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Chapter 3 - Casterly Rock

The journey to Casterly Rock was uncomfortable; the carriage shook violently along the way.

"I must ensure the carriages are upgraded to suit my needs," thought Lucerys.

"My young lord, the rock is right ahead," said Ser Bard.

Lucerys spoke quietly, with a hint of admiration:

"As the rumors say, Casterly Rock resembles a lion lying at sunset."

They were greeted by the Lannister knights. At first glance, Lucerys assessed them.

"Weak… Casterly Rock lives in luxury, and luxury breeds complacency."

"Follow me, my young lord. Your father and Lord Tywin await," said Maester Qyle, who served under Tywin.

Lucerys smiled politely. "Very well. Let's not keep them waiting."

Lucerys – POV

I entered Tywin's study and saw a familiar face: my father.

He seemed pleased to see me, even though we only exchanged letters occasionally due to his duties across the Westerlands.

Beside him sat a stern, imposing man, and in front of them stood two small children: Jaime and Cersei.

Though they were three years older than me, I observed everything carefully.

Tywin attempted a smile:

"Welcome, my nephew, to Casterly Rock. I hope you enjoyed the journey."

He continued:

"Let me introduce my children: my heir, Jaime, and his sister, Cersei. This is your first meeting; I hope you get along."

I responded with innocent earnestness:

"Of course, uncle… I like the place very much, and do not worry, I will not fail you."

Tywin – POV

I had been waiting to see my nephew.

A small child entered—blond hair, green eyes, his face still round and childlike yet strikingly handsome.

Typical Lannister.

I introduced him to my children, Jaime and Cersei.

At first, he seemed ordinary, yet I sensed exceptional intelligence behind his words.

"Bringing him here was the right decision… I will shape this raw diamond my way, to secure a smooth future for Jaime."

Jaime – POV

The boy in front of me looked ordinary… aside from his handsome face.

It seemed he had no prior training. Father said I should befriend him, but I saw nothing remarkable yet.

Perhaps I'll test him later in swordplay, maybe teach him a trick or two.

Cersei – POV

Lucerys Lannister… handsome, as expected from a Lannister, but Jaime is far superior.

Father said I should behave with dignity, as befits a lady… very well, I'll try.

The next day, Jaime led Lucerys to the training yard.

They were met by Ser Tygett Lannister, Tywin's other brother and their uncle—a proud, strong knight.

Jaime admired him greatly, and Tygett valued Jaime, recognizing his talent.

Tygett addressed them:

"Lucerys, since you are only four and untrained, you will begin with basic physical exercises.

Jaime, strike the straw dummy with your training sword."

"Understood!" they replied in unison.

Following Tygett's orders, they began the basic exercises.

It was extremely difficult for a four-year-old, but the results promised a strong future.

Jaime, in fact, was a good, disciplined boy, unlike the arrogant child Lucerys had imagined.

Cersei, on the other hand, was as expected: haughty and proud, showing disdain for servants and commoners alike.

Months passed at Casterly Rock.

During this time, Lucerys learned much:

He frequently visited the main library, which contained far more books than his home library.

Despite all his knowledge, he noticed that technological progress was stagnant.

In physical training, his body grew stronger and more agile.

He sparred with Jaime under Tygett's supervision.

Although Jaime was noticeably superior, Lucerys performed impressively for a beginner.

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