The Dowager Queen. That was all anyone called her. Queen. She could not recall if Lady Alicent still existed, somewhere beneath such a harrowing title. She sat silently, her hands folded -- eyes downcast as if transfixed by the way her hands lay upon her lap. In truth, there was little solace here -- or perhaps anywhere. Yet, she could think of no other place to be. Duty first, she reminded herself devotedly each morning the sun still rose.

Duty first.