A Different Dance

Chapter one

The Great Hall of the Red Keep bustled with activity as members of the royal court gathered for the morning council meeting. Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen, seated upon the Iron Throne, looked regal and poised, her violet eyes scanning the room. Her long, silver-gold hair cascaded down her back, a crown of intricate dragon-shaped silver resting upon her brow.
Visenya Velaryon, her eldest daughter and heir, stood by her side, a vision of beauty and strength. With her brown hair flowing over her shoulders and hazel eyes filled with determination, she commanded attention. Jacerys Velaryon, a knight of great skill and valor, stood behind his sister, his presence exuding an air of loyalty and protection.
Queen Rhaenyra spoke, her voice carrying authority. "We gather here today to discuss matters of utmost importance. The marriage alliance between House Targaryen and a noble house needs to be finalized. Visenya, my dear, it is time for you to secure our future with a suitable match."
Visenya nodded, her expression serious. "I understand, Mother. I shall do my utmost to honor our House and find a match that will strengthen our position."
Just then, a young lord entered the hall. Lord Jonothor Blackwood, with his raven-black hair and piercing green eyes, bowed before the queen. "Your Grace, I come on behalf of House Blackwood. We would be honored if Princess Visenya would consider a betrothal with my nephew, Lord Brandon Blackwood."
Visenya's eyes widened slightly as she turned her gaze towards her mother. Rhaenyra studied Lord Jonothor thoughtfully, considering the proposal. "House Blackwood has long been a loyal vassal to House Targaryen. Their lands are fertile, and their armies formidable. This alliance has potential."
Jacerys stepped forward, his voice firm. "I have fought alongside the Blackwoods on the battlefield, Mother. They are trustworthy and battle-hardened. I believe this match would bring strength to our House."
Queen Rhaenyra nodded, her decision made. "Very well, Lord Jonothor. I accept the proposal. Princess Visenya shall be betrothed to Lord Brandon Blackwood. May this union bring prosperity to both our houses."
Visenya gave a polite curtsy, her heart both nervous and hopeful. "Thank you, Mother. I shall do my best to honor this alliance."
Meanwhile, Lucerys Velaryon, the youngest of Queen Rhaenyra's children, sat quietly in a corner of the hall, engrossed in a thick book. His long, curly brown hair fell around his face, framing his delicate features. People often mistook him for a girl, but he paid no mind to such assumptions. His world revolved around the pages of his beloved books and his bond with his dragon, Arrax.
As the meeting drew to a close, Lucerys closed his book, his hazel eyes glinting with curiosity. He observed his sister and mother discussing the upcoming betrothal with interest. Though he had no direct role in such matters, he couldn't help but wonder what the future held for him.
Lucerys rose from his seat and walked towards his mother and sister, Arrax, his loyal dragon, following closely behind. He offered a small smile to Visenya. "Congratulations, sister. I hope Lord Brandon Blackwood proves to be a worthy match."
Visenya returned his smile, her eyes filled with affection. "Thank you, Lucerys. I'm sure he will. And worry not, little brother, your time will come Lucerys chuckled softly, his eyes gleaming mischievously. "Oh, I am in no rush, dear sister. I am content with my books and my faithful Arrax by my side. Love and marriage can wait for me."
Rhaenyra, who had been listening to their conversation, joined in with a warm smile. "Lucerys, my sweet boy, there is no need to worry about such matters just yet. Focus on your studies and nurturing the bond with your dragon. Your time will come when the right match presents itself."
Lucerys nodded, a sense of relief washing over him. He cherished his moments of solitude, diving into the worlds woven within the pages of his books. The thought of leaving all that behind for the duties and responsibilities of marriage felt overwhelming. In this alternate timeline, he was grateful that he had the freedom to pursue his own interests for now.
As the royal court began to disperse, Rhaenyra approached her youngest son, her eyes filled with motherly affection. She brushed a strand of hair away from his face, her touch gentle and comforting. "Lucerys, my darling, never doubt your worth. You possess a keen mind and a kind heart. The realm adores you for who you are."
Lucerys blushed slightly, feeling a surge of warmth at his mother's words. "Thank you, Mother. I will do my best to honor our House and make you proud."
Rhaenyra placed a tender kiss on his forehead. "I have no doubt that you will, my dear. Now, go and enjoy the rest of your day. Study, spend time with Arrax, and know that you are loved."
Lucerys bid his mother farewell and made his way out of the Great Hall, Arrax trailing behind him faithfully. He felt a renewed sense of purpose, understanding that his role within the realm extended beyond the traditional expectations of a nobleman.
As he ventured out into the gardens of the Red Keep, Lucerys couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for the future. In this alternate timeline where the Dance of the Dragons had never occurred, the path before him was full of possibilities and uncharted adventures. With his books and his beloved dragon, he was ready to embrace whatever fate had in store.
Little did Lucerys know that his journey would soon take an unexpected turn, intertwining his destiny with that of the realm in ways he could never have imagined.

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What do you think will happen to Lucerys in the alternate Time line?

By the why if you are wondering why arrax is an the grand hall it becomes he small enough to fit inside. If you have any questions please comment below.