No one in ‘House of the Dragon’ suffered more than Corlys Velaryon. Across Westeros, he was known as the legendary Sea Snake, having established his reputation through bold voyages, great wealth, and unwavering determination.
However, by the end of Dance of the Dragons, the man who ruled the biggest fleet in the kingdom had given up almost everything for his family and the crown. His last years serve as a reminder that sometimes war’s consequences outlast the war itself.
Corlys Velaryon Lost Everything Despite Surviving The Civil War
Corlys came out on top at the bloody naval battle known as the Battle of the Gullet. The victory, however, had a high price. The Triarchy destroyed Spicetown and burned High Tide, destroying the treasures and legacy he had spent a lifetime collecting.
Related: 5 Controversial Changes ‘House of the Dragon’ Made From George R. R. Martin’s Books
The situation of Rhaenyra Targaryen’s rule became more precarious, and Corlys advised her to seek peace rather than revenge. His advice fell on deaf ears. The situation worsened after the betrayal of Hugh Hammer and Ulf White at the First Battle of Tumbleton, leading Rhaenyra to suspect Addam Velaryon of treason.
Corlys decided to put family before loyalty to the queen, facing an impossible situation. He secretly warned Addam, allowing him to escape before he could be arrested. It was Corlys’ all-or-nothing decision. He was put in a black cell, beaten, and imprisoned awaiting execution.
Ironically, imprisoning one of Rhaenyra’s most respected supporters only accelerated her downfall. The queen’s rule was already falling, and many of the soldiers loyal to the Sea Snake abandoned her, forcing her to flee King’s Landing.
Corlys’ One Final Service To The Realm
Aegon II recaptures the Iron Throne, and Corlys is released and pardoned. However, this was only after he secured mercy for surviving members of the Black faction and ensured the future of young Aegon III through a political marriage.
In case you missed it: ‘House Of The Dragon’ Season 3 Marks A Major Turning Point For Corlys Velaryon
Later, after Aegon II had rejected all attempts at peace, the king was suddenly poisoned by some members of his council. Lord Cregan Stark charged Corlys with being part of the conspiracy. However, he was not punished after Baela and Rhaena persuaded the young King Aegon III to spare him.
Corlys spent his final year serving as a regent for the new king before collapsing on the Serpentine Steps in 132 AC. He passed away at the age of 79 and was laid to rest at sea, east of Dragonstone. It was a fitting end for the greatest sailor Westeros ever knew.
