The Hidden Heir (ignore the cover)

The Pact with the Sea Snake

 Chapter Four: The Pact with the Sea Snake

The moon hung high over the Red Keep, casting a pale glow over the castle's towers and courtyards. Inside the stone walls, the whispers of court intrigue had quieted for the night, replaced by the softer sounds of the city settling into slumber. But within the private quarters of Daemon Targaryen, the night was far from over.

Daemon stood before a wide window, his hands clasped behind his back as he gazed out at the shimmering Blackwater Bay. Behind him, a small fire crackled in the hearth, its warmth barely touching the chill in the room. Lyanna slept soundly in her cradle, unaware of the machinations unfolding around her.The door to the chamber creaked open, and Daemon turned to see Corlys Velaryon stepping inside. The Sea Snake moved with the confidence of a man who had spent his life navigating both the treacherous seas and the equally perilous waters of court politics. He was dressed in dark, finely woven fabrics, his presence commanding even in the dim light.

"Daemon," Corlys greeted, his voice low but firm.

"Corlys," Daemon replied with a nod, motioning for him to sit. "Thank you for coming."Corlys settled into a chair near the fire, his sharp eyes taking in the room's details, lingering briefly on the sleeping child. "It seems we have much to discuss," he said, his tone measured.Daemon poured two cups of wine and handed one to Corlys before taking a seat across from him. The flickering firelight danced over their faces, casting long shadows that seemed to echo the weight of their conversation.

"We do," Daemon agreed, his gaze steady. "Lyanna's legitimacy is just the beginning. If she is to be recognized as a trueborn Targaryen, we must act quickly and decisively. That means securing not just the approval of my brother, King Viserys, but also the loyalty of the most powerful houses in Westeros."

Corlys sipped his wine, considering Daemon's words. "The Velaryons have always stood by the Targaryens," he said. "But you know as well as I do that loyalty in this court is bought and sold like a commodity. We will need more than just words to ensure Lyanna's place."Daemon nodded. "Which is why I propose an alliance between our houses, one that goes beyond simple support. I need you, Corlys—not just as a friend, but as a partner in this endeavor. Together, we can solidify Lyanna's claim and ensure that the Targaryen line remains strong."

Corlys's gaze narrowed slightly, his mind already racing through the possibilities. "And what would this alliance entail?"

"Marriages," Daemon said bluntly. "Our families have been bound by blood before, and it's time we renew those ties. Your grandchildren, the children of Laena and Laenor, are of Velaryon and Targaryen blood. A union between them and Lyanna—or any future children I may have—would create an unassailable claim to the throne."The Sea Snake leaned back in his chair, stroking his white beard as he contemplated the proposal. "It's a bold plan," he said after a moment. "One that would certainly bind our houses together and strengthen our position. But there are risks, Daemon. You know the court as well as I do. There are those who would see any claim, no matter how strong, challenged—especially if it comes from you."

Daemon smirked, unbothered by the implication. "Let them challenge. With your fleet and my dragons, we can quell any dissent before it takes root. Besides, Viserys is a peaceful man—he will not want bloodshed, especially if it threatens the stability of his reign. He'll support us if it means avoiding conflict."

Corlys's eyes flickered with interest. "And what of Rhaenyra?" he asked, referring to the king's daughter, who many saw as the rightful heir to the Iron Throne. "She is your niece, and Viserys has named her his successor. How do you plan to navigate that?"Daemon's expression darkened slightly. "Rhaenyra is family, and I do not wish to see her harmed. But the succession is uncertain. Aegon, Viserys's son, already complicates matters. We must be prepared for any eventuality. If Rhaenyra proves to be an obstacle... I will deal with her when the time comes."Corlys watched Daemon carefully, weighing his words. "You're playing a dangerous game, Daemon. But then, you've never been one to shy away from danger.""It's the only game worth playing," Daemon replied with a wry smile. "And if we succeed, Lyanna will not only be recognized as a trueborn Targaryen but also stand as a potential heir to the throne."

The Sea Snake was silent for a long moment, the crackling fire the only sound between them. Finally, he nodded, his decision made. "Very well, Daemon. You have my support, and the support of House Velaryon. We will move forward with this alliance, but know that I expect you to honor your word. If Lyanna is to be my bloodkin, she must be protected at all costs."

Daemon raised his cup in a toast. "To our alliance, then—and to the future of our houses."Corlys clinked his cup against Daemon's, sealing their pact. "To our future."With the alliance secured, the two men turned their attention to the practical matters of their plan. They discussed potential matches for Lyanna and the Velaryon children, the timing of the marriage pacts, and how best to present their united front to the king and the court. Corlys, ever the strategist, also proposed a series of moves to strengthen their position: securing key allies among the noble houses, spreading favorable rumors about Lyanna's heritage, and subtly undermining those who might oppose them.

As the night wore on, Daemon and Corlys solidified their plans, each man keenly aware of the risks but equally determined to see their vision realized. They knew that the road ahead would be fraught with challenges, but together, they believed they could overcome them.

Finally, as the first light of dawn began to creep through the window, Corlys rose to leave. "I'll return to Driftmark to begin preparations," he said. "We'll need to move quickly if we're to stay ahead of the game."

Daemon stood as well, nodding in agreement. "I'll handle matters here in King's Landing. We'll meet again soon to finalize the next steps."

Corlys offered a rare smile, a glint of anticipation in his eyes. "I look forward to it, Daemon. The realm will soon see the strength of our combined houses."With that, the Sea Snake departed, leaving Daemon alone in the chamber. Daemon watched him go, a sense of satisfaction settling over him. The first pieces of his plan were in place, and with Corlys Velaryon as his ally, he felt more confident than ever that he could secure Lyanna's future.He moved to the cradle where Lyanna slept peacefully, unaware of the storm brewing around her. Daemon reached down, gently brushing a finger across her cheek. "You will have everything, my little dragon," he whispered. "The throne, the power, the legacy. No one will take it from you."

As the sun rose over King's Landing, Daemon Targaryen stood resolute. He had made his move, and now the game was in motion. The court would soon learn that the Rogue Prince was not a man to be underestimated—and neither was his daughter.