, her pulse quickening.