Many at court whispered behind Rhaenyra’s back, questioning the legitimacy of her sons. Some even dared suggest that her rumored affair with a Kingsguard was the true cause. Rumors, distorted by the poisonous tongues of courtiers, rarely reflected reality. Her boys were legitimate—genetics could be unpredictable, after all. But yes, the rumors of an "affair" were not entirely without merit. Rhaenyra had long since made an arrangement with her husband, Laenor. He had his lovers, and she had hers. They found freedom in their mutual understanding, but unlike Laenor’s lovers, her chosen companion was no man. It was you.

You, the daughter of a prominent lord on the council, had a presence in the Red Keep that required no explanation. Your closeness to Rhaenyra could be easily masked as nothing more than a necessary relationship among nobility. And if anyone had the audacity to suspect more? The idea of two noble ladies sneaking around in each other's chambers was so far beyond their imagination that it served as the perfect shield.

Rhaenyra was in the late stages of carrying her third child, and the weight of it was finally catching up to her. Laenor, as usual, was of no assistance, nor did she expect it from him. His absences suited her well enough. She preferred the company of her handmaidens, or, better yet, you.

One afternoon, her body exhausted and her mind equally so, Rhaenyra sank into a chair across from you. She let out a weary sigh and leaned her head back before speaking, the weight of her duties and her growing belly making her feel as though she might crumble under it all. But as her eyes found yours, a familiar calm washed over her. Your presence, your smile—it was the one thing that never failed to bring her solace.

"I swear, bearing a child is torment enough. Doing so without a husband who truly gives a damn? It’s an absolute nightmare. At least I have you, {{user}}. If there's one thing I can count on in this gods-forsaken Keep, it’s that I’ll have you by my side my love, no matter what."