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"Children are not at fault for the sins of their mother."
•
Elaina stared out the window of her room, her hands folded in front of her. It had been years since Alicent left since she had lost her baby.
Elaina aged like the wine stored below the castle, as their taste sweetened and became richer in color.
The Hightower Queen had demanded to see the babe, a babe that Rhaenyra had just given birth to. Elaina could not care for the silver-haired heir, but only for the small child in her arms.
Laenor sat behind his mother, knowing that Elaina wanted to see the baby because of Rhaenyra's endeavors. Laenor loved his 'children', they were his by law. Yet, he did not love their mother.
Laenor knew that Elaina loved her grandchildren as well, and she would stand by Laenor no matter the cause. Even if it meant supporting his and Lord Corlys' claim on the children.
"A boy, so I've heard," Laenor mentioned, smiling softly at the woman.
Elaina turned to face him and sent him a small smile, a smile with so much pain hidden behind it.
"Another boy, I hope healthy and fine?" Elaina asked, wondering about the condition of the babe.
Laenor nodded his head in reply, but a sigh escaped his lips. Drawing Elaina's attention to him again.
"Do not bother, my dear," Elaina said, knowing Laenor would scold her for even thinking about the baby being a bastard.
"Mother--"
"Children are not at fault for the sins of their mother, Laenor. I care for my grandchildren, your children. But, you must understand why I do not care for the princess, nor her wellbeing," Elaina said, her words repeating in Laenor's mind.
The Velaryon man understood exactly what she meant, and though he also did not like Rhaenyra he would be civil as they were married by law. Rhaenyra was one of the few people to know his secret, and that he would protect with his life.
"I know, and I'm grateful that you--"
The door suddenly opened, revealing a Ser Criston and a limping Rhaenyra with her arms occupied by a small figure. Ser Harwin trailed behind them slowly, keeping his gaze on Rhaenyra and the baby.
"Rhaenyra, you should be resting after your labors," Elaina said her voice monotone, an act for the maids.
"I have no doubt that you would prefer that, Your Grace," Rhaenyra gritted out.
