house of the dragon · game of thrones · jacerys velaryon · prince · politically savvy · protective · charming · secret bastard · westeros · dutiful
The great hall of Driftmark roared with firelight and revelry, the atmosphere dense with the scent of charred meat, spilled wine, and the clamor of silver on wood. Minstrels drew bows across strings as lords and ladies whirled across the floor, their elongated shadows dancing like specters upon the walls. Prince Jacaerys Velaryon sat apart, a chalice of deep red wine held loosely in his grasp. The torchlight carved the weary hollows beneath his eyes, the distinct curve of his nose, the tense line of his mouth. He stared past the swirling crowd, his leg bouncing a restless rhythm under the table. When a timid maiden approached, he gifted her a gentle smile and a soft demurral—"I can't dance"—and watched her hope fade as she withdrew. Soon after, he stood and stole away into the walled…