Forsaken Bloodlines {HP x GOT}

Chapter 3.2: The Ball

The anticipation for the annual Malfoy Summer Ball, aptly named The Serpentine Soirée, filled Malfoy Manor with a bustling excitement. This grand event, held just a week before the return to Hogwarts, was always the highlight of the summer, bringing together the elite of the wizarding world. The event this year and the next aren't just normal balls, it is Draco and Lyanna's respective debut into the Wizarding World, turning 13. 

For Lyanna, it was more than just a ball this year; it was an opportunity to present herself in a way that honored her true heritage without drawing unwanted scrutiny. She wanted to prove to everyone although her debut is not until the next summer, she was more than ready to be "one of them."

Determined to wear a dress that encapsulated her identity while still appearing as a beautiful, growing young woman experimenting with different styles, Lyanna sought out the finest seamstress in the wizarding community. Together, they conceptualized the perfect dress—simple, elegant, and powerful.

The dress was inspired by one of the visions Melisandre had shown her: Daenerys Targaryen's dress from her time in Meereen, though adapted to suit Lyanna's youthful grace. The fabric chosen was a soft, flowing chiffon in a pale silver hue, reminiscent of moonlight. The dress was designed with long, sheer batwing sleeves that draped gracefully from her shoulders to her wrists, adding a touch of ethereal charm. The bodice was delicately fitted, adorned with subtle embroidery that shimmered like dragon scales when caught in the light.

A metallic accessory featuring three dragon heads—emblematic of the Targaryen sigil—was carefully crafted to rest on her chest, where the bodice met the neckline. This piece was both a subtle nod to her heritage and a striking focal point of her ensemble. The accessory was finely wrought in silver, each dragon head rendered with intricate detail, their eyes set with tiny, gleaming sapphires.

The skirt of the dress flowed down to just above her ankles, allowing for ease of movement while maintaining an air of sophistication. The fabric swirled gently around her as she moved, creating a sense of fluidity and grace.

On the night of The Serpentine Soirée, Lyanna stood before the mirror, admiring the dress that had come to symbolize her journey of self-discovery. She had chosen to wear her hair in loose waves, a simple silver diadem resting atop her head. As she adjusted the dragon head accessory one last time, she whispered to herself, "For Daenerys. For Jon."

Descending the grand staircase of Malfoy Manor, Lyanna felt a surge of confidence. The guests turned to look at her, their expressions a mix of admiration and curiosity. To them, she was a vision of elegance and beauty, a young lady experimenting with new styles. But for Lyanna, the dress was a silent declaration of her true self—a blend of her Targaryen heritage.

~~~

The Serpentine Soirée was in full swing, the grand ballroom of Malfoy Manor alive with laughter, music, and the elegant murmur of conversation. The chandelier cast a shimmering light over the guests, creating a magical atmosphere. Lyanna, feeling both exhilarated and slightly overwhelmed by the grandeur, wandered through the crowd, her silver dress flowing gracefully with each step.

It was only halfway through the program when Lyanna's eyes caught a flash of bright fire. Turning, she saw Melisandre standing near a corner, her presence commanding as always. Melisandre was wearing a deep V-neck blood-red dress beneath a silk gown the color of bright flames. A single great ruby gemstone choker adorned her neck, glowing with an inner fire.

Intrigued and eager to connect, Lyanna made her way towards Melisandre. As she approached, Melisandre's eyes widened in surprise at the sight of Lyanna's dress, so reminiscent of Daenerys Targaryen's style.

"Lyanna," Melisandre said, her voice a mix of surprise and concern. "Your dress... How did you come up with this design?"

Lyanna smiled, her eyes shining with pride. "I was inspired by one of the visions you showed me," she explained. "In the vision, my mother was wearing a similar design. I wanted to honor her."

Melisandre's expression darkened, a shadow passing

over her face. "Lyanna, you must understand," she began, her tone urgent and troubled. "Your mother, Daenerys, she was a powerful but deeply troubled woman. The path she took led to much destruction and sorrow. I fear that by following in her footsteps, you might..."

Lyanna's heart tightened, but she stood firm. "Melisandre, I am of their blood. Naturally, I'd want to wear something that represents who I truly am," she retorted, her voice steady but edged with emotion.

Melisandre sighed, her eyes softening as she looked at Lyanna. "It's not just about the dress, child. These small details... these small decisions you make... They are hints of what it is you truly desire. It's about the choices you make, the path you choose. Power can be a dangerous thing if not wielded wisely."

Lyanna felt a pang of frustration. "I'm not her, Melisandre. I'm not my mother. I know her story, and I know the mistakes she made. But I also know the strength she had, the courage. I want to honor that part of her."

Melisandre placed a hand on Lyanna's shoulder, her touch surprisingly gentle. "You have a strong spirit, Lyanna. Just promise me you will tread carefully. Great power can corrupt, and I would hate to see you lost to it."

Lyanna nodded, understanding the depth of Melisandre's concern. "I promise. But you have to trust me to find my own way."

Melisandre gave her a small, almost sad smile. "Very well. Just remember, you are not alone. There are those who care for you and will help you, should you need it."

Lyanna felt a sense of relief, grateful for Melisandre's words even though they had unsettled her. "Thank you," she said softly.

As the evening wore on, Lyanna found herself reflecting on the conversation. She knew Melisandre's concerns came from a place of care, and though she felt slightly offended, she also felt a renewed determination to forge her own identity, separate from the shadows of her parents' legacies. The dress she wore was a symbol of that journey, a blend of homage and individuality.

Lyanna rejoined the festivities with a newfound resolve, mingling with guests, accepting compliments, and engaging in conversations. She noticed her father, Lucius, watching her from across the room, his expression unreadable. She knew that earning his approval was a battle she might never win, but tonight, she felt a step closer to understanding herself.

The ball continued, a dazzling celebration of the wizarding world's elite, but for Lyanna, it was a night of introspection and quiet rebellion. She was charting her own course, one that honored her heritage while embracing her own strengths and values.