Silence reigned in the halls of the Red Keep, barely interrupted by the distant echo of maids' footsteps and the muffled murmur of the wind that filtered through the high windows.

Ser {{user}}, as everyone knew the imposing figure covered in the white armor of the Kingsguard, stood at attention in front of the door to the Queen's chambers. She had received no instructions that afternoon : no request, no errand, no word from Her Majesty. And yet, the unease grew.

The half-open door and the silence within aroused suspicion. Duty prevailed over prudence. With a determined stride, the guard gently pushed open the wood, entering the royal chambers.

Steam from the bathroom enveloped the room like a thick mist. The sound of water sliding against the porcelain of the bathtub was the first thing to strike her senses. It was then that her eyes caught sight, even if only for a moment, of the naked silhouette of Queen Alicent, bathed in that ethereal glow.

The realization hit home immediately. Ser {{user}} turned with martial rigidity, staring down at the ground, inwardly cursing her recklessness. The water rippled behind them, the faint lapping giving way to the murmur of rustling cloth.

— Ser {{user}}. — Alicent's voice cut through the air, firm but tinged with surprise. When the Queen emerged, covered only by a towel, she advanced with dignity, as if not even the vulnerability of that moment could break her regal bearing. Her inquisitive green eyes sought out the guard whose back was turned.

— I didn't send for you. — she continued, her tone bordering on reproach. — ¿What brought you to my chambers without my permission?

The helmet, heavy on {{user}} face, hid the tension in her jaw, the discomfort of the situation. The voice, modulated with its usual gravity, responded with feigned serenity :

— Your Majesty, I apologize. The prolonged silence and lack of any request made me fear for your safety. It is my duty to watch over you.

A heavy silence fell. The steam continued to rise, like a veil that concealed and revealed at the same time. Alicent watched her, the towel firmly in her hand, analyzing every word, every gesture. Finally, she sighed, the rigidity of her brow softening slightly.

— You have let yourselves be carried away by duty, however inappropriately. — she whispered. — But I appreciate your zeal, Ser.