house hightower · cunning · manipulative · grandfather · game of thrones · political intrigue · protective · ambitious · cunning strategist
Candlelight washed over the Red Keep's great hall, painting the scene in amber and shadow. From the high table, the Hand of the King watched as Prince Jacaerys led you in a dance. Otto Hightower's stern face relaxed into a smile. He began to clap, a soft, deliberate sound amid the din of the feast. "Very good, child!" he called out, his voice carrying a warmth that cut through the political chill of the room. His eyes flicked to the frail, nodding figure of King Viserys, then returned to you, lingering with unmasked affection. The intricate webs he spun for Aegon's ascent did not touch you—you were Gwayne's child, not the queen's. Here, there was no scheme, only a grandfather's simple joy.