The Maddest Obsession → aemond targaryen, hotd

Chapter 5: The Dream of the Desired

AN:
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The sky over High Tide remains overcast, casting a somber shadow over the gathered mourners. The air is thick with the scent of salt and the weight of grief as the sea churns below. House Velaryon stands united in sorrow, their black attire a stark contrast against the stone and sea.

Laena Velaryon's sarcophagus, intricately carved with the symbols of her house, is poised to be lowered into the depths. Her uncle, Vaemond Velaryon, steps forward, his face a mask of solemnity. He begins the eulogy, his voice strong but laden with sorrow as he recounts Laena's virtues and the void her passing leaves.

Baela and Rhaena stand close to their brother, Daervon Targaryen, their eyes red and puffy from tears. Baela sniffles softly, her small frame trembling. Rhaena clings to Daervon's arm, seeking solace in his presence. Daervon himself stands rigid, his face a mask of stoic bravery, though inside he feels the crushing weight of loss.

Princess Rhaenys Targaryen keeps a comforting arm around Baela, her touch gentle and reassuring. Her eyes glisten with unshed tears as she tries to be the pillar of strength for her grandchildren. Lord Corlys stands beside her, his jaw set in a grim line as he watches his daughter's sarcophagus being prepared for its final descent.

Nearby, Laenor Velaryon grieves openly, his body wracked with sobs. His wife, Princess Rhaenyra, stands beside him, her expression a mixture of grief and defiance. Their two children are clustered around them, their young faces mirroring the sorrow of the adults.

As Vaemond continues his eulogy, his words take a sharp turn. He speaks of honor and legacy, and then, pointedly, he turns his gaze to Rhaenyra and her children. He insinuates the scandal surrounding Harwin Strong, using this moment of mourning to cast shadows upon their legitimacy.

A tense silence grips the assembly. Then, unexpectedly, a harsh, bitter laugh cuts through the air. All eyes turn to Daemon Targaryen. His laugh is mirthless, a cruel edge to it that echoes off the stone walls. His gaze fixed on the Velaryon lord, gleaming with a dangerous amusement. The tension is palpable, the mourners shifting uncomfortably.

Rhaenyra's face flushes with anger and embarrassment, but she stands tall, her hand tightening around her children. Vaemond falters, the rebuke hanging in the air, as the sound of the sea crashing against the rocks below fills the silence.

Among the gathered nobles are King Viserys and Queen Alicent, standing with their children. The King's face is drawn with sorrow, lines of age and worry etched deeper by the day's grief. Alicent, her expression composed but sorrowful, stands beside him, their children somber and respectful in the presence of such profound loss. Aegon looks bored, his eyes wandering aimlessly as if searching for a distraction. Aemond and Helaena remain still, their young faces reflecting the weight of the occasion.

The nobles and relatives of House Velaryon, along with many other noble houses, have gathered in silent support, their presence a testament to the respect and sorrow felt for Laena's passing. Lords and ladies from across the realm stand in solidarity, their faces a mosaic of shared grief.

The sarcophagus is finally lowered into the sea, the water accepting its burden with a solemn splash. As it disappears beneath the waves, the mourners bow their heads, each lost in their own thoughts and memories of Laena.