The Green Men are a sacred order entrusted with the guardianship of the Isle of Faces in the riverlands.
╰┈➤ˎˊ The green men were one of Alicent's favourite fairy tale stories; one of many that her late mother would read to her. Nature had always called to the Dowager Queen, and it seemed the most appropriate choice for the masquerade.
╰┈➤ˎˊ A white undergarment was added to the dress by her servants as the fresh flowers were stitched by the orphans of the the capital; each paid for their work. This was the same for her mask.
╰┈➤ˎˊ The golden & green wardrobe continued to mix with the clips in her hair only slightly covered by the soft, see through veil that adorned her head.
The pregnancy had been causing more and more discomfort for Helaena since the freeze had begun.
It had been so long since her last pregnancy, Helaena had seemed to forget what it had been like to be sick like this. Every toss and turn left her uncomfortable, and the feeling of nausea hadn’t seem to subside ever since she woke this morning. She was stuck in her chambers, bound to the couch.
Re-positioning herself for what felt like the hundredth time that hour, she held her stomach where the baby continued to grow. “When you’re born, I’ll have to tell you all about the troubles you’re giving me!”
She smiled. “And how they were all worth it to bring you into the world.” Helaena then felt a wave of emotions, not sure whether to cry or smile more or do both all at the same time.
Having another child was something she was never expecting, but was the most welcome surprise she could have ever asked for. She had always thought that after Jaehaerys, Jaehaera, and Maelor, that her little family was done growing. But life had another miracle for her, and she could not complain.
She could only sit here and hope for these uncomfortable days to pass.
Then the door swung open, gently and without much sound. Her mother came through the door.
“Mother! I apologize, I would stand and greet you, but it seems every time I stand today, my sickness worsens…”
She winced suddenly, taking a deep breath and trying to push down that feeling of her breakfast trying to come back up.
“But I am well. I feel more well now that you are with me.” She did not feel well, but it was true that being with her mother put her more at ease now.
Alicent's elegant steps echoed on the floor as the servants she passed bowed their head in the still lingering respect for the Dowager Queen.
Still, there was more purpose to her walk now as she easily reached the frequently visited chambers of her daughter. The pregnancy of Helaena had been a surprise but had turned into such a precious gift, especially with the time Alicent found she had now to spare. To spend with her children.
It was easier for Alicent to stay in the present with her daughter's pregnancy this time around. With the twins, it had been too difficult to witness and she was ashamed to admit it had kept her away from visiting her daughter on those occasions. Even if the struggles of being at the helm of ruling had been strong then. She had time to give .. and she did not.
Alicent's attention easily found her daughter's as the large, wooden door fell shut behind her. Her hand reached for Helaena before the Dowager Queen realised as she stepped closer to her daughter. "I am glad there is some comfort I can bring you."
A kiss was pressed on each of Helaena's cheeks as Alicent brushed those bright locks of her daughter from out of her face.
Gracefully, Alicent moved to sit beside her daughter; their hands clasped together. "Did sleep come easily to you?" The Dowager Queen asked whilst reaching for the goblet of water and began to pour. Already hovering as she seemed to always do now in the presence of her children.
Gently, the Dowager Queen pressed the now filled goblet into her daughter's hands. "You should drink." Alicent spoke in that firm voice of hers as she stared at her daughter; fighting back the worry in both her eyes and tone.
Challenge: Tell us your character’s favorite room in their home and why they love it other than their bedroom! Encouraged but not required to add a moodboard for the space too!!
@asongofgoldenfireandblackblood
Alicent's favourite rooms had always been where she could find books; even from a young age and it had been something that had bonded her and Viserys in that first meeting. The first and only personal gift the King had ever bought his new wife had been the history of her family in Oldtown. It was a precious token that even now still held a precious part of her personal belongings; not that she would ever admit to keeping hold of it. Or its history.
Sometimes, the Dowager Queen wastes the majority of her day and thankfully the servants know to settle her food in the room. On more than one occasion, Alicent has fallen asleep under the candlelight and against an old book. She remembered the much simpler times with Aemond; he enjoyed the books just as much as her - or was it because of her? Alicent was never sure now.
Still, it was one of the few moments of peace the Dowager Queen could find in this new chapter of her own existence. Absentmindedly, Alicent reached for a piece of fresh fruits that her maid had laid down before her whilst turning the page. Her mind was finally calming as her thoughts came to a rest.
Greetings to everyone in our beloved, amazing, wonderful court! We hope you're all having a great start to your week, there have been some changes within our court so here are all our latest updates 💜
New members have joined our court! Please give them a warm welcome and follow:
Lord Jason Lannister of Casterly Rock
Lady Meredyth Baratheon (youngest daughter of Lord Borros and Lady Elenda)
Lady Leila Lannister (fourth daughter of Lord Jason and Lady Johanna)
Nikolai Coster-Waldau
Millie Bobby Brown
Caitlin Stasey
Due to player choice, inactivity, or other unforseen circumstances please wish farewell and unfollow:
@mahiraofdorne
The following roles and faceclaims are now open:
Ruler of House Dayne of Starfall
Madhuri Dixit
It seems the court has been corrected on its previous perceptions so please take note that:
Princess Rhaena Targaryen's blog name has changed to @the-pearl-of-the-realm
Rodrik Greyjoy-Farman's blog name has changed to @the-fair-heir-of-fair-isle
Full member list under the cut!
~ With Love, Mod Ivory 💜💜
@black-queen-rising - Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen
@the-lord-confessor - King-Consort Daemon Targaryen
@aegontheyoungprince - Prince Aegon III Targaryen
@princeviserystargaryen00 - Prince Viserys II Targaryen
@thelittleprincesstargaryen - Princess Visenya Targaryen
@alicenthightowerrp - Dowager-Queen Alicent Hightower
@goldaegontargaryen - Prince Aegon Targaryen of Dragonstone
@helaenasdreamfyres - Princess Helaena Targaryen of Dragonstone
@shrykosjaehaerys - Prince Jaehaerys Targaryen of Dragonstone
@jaeheratargaryen - Princess Jaehaera Targaryen of Dragonstone
@rideroftheredqueen - Princess Rhaenys Targaryen-Velaryon
@lordhusband - Lord Corlys Velaryon
@ladyjocelynbaratheon - Lady Jocelyn Baratheon-Targaryen
@littlevelaryon - Lady Daenaera Velaryon
@sersteffondarklyn - Lord-Commander Steffon Darklyn
@lord-kermit-of-riverrun - Lord Kermit Tully
@oscartullyofriverrun - Ser Oscar Tully
@abby-the-writer - Lady Abby Tully
@vvilliamvance - Ser William Vance
@ladylaceyvance - Lady Lacey Vance
@tonameestbelle - Lady Jyanna Vance
@lavender-cupbearer - Lady Violet Vance
@regentofhighgarden - Lady-Regent Alla Tyrell
@lady-samantha-of-hightower - Lady Samantha "Sam" Hightower
@garmundhightower - Ser Garmund Hightower
@ladyoflongtable - Lady Bethany Merryweather
@jason-lannister2005 - Lord Jason Lanister
@johannaoftherock - Lady Johanna Westerling-Lannister
@sereneiii - Serenei Fischer
@josswesterling - Joss Westerling
@cerellelannister2 - Lady Cerelle Lannister
@tyshara-the-lioness - Lady Tyshara Lannister
@sharp-lioness - Lady Cerissa Lannister
@leilathesongbird - Lady Leila Lannister
@little-lady-lioness - Lady Rosamund "Minnie" Lannister
@sirenalannysgreyjoy - Lady Alannys Greyjoy
@thefairheiroffairisle - Rodrik Greyjoy-Farman
@gysellablacktyde - Lady Gysella Blacktyde
@cassandra-of-baratheon - Lady Cassandra Baratheon
@thecleverestorm - Lady Maris Baratheon
@ellynbaratheon-ofstormsend - Lady Ellyn Baratheon
@thefourthstormfloris - Lady Floris Baratheon
@little-fawn-baratheon - Lady Meredyth Baratheon
@jeynearrynvale - Lady-Paramount Jeyne Arryn
@cissy-grafton - Lady Cissy Grafton
@robingrafton - Ser Robin Grafton
@anya-royce - Lady Anya Royce
@creganstarkrp - Lord Cregan Stark
@edrickofwinterfell - Edrick Stark
@elaenasnows - Elaena Snow
@benjen-mormont - Lord Benjen Mormont
@lady-of-knives - Lady Berena Bolton
Helaena led her mother through the gardens, pointing out every bug that crossed their path, occasionally stopping to inspect one. The two were taking a stroll together, planning their outfits for the upcoming wedding of Prince Jacaerys and Princess Baela Targaryen. They weren’t very far in their walk yet, and Helaena had many things she wanted to share with her Mother. She hoped her Mother would love the ideas she’d been thinking of ever since the wedding was set in stone.
They walked on, and a patch of yellow flowers stopped Helaena in her path. She kneeled down to observe the small creatures that invaded the petals. “Mother, look! Ladybugs! They are so adorable, the sweetest looking bugs I would say.” Helaena smiled at them, holding her hands out to capture one. A single red and black bug crawled towards her fingers and she looked back at her mother.
“So, I was thinking Mother, we should wear matching jewelry!” Helaena exclaimed, overjoyed to share her idea that she had been thinking of for a while. The ladybug crawled all over Helaena’s hands as she stood back up, turning to her Mother. Her hands were cupped together and pointed towards the Dowager Queen.
“It’s such a tiny one. Isn’t it interesting how some bugs are so big, and some can be so small such as this one?”
Helaena's presence always brought much comfort to the Dowager Queen; even when the subject moved towards the beloved bugs that held her Princess' attention so dearly. The soft breeze brushed over Alicent as her fingers delicately moved over the petals the two women walked past. She could not stop the soft smile tugging on her lips at the sound of Helaena's excitement. It was a wonder her girl had kept such innocence but the Queen was glad of it; even if she had once upon a time desired for her daughter to behaviour like a Princess.
Now, and for some time, Alicent did not seem to care about that.
The Dowager Queen battled against reacting in the complete opposite way her daughter had. A near shiver ran down her spine at the sight of such things. "They are - nice." Alicent finally found a word to say as she locked eyes with Helaena and fought against guiding her away. Instead; she tried to enjoy her daughter's interests, as long as Helaena did not reach for those spiders she adored so much.
"You would like that?" Alicent could not stop herself from asking; fearful Helaena was only appeasing her mother. Pulling herself together Alicent slowly moved her own cupped hands towards her daughter and the crawling bug. In that moment, the Dowager Queen had never felt closer to her daughter.
"I remember when you were so small," Alicent whispered; a slight smile on her face even if they had never been such times of happiness.
Helaena’s smile widened when hearing her mother’s positive words, happy she could share her love of these small red creatures with her. “They don’t live very long, so I do not keep any. They thrive best in nature, so I do love to enjoy them when I am outside!”
“Of course I would love to match! I actually…” Helaena thought for a moment, hoping her mother would be okay with plans she had already made for the two of them. Long before the two of them had arrived for the wedding, Helaena had thought of the outfits her and her family would wear. She had planned out her children's outfits, made adjustments to Aegon's, and she had decided she wanted her and her mother to match in some way. She had been too excited and made the decision to have matching necklaces made without asking her mother first.
“I actually already have two matching necklaces for us, I picked them out a while ago. I hope you don’t mind! They are gold, small but beautiful! I left them in my chambers I believe, we can look at them later!" She enthusiastically looked at her mother, hoping for approval. She felt her mother's hands cup her own, surprised by the gesture, Helaena looked down at their hands. The ladybug was still crawling there, now cradled by both the mother and daughter.
Her mother's words felt sad, yet happy, all at the same time. A feeling Helaena had a hard time placing. She gave her mother a warm smile. "I remember some of when I was small. I was difficult when I was little, I know that." She huffed out a laugh. Helaena had heard the stories from various family members about her tantrums and anxiety as a child, the tears that never seemed to stop flowing from her eyes. None of her children had been as she had, they had their own set of problems of course, but they were not half as difficult as she had heard she had been. "My children were very little not long ago, it seemed. They are still little to me, but they are growing so fast."
Suddenly, the small bug flew away out of their hands. Helaena watched it with intensity, studying the way its wings allowed it to lift itself into the air, flying back to a leaf. "I am very proud of my children..." She continued to watch the ladybug to see where it was flying off, her eyes leaving her mother. She hoped she made her mother as proud as her children had made her.
Alicent hummed; listening to her daughter was one of her favourite things and something she hated to have missed out on when she was a young babe. Even if her interest was still the same, as in, she had none for her daughter's darling bugs.
Those doe eyes of hers widened if only slightly at the idea of her daughter thinking of her. Even more so, actually acting on such kind thoughts. But her darling girl had always been the best of them, the Dowager Queen thought to herself. "You did?" Alicent asked and for a moment, she sounded so young. Alicent's smile only continued to widen the more Helaena spoke. "That was very nice of you." She whispered out and not for the first time did she wonder where her daughter gained her kindness. It was no wonder the small folk adored her.
"I would like that." Alicent finally admitted as she found her voice; those doe eyes of hers softening. The presence of her daughter was always a calming one. Her thumb softly stroked Helaena's hand if only for a moment. The golden ring adorning her slender finger glittered under the sun shining down as Alicent moved to gently stroke her thumb over her daughter's cheek before her attention was caught by the now flying ladybug.
Alicent's arm fell to her side now as she fought the urge to step back; making space between the two of them. She had always worried about overstepping with Helaena but it seemed more often than not, her daughter desired her company. "You were a blessing," Alicent admitted with her head bowed if only for a moment as she found herself lost in those memories. "It does always seem there is never enough time." Gently, Alicent squeezed the hand of Helaena's she was holding. "You are a wonderful mother," Alicent whispered; her smile tugging on her lips before her arms once more fell to the side of her body.
Alicent only continued to smile at Helaena's words as she too watched the bug fly away and nearly envied it's freedom. "How is Dreamfyre?" The Dowager Queen made herself ask as her attention returned to her daughter. The two royals continued to enjoy the gardens. Her delicate fingers moved over the petals of the flowers she gracefully walked past.
Challenge: Write a scene of your character either in the direct lead up or aftermath of the wedding, women's court, and all the related celebrations!
Alicent watched as the celebrations continued; the laughter and chatter around her only growing in volume. It was a much better atmosphere than many weddings she had attended, the Dowager Queen could not help but think to herself - her own included. "Thank you," Alicent mumbled to the servant who had replaced her drink without prompt. If she was of sound mind, Alicent might have thought it an insult. Her attention soon returned to the many dancing figures before her.
In the flashes of movements; Alicent could feel her mind slowly travelling back to her own wedding celebrations. If she was honest with herself - she could hardly remember them now. It could not have been so exciting, she thought whilst her delicate, ringed fingers began to play with the wooden dragon in the palm of her hand. The same dragon she once fixed for her late husband. He had been so happy then, happy with her.
As she gracefully sipped the Dornish wine, the Dowager Queen subtly made her way towards the towering boxes of gifts in the corner. Thankfully, her lower rank meant the many eyes that had followed her for decades were no longer. It was in that moment, she made the impulsive decision to settle the wooden dragon on the table of gifts.
In that moment, it was as if her shoulders felt that much lighter.
Aegon could hardly believe his mother had agreed to this. As they traveled together side by side through the grassy field, he resisted the urge to ask again if his mother was sure about this. He’d already asked her the same question twice on their walk and she’d insisted on continuing both times.
For his entire life, or at least as long as he could remember, his mother had hated dragons. As a child, it had been a point of contention between them but as an older man with more experience in the world, he could better understand her point of view. Dragons were only normal to Targaryens. To most other people, they were a symbol of death. Even Aegon had struggled with trusting his children to their dragons when they’d first started flying and he personally knew how strong the bond between dragon and rider could be. It must have been scary for his mother to allow her children to fly into the clouds where she couldn’t possibly follow. Though perhaps Aegon was only projecting his own feelings onto his mother, a habit from childhood that still popped up when Aegon wasn’t paying attention. At least he was prone to more charitable projections these days.
Sunfyre’s crooning call lilted across the field as he spotted Aegon walking towards him. He had thought approaching Sunfyre in an open field instead of the cave he’d made his home in would be easier for his mother. At least this way, she wouldn’t feel so claustrophobic, though it only now struck Aegon that this put them in a highly exposed position. It didn’t bother Aegon, he trusted Sunfyre not only with his own life but the lives of his children, yet he knew his mother didn’t hold that same trust.
“He’s very sweet for a dragon. He likes people, though he can be a bit jealous.” Sunfyre was notoriously bad-tempered around Aegon’s closest friends with the exception of Simon Piper for reasons Aegon could never fathom. He quickly hurried to add, “But he’s completely fine around family. He adores Helaena and the children. I’m sure he’ll love you too!” Aegon hoped his nerves weren’t showing on his face. His words were a slight lie. While he knew with certainty Sunfyre would never hurt his mother, he couldn’t be entirely sure he would like her. Sunfyre had once growled at her years ago when she’d tried to pull Aegon away from him. He was sure both his mother and his dragon remembered that incident well.
Aegon jogged the last few steps to ensure he reached Sunfyre first, unable to stop the wide grin that spread across his face as his dragon whipped his tail in clear excitement at Aegon’s approach. He rested his hand on Sunfyre’s snout, telegraphing a feeling of calm towards his dragon. Just as he was starting to hope things might go well, Sunfyre suddenly lifted his head, eyes focused on his mother. Sunfyre took a step forward and Aegon could recognize the beginnings of a protective stance. “Lykiri. Ynot. All is well,” Aegon said, the Valyrian and Common commands mixing together as they always had for him. He wasn’t even technically using the word Ynot correctly, an accidental mistranslation he’d started when he’d first bonded with Sunfyre. The actual translation was, to Aegon’s understanding, come here. It was supposed to be the word one used when their dragon was far away in the physical sense, but Aegon used it to mean come here in more of an emotional sense.
Come to me, trust me, Ynot. I won’t ask you to serve, but please go where I go.
To his relief, Sunfyre seemed to settle down, though he kept his eyes firmly fixed on Alicent and his posture tense. He figured, or perhaps hoped, his mother wouldn’t be able to read a dragon’s body language as easily as Aegon could. “You can touch him if you want. He’s dramatic, but he won’t hurt you if he decides he doesn’t like it. He’ll probably just toss his head and whine about it. He’s talkative for a dragon, which is probably why we get along.” It was rare to get a noise out of some dragons, but Sunfyre was constantly communicating with whistles, calls, and clacks. By now, Aegon knew the meaning behind almost all the sounds Sunfyre was fond of making.
Alicent could never have dreamt this happening; not the growing bond with her son nor the re-introduction with his beloved dragon. Alas it seemed the Gods were looking down on her with more favour than the previous years had. Decades even, if she was honest with herself.
The Dowager Queen could not shake the cold fear that would always wash over her at the sight of the beasts. No man should ever have such power, she thought to herself whilst gracefully stepping closer to the jaws that haunted her nightmares. She had known for many years her death would likely come from such a creature. Daemon or Rhaenyra's, it did not matter. Those doe eyes of hers flickered to the edge where the knights could only watch on and she had to fight the urge to gulp. Her thick locks that had usually stayed free and wavy in her time on Dragonstone were now tightly wrapped and braided; out of her face and giving her a sense of control, even in this situation. Alicent's deep need for control following her with each step as she tried to place a smile for her son.
Alicent tried to believe Aegon's words as she stepped closer; the sound of her heart beating was distracting and for a moment, she wondered if Sunfyre could hear. "How did you think of the name, Sunfyre?" She found herself asking in complete curiosity; the words falling from her without meaning to. She hated to admit her lack of knowledge on any subject; Alicent had always been a good student but in the subject of dragons - she knew nothing and had not been in a place to learn, even for her children.
Alicent fought against the grimace threatening to come over her face at the sounds echoing from the dragon. But the Dowager Queen could not disagree that her son's dragon was a beauty; those golden scales nearly glittering under the light. Those doe eyes couldn't help but warm at the sight of Aegon's love for Sunfyre; it was clear to see for everyone around. Her boy had always been able to love so openly and sweetly - even now. Alicent tried to fight off the images of her lovely grandchildren next to such a large creature; forgetting for a moment, they had their own dragons.
A near chuckle escaped Alicent as she continued to listen to her son. "You were talkative when you were a child." The words as ever falling from her without thought. There were many evenings Aegon would talk about his as he toddled about her chambers, whilst looking for some trinket of hers. She sometimes wondered when they had stopped. Still, even with the fear running deep for the Dowager Queen; she stepped forward with most of her grace still intact. The warmth that radiated from Sunfyre was nearly unbearable but still, as she always did, Alicent persisted. Those big, doe eyes of hers locked onto Aegon for a moment; her flash of fear evident she thought. It took her longer than she would wish to admit to finally placing her open palm on the dragon's side.
"He is beautiful," Alicent whispered as the heat coming from Sunfyre began to comfort her. Her fingers delicately moved over a patch of his scales. If only for a small moment; she realised the Targaryen's wonder with such creatures. Her heart was still pounding in her ears but for the first time; she felt safe in Aegon's presence.
The familiar scent of the Septa provided the Dowager Queen with some comfort as she knelt on the cushion. A green, velvet one to soften the kneeling as the candles began to flicker around her.
Those thick locks of hers cascaded freely down her back; the Queen's usual style for praying as was the lack of jewels adorning her except the gold pointed star necklace resting around her neck.
Even in a prayer; Alicent noticed the movement beside her as those doe eyes of hers began to flutter open. The Dowager Queen could not stop the smile that tugged on her lips as her granddaughter came into view.
"Jaehaera." Alicent whispered in greeting whilst watching her every movement. It was not a common sight for the Princess or any members of her family to be at her side in the Sept. "Is something wrong?" The words escaped her before she could stop herself; as ever Alicent was on high alert and this new situation only alarmed her some more.
Her frown stayed on her face as her granddaughter began to speak, "Of course, anything.." Alicent's prayers were soon forgotten about as her complete focus returned to Jaehaera. The silence around them comforted the Dowager Queen as she gave her granddaughter the stick of incense to burn; as ever, keeping a close eye on her.
Jaehaera took a deep breath. She always felt nervous when questions lingered in her mind, perhaps out of fear of asking the wrong one and receiving a disappointing answer.
"Do you think they hear us?" she asked, gazing at the imposing statue before her. She felt almost a sense of power pressing down on her, but at the same time, her skepticism made her think it was just stone. "Do they hear you when you pray to them?" She tried to elaborate, giving voice to the doubts that had been haunting her for some time, hoping her grandmother could help her with these troubling thoughts.
Jaehaera often wondered about her grandmother's prayers. Did the gods really listen? And more, were they responsible for her disturbing dreams? Could her sleepwalking be a sign from them? Were they simply watching, waiting for her to make a mistake? Or was it, as always said, that the Targaryens were connected to the gods, and because she didn’t pray to them, she was now suffering the consequences?
The princess had never been one to pray, but as she grew older, curiosity about these rituals began to take root. Maybe by adopting these habits, she could find answers, or at the very least, a moment of reflection. "What do you ask of them in your prayers?" she asked softly, her voice tinged with curiosity. She wanted to understand what her grandmother sought from the gods in that sacred hour she spent every day in that place.
Alicent waited for the question to come her way as the silence stretched on; if only for a moment. The candles flickered against her sweet granddaughter's face. At that moment, the Dowager Queen was reminded so much of her daughter. The only difference, Helaena was much quieter.
Alicent should not have been shocked at Jaehaera's question; it was one she asked her own mother once upon a time. Too many years ago to count. Still, it had her speechless if only for a moment as she tried to collect her thoughts. "I believe they do, yes." Alicent finally answered. She had to believe they could, or else, what had it all been for?
It was not to say there had not been days when she had struggled with her faith; the day of her wedding, the nights that followed until the birth of Aegon. "Do you believe they do?" Alicent could not help but ask. Those doe eyes of hers locked onto her granddaughter once more; her prayers long forgotten about. Gently, Alicent picked up the stick of incense before placing it in Jaehaera's much smaller hand.
A soft gulp escaped the Dowager Queen at the second question coming her way. "Many things, my love." Alicent whispered as her hands clasped together; the golden rings so much like the scales of Sunfyre sparkled for a moment. "Your safety, for one." She reached to cup her granddaughter's face and gently stroked her cheek. "The Gods watch over us."
starter for @alicenthightowerrp
The prince was outside with his mother.. he looked around letting the fresh air come onto his face. They always enjoyed being in the outdoors and this was something that he liked doing.
They were in the gardens as Daeron looked around at all the little flowers and he looked at how peacefully his mother looked. He always knew that his mother did better in nature.
He looked at his mother before he smiled at her, "Mother remember here? Rhaenya and I would run around here and have fun!"
The memories were nice, knowing that Daeron liked being around him and his mother. Just time together... she looked at how happy she looked.
"Mother...?" He asked quietly, there was something he always wanted to ask no matter what. "Why did you send me to Old Town...?"
He knew that was going to be a silent awkward conversation, he just hated the idea that he was so separated from his family and he missed them a lot.
The prince looked at the flowers, as he gently picked one as he handed it to his mother... a red flower. Just a red flower in his hand handing over to his mother. He looks at her mother, "It's peaceful," he whispered.
The birds chirping and the sound of just the wind was making him just happy and peaceful just like his mother felt.
Alicent had not realised how much of the outdoors she had missed, as well as its effect on her. It helped to have such company as well, especially from the one child that had so much distance between the two of them.
The Dowager Queen allowed her skirts to fall into the grass around their feet. She could not stop the smile that tugged on her lips at her son's words. The memories soon came crashing down on her of much more simple times. If she listened; Alicent thought she could even hear her young children's laughter.
Of course, it never seemed to last for too long as Daeron broke into the sweetness of the day - not that she could blame her youngest. His question alone had Alicent looking everywhere but at him.
"I thought you enjoyed Oldtown?" Alicent could not help but push the question back in her cowardly way. At least, she got that impression from her son from the many letters he would send. She had kept them all in her box with her children's favourite toys. It was what had gotten her through the worst nights.
The flower gently fell into the palm of her hand as she stroked the petals that fell against her touch. As ever, she could not be gentle. Still, she held tight to her son's gift. "I thought it was for the best," Alicent finally admitted.
She fought against blaming her father; something that she had begun to do more often now as she took responsibility for her own actions. Alicent knew the blame was solely on her. "The red keep would not have been ideal for you, sweet boy." She whispered and gently cupped his cheek. I wouldn't have been ideal, she thought to herself.
Helaena led her mother through the gardens, pointing out every bug that crossed their path, occasionally stopping to inspect one. The two were taking a stroll together, planning their outfits for the upcoming wedding of Prince Jacaerys and Princess Baela Targaryen. They weren’t very far in their walk yet, and Helaena had many things she wanted to share with her Mother. She hoped her Mother would love the ideas she’d been thinking of ever since the wedding was set in stone.
They walked on, and a patch of yellow flowers stopped Helaena in her path. She kneeled down to observe the small creatures that invaded the petals. “Mother, look! Ladybugs! They are so adorable, the sweetest looking bugs I would say.” Helaena smiled at them, holding her hands out to capture one. A single red and black bug crawled towards her fingers and she looked back at her mother.
“So, I was thinking Mother, we should wear matching jewelry!” Helaena exclaimed, overjoyed to share her idea that she had been thinking of for a while. The ladybug crawled all over Helaena’s hands as she stood back up, turning to her Mother. Her hands were cupped together and pointed towards the Dowager Queen.
“It’s such a tiny one. Isn’t it interesting how some bugs are so big, and some can be so small such as this one?”
Helaena's presence always brought much comfort to the Dowager Queen; even when the subject moved towards the beloved bugs that held her Princess' attention so dearly. The soft breeze brushed over Alicent as her fingers delicately moved over the petals the two women walked past. She could not stop the soft smile tugging on her lips at the sound of Helaena's excitement. It was a wonder her girl had kept such innocence but the Queen was glad of it; even if she had once upon a time desired for her daughter to behaviour like a Princess.
Now, and for some time, Alicent did not seem to care about that.
The Dowager Queen battled against reacting in the complete opposite way her daughter had. A near shiver ran down her spine at the sight of such things. "They are - nice." Alicent finally found a word to say as she locked eyes with Helaena and fought against guiding her away. Instead; she tried to enjoy her daughter's interests, as long as Helaena did not reach for those spiders she adored so much.
"You would like that?" Alicent could not stop herself from asking; fearful Helaena was only appeasing her mother. Pulling herself together Alicent slowly moved her own cupped hands towards her daughter and the crawling bug. In that moment, the Dowager Queen had never felt closer to her daughter.
"I remember when you were so small," Alicent whispered; a slight smile on her face even if they had never been such times of happiness.
Happy Saturday, hello, and welcome to everyone in our fantastic, amazing, beloved court! There have been some changes amongst the occupants of our kingdom so here are all the latest updates 💜
Due to player choice, inactivity, or other unforeseen circumstances please wish farewell and unfollow:
Tyshara Lannister (Second eldest daughter of Lord Jason and Lady Johanna)
Celia Marbrand (neé Strong) (Younger sister of Harwin, Roslin, and Larys, and Lady in Waiting to Queen Rhaenyra)
Prince Jaehaerys (Heir to Dragonstone)
Jason Lannister (Lord of Casterly Rock)
Abigail Cowen
Hannah Dodd
Louis Landau
Max Brown
New members have joined our court! Please give them a warm welcome and follow:
@ladylaceyvance
The following roles and faceclaims are now taken:
Lacey Vance (Eldest daughter of Lord Triston and Lady Roslin Vance and Lady in Waiting to Princess Rhaena)
Adelaide Kane
It seems the court has been corrected on its previous perceptions so please take note that:
Princess Visenya's faceclaim has been changed to Milly Alcock
Lady Samantha "Sam" Hightower's faceclaim has been changed to Gabriella Wilde
Cristina Ricci is now available to use as a faceclaim
Jodie Comer is now available to use as a faceclaim
House Hightower and House Vance's directory listings have been updated to reflect current taken faceclaims, biography updates, and open roles!
Our Court’s Most Wanted page has been updated!
Full member list under the cut!
~ With Love, Mod Ivory 💜💜
@black-queen-rising - Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen
@rogueprincedaemontarg - King-Consort Daemon Targaryen
@aegontheyoungprince - Prince Aegon III Targaryen
@princeviserystargaryen00 - Prince Viserys II Targaryen
@visenyatargaryen-ii - Princess Visenya Targaryen
@alicenthightowerrp - Dowager-Queen Alicent Hightower
@goldaegontargaryen - Prince Aegon Targaryen of Dragonstone
@helaenasdreamfyres - Princess Helaena Targaryen of Dragonstone
@jaeheratargaryen - Princess Jaehaera Targaryen of Dragonstone
Jaehaera had always been a curious child, constantly seeking answers to her questions. There was one, in particular, that only her grandmother could answer… Do the old and new gods truly hear us?
They said that Targaryens were closer to the gods than other mortals, but was that really true? Jaehaera didn’t feel it. Perhaps she had a gift, but it felt more like a curse, as if the gods were punishing her for some unknown reason.
That day, determined to find answers, Jaehaera decided to follow her grandmother to the Sept, where she often prayed.
As soon as she entered, Jaehaera felt something, almost like an invisible energy in the air. The reverent silence of the place, the soft glow of the candles mingling with the sunlight streaming through the tall windows, and the gentle breeze passing through them… it all conspired to create the sense that something powerful was watching her.
Cautiously, Jaehaera approached her grandmother and knelt beside her. "Hello, grandmother…" she whispered, almost afraid to break the sacred stillness of the place. She wasn’t sure how to behave inside the Sept, feeling as though any wrong movement would be an offense, as if she might be reprimanded at any moment. "May I ask you a question?"
The familiar scent of the Septa provided the Dowager Queen with some comfort as she knelt on the cushion. A green, velvet one to soften the kneeling as the candles began to flicker around her.
Those thick locks of hers cascaded freely down her back; the Queen's usual style for praying as was the lack of jewels adorning her except the gold pointed star necklace resting around her neck.
Even in a prayer; Alicent noticed the movement beside her as those doe eyes of hers began to flutter open. The Dowager Queen could not stop the smile that tugged on her lips as her granddaughter came into view.
"Jaehaera." Alicent whispered in greeting whilst watching her every movement. It was not a common sight for the Princess or any members of her family to be at her side in the Sept. "Is something wrong?" The words escaped her before she could stop herself; as ever Alicent was on high alert and this new situation only alarmed her some more.
Her frown stayed on her face as her granddaughter began to speak, "Of course, anything.." Alicent's prayers were soon forgotten about as her complete focus returned to Jaehaera. The silence around them comforted the Dowager Queen as she gave her granddaughter the stick of incense to burn; as ever, keeping a close eye on her.
The Dowager Queen stared at the remnants of the feast, her fingers absently tracing the rim of her goblet; those gold rings of hers moving across the cup. It took Alicent longer than she would like to admit at realising the table that had housed the chattering children and family members alike was now empty. It seemed that, somewhere between her own thoughts and the formal pleasantries exchanged, everyone had quietly excused themselves. In fact, only herself and the Queen remained and as ever, at opposite ends of the table in a move that seemed almost symbolic of their ever growing distance.
The odd pairing alone causes the servants to share a look or two between themselves and the Dowager Queen knew the kitchens alone would be full of gossip this evening. "Leave it...if you will," Alicent softened her order as the servants began to clear away the dishes with swift, practised movements. "Your grace." A familiar looking servant nodded their head as the large, Targaryen decorated platter was placed back on the long, wooden table. "For the Queen as well." Alicent continued as she motioned her head towards Rhaenyra without their eyes meeting. Once again, she noticed the curious glances from them but as ever; the servants did as she asked and soon the childhood favourites of Rhaenyra was placed in front of the now ruling Queen.
She hesitated, wondering if she should rise, if it would be easier to leave and avoid the Queen’s company entirely but there was something about the image in front of her that took Alicent back; too far back if she was honest with herself to a little Princess who used to steal such treats during feasts and before bed. A near smile tugged on her soft lips before she remembered Rhaenyra was the face of all her fears.
Once upon a time, the two royals would share laughter over meals. Those short years before the birth of her first child were so very different and sometimes, Alicent wondered if they had ever existed at all. Those moments seemed so distant now, almost like memories from another lifetime.
Now, they sat in silence, trapped by titles, grudges, and unspoken words.
𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐈𝐈: 𝐖𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐍'𝐒 𝐖𝐈𝐂𝐊𝐄𝐃 𝐖𝐀𝐘𝐒
~~ Events during the time skip ~~
Alicent had thought herself more adaptable; she had left her own home when she was only a child and had seemingly fallen into court quite easily. Alas, that gift of hers had fallen away from her just like everything else. The coldness of Dragonstone wrapped around her like an old friend even with the sweet touches her daughter had made.
The loneliness that had seeped into her very being had only followed her across the water. "Your grace?" The now familiar voice of the handmaiden her son had chosen came from behind her. Alicent only hummed in response; those big, brown eyes of hers never strayed from the window. "A letter from your father." This time, her head did turn as she locked eyes with her handmaiden if only for a moment before taking the letter from her hand.
"Thank you." The Dowager Queen dismissed the handmaiden without thought as she stared down at her father's harsh, familiar handwriting. She knew what the words would entail without having to open the letter, which she left unopened on top of the others he had sent. The continued talk of her moving to Oldtown was becoming quite bothersome; even if Alicent was slowly coming around to the idea.
Still, she ignored the correspondence for now, as well as any coming from the spider himself who still resided in the keep. Alicent hated herself for still keeping him around - alas, knowledge was power and she was in dire need of such things.
Alicent's attention soon returned to the large, golden backed book resting on her lap. The library of Dragonstone had been her safe place in the following months since her departure and had sparked an idea in her mind.
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