A Different Dance

chapter 9

Chapter nine
The following week, Prince Lucerys was in his study with his trusted advisor, Ser Criston Cole. Ser Criston was reading off the names of the noble knights from each house, who were skilled in combat. Prince Lucerys interrupted him. "Ser Criston, do any of these knights have combat experience beyond capturing poachers?" he asked with a hint of curiosity.

Ser Criston paused for a moment before answering, "Well, there is one that comes to mind, Prince. Ser Jorah Dayne is an exceptional warrior, known for his skill with a sword."

Prince Lucerys's eyes lit up at the mention of Ser Jorah Dayne. "That's the knight who defeated my uncle in the tournament! I remember him well. He displayed extraordinary prowess and strategy," he said, showing interest in the idea of working with Ser Jorah I choose Ser Jorah Dayne Lucerys declared, his voice filled with conviction. But Ser Criston expressed his reservations. "Let's not be too hasty, Prince. There's no doubt that Ser Jorah is a fine warrior, but houses such as Crakehall and Mallister are important allies of the Crown. Seagard, for instance, is the realm's prime defense against reavers from the Iron Islands."

Lucerys nodded, showing understanding. "I see your point, Ser Criston. But those men are tourney knights. I should be defended by a man who's known real combat, should I not?" argued Prince Lucerys.

Ser Criston tilted his head in agreement. "Of course, Prince. We will need to weigh our options carefully and make the right decision," he said, calming Prince Lucerys.

Lucerys then made his decision. "I want Ser Jorah Dayne as my personal guard," he resolved, his mind made up.

Ser Criston looked concerned but kept his composure. "Very well, my Prince Ser Criston bowed Let us plan Ser Jorah's investiture then," he agreed.

Lucerys and Ser Criston spent the rest of the day discussing the details of Ser Jorah's appointment and possible contingencies. The conversations were calm yet thought-provoking, and they knew that they needed to be prepared for any eventuality.

As the day drew to a close, Prince Lucerys felt a sense of reassurance in the knowledge that he would have an experienced warrior by his side. And despite the potential risks involved in selecting Ser Jorah as his personal guard, he knew deep down that it was a decision he would not regret. Later that day
Rheanyra sat in her chambers, lost in thought, when there was a knock at her door. "Come," Rheanyra said, and in walked Hand Willem Blackwood and Ser Criston Cole.

"The Hand, Your Grace," Ser Criston announced.

"Your Grace, I've called the Small Council to an emergency session," Hand Willem said, his voice grave.

"Why?" Rheanyra asked, feeling uneasy.

"I think it best you hear it directly," Hand Willem replied.

"Very well," Rheanyra said, motioning for them to continue.

They arrived at the meeting, and the dragon keeper was telling Queen Rheanyra about a break-in at the dragon pit that occurred during the night. "How is it possible that a dragon egg was stolen from beneath the fifty Dragon Keepers?" Rheanyra demanded to know.

"It was Prince Aegon, Your Grace," the dragon keeper said.

"Aegon?" Rheanyra repeated in disbelief.

"The Prince left a missive, which I believe might explain," Hand Willem said, before reading the contents of the letter. "It is the pleasure of Aegon Targaryen, the Prince of Dragonstone and rightful heir to the Iron Throne, to announce that he is to take a second wife in the tradition of Old Valyria. She is to assume the title Lady Ellaria  of Dragonstone. Her Grace is with child and is to have a dragon's egg placed in the babe's cradle in the custom of House Targaryen." The Prince has invited you to his wedding, Your Grace. It is in two days' time.