Chapter 134: The Queen Who Never Was

The interior of the hall was decorated with exquisite crystal chandeliers and various exotic treasures. In the center, flanked by lamps on either side, stood a weathered wooden seat.

Laenor took the opportunity to introduce it proudly, "This is our family's Driftwood Throne, symbolizing the Lord of the Tides."

Before Rhaegar could respond, the impatient Aegon interjected, "Oh, it's just a pile of rotten wood, isn't it?"

Rhaenyra quickly glared at him, signaling him to watch his words. "Aegon, don't talk nonsense."

Aegon glanced at Rhaegar, whose expression remained unchanged, and seeing that he didn't care, he crossed his arms and huffed. He wasn't afraid of his sister, and if Rhaegar hadn't rebuked him, why should he care?

"Is the Driftwood Throne more legendary than the Iron Throne of the Red Keep?" he mocked.

Laenor, maintaining his composure, responded with grace, "It doesn't matter. In addition to the Driftwood Throne, the hall is filled with trophies from my father and ancestors, including the mask of the Crab Feeder."

Rhaegar finally spoke up, "All right, Aegon, show some respect." It was a soft reprimand, but enough to signal the end of the episode.

The truth was, Rhaegar didn't care much for the Driftwood Throne or the Velaryon family's airs. It was a calculated move to allow Aegon to express disdain openly, gauging Laenor's reaction and pushing boundaries.

Out of the corner of his eye, Rhaegar noticed Laenor's face darkening, and he couldn't help but smirk slightly.

His Father was right, it was useful to bring this stupid little brother along.

"Prince!"

A familiar voice echoed as Rhaegar entered the center of the Driftwood Throne Hall. He turned to see Lyonel rising from the wine closet, his eyes somewhat agitated.

Lyonel's pace was brisk, and his usually stout frame seemed energized. He reached Rhaegar quickly, without pausing to catch his breath.

Rhaegar glanced at the Sea Snake, who appeared unperturbed, and asked, "Lord Lyonel, what's the matter?"

"Prince, Lord Corlys placed me in the Driftwood Throne Hall, forgive me for not to being able to greet you in person," Lyonel replied, his tone carrying a thinly veiled anger. He shot a glare at the Sea Snake's back, making it clear that Corlys had intentionally slighted him.

Understanding the situation, Rhaegar embraced the trembling Lyonel and patted him on the back. "You have been wronged, my lord."

There was no point in retaliating openly. Rhaegar had already asserted his dignity and power. He could only offer Lyonel comfort for the slight he had suffered.

"As long as you remain unharmed, my own troubles are insignificant," Lyonel said, regaining his composure. He understood the political maneuvering at play and had anticipated such treatment from the moment Vaemond had staged Corlys's appearance.

"You are a loyal Hand of the King, and the kingdom is fortunate to have you," Rhaegar said, releasing Lyonel and offering sincere praise.

Laenor stepped forward, changing the subject. "Wait a moment, cousin. Mother will be here soon." He began introducing the antiquities of the hall.

Rhaegar cooperated, casting a few appreciative glances around the hall as they awaited Rhaenys's arrival.

Meanwhile, the Sea Snake seemed detached, lost in his own world. He remained silent, walking to the Driftwood Throne and gazing at the half-broken mask with a blissful expression.

He had anticipated a meeting with the king, a negotiation of sorts. Instead, he was faced with the children of the king, the Hand of the King, and the the heir of the throne.

"Heh, with the change of heir, our majesty has become more assertive," he mused with a smile, deciphering the king's attitude.

But Corlys Velaryon didn't care. He was the greatest navigator Westeros had ever seen, having crossed the ocean nine times. He was responsible for the vast wealth of the Velaryon House.

His wife, Rhaenys Targaryen, is known as the Queen Who Never Was.

Their family owned three dragons, including the mighty Vhagar, such formidable power allowed him to stand proudly on the continent.

Bang...

Not long after, a side door in the hall opened and a figure stormed in with an air of urgency.

"Children, I'm late."

Rhaenys entered, dressed simply, a joyful smile on her face.

"Aunt."

Rhaegar and Rhaenys met each other's gaze and smiled warmly before embracing.

"Good boy, you've grown so much, stronger than your father even."

Rhaenys pinched Rhaegar's sturdy arm, her bright eyes reflecting her pride. As a princess of the Targaryen dynasty, she had been estranged from her family due to tensions between her husband's family and her own. This reunion was a rare and precious moment for her.

"Aunt..."

Rhaenyra stepped forward, greeting her with a smile.

Rhaenys immediately let go of her nephew to embrace her niece. Surveying her, she complimented, "You look wonderful, and you've grown into a beautiful young woman. Life has been kind to you."

"And you look as beautiful as ever, Aunt."

Rhaenyra knew exactly how to please her aunt, and her lovely smile reflected her genuine admiration. She had always looked up to her aunt and cherished their bond.

After Rhaegar and Rhaenyra's greetings, Aegon finally approached, albeit a bit reluctantly and formally.

"And a fine lad you are. You'll be your brother's greatest ally."

Rhaenys embraced Aegon as well, her words wise and affectionate. Aegon, though feeling awkward, managed a shy smile.

"Well, Rhaenys, we must properly entertain our guests from afar."

The Sea Snake turned, a smile playing on his lips as he observed his wife's joyous reunion with her family.

Rhaenys chuckled, "Indeed, it's good that you won't be kicking us out while discussing grand plans."

She exchanged a knowing look with Rhaenyra, who walked over to the liquor cabinet and retrieved a bottle of wine.

Rhaenyra patted her brother's shoulder and followed her aunt, preparing to pour the wine.

After all, they were failures in politics and important matters were best left to the men appointed to do so.

Laenor, reading the room, pulled Aegon aside, clearing the floor for the upcoming discussion between the Sea Snake, Lyonel, and Rhaegar.

Rhaegar and Lyonel exchanged glances before Rhaegar began, "Lord Corlys, my father has heard that the Triarchy is showing signs of resurgence. I assume you've heard the same."

"I won't lie, Prince. The pirates of the Triarchy have indeed reemerged, and my family's ships have already been plundered."

Corlys spoke candidly, initiating the conversation.

He went on, "The Triarchy has been pretty much inactive for years. With their previous defeat still fresh in their minds, they won't back down this time."

"You're right, my lord."

Rhaegar, recalling his father's instructions, said earnestly, "In the face of this renewed threat, the kingdom must respond decisively."

"I am here not only to celebrate Aunt Rhaenys's birthday but also to invite you to King's Landing for a crucial discussion."

(Word count: 1,141)