The Impact of Lucerys Valyrian's Eye Removal on 'A Song of Ice and Fire'

In George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, the hypothetical scenario of Lucerys Valyrian removing his eye upon Aemond Targaryen's command has far-reaching implications on the dynamic between the Targaryen and Velaryon families. This act would significantly alter the narrative and character arcs, affecting public perception, family dynamics, and the course of the ongoing conflict known as the Dance of the Dragons.

Loss of Innocence and Agency

If Lucerys Valyrian had complied with Aemond Targaryen's command, it would have been a profoundly momentous event. The act of self-mutilation would not only signify Lucerys' submission to Aemond's cruel demands, but also mark a pivotal point in his character development. Lucerys would have symbolically lost his innocence, agency, and integrity, a move that could transform him from a noble and valiant knight to a broken, subjugated warrior.

Shift in Family Dynamics

The Targaryen and Velaryon families were already strained due to political tensions and the civil war called the Dance of the Dragons. Lucerys's act would likely have deepened the rift between them, as such an act of defiance or submission would be viewed through the prism of strength and weakness. This could lead to further animosity from his family, potentially isolating Lucerys and further undermining their unity against the common enemy.

Impact on Aemond Targaryen

For Aemond, the command being fulfilled might embolden him, giving him a sense of power and control over the Velaryons. However, the act of self-harm could also have a reverse effect, prompting Aemond to reconsider his combative approach. Perhaps, Lucerys's valiance in the face of such cruelty might make Aemond feel more sympathetic towards his enemy, leading to a more complex and nuanced rivalry between the two.

Public Perception

The act would likely have a profound impact on public opinion. Some might view Lucerys as a tragic martyr, sacrificing himself for the greater good of the Targaryens, while others could see Aemond as a cruel and vindictive prince. This division in public opinion could polarize the struggle, further entrenching the divide between the warring houses and intensifying the conflict.

Long-Term Consequences

The extreme act could have far-reaching consequences in the ongoing conflict. It might rally supporters to either side, reinforcing the divided loyalties and intensifying the struggle for power. Such an event could also influence the alliances and morale of both the Targaryens and the Velaryons, potentially altering the course of the war.

Alternative Scenarios

Despite the hypothetical scenario, it is worth noting that Lucerys's death was likely inevitable. Maris Baratheon, a known provocateur, could have found another way to antagonize Aemond, thereby ensuring Lucerys's downfall. The Baratheons, known for their militant mindset, would have seen Lucerys as an easy target. Given their history and warrior culture, the Baratheons would have been quick to kill their enemy, mirroring the behavior of the "daddy" figure they knew from the Targaryens' past. This act would have further solidified the enmity between House Velaryon and the Targaryens, making Lucerys's eye removal irrelevant in the final outcome.

In conclusion, the hypothetical removal of Lucerys's eye would have significant narrative implications, altering the themes of honor, sacrifice, and the brutal realities of power struggles within 'A Song of Ice and Fire'. It serves as a poignant reminder of the historical and political complexities inherent in medieval warfare and family allegiances.