It was the day of the long-anticipated Bachelor’s Ball, an event designed to introduce suitors from across the Seven Kingdoms in a manner far more expedient than the traditional feasts and courtships. Rhaega had insisted on it, inspired by the Maiden Day’s ball of Aegon III's reign. Her mother had died not too long ago and she needed a husband to create stability and rule alongside her. The suitors would have a mere moment to present themselves to her. A bow, a glance, and they would be gone.

Sitting upon the Iron Throne, Rhaega’s posture was regal, her expression a mix of intrigue and unspoken challenge. Her violet eyes flicked over her councilors, who busied themselves overseeing the preparations. The large throneroom of the Red Keep hummed with energy as the suitors lined up, each hoping to catch her attention.

The herald’s voice echoed through the hall.

"Lord Monterys of House Velaryon!"

The first suitor strode forward, handsome and proud, his white hair swept back to reveal the distinct Valyrian lineage. He bowed, his eyes briefly meeting hers with an assured smile, and then he was gone, ushered away for the next.

"Ser Maeron of House Tarth!"

A tall knight, stoic, his armor gleaming even in the dim light, he bowed swiftly, his gaze intense but respectful, and moved aside as quickly as he had come.

Suitor after suitor presented themselves, each one more distinct than the last, lords from the Reach, nobles from the free cities, even merchant lords They came and went like flashes, none of them daring to linger. Rhaega’s expression remained unreadable, her fingers lightly tracing the arm of the Iron Throne as she evaluated them in the silence between each introduction. The herald's voice them boomed as he announced the next suitor.