The next morning, Lyanna made her way to the king's quarters, her heart pounding with a mixture of determination and anxiety. She knocked softly on the door, and Alicent opened it with a warm smile.

"Ah, Lyanna," Alicent said, stepping aside to let her in.

Inside, King Viserys sat in a comfortable chair, a book resting in his lap. He looked up, his tired eyes glancing over her, and set the book aside. The weight of the crown seemed to hang heavily on him, yet he smiled at her entrance.

"Good morning, my dear," he greeted, though his voice was laced with fatigue from sleepless nights.

Taking a deep breath, Lyanna stepped forward, her resolve firm. "Your Grace, I have come to speak with you about your proposal," she said, standing before him.

"I have given it much thought, and I will not marry either of your sons," she declared, her voice steady. "It's not them; it's me. I don't see Aemond or Aegon in that way. They are my friends, my brothers—nothing more."

Viserys looked taken aback, his expression shifting as he processed her words. Alicent exchanged a glance with him, sensing the tension in the room.

"Lyanna, I understand your feelings," Viserys began slowly, "but you must consider the importance of alliances—"

"I do understand," she interrupted gently, "but I must also consider my own happiness. I cannot enter into a marriage without love or respect."

Viserys sighed, rubbing his temples as if the weight of the world rested on his shoulders. "I see. Well, I won't force you, dear. You are allowed to marry whoever you want in this realm, whether it be royal or not."

Lyanna felt a mix of relief and uncertainty at his words. "Thank you, Your Grace," she replied softly, grateful for his understanding.

Alicent stepped closer, her expression gentle. "You deserve to choose a partner who makes you happy, Lyanna. But remember, family and duty often come hand in hand."

"I know," Lyanna said, her heart heavy with the knowledge of the responsibilities that awaited her. "But I must find my own path, one that feels right for me."

Viserys nodded, a hint of pride in his weary eyes. "As long as you remain true to yourself, my dear, that is what matters most."

With that, Lyanna felt a newfound sense of freedom wash over her. She had made her choice, and now it was time to embrace whatever came next.