Borne to a litter that also brought forward Aemon and Maegor (now known as the Headhunter), Lucerys was a son of the Targaryen family, the ruling family of a prosperous realm. A volcano eruption forced the family and their followers from the land. The three brothers came to rule over their inherited followers, but fundamental differences in ambitions led to the three brothers parting ways.
Lucerys and his childhood companion, Rhaenyra, established themselves in the mountains with a handful of followers. In time, Rhaenyra borne Lucerys daughters: Helaena and Baela. Rhaenyra and Lucerys both favoured Helaena, and unwittingly neglected Baela.
Lucerys' leadership was marked by early tragedy. Still a young pup, Helaena was killed and partially eaten by a bear, leaving a mangled corpse only recognisable by scent. Rhaenyra was devastated and Lucerys was quietly distressed and disheartened. This tragedy did not bring either parent closer to their remaining daughter, as Lucerys preferred to keep his distance and Rhaenyra lost interest in being a mother.
