However, the favorable impression of Rhaenyra that Aegon had arrived at on his own clearly would not last long-
After all, Rhaenyra really could not keep up the act, or behave herself, for very long.
Sure enough, on the way here, she had not only switched to riding Syrax but also brought the "jealous" Sunfyre and the gluttonous Grey Ghost along to visit Maidenpool.
All because she had spotted the party of her young friend from House Mooton along the way. In the time it took her to drag Aegon down to exchange a few words, she had received an invitation to soak in the hot springs.
Before leaving, she had planted a loud kiss on Aegon's cheek, said, "I'll come find you later," and vanished into the clouds on Syrax.
"Your Highness!"
The escort soon arrived, led by a sturdy knight in his early thirties. He wore dark blue leather armor in the local style of Crackclaw Point, with a longsword at his waist. This was Ser Lubert Celtigar.
He swung down from his horse and knelt on one knee before Aegon, his face filled with heartfelt joy.
Behind him followed a dozen or so soldiers dressed in the same fashion, all dropping to their knees together.
"Rise, all of you." Aegon walked over to Lubert and patted his shoulder. "Is Ser Alyn Celtigar in the domain?"
"Yes, he is! Ever since your letter arrived a few days ago, he's been waiting for you. He's just gone to the harbor to inspect the expansion work." Rupert rose and happily led Aegon toward the castle gate.
A tall man, he stood more than half a head above Aegon, yet before the young prince, he unconsciously stooped a little, his respect plain to see.
Since his youth, he had always admired