Game of Thrones: I Am The Heir For A Day

Chapter 135: Laena and the Twins

Chapter 135: Laena and the Twins

The Velaryon House boasts the most powerful fleet and admirals in Westeros. To defeat the Triarchy, the full support of the Sea Snake is indispensable.

Rhaegar looked intently at Corlys, waiting for his reply.

"It is the duty of a servant to serve his kingdom, and I am honored to do so," Corlys responded without hesitation, placing a hand over his chest solemnly.

He continued, "My family has been greatly affected by the Triarchy's capture of the Stepstones. Your arrival here is a great relief to me."

His words were sincere, without arrogance.

Rhaegar was slightly taken aback by Corlys's willingness. Upon reflection, he realized that although the Stepstones were barren, they occupied a crucial geographic position.

If the Triarchy controlled the Stepstones, the entire shipping route would be vulnerable to their raids, causing significant harm to the Velaryon House, whose livelihood depended on maritime trade.

Corlys's acceptance demonstrated his foresight and pragmatic approach.

The exchange went smoothly. Lyonel, looking pleased, added, "Lord Corlys, I hope that after Princess Rhaenys's banquet, you can return to King's Landing with me."

His mission was to secure Corlys's support in the capital for strategic military discussions. With Corlys's agreement, Lyonel felt a weight lifted from his shoulders.

"Of course, I haven't seen His Grace in a long time, and I miss him," Corlys lamented.

He was a shrewd politician, aware that no matter how powerful his House was, they couldn't thrive in isolation. Aligning with the royal family was essential for maximizing their benefits.

"It seems you've had a productive discussion," Rhaenys approached with a tray, smiling warmly.

Seeing his wife's smile, Corlys mirrored her expression and said proudly, "Conversations among smart people are always easy and pleasant."

"You are right; Viserys has chosen a worthy heir," Rhaenys kissed her husband's cheek and whispered in his ear, "Keep in mind that the Targaryens have no shortage of both geniuses and madmen."

"Just a little test," Corlys replied softly, taking a glass from the tray and toasting Rhaegar.

He preferred personal encounters over relying on rumors to judge a person's worth. The new heir’s hardline stance made the upcoming battle for the Stepstones seem more manageable.

"Would you like a taste? It's the red wine of Dorne," Rhaenys asked, pushing past her ambitious husband to hand the tray to Rhaegar.

"Thank you, Aunt," Rhaegar said, hesitantly reaching for the fragrant drink.

"Drink this, Rhaegar," Rhaenyra called from behind, carrying a glass of some beverage.

"Laena!"

Rhaenyra's surprise was evident in her voice, her gaze reflecting a mix of emotions.

Laena had been her closest childhood companion besides Alicent.

After all these years, she had blossomed into a wife and mother.

"Rhaenyra, it's good to see you again."

Laena's features bore the strong lines of her mother, her silver curls cascading elegantly around her tall, voluminous body.

"Sister, what brings you here?"

Laenor hurried forward, a hint of nervousness evident in his demeanor.

"Why the nervousness? We only have family in the room," Laena assured, her smile softening her words as she retrieved two swaddled bundles from the maid behind her.

Observing this, Rhaenys sighed in resignation. "Well, since you're here, you might as well explain it yourself."

Rhaegar inclined his head, his gaze drifting to the swaddled forms in Laena's arms.

Noticing his interest, Laena approached, gracefully extending the bundles towards him. "Cousin, would you like to hold them?"

After a brief pause, Rhaegar accepted to hold the swaddled infants.

Laena spoke tenderly, "Father named them; the elder sister is Baela, and the younger, Rhaena."

As he held the swaddled bundle, Rhaegar's posture stiffened slightly, his gaze resting upon the two tiny beings.

To be honest, they weren't particularly adorable.

Their skin had a reddish hue, and their eyes remained tightly shut, their small bodies appearing frail and delicate.

"Eeeya..."

Apparently sensing his discomfort, the little girl named Baela squirmed in his arms, emitting a soft cry.