Alyssa was the daughter of the master of ships, Lord Aethon Velaryon, and the granddaughter of King Aegon I's master of ships, Lord Daemon Velaryon. She married her cousin, Prince Aenys Targaryen in 22 AC. She gave birth to six children during this marriage: Rhaena, Aegon, Viserys, Jaehaerys, Alysanne and Vaella Targaryen. Alyssa's escape caused the death of her eldest still living son, Viserys, who was tortured for nine days until he died. His body was was left in the courtyard of the Red Keep, as Maegor hoped Alyssa would come to claim his body. She didn't.