Cercei’s POV

Manipulating Maria’s emotions to persuade her to help me was undoubtedly cunning. However, in moments of desperation, unconventional methods often become necessary. I was in a crucial situation where I urgently required her help, a need rooted in my desire to talk with Vienna.

Although I doubted whether this was a wise course of action, recent memories of our intense argument just a day ago made me question whether it was a good idea. The physical and emotional wounds were still fresh, and dealing with Vienna seemed risky.

But my inner drive pushed me forward. I regretted letting anger cloud my judgement. My patience had faltered, and I...