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Part 2

Westeros continued to question Rhaenyra’s claim as heir. In 114 AC, Rhaenyra married white-haired, purple-eyed Laenor Velaryon, son of Corlys Velaryon. According to rumors, Laenor only had sex with men. The gossips said Rhaenyra’s lover was her protector Ser Criston Cole and, later, dark-haired Ser Harwin Strong of Harrenhal. Cole became Alicent’s protector and a Green after that. When his first wife died, Daemon eloped with Laena Velaryon, Laenor’s sister. The two lived in Pentos but returned when Laena had twin girls Rhaena and Baela.

Rhaenyra gave birth to sons Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Joffrey. People said their father was Harwin Strong because the boys were brunettes. Aemond, Alicent’s son, lost his eye after Jacaerys put it out; the fight began after Aemond claimed the dragon Vhagar and said Jacaerys and Lucerys were Strongs. Viserys said the boys were Targaryens. Anyone who said otherwise would lose their tongue. He sent Harwin to Harrenhal. Along with his father Lyonel Strong—now Hand. Both died in a fire at Harrenhal. Sources disagree on the culprit, but Harwin’s death benefited several Targaryens.

Otto Hightower, Alicent’s father, became Hand.