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── ୨୧ ──
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Laena Velaryon was dead. Consumed by the very fire of her own dragon.
King Viserys prepared to take the family to Driftmark for her funeral. It was the first time Rhaenyra and her husband would attend, which meant Saera would see her nephew Jacaerys again something she hadn't expected to feel so nervous about.
Saera stood beside Helaena, both girls silent as they watched the statue of Lady Laena Velaryon being readied.
Thick ropes were wound carefully around the base, preparing to lower the heavy sculpture into the cold water beneath the docks. Nearby, Vaemond Velaryon spoke in high Valyrian, his voice steady but heavy with grief.
Princess Rhaenys and Lord Corlys stood close by, their faces drawn and pale shadows of sorrow etched deep as they mourned the loss of their only daughter.
Their grandchildren clustered near, wide-eyed and confused by the solemnity of the day.
Daemon kept his distance, leaning against a pillar with a faint, bitter smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth.
He didn't take the funeral seriously. Even when Vaemond spoke, Daemon laughed quietly, as if mocking the sorrow that bound them all.
Saera's gaze flickered to Jacaerys, who caught her eye. She gave him a small, bittersweet smile, which he returned with a quiet nod. Aemond's eyes never left Saera as she smiled at their nephew watchful and guarded.
"To the sea we shall return," the words were spoken softly but carried with weight.
Saera watched as the statue slipped slowly from the dock, plunging beneath the water's surface with a muted splash, the sea swallowing the carved likeness of Lady Laena Velaryon forever.
The sun still hung high, casting long afternoon shadows over the gathering as nobles drank to honor Princess Rhaenys and Lord Corlys, their faces heavy with respect and mourning.
