The year 173 AC opened after Lady Barba Bracken’s dismissal from court and saw King Aegon turn his favor to Melissa Blackwood. Queen Naerys slowly recovered, Prince Daeron and Princess Mariah removed their household to Dragonstone, and court life settled into the pattern of Aegon’s pleasures, Blackwood favor, and small-council governance. The arrival of Bellegere Otherys further exposed the king’s old foreign attachments.
Day 5: After Lady Barba Bracken was sent back to Stone Hedge with Aegor Rivers, King Aegon turned his attention to Melissa Blackwood. At the new year’s feast, Missy Blackwood’s beauty and favor marked the beginning of a new royal mistress’s ascendancy.
Day 5: Queen Naerys returned to public life after her harrowing childbirth and long recovery. King Aegon appeared more surprised than devoted when he came upon her walking with Prince Daeron, Princess Mariah, and attendants, while Melissa Blackwood remained on his arm.
Day 14: Prince Daeron and Princess Mariah departed King’s Landing for Dragonstone with their household. Queen Naerys saw them off and entrusted the infant Princess Daenerys to their care, while King Aegon appeared only briefly and reluctantly.
Day 9: King Aegon continued to indulge his pleasures while Lord Bracken and the small council governed. The Hand placed kin and allies in offices, though with caution after the fall of Lady Barba, while Melissa Blackwood’s favor at court remained secure.
Day 23: Bellegere Otherys, the Black Pearl of Braavos, arrived in King’s Landing aboard the Widow Wind. Her appearance revived talk of King Aegon’s old association with her and drew attention from court and port alike.
Day 10: With Prince Daeron returned to Dragonstone after the birth of another child, King Aegon’s court continued in relative calm under the management of the small council. Princess Daena was seen practicing archery, and talk of new contests and entertainments gathered around the royal household.