"Are you alright?" Maekar asked when he noticed his wife and sister make it to the Royal Carriage. Rhaenyra stormed past him and walked up the steps of the carriage.

Alicent sighed, holding a hand to her pregnant belly as tears burned her vision. Maekar pulled her into him from her so side it was easier to wrap his arms around his wife. Placing a hand on her pregnant belly, he placed a kiss to the side of her head.

"She hates me," Alicent whispered, and if it wasn't for their close proximity Maekar wouldn't have heard his wife. "I don't know why."

Maekar held Alicent tighter, comforting her in his embrace. He gently brushed his thumb against her cheek, wiping away a stray tear. "I'm sorry, my love," he murmured softly. "Sometimes, emotions can be complicated, but please know that I am here for you, and I love you."

He pressed another kiss to the top of her head, offering his support. "Rhaenyra's feelings are her own, and they may not have anything to do with you personally."

"I know, thank you for your comfort, my love," Alicent smiled, kissing Maekar's stubbled cheek as he helped her into the carriage.

"Perfect, everyone is here," Viserys clapped his hands excitedly from behind Maekar. The heir turned and frowned.

"Where is Visenya and her children?"

"Oh, well Ser Martyn had just arrived in the capital and wished to speak with her, they should be with us by nightfall," Viserys dismissed with a wave of his hand. Maekar's frown deepened, and he caught his father by the forearm as Viserys went to enter the carriage. "What is it, Maekar?"

"Do you trust Ser Martyn, truly?" Maekar asked him. "It's just I've been back in the capital for three years and I have never met the man I call a brother-in-law."

"Martyn may be a third son but he is an honourable man, Maekar," Viserys said nervously. Maekar's eyes narrowed on his father.

"What is it?" Maekar asked in a low whisper, not wanting those in the carriage to hear.

Viserys chewed at his lip anxiously before motioning Maekar to follow him. The father and son walked a few yards away out of earshot off the other Lords and Ladies. "I am afraid," Viserys admitted.

"Of what, father?" Maekar asked, his palms becoming clammy as Viserys dragged it out.

"Your sister has had four stillborn children in three years," Maekar nodded, that was information he already knew. "Grand Maester Mellos approached me ten moons ago and told me that Visenya was barren and if by some miracle she was pregnant again, herself and the babe would not survive," Maekar's eyes widened in shock and his mouth opened and closed as he tried to find the words.

"Did Martyn and Visenya know about this?" Viserys nodded, and Maekar growled in anger.

"Please, let us enjoy these three days and then you can talk to Martyn," Viserys pleaded with his son. "Don't do anything rash, Maekar."

"Anything rash?" Maekar repeated with a chuckle of disbelief. "Was Martyn not satisfied with his two healthy children that he would risk my sister's life for another? Martyn is nothing but a third son set to inherit nothing, yet he managed to marry a Princess of the realm and kill her within eight years."

"We don't know weather or not she'll die-"

"I have had enough of this conversation," Maekwr cut his father off, shutting his eyes tightly. "I am willing to put it behind me for the fact it is my son's namedays, but before I go back to the war I will have a talk with this Martyn Lannister."

Viserys nodded, and both men headed back to the carriage. Maekar sat beside his wife, placing a kiss to her cheek. The wetnurse held Baelon who was playing with his wooden dragon while Viserys placed Aegon in his lap.

"Well, isn't this splendid," Viserys smiled, bouncing Aegon on his knee. "Our family off to celebration and adventure in the Kingswood." There was an awkward silence and the carriage went over a few bumps, causing Alicent to wince and snuggle into Maekar's arm for comfort.

"Should you be traveling in such condition??" Rhaenyra spoke up, looking down at Alicent's swollen belly.

"The maester said that being out in nature would do me well," Alicent replied, resting her head on her husband's shoulder. "Plus, with my husband home safely for a few days I couldn't miss the opportunity to spend time with him."

"You honour me, my love," Maekar laughed, placing a kiss to the crown of her head. Viserys smiled, happy that his son was happy, before looking back at Rhaenyra who had a deep frown on her face.

"Well, you will be with your own child sooner than late, and make me a proud grandsire again," Viserys smiled, letting Aegon and Baelon drink from his goblet of wine.

"Should you really be letting your two year old grandsons be drinking, father-in-law?" Alicent asked with a pointed look.

Viserys chuckled, raising the goblet to his lips, "please, Alicent, Daemon and I were giving Maekar sips at a younger age and he turned out just fine, didn't he?"

"Indeed he did," Alicent smiled, and she ran her hand down the arm that was around her shoulders and squeezed Maekar's hand that was placed on her belly. She turned to Rharnyra with a small smile. "It's not so bad. The days are long, but Baelon came quickly and without fuss, Aegon didn't want to come out but we managed."

There was another awkward silence.

"You should ride out with me today. Join in the chase," Viserys said to both his children.

"I prefer to hunt alone with my Blood Riders," Maekar excused himself. "Though I think I may sit this one out today, attend to my wife's needs at the rise of a finger."

"That's what the servants are for, my boy," Viserys chuckled. "I understand, Maekar, you are a good man for it. How about you then, Rhaenyra?"

"I'd rather not," she said bluntly. "The boars squeal like children when they're being slaughtered. I find it discomforting."

"It's a hunt, Rhaenyra," Viserys pointed out the obvious. The silence that followed was deafening, only broken by the twins occasionally babbling to one another. "How would you like to participate?" He finally asked.

"I'm not sure why I must," the Princess responded, and Maekar let out an audible sigh as he snatched a wine pouch from under the seat and began to drink.

"Slow down," Alicent warned him. "You've hardly ate, anymore and you'll be drunk by the time we arrive."

"Anything to cancel out their squabbling," Maekar mumbled. Alicent smirked.

As the royal carriage pulled into camp, the family heard cheering and clapping as nobles from around the realm.

"Hail, hail Aegon, the Conqueror-Babe, Second of His Name! And to Baelon, future Hand to his brother!" Lord Hobert cheered as he clapped. "Here's to His Graces on their second name day!" Maekar smiled thankfully at Lord Hobert for including Baelon, and the older man sent him a nod back as Maekar held both his boys in his arms.

Alicent held onto her husbands arm as he led them to the crowd to the royal tent, where they were joined by the other ladies. Maekar made sure she was settled into her chair with her cushions fluffed.

"Anything I can get you, my love?" Maekar asked her, feeling the eyes of the ladies around the realm on him.

"A water, please, my heart," Alicent smiled, kissing her husband tenderly. She turned to look at the other ladies who were in awe of the couple.

"It's so nice to see young love blooming," Lady Ceira Lannister smiled. She was the mother of Lord Tyland, Jason and Martyn.

"Yes, it's truly wonderful," Lady Cella Redweyne smiled fondly. "With two strong boys and more children on the way."

Alicent blushed at the mention of their future children. She felt a surge of happiness and pride knowing that her love with Maekar would soon be blessed with a growing family.

As the conversation continued, Alicent couldn't help but notice the curious glances and whispers exchanged among the ladies. It seemed they were intrigued by her and Maekar's love story, perhaps even envious of the deep connection they shared.

Lady Ceira Lannister leaned in closer, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Tell us, Alicent, how did you and Maekar first meet? Your love seems so pure and genuine."

Alicent's smile widened, recalling the fateful encounter that had changed her life forever. "We met truly at the tourney in King's Landing," she began, her voice filled with nostalgia. "I was watching the jousting from the stands with the Royal Family when I saw my love enter the field, his valor and strength shining through as he unhorsed his opponents. I was captivated by his bravery and couldn't help but be drawn to him, and then he asked for my favour and I knew that was that."

Maekar's eyes twinkled with affection as he listened to her recount their story. He gently interjected, "And I, on the other hand, was completely smitten by Alicent's beauty and grace. I couldn't take my eyes off her."

The other ladies leaned in, their interest piqued. Lady Cella Redweyne eagerly asked, "And what happened next? How did you two realise you were meant to be?"

Alicent's gaze met Maekar's, their love shining brightly in their eyes. "After the tournament, we spent countless days walking through the gardens getting to know each other and evenings dining with each other, sharing dreams and aspirations. It was during those moments that we realised we were meant to be, and Maekar approached my father for my hand when he arrived back from Dragonstone."

Lady Ceira sighed wistfully, a dreamy smile gracing her lips. "Oh, how romantic!"

Alicent felt a surge of gratitude for the kind words and support from the other ladies.

"Is it okay if I sit with you, ladies?" Maekar asked, handing Alicent her goblet of water. "I promised my darling wife I'd wait on her hand, foot and finger."

"Of course, Prince Maekar!" The ladies said with excitement, and Maekar sat on the arm of the plush chair beside Alicent, gently rubbing her shoulders.

He felt Alicent tense as a new group of women approached. Lady Isla Stark smirked slyly at the future Queen. She still felt slighted by Alicent after she stole Maekar away from her two years ago. She felt it should be her in Alicent's place, her birthing the future Kings, her to be the Queen.

As Lady Isla Stark and her companions approached, Maekar sensed the tension in the air. He tightened his grip on Alicent's shoulders, offering her a reassuring smile.

"Let them come," Maekar whispered softly to Alicent, his voice filled with confidence. "We have nothing to fear."

Alicent took a deep breath, finding strength in Maekar's words. She turned to face Lady Isla Stark, meeting her gaze head-on. "Lady Isla, it's a pleasure to see you," Alicent greeted her with a calm demeanor, refusing to let the past grievances overshadow the present moment.

Lady Isla's smirk faltered slightly, sensing Alicent's unwavering composure. "Alicent," she replied curtly, her tone laced with a hint of resentment. "I see you've made quite a successful match for yourself."

Maekar's grip on Alicent's shoulders tightened, a silent display of his protective stance. "Indeed, Lady Isla," Maekar spoke firmly, his voice resonating with authority. "Alicent and I have found a love that knows no bounds. We are grateful for the blessings that have come our way."

Lady Isla's eyes flickered with a mix of envy and defiance, but she maintained her composure. "Well, I suppose congratulations are in order then," she replied, her voice laced with a touch of bitterness. "May your reign be filled with happiness and prosperity."

Alicent nodded graciously, refusing to let the negativity seep into her heart. "Thank you, Lady Isla. I wish you happiness as well."

As Lady Isla and her companions moved away, the atmosphere gradually eased, and a collective sigh of relief seemed to ripple through the group of ladies. Alicent turned to Maekar, her eyes brimming with gratitude.

"Thank you for always standing by my side, my love," she whispered, her voice filled with love and admiration.

Maekar smiled, his eyes sparkling with affection. "Always, my dear."

"Lady Johanna was reported to have been abducted when one of Lord Swann's ships sailed through the Stepstones," the husband and wife rejoined the conversation taking place. Lady Ceira looked at Maekar out of the corner of her eye.

"What will happen to Lady Johanna?" Alicent asked.

"She's to be sold to a pillow house in the Free Cities if you believe the rumors."

"And I believe that is why they're just rumours," Maekar interjected, squeezing Alicent's shoulder. "I intercepted the pirates before it could attack Lord Swann's ship, Lady Johanna is safe and being hosted at Driftmark."

"Then I say we must thank our future King for his fortunate success of keeping his subjects safe," Lady Ceira smiled.

"I fear the gods did not make me for hunting," Larys Strong said, the clicking of his cane getting their attention. "Might I sit with you, my ladies? My Prince?"

"But of course. Please join us," Alicent smiled, motioning to the chair. Larys had been born with a twisted foot, which led to the realm giving the title "the Clubfoot" for needing a cane to help him walk. "Larys Strong, the youngest son of our Master of Law, Lord Lyonel."

"My Lord husband says that no King has even been able to tame the Stepstones for long," Lady Cella continued on as if Ceira wasn't interrupted. "It's an inhospitable place suited only for savages."

"Perhaps the Prince or the Princess... can give us some insight," Lady Ceira asked with a raised eyebrow. Maekar turned and saw Rhaenyra stood behind him.

"Oh, I'm not sure how I could" Rhaenyra chuckled, stepping forward. "I've never been to the Stepstones."

"Your brother and dear uncle are the great minds behind this war," Lady Ceira continued on. "Are they not?"

"Yes we are, my Lady," Maekar spoke up in aid of his sister. "The war is going... well," Maekar lied. "Once we smash the Triarchy and put an end to this Crabfeeder for good, I plan to put a small force of five thousand of men out there along with watchtowers, scorpions and three of my finest warships captained by Declan Yarwyck."

"But the crown is not at war," Rhaenyra added.

"The crown... is at war, Princess," Lady Cella counted, after nodding approvingly at Maekar's plans. "Though your father refuses to admit it, we've been dragged into it by your brother, your uncle and The Sea Snake."

"And how have you served the realm of late, Lady Redwyne, by eating cake?" Rhaenyra shot back. Maekar choked on his wine as him and Larys shared a brief look, Alicent's reaching around her husband and patted him on the back, helping him clear his airways. Rhaenyra stormed off and Maekar sent an apologetic look Lady Cella's way.

As Rhaenyra stormed off, a tense silence fell over the group. Lady Cella glanced at Maekar, concern etched on her face. "I hope I haven't caused any trouble," she whispered to him.

Maekar shook his head, his voice filled with regret. "No, my Lady. It was my fault for not anticipating Rhaenyra's reaction. She's been under a lot of pressure lately, and tensions are running high."

Lady Cella reached out and squeezed Maekar's hand reassuringly. "It's understandable. This war has affected all of us in different ways. We must remember to be patient and understanding with one another."

Larys Strong, ever observant, spoke up. "War has a way of revealing the true nature of individuals. It tests their loyalties, their strength, and their character. It is in times like these that we must strive to be our best selves, to rise above the chaos and uncertainty."

Lady Ceira nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Indeed, Lord Larys. It is during these trying times that true leaders emerge, those who can navigate the storms and guide their people to safety."

Alicent, who had been silent until now, spoke softly. "We must remember that unity is key. The realm cannot afford internal divisions when faced with external threats. We must find common ground and work together for the greater good."

Maekar excused himself from the group of ladies and Larys, intent on finding his youngest sister in the crowd of noble men and women. Seeing her not inside the tent, Maekar exited the tent, the sun warm on his pale skin as he searched for Rhaenyra.

"There you are," he sighed in relief, placing his hand on her shoulder as he approached her from behind. Maekar noticed the frustration in his sister's eyes but before he could comment on what happened back in the tent, a new voice cut in.

"I wonder, Princess... was your own second name day as grand as this?" Jason Lannister sat around the fire with a goblet of wine in his hand.

"I honestly don't recall and neither will Aegon or Baelon," Rhaenyra replied, and Maekar huffed in annoyance. Though he agreed with Rhaenyra, his boys were to young to remember this come ten years time, she could at least be in a celebratory mood.

"Lord Jason Lannister," he introduced himself.

"I gathered that from all the lions," Rhaenyra said awkwardly. "And the fact we met at your brother's wedding to my sister."

"Yes, such a shame what may happen," Maekar clenched his fists at his side.

"Whatever do you mean?" Rhaenyra asked.

"Enough!" Maekar said firmly, stopping Jason before he could speak.

"I don't think we've been properly introduced," Jason commented, eyeing both Targaryen's. He clicked his fingers.

"Yes, and frankly one pompous twat on my father's council is enough for me," Maekar commented under his breath.

"Tyland is... frightfully dull, gods love him," Jason spoke, having heard the comment despite the bustling of the crowd around them. "Martyn is also like him, I'm afraid, ever the dutiful child."

"The finest honeyed wine you'll ever taste," he handed two cups of wine to the Targaryen's before taking one for himself. "Made in Lannisport, of course."

"Of course," both siblings said in unison, Maekar closing his eyes as he could already feel a headache coming on from Jason's pompous rambling.

"Ah, the Kingswood, it's fine hunting ground. But the best sport is to be found at Casterly Rock, near my home," he continued on, and Rhaenya, sensing her brothers annoyance building, linked her arm through his, keeping him close to her side. "Have either of you been?"

"Um, once... on tour with my mother when I was young, and honestly can't recall much of that either," said Rhaenyra, playing with the goblet.

"No," Maekar responded simply.

"The Rock is thrice the height of the Hightower in Oldtown, taller still than the Wall in the north," Maekar rolled his eyes, turning towards his sister with a pleading look. She just smirked at him, before facing Jason again. "It's been said that  if one were to stand in the tower... on a perfect day, one could see clear across the Sunset Sea."

"It must be quite something," Rhaenyra commented.

"Hm, I don't have a Dragonpit, of course, but..." Maekar's eyes widened at the sudden realisation of Jason's rambling. His father had given him permission to court Rhaenyra. "I do have the means and resources to build one."

"Why would you need a Dragonpit?" Rhaenyra asked obliviously.

"To house dragons, of course," Jason smirked down at her. "I'd do anything for lady wife," the realisation suddenly hit Rhaenyra too and she looked up at Jason with wide eyes before storming off in the direction of the tent.

"I haven't even got the energy to chase her," Maekar sighed, taking the full pitcher of wine off of Jason's servant, sending the Lannister a nod before walking off to the shade of a large tree. He settled in the grass with a sigh, closing his eyes as the sounds of nature surrounded him.