Chapter 17: A Royal Proposition
The grand halls of the Red Keep echoed with the weight of decisions as King Viserys I Targaryen occupied the Iron Throne. The topic of discussion, a potential marriage alliance between Princess Rhaenyra and Lord Leanor Velaryon, dominated the discourse. The air was thick with tension as the fate of alliances hung in the balance.
As the conversation unfolded, Corlys Velaryon, the mastermind behind the scenes, spoke with an air of diplomacy that masked the underlying currents of political maneuvering. "Your Grace," Corlys interjected, "I must advise against this union. My son, Leanor, has certain inclinations that might pose challenges for the future of House Targaryen and House Velaryon."
King Viserys, his expression shifting from contemplation to concern, regarded Corlys with a furrowed brow. The mention of potential complications in the heir's personal life weighed heavily on the king's decision-making.
Internally, Corlys wrestled with the sacrifice he was willing to make for the greater good of both houses. The benefits provided by House Spartan, the orchestrator behind the scenes, were too valuable to dismiss. With a measured tone, Corlys proposed an alternative that would serve both houses.
"I propose an alternative match, Your Grace," Corlys suggested, carefully choosing his words. "Jonas Spartan, a man of influence and power, controls Astapor and holds a dragon. Marrying Rhaenyra to him would forge a formidable alliance, securing the standing of both House Targaryen and House Velaryon."
The room, filled with the king's confidants, including Ser Otto Hightower, bore witness to the unfolding political drama. Ser Otto, sensing a deviation from his own plans, felt a twinge of discomfort. His eyes narrowed as he observed the intricate dance between Corlys and the king.
The hand of the king, Ser Otto, a master strategist in his own right, seized the opportunity to question the proposed alliance. "Your Grace, House Spartan is an unknown entity. This marriage could pose unforeseen risks to the stability of the realm. We must consider the consequences."
Corlys and Ser Otto engaged in a verbal joust, each defending their perspectives with calculated eloquence. The tension escalated, threatening to unravel into a full-blown conflict of words. King Viserys, sensing the need to intervene, raised his hand to silence the bickering advisors.
"Enough," King Viserys declared. "This matter requires further consideration. I shall extend an invitation to Jonas Spartan, and upon meeting the man himself, I shall make a decision. Until then, let the discussions cease."
As the chapter concluded, the grand halls of the Red Keep stood witness to the intricate dance of politics, where alliances hung in the balance and the destiny of houses rested in the hands of a king torn between conflicting counsel. The invitation extended to Jonas Spartan promised a meeting that would shape the future of Westeros in ways unforeseen.