Chapter Text
Alicent Hightower had spent most of her life within the walls of Oldtown, but she had ventured beyond its borders on a few occasions. She cherished the familiarity and comfort of her home in the Hightower, surrounded by her family and the books that filled its towering shelves.
That all changed when a man dressed in Targaryen red and black arrived at her home, speaking privately with her father. Alicent overheard whispers of a betrothal agreement being made in her name – an arrangement that would make her the new queen of Westeros.
At the mere thought of it, Alicent's stomach turned. She had heard rumors about the current king - that he was advanced in years, perhaps even as old as her own father. The more gruesome rumors claimed that he had been responsible for his own wife's death during childbirth, having cut her open himself in a desperate attempt to save their child. Alicent couldn't imagine being bound to such a man, let alone ruling alongside him.
Her mind raced with possibilities. Could she convince her father to call off the betrothal? Should she flee to a far-off corner of the realm, where she could live out her days in peace? Or should she accept her fate and do her best to adapt to the expectations of her new role?
Despite Alicent's objections, her father had signed the papers binding her to the Targaryen dynasty and making her the new queen of the Seven Kingdoms. She felt betrayed and powerless, a mere pawn in the game of thrones. Then, the night before she was to depart for King's Landing, news arrived that the king had died under mysterious circumstances. Alicent initially felt relieved, thinking that the betrothal was now void. However, her hopes were short-lived, as she learned that the king had left behind an heir, a young alpha daughter who was now the new queen of the realm.
Alicent's father, Otto Hightower, was not willing to give up the betrothal so easily. He corresponded frequently with King's Landing, reminding the new queen of the contract that had been signed and urging her to fulfill her end of the bargain. He wanted his daughter to be the queen by the alpha's side, helping to guide and advise her. The new queen, agreed to the marriage, and Alicent was instructed to come to King's Landing in two months' time for the wedding.
As the days ticked by, Alicent prepared herself mentally and physically for the journey to King's Landing. She practiced her courtly manners, read up on the history and politics of the realm, and honed her diplomatic skills. She knew that she would need all of these things and more to survive and thrive in the cutthroat world of the Iron Throne. And so, with a heavy heart but a steadfast resolve, Alicent set out on the journey that would change her life forever.
The carriage carrying Alicent and her father passed through the towering gates of the Red Keep, the heart of power in the Seven Kingdoms. As it came to a stop, Alicent took a deep breath, steeling herself for what lay ahead. She stepped out of the carriage and was immediately surrounded by a throng of servants, all eager to attend to the future queen's every need.
For a moment, Alicent felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of people and the grandeur of the surroundings. The Red Keep was a massive fortress, with towering walls, sprawling courtyards, and countless rooms and chambers. She had never seen anything like it in her life, having spent most of her days in the more modest surroundings of Oldtown's Hightower.
But Alicent quickly composed herself, drawing on her inner reserves of strength and composure. She knew that she had to project confidence and authority if she was to succeed in the treacherous world of court politics. So she straightened her back, lifted her chin, and gazed around the courtyard with a calm and regal demeanor.
The servants bustled around her, fussing over her dress, her hair, and her jewelry. Some were more deferential than others, bowing and scraping before her as if she were a goddess. Others were more casual, treating her like any other young woman who had just arrived in the capital.
Alicent tried to take it all in, absorbing every detail of her new surroundings. She saw the towering keep that loomed over the courtyard, the banners fluttering in the breeze, and the knights and soldiers milling about. She smelled the scent of cooking fires, the pungent aroma of horse dung, and the faint whiff of something floral that must have been the gardens.
As Alicent tried to take in the grandeur of the Red Keep, a woman pushed her way through the throng of servants. She was tall and willowy, with a graceful gait and a regal bearing. Her face was striking, with high cheekbones, full lips, and piercing blue eyes that seemed to penetrate Alicent's soul.
"My lady, my name is Talya," the woman said, with a deep curtsy. "I shall be your lady in waiting."
Alicent was taken aback by the woman's sudden appearance and her imposing presence. She had never had a lady in waiting before, and she wasn't quite sure what the role entailed.
"Thank you, Talya," Alicent said, trying to sound gracious. "It's a pleasure to meet you."
Talya gave her a warm smile. "The pleasure is mine, my lady. Let me show you to your chambers. You must be tired from your journey, and there is much to do before the wedding."
Alicent nodded, allowing herself to be led by Talya through the bustling courtyard, into the cool, dimly lit interior of the keep.
As Alicent stepped into her new chambers, she was struck by their opulence. The room was spacious and airy, with high ceilings and large windows that let in the warm glow of the afternoon sun. The walls were adorned with rich tapestries depicting scenes from the history of the Seven Kingdoms, and the floors were covered with plush carpets that felt soft and comforting under her feet.
There was a large four-poster bed in the center of the room, with crisp white sheets and a canopy of delicate lace. A roaring fire blazed in the fireplace, casting flickering shadows on the walls. A table was set with a silver tea service and a plate of sweet pastries, and a wardrobe stood in the corner, its doors open to reveal rows of fine silk dresses and embroidered gowns.
Alicent felt a mixture of awe and discomfort as she surveyed her new surroundings. She had never been one for extravagance or luxury, and this sudden shift in her circumstances was overwhelming.
But she knew she had to make the best of it. She had a duty to her family, and to the realm. She had to be strong, and brave, and resourceful. She had to learn to navigate the treacherous waters of court politics, and to win the hearts and minds of the people.
With a deep breath, Alicent turned to Talya and said, "Thank you for showing me to my chambers, Talya. They are...quite something."
Talya smiled. "Yes, my lady. The Queen has spared no expense in preparing for your arrival. She wishes to make sure that everything is perfect for the wedding."
"When will I be meeting the Queen?" Alicent asked.
"I do not know," Talya replied with a slight bow.
"Well, can I go and meet her?" Alicent pressed.
"I'm afraid I don't know where Her Grace is at the moment, my lady," Talya answered politely.
Alicent sighed, feeling a bit frustrated. “What am I supposed to do then?”
Talya smiled reassuringly. “You can rest for now, my lady. I will make sure your things are unpacked and that you are comfortable. And when Her Grace is ready to meet you, I will make sure you are informed.”
Alicent nodded, grateful for the help. She walked over to the bed and sat down, taking a moment to rest and gather her thoughts. It was all so overwhelming, being in a new place with new people and expectations. But she knew she had to be strong and rise to the challenge. After all, she was going to be the Queen of Westeros.
It had been two long and arduous weeks since Alicent arrived at the Red Keep, eagerly anticipating her meeting with the Queen. She was a bundle of nerves, her heart beating a million miles an hour as she awaited the opportunity to finally lay eyes on her betrothed. But despite her best efforts, she was met with only silence and an overwhelming sense of frustration.
Alicent tried to glean any information she could from Talya, her lady-in-waiting, but all she received were vague platitudes about the Targaryen empire. She longed to know more about the woman she was set to marry - her likes, her dislikes, her passions - but it seemed as though everyone was keeping her in the dark.
As the days passed, Alicent's anxiety grew. She was due to marry the Queen in less than 24 hours, and she still had no idea what to expect. The whole situation was overwhelming, and she couldn't help but feel as though she was being disrespected. She had agreed to marry someone without even trying to meet them - it seemed like madness.
Once the day of the wedding arrived, Alicent felt trapped. The Red Keep was bustling with activity, and many servants were surrounding her, helping fit her into her elaborate wedding dress. Some were braiding her hair back, while others were applying makeup and jewelry. The overwhelming attention made Alicent feel like she couldn't breathe, and her nerves were at an all-time high. She tried to take deep breaths and remind herself that this was her duty as a noblewoman, but the thought of marrying someone she had never met was weighing heavily on her mind.
"Please, leave me be," Alicent finally said, her voice barely above a whisper but firm enough to be heard by the surrounding servants.
The servants exchanged uncomfortable glances, unsure of what to do. Talya stepped forward, looking concerned.
"Is everything alright, my lady?" she asked softly.
Alicent took a deep breath and turned to face Talya. "No, everything is not alright," she said, her voice shaking slightly. "I still haven't met the Queen, and I don't even know if she wants to marry me. This whole situation is overwhelming and I feel trapped. I need some time alone."
Talya nodded sympathetically. "I understand, my lady. I'll ask the others to give you some space."
As the servants began to file out of the room, Alicent felt a sense of relief wash over her. She was finally alone, with just her thoughts to keep her company. She walked over to the window and looked out at the bustling city below.
Then she had an idea.
A terrible idea, a really terrible idea, but the anxiety was overwhelming her at the moment. She had never felt so trapped in her life. The servants fussing over her, the constant chatter and commotion in the castle, the uncertainty of her impending marriage - it was all too much for her. She peeked her head out of her room door to check if the coast was clear. She saw a group of servants walking towards her, but they were preoccupied with something else. It was her chance to escape.
Once she saw that everything was safe, she made a break for it and ran out of the castle towards the gardens. She felt the cool breeze on her face, and the smell of the fresh flowers filled her nostrils. It was a brief moment of peace. But then she remembered the wedding. She could not go through with it. She needed to escape.
When she arrived at the gardens, she saw a large wall towering in front of her. The thought of scaling it crossed her mind. It could be her chance to escape the madness that surrounded her. She looked around to see if anyone was watching, but it seemed like no one was around. She took a deep breath, pushed her dress aside, and began to climb the wall.
“What are you doing?" a voice called out, looking up at Alicent.
Alicent looked down and saw a woman with silver hair and purple eyes staring at her with wonder. "I'm...climbing?" she replied, feeling foolish.
"Climbing?" the woman repeated, sounding confused.
"Yes, climbing," Alicent said.
"May I ask why you are climbing?" the woman inquired with a gentle smile.
Alicent carefully climbed down from the wall, her eyes still fixed on the branches. “I am trying to escape.”
“Escape?” the woman with silver hair and purple eyes asked, confusion etched on her face.
“Yes, escape,” Alicent repeated.
“Whatever for?”
“I think she may be a beast,” Alicent replied.
“A beast?” the woman repeated.
“Or a troll,” Alicent added.
“Who are we discussing?” the woman asked, still looking bewildered.
Alicent glanced at the woman, before moving her eyes back on the wall as she spoke. "Oh well, that's impertinent. None of your business," she said sharply. But then she paused. "The queen. No one will speak of her. No one. She is clearly a beast or a troll."
The woman laughed. "Understood."
Alicent continued to study the wall. "You know, if I grab here... Yes! You could assist me by lifting me up," she said, pointing to a branch.
The woman frowned. "Wait, one question. You don't like beasts or trolls? What she looks like matters?"
Alicent waved her off. "I don't care what she looks like. What I don't like is not knowing." She then grabbed onto the branch, testing its strength. "Now, here. Just take hold here. With a lift, I believe I can make it over the garden wall."
“You want me to lift you over the wall so you may escape?” The woman said slowly.
“That is what I said,” Alicent replied, her voice tinged with desperation.
“People will notice you are missing. Will they not?”
Alicent dismissed the statement, her mind consumed with the thought of escape. “I shall worry about that later. Now, if you please. I just need a little help. Come. Make haste.”
The alpha behind her laughed, causing Alicent to turn around in surprise. “I have absolutely no intention of helping you.”
Alicent's eyes widened in disbelief. “I'm an omega in distress. You refuse to help an omega in distress?” She turned back towards the wall, her desperation growing by the second.
“I refuse when that omega in distress is trying to go over a wall so that she does not have to marry me,” the silver-haired woman said, her voice laced with amusement
Alicent froze at the woman’s words, slowly turning to face the alpha. She finally saw the silver-haired woman's face and realized who she was. Her eyes widened in shock as she recognized the woman as the Queen of Westeros, her betrothed.
The silver-haired woman had a mischievous smile on her face as she looked at Alicent. "Hello, Alicent," she said, as if enjoying the moment. “I am Rhaenyra.”
Alicent's heart was pounding in her chest. She had been trying to escape from the very person she was supposed to marry. She felt ashamed and embarrassed, knowing that she had been caught trying to run away.
“Your Majesty,” Alicent quickly bowed.
“Not Your Majesty. Rhaenyra,” the Queen corrected. “I mean, yes, Your Majesty, but to you, just Rhaenyra.”
“I am... Please accept my apology. If I had known that it was you...” Alicent's voice trailed off.
Rhaenyra chuckled. “You would have what? Not told me that you were trying to escape?”
“Well, yes. I mean…” Alicent laughed nervously. “I do apologize, Your Majesty.”
“Rhaenyra. Just Rhaenyra,” the Queen insisted. Rhaenyra extended her arm towards Alicent, a friendly smile on her lips. "Would you care to join me for a walk, my lady?" she asked, her voice warm and inviting.
Alicent hesitated for a moment before tentatively taking Rhaenyra's arm. "Thank you, Your Majesty," she said softly.
Rhaenyra shook her head. "Please, just call me Rhaenyra. No need for formalities between us." They began to walk along the garden path, the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves filling the air around them.
After a moment of silence, Rhaenyra spoke up. "So... you do not wish to marry me, I take it?" she asked.
“I did not say that,” Alicent replied.
“Oh, you did,” Rhaenyra chuckled.
“I did not,” Alicent said stubbornly.
Rhaenyra clicked her tongue. “You did,” she insisted.
“It is not... I do not know you,” Alicent said hesitantly.
“I do not know you either. Except that you are... terrible at climbing a wall,” Rhaenyra joked.
Alicent chuckled. “You try climbing a wall in all of these garments.” She noticed Rhaenyra staring at her. “What?”
Rhaenyra stared at Alicent with a look of admiration. "You are incomparable," she said. "No one told me you would be this beautiful. You may be too beautiful to marry me. People will talk, given that I am a troll."
Alicent blushed. “Your Majesty.”
“Rhaenyra.” The Queen corrected.
The omega chuckles softly. “Rhaenyra.”
"What do you want to know?" the Queen asked.
Alicent was confused. "What?"
"You do not know me. What do you want to know about me?"
Alicent began to ponder what she wanted to know for a moment before settling on one word. "Everything."
”Everything?”
”Yes, everything.”
“Well, I am the only child from my parents who survived birth," Rhaenyra began. "My favorite color is red, and my favorite dessert is lemon cakes, but regular cake is a close second. I'm pretty good with a sword, but I'm a terrible shot with a bow. I love to read, ride my dragon Syrax, and listen to music.” She showed her thumb, pointing to a small scar on it. “I got this by accidentally stabbing myself. My mother forbade me from using knives for years after."
"Your mother must have been quite worried for your safety," Alicent remarked.
Rhaenyra nodded. "She was, but I couldn't resist the temptation to use a knife. I've always been curious and a bit reckless."
The Queen then chuckled nervously. "One more thing about me is that I am very nervous about marrying a girl I've only just met minutes before our wedding. But as the Queen of the Seven Kingdoms, I cannot show my nerves and climb over a wall, as that would cause a scandal. But I promise you, I am neither a troll nor a beast. Just Rhaenyra." She smiled warmly at Alicent.
Talya came running over towards Alicent, breathing heavily. “My lady, we have been looking everywhere for you. What are you...” She quickly realized who Alicent was speaking with. “Your... Your Majesty.”
Rhaenyra smiled at the servant. “You must be the woman responsible for my possible future happiness.”
Talya blushed and stammered over her words. “Y-Yes, your Grace. My apologies for interrupting.”
Rhaenyra laughed. “No need to apologize. You've arrived at the most opportune moment. Alicent was just deciding... whether or not she wanted to marry me.”
“Well, um, Lady Alicent is overjoyed at the prospect-”
Rhaenyra interrupted her, still looking at Alicent. “No, let's not speak for her. She's still deciding. She might even decide to climb over the wall instead.” She let out a sigh. “Now, I should get back because I suspect that by now there are some very anxious guards who think I am kidnapped.” She turned to Alicent. “I hope to see you in the Sept. If you do decide to come, I shall be the one at the end of the aisle.” She grabbed the omegas hand and kissed it, then left Alicent and Talya alone.
Alicent watched the Queen leave, feeling a mix of emotions. She couldn't believe how different Rhaenyra was from what she had imagined. The Queen was kind, a bit funny, and extremely good looking, nothing like a troll or a beast. Alicent had to admit, she was drawn to her, but the idea of marrying someone she barely knew was still overwhelming.
“Are you still hesitating?” Talya asked.
Alicent chuckled. “Well...let's not keep the Queen waiting any longer. We should start heading for the Sept.”
The wedding was a grand affair, with the sept decorated in vibrant shades of red and gold, the traditional colors of House Targaryen. The air was thick with the fragrance of flowers, and the sound of musicians playing soft, melodic tunes. The chandeliers hanging from the high ceilings glittered with a thousand candles, casting a warm, welcoming glow across the hall.
The nobles of the Seven Kingdoms had arrived in their finest attire, each dressed in the colors of their respective Houses. Lords and ladies, knights and maesters, they all came to witness the union of the Queen and her new bride. Some were old acquaintances of Rhaenyra, while others were meeting her for the first time.
Outside the sept, the common folk had gathered, hoping to catch a glimpse of the new Queen. They stood on their tiptoes, craning their necks to see over the heads of the guards. They whispered excitedly amongst themselves, speculating on what the Queen would look like, and whether she would be kind or cruel. They knew that this was a momentous occasion, one that they would talk about for years to come.
The ceremony was beautiful, with the High Septon officiating and the nobles of the Seven Kingdoms bearing witness. As they exchanged vows, Alicent felt a deep sense of peace settle over her. She knew that she had made the right choice in marrying the Queen. Maybe they could be happy together.
As the ceremony concluded, the nobles erupted into cheers and applause. Rhaenyra and Alicent walked hand-in-hand out of the Sept, greeted by the adoring crowds outside.
After the wedding, the guests made their way to the throne room where a grand feast awaited them. The tables were adorned with fine silverware and crystal goblets. The aroma of roasted meats and freshly baked bread filled the air. Alicent was pleasantly surprised to find that some of her favorite dishes were served, including pie and honey glazed ham.
Throughout the evening, Rhaenyra and Alicent were congratulated by their guests and toasted to their future together. The atmosphere was joyous and festive, with laughter and merriment filling the room.
The feast then had come to an end, at least for the newlywed couple. Rhaenyra had linked their arms as they made their way to the omega’s chamber. Alicent was feeling nervous, as she was a maiden and didn't know what to expect from the night ahead. She had heard stories, but she knew they could never compare to the real thing. At least, that's what she assumed.
Then, as they arrived at the door to Alicent's room, Rhaenyra did something that surprised her. She stopped in front of the door, leaned in, and gently kissed her cheek. "Goodnight," she whispered with a warm smile before turning.
“Wait!” Alicent called out, still confused. “It is our wedding night.”
“It is,” the Queen said.
“We are married...aren't we supposed to do what married people do?” Alicent questioned.
“Are you demanding I perform my marital duty to you?”
“No, I'm not demanding anything. I'm… not even sure what marital duty is. I just know...don't we spend this night together?”Alicent felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment as she stumbled over her words.
“It is late. You should get some sleep,” Rhaenyra stated calmly.
Alicent was beyond confused. That's not what she had been told. "Rhaenyra, don't we spend the night together?" she asked again.
Rhaenyra's mood quickly soured. "Fine, I shall stay," she said in a curt tone. Alicent was taken aback by the sudden change.
"Rhaenyra," she called out, trying to understand what was happening.
Rhaenyra walked into her chambers and turned to face Alicent. "I said I shall stay," she repeated, her tone still cold. She looked at Alicent standing hesitantly in the hallway. "Are you coming?" she asked, her voice laced with impatience.
Alicent felt a wave of confusion and concern wash over her as she saw the change in Rhaenyra's demeanor. "Is something wrong? Did I do something to upset you?" she asked, approaching the Queen.
Rhaenyra let out a heavy sigh and softened her expression. "No, you haven't done anything wrong," she said, "I just... I want to go to my chambers."
"Then let's go to your chambers," Alicent replied, taking Rhaenyra's hand.
Rhaenyra shook her head. “No, I...”
“You do not want me there.” It was not a question, but a statement.
Rhaenyra hesitated. “This is your room.”
Alicent's face fell, hurt at the sudden rejection. “I see.”
"You do? Good. So you're all right." Rhaenyra exhaled. "I'll speak with you later."
Alicent stopped Rhaenyra from leaving. “I'm not all right. I... Rhaenyra, this is how it is to be? This is our marriage? You there, and me here?” Alicent questioned.
“Yes.”
Alicent was still confused. “Why?”
“I... I thought it would... It is easier,” Rhaenyra replied.
“For whom?”
Now Rhaenyra looked confused. “What?”
“Easier for whom? You or me?” Alicent asked.
Rhaenyra's patience was wearing thin. “I do not need to explain myself to you. I am your queen!” she said, her voice rising.
Alicent was taken aback. “My mistake. I thought you were just Rhaenyra. Forgive me, Your Majesty.”
Rhaenyra had a pained look on her face, realizing she had lost her temper. “Alicent.”
“May I withdraw, Your Majesty, or did you want to say anything else to me?” Alicent asked.
“Alicent, this is for the best,” Rhaenyra said, hesitating before leaving her wife's chambers. “Goodnight.”
Alicent watched as Rhaenyra closed the door and was left alone on her wedding night, feeling hurt and confused.