Corlys and Rhaenyra’s Alliance

This thread traces Corlys Velaryon’s support for Rhaenyra, their conflict over military decisions, and his survival through changing allegiances.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

An Alliance of Houses

Velaryon Power Joins the Heir Marriage and Fleet Corlys supports Rhaenyra’s marriage to Laenor, tying House Velaryon to the royal succession and making its fleet a major asset. Shared Ambition Corlys expects his descendants to stand near the throne. Rhaenyra gains naval strength while the Sea Snake gains influence over the future monarchy.

The Hand Supports the Queen

Corlys Joins the Black Council A Powerful Ally Corlys and Rhaenys support Rhaenyra, bringing ships, wealth, and political experience to her cause. A Strategy of Restraint Corlys urges a war of ravens, marriages, and targeted action rather than immediate destruction of King’s Landing.

Grief Turns to Anger

A Family Breaks Two Children Lost Corlys loses Laena and Laenor in rapid succession. The deaths deepen his grief and threaten the future of House Velaryon. An Uncertain Inheritance He accepts Addam and Alyn as grandsons, though their paternity is contested. Their rise offers a new line but adds further conflict.

Rhaenyra Imprisons Corlys

An Alliance Fractures Rhaenys Dies in Battle Corlys believes Rhaenyra should have answered Lord Staunton’s plea herself. He blames her for sending Rhaenys in her place. Addam Is Suspected When Rhaenyra orders Addam arrested, Corlys speaks in his defense. The queen imprisons her Hand and breaks the alliance she needs most.

A Pardon and a Final Peace

The Sea Snake Survives Stark’s Judgment Cregan Stark condemns Corlys for Aegon II’s poisoning. Baela and Rhaena plead for the old man, and the young king intervenes. A Final Settlement Corlys receives a pardon and returns to the council. He seeks to unite the royal branches before dying in 132 AC.

114–120 AC, through Rhaenyra’s marriage

129 AC, after Rhaenyra’s coronation

120 AC, after Laena and Laenor die

130 AC, after the fall of King’s Landing

131 AC, after Aegon II’s death