The pale red stone walls of the Red Keep had soaked up the warm spring sunshine, giving off a dry, comforting warmth.
Having spoken of Rhaenyra and Aegon, the two central figures of this journey, as well as Lyonel and Alicent, who were still listening to Viserys pour his heart out, it was time to turn to the others who remained from Rhaenyra's earlier "courtship party."
Outside Aegon's study, Ser Erryk Cargyll stood ramrod straight in the shadows, his snowy white Kingsguard cloak spotless, one hand resting on his sword hilt as his vigilant gaze swept every corner of the corridor. His twin brother, Ser Alek, had just gone off duty to rest and would return to relieve him in another two hours.
Thanks to their "outstanding" protection throughout the journey, and Aegon's forceful insistence after their return, the twin Kingsguard had now effectively become the personal guards of Aegon and his sister Rhaenyra.
Throughout their tour of the Seven Kingdoms, they had witnessed firsthand how Aegon made the wild dragon Cannibal submit on Black Beach, and how, at just four years old, he displayed the majesty and resolve of a true dragon.
The awe etched into their bones had long since surpassed the loyalty they owed members of the royal family. Now that Princess Rhaenyra was far away in the Vale, they devoted all their attention to the little prince.
Besides standing guard outside his study day and night, they had also become practically his only two companions during his "exercise breaks."
Every evening, after Septon Eustace finished his lessons, Aegon had about half an hour to take a walk. The Cargyll Brothers would flank him, accompanying him on a leisurely stroll through the Red Keep's courtyards. They never hurried him or spoke much, simply following quietly while he