Sister's Keeper
Edited by DesertMortician
Disclaimer: I do not own Game of Thrones
A/N: I'm sorry about the battle scene. As you all know, battle scenes are the hardest for me. And I wanted this Siege to be entirely different from the Show. Also, this chapter is in Third Person. So much is happening that I didn't want to jump around. Thank you all for your patience.
Chapter 103: Day of Siege
The Camp
Jorah woke up early before the sun had even risen. Yesterday he had been preparing for battle, talking with all the generals and other members. Especially with the Dornish, who take the majority of the army since the Reach, Unsullied, Knights of the Vale, Stormlanders, and Dothraki fought in the Long Night. Along with keeping on guard with either Lannister assassins, Ironborn, or the Golden Company. Fortunately, they did not strike, yet he was still on edge.
Knowing in a few hours there will be battle, he got out of the cot to prepare. He gave a stretch before getting dressed and put on his gambeson when an Unsullied barged in. Jorah turned around, facing him.
"What is it?" Jorah asked.
"Arya Stark is here, with company," the Unsullied soldier answer.
Jorah was surprised wondering why one of the heroes of Winterfell was here. The girl who was a distraction to allow Jon to kill the Night King. Grabbing Dark Sister, Jorah followed the Unsullied to where Arya Stark and Sandor Clegane were there, surrounded by Dornish soldiers. He made it clear to not let anyone cross the barricade.
"What are you doing here?" Jorah asked casually, hearing how the warrior lady does not like formality.
"I'm going to kill Queen Cersei," Arya answered casually.
Jorah was surprised by this.
The Hound stepped forward, "Think about it. She kills Cersei, the war's over. There won't be a siege. You might not even die tomorrow."
Some of the men chuckled in disbelief, yet Jorah kept a sharp look, "There is a slight problem."
"And what is that?" Arya asked.
Jorah gestured them to follow to his tent. The two followed as the Dornish kept hold of their horses. Once inside the tent, and knowing it was secured, Jorah faced them.
"Cersei Lannister is pregnant, and Queen Alysanne has suspended her execution until after the child is born," he explained.
"You got to be fucking kidding," Sandor grumbled.
"I wish I was," Jorah said as he looked at Arya.
Arya held a neutral expression, one almost impossible to read. Yet seeing her hand tighten on the pommel of the sword indicated she was not happy. Jorah hopes Arya is one to spare a babe long enough to be born. Then he thought of the small group that will be invading inside the Red Keep through the tunnels. He heard rumors about Arya's late upbringing. How the servants have been calling her a Shadow Cat. During the Battle of Winterfell, he saw a glimpse of how she can fight. Along with how she passed the White Walkers before they could stop her.
"I may not be your King, but I can compromise," he said.
Arya's dark eyes stared at him to explain.
"I have a small group that will be invading the Red Keep through the tunnels. The mission is to capture the Queen and remove her from power on the third day. Allowing the people to decide to surrender. She will be heavily guarded by the Queensguard. If you help in the Siege, then when the child is born, she is yours to kill," he offered.
"Won't your dragon wife disapprove?" Sandor asked sarcastically.
"She will understand," Jorah said. "Especially what Cersei has done more towards the Starks than the Targaryens."
Sandor mentioned during the Expedition how Arya witnessed her Father's execution. Along with the Lannisters sending men to hunt down Baratheon bastards, more of Arya's friends were killed. Other than Cersei giving the order to kill Daenerys and failing to comply with the armistice…may concede to allow one of the Heroes of Winterfell to get their justice. Since the majority of Alysanne's true enemies died before arriving in Westeros. Right now, securing the Red Keep is essential.
Arya kept a sharp stare at Jorah, "Once the child is born… she's mine."
"Unless you prefer being part of a royal execution," Jorah confirmed.
Arya thought about it before pulling out a hand. Jorah took her hand and shook it, with Sandor as a witness.
"No doubt my brother will be there," Sandor said. "I'll be going as well."
Jorah nodded as he led the two to the team who will be sneaking into the Red Keep. Among them was Tyene Sand. She glanced at the three, mainly at Arya, seeing the young female warrior.
"They will be accompanying you," Jorah said.
"Arya Stark and the Hound," Tyene replied. "Must be my lucky day."
Arya merely nodded.
"You better get going while it is still dark," Ser Davos said, as he finished with getting the smugglers their supplies.
Tyene nodded as they pushed the boats into the Blackwater with the team. Tyene was in charge, yet Jorah knew Sandor would mainly be focused on revenge against the man who gave him the scar. Ser Davos stood next to him.
"Jon won't be happy about this," Ser Davos said.
"You think she cares," Jorah replied.
"Doubt it," Ser Davos snorted.
They nodded, watching the group row away in the dark.
"I'm surprised you're not going," Jorah said. "Not fighting for three days, at least."
Ser Davos looked at him, "After seeing the Mountain at the Dragon pit, I have a better chance of surviving on the field."
Jorah gave a snort but nodded.
"Dawn is fast approaching," Ser Davos noted.
Jorah nodded again. He thought about all the battles he has participated in with the Golden Company to fund Lynesse's lifestyle. How he was fighting the Braavosi on the Rhyone, while Lynesse was fornicating with Tregar Ormollen. A small army of Braavosi who was in debt to the Ironbank and the Golden Company was hired to handle the group. Then again, the betrayal of his ex-wife brought him to Alysanne. Although those two years taught him about the organization.
What is the chance of encountering the men he fought alongside with?
He sighed.
"We better get ready," Ser Davos said.
Jorah nodded, heading back to his tent to get his armor ready.
.o0o.
The morning of the battle.
The sun has risen, and by midday, the five armies have surrounded King's Landing, as the four naval fleets formed a blockade in Blackwater bay, surrounding the Iron Fleet at a distance. All the ballistas and Scorpions were aimed at the ready.
Cersei stood at the tower, watching all of her surroundings. Her hand resting on her very swollen belly. She was ready to give birth any week now. The near nine months with many emotions since Alysanne Targaryen arrived for almost a year. Now her enemies have united together. The kingdoms she has either offended or intently harmed seeking justice because she lusted for power. Her four children were gone, the poor babe of Robert's dying in infancy and her golden hair children sired by Jaime murdered by her lies and deceit. Now she must do everything in her power to protect her unborn child and provide them a legacy.
All her trust is in the hands of Euron, Captain Strickland, and the Lannister General, Ser Lucion Lannister. The son of Damion Lannister, who is the de facto of Casterly Rock until either of Tywin's children come back to claim their inheritance. Cersei knows her cousin Lucion has been trained well by her Father and knows the art of war. Now is his time to prove it.
Another plan is the hidden vaults of wildfire that Qyburn found from the Mad King's reign. The Unchained Maester stood in the room with the mutated mountain and the remaining members of the Queensguard: Ser Boros Blount, Ser Preston Greenfield, Ser Balon Swann, and Ser Osmund Kettleblack. There was one member of Ser Arys Oakheart, yet he passed away while trying to protect Myrcella. Five of the greatest knights are here protecting her, as well as her family's army, the Golden Company, and the Iron Fleet.
Yet Cersei knows the dragons will be a problem. But Qyburn assures her that the Scorpions can handle it. Especially when Euron took down the black dragon, and it has not been seen. There have been sightings of the green dragon and gold dragon at Dragonstone, but not the black one. The aggressive one.
Cersei took a deep breath, knowing she had woken the dragon in Alysanne Targaryen. She will prove to the people that a Targaryen will always be mad. Fear clouding the people's judgment as they draw closer to the Red Keep. Her plan was set. All she could do was wait.
.o0o.
The Gate of the Gods
The Golden Company took formation at the Gate of the Gods. No longer did it hold the faces of the Seven, instead replaced with Lannister Banners and a shield of the Lion crest. Along the Wall were Lannister archers with bows and crossbows at the ready, and highly trained archers at the pillars that contain the Scorpions.
Twenty thousand men in formation while two thousand on horses with the elite and high ranking. Captain Strickland at the front riding a white stallion. As he looked across the field, staring at his opponent. There across the field were the Unsullied and Dothraki. Adding to insult were the three war elephants. Based on their smaller ears, these elephants were Middle Essos and a great journey to bring over. Captain Strickland received the spiteful glare from Queen Cersei when she saw the elephants, when he told her elephants were not suited for long sea voyages. And now three war elephants at the ready, armored in Ghiscari fashion.
Along a massive boulder was Jorah with Ser Davos, Grey Worm, Kovarro, and Tyrion. They stared across at the massive army. The Dornish handle the King's Gate and Lion's Gate on the Tourney grounds, while the Reach takes the Dragon Gate and Old gate in the North part of the city. While the Stormlanders handle the Iron Gate. They left the River gate unintended since they provide those who wish to escape from the war, though left spies at the ready from the Knights of the Vale.
It was a blockade, a siege that is preventing anyone from escaping. Nothing can go in or out, other than the weather. Yet out of all the Gates in King's Landing, The Gate of the Gods was heavily guarded by the Golden Company.
"If you hear the bells ring, they've surrendered," Tyrion said. "Call off your men."
They looked at him since Varys informed the bells have never ring for surrender. Along with Varys telling the people, if they do surrender, they must drop the Lannister banners, replace them with white banners at every gate and open the doors.
"Only a banner of white," Jorah reminded.
"Will the Golden Company surrender?" Tyrion asked.
"Never have I seen a Captain surrender," Jorah said. "They are more stubborn than the Second Sons."
"Then, what is that?" Ser Davos pointed out.
They look ahead, seeing a group of riders making their way over. They were holding a grey flag attached to a pike with gilded skulls.
"Negotiation of terms," Jorah said.
Not saying another word, he left the boulder where his horse was waiting. Grey Worm, Ser Davos, and Kovarro joined him as they made their way to the halfway mark. Grey Worm held the banner to House Targaryen. The two sides met in the middle, as Jorah stared at Strickland for the first time in maybe over a decade. Along with Blackfyre strapped to the Captain's side, a handle-and-a-half longsword had two rubies at the pommel and rain guard, while the crossguard was of two dragon heads, while the grip wrapped in black leather made out of dragon skin.
Captain Strickland stared at the sword attached to Jorah's waist, being none other than Dark Sister, noting the flame pommel and crossguard.
"Ser Jorah Mormont," Strickland greeted.
"Captain Harry Strickland," Jorah replied.
"I believe you are mistaken," Ser Davos inserted himself. "You are addressing King Consort Jorah Mormont. You will address him as King."
Captain Strickland stared at Ser Davos for a moment, then turned his attention to Jorah. Seeing the man not wearing a royal version of armor. Better crafted armor, yes, as small details of an excellent smith. Yet he saw no crown or ring on Jorah's finger to indicate such a title. Other than Dark Sister strapped to his waist.
"Queen Cersei, bids you welcome," Captain Strickland said. "Is there any in this route with authority to treat me?"
The men were surprised by the formality except for Jorah, knowing it was a ruse the Golden Company does.
"We do not come to treat with Cersei," Jorah said. "Tell your mistress this. The armies of the Golden Company, the Westerlands, and the Iron Fleet must disband. She is to surrender and face the crimes she has committed."
"You know our word is good as gold," Captain Strickland said. "Here are the Queen's terms, lead this army off the field and she will pardon the Houses involved, and leave the estates of Dragonstone, or return back to Essos with no fear of assassination."
"And what about the North?" Jorah asked.
"The North shall pay retribution for its treason," Captain Strickland answered then sighed. "Ser Jorah, I ask you, as an once comrade, to surrender. Take your armies and return them home. Take your wife, prosper in Essos, or back to Meereen to a kingdom that welcomes her."
"You know I cannot, not until I reclaim my wife's throne," Jorah said. "I'm offering you this, to you and your men, surrender, and you all shall be pardoned and given estates to be part of the Realm. Let Bittersteel's promise be completed."
Captain Strickland glanced at the Targaryen banner and back to Jorah, "Not while the Targaryens remains of Daeron the second Bloodline."
"Must you hold the vengeance of our grandsires?" Ser Davos asked.
"Beneath the gold, the bitter steel," Captain Strickland quoted the motto.
Jorah bit back his tongue. There was no point in the negotiation. Whatever Cersei promised them secured their promise of returning home and ending the Targaryen legacy. Even though Alysanne had no part in her ancestor's actions, Aegor Rivers promised to honor Daemon Blackfyre.
"Return home or accept death," Captain Strickland offered. "This is my final warning."
With nothing else to say, Captain Strickland and his company returned to their army. Jorah sighed, knowing there was no point in negotiating.
"What now?" Ser Davos asked.
"We wait for the signal," Jorah answered.
Grey Worm nodded as he stared up to the sky seeing for any sign. The men returned to the army to prepare for battle.
.o0o.
Blackwater Bay
Euron stood on the Silence, waiting for battle. The Dornish and Valyrian Islands' blockade does not bother him, knowing the Iron Fleet can easily destroy them. His main concern was from the sky, as had his fleet aimed towards the sky. His gut told him the Dragon Queen will have a vendetta against him since he was the one who shot the black dragon and captured the Dragon Princess.
Although he does have one regret is not taking the spoils from the Khaleesi. Yet a kiss is good enough. A stolen kiss might he add. Still, he has his Queen bearing his child. All right, he knows his seed did not take root in her womb, but Euron will raise that boy as an Ironlion. Ruthless, like his parents.
Especially a lovely night with Cersei in bed. He must admit sex with a pregnant woman is something he plans on doing with their next child.
Gazing up to the sky, Euron noticed the clouds were forming. Another winter storm making its way. Euron will admit he is not one for snow. He would rather have hurricane over snow any day. He walked along the forecastle to the main deck but stopped. For a second, he thought he heard thunder or something similar to a dragon's wing flapping. He turned around, staring at the sky, where the sun broke through. Euron lifted his hand to cover his eyes while watching the broken piece of the sky. Something was moving, yet the sun was covering it. As if it had the same shade as the sun.
Suddenly, something collided along the ship. Euron stumbled as did those at the Scorpion, as they reached to the side to see what it was. His first thought is it was a whale from his experience. On occasions, whales would stupidly collide with ships. However, he thought he saw what appeared to be a spiked tail for a second, except the Blackwater made it difficult to see.
He watched as another ship got pushed, almost colliding into another ship. Soon more ships were being moved by an unseen force. He spotted some ripples in the water and ordered the men at the Scorpion to aim at the ripples. They maneuver the massive weapon to aim at the water. But there was a problem. The crossbow doesn't aim down with ease, especially with the ripples moving fast, similar to a shark without a dorsal fin.
"Come on, fucker," Euron muttered.
That was when a shriek, no make that shrieks could be heard. Euron glanced up to see the green and golden dragon swooping down. The two dragons open their mouths, breathing fire on the Iron Fleet, going from the outside, swirling around, destroying the outside towards inward. The Captain of the Silence cursed, trying to pass on orders to fire the Scorpions. However, he noticed these two dragons were fast. He assumed because these dragons were smaller, making them faster compared to the black dragon. But if two dragons are in the air, then what is in the water? If not them wearing armor.
The surface of the water broke as an eruption came out, the black dragon. The black dragon gave a roar of breath before joining the other two dragons in burning the fleet, before diving back in the water.
Alysanne and Jon had Viserion, and Rhaegal moves fast with a spell. They had Drogon being the distraction, diving into the bay behind the cliffs with an assistant of the cloud and ships before taking to the sky. The Dragon Queen headed towards the city walls, chanting the sacred words of Dracarys' destroying the Scorpions and burning Lannister archers along the battlement. As she went along the battlements of Aegon's Hill and the Red Keep, ensuring they did not interfere with the invasion on the Ironborn.
Meanwhile, Jon was flying through the Iron Fleet using the dragon sight spell. He saw through Rhaegal's eyes, having a better view of the ships and bolts passing their way. He made sure Rhaegal was continually moving and making sharp turns, never going straight. Along with how he was using dragon fire to destroy the ships, having focused on the Scorpions and severe damages to cause the ships to sink and giving the enemy a chance to jump overboard. Unlike Drogon, who is in a mind of destruction.
Already Jon could feel what he could compare to that of a sore throat in the back of the mouth. Feeling the strain, Rhaegal has in controlling the flames to be smaller and tighter. In the end, Jon was not into extreme bloodshed. Despite his paternal motto of 'Fire and Blood.' However, he knows the Ironborn…the ones who serve Euron has no place in this world without violence. He glanced around, seeing Alysanne and Viserion finishing the battlement before turning back toward the bay aiding him.
Alysanne stared through Viserion's eyes, her eyes an amber/topaz, as she looked for her main target. There is one individual she seeks. She was burning ships in her wake, looking for Captain Euron Greyjoy. The man who captured her sister and handed her over to the Lioness.
Lord Paxter, Captain Aurane, and Ser Terrence watched from the blockade from different parts of their ships. Watching the dragons breathe fire from the sky, burning the Iron Fleet like wildfire. Lord Paxter had his experience with the Ironborn, with their attempts to raid the Arbor for wine, riches, and women. His years protecting the Arbor and the coastal region of the Reach. All of those hard efforts are now coming to an end.
"Ships are coming for us!" a sailor in the crow's nest shouted.
"Deserters," Lord Paxter murmured before shouting. "Ready the ballista, load the catapults."
"Aye, Captain!" the crew shouted.
"Light the signal!" Lord Paxter ordered.
As the man in the crow's nest lit a torch, the crew did so, adding a powder that gave a different color. A wave of torches from the many ships did the same. Captain Aurane and Ser Terrence saw from their ships, giving the orders as well. Their mission is to prevent any of the Ironborn from escaping. As catapults and ballistas fired at the ships that dared come close. The Dornish soon followed, waiting for the ships coming from the southeast.
Euron eyes widen all around, seeing nothing but fire along the water. Bolts soaring through the air, yet all were unable to strike any of the dragons. Furious, he pulled the Ironborn off the Scorpion's chair and got in, ordering his men to aim. He stared along the sight spotting the golden dragon. Estimating where the dragon will turn, he fired.
The bolt soared through the air and striking Viserion in the thigh. However, there was a loud clang as the bolt bounced off. Alysanne gasped, feeling the pain in her left thigh as if someone took a club and struck her. She canceled the eye spell, glancing over her shoulder to see a massive dent in Viserion's crupper. She growled, turning towards the direction where the bolt came from.
"Skulblakas ven," she growled, reconnecting to Viserion's sight.
Viserion turned to the direction where the bolt came from as they spotted the massive ship seeing Euron was on it. Not hesitating, the two swooped downward towards the Silence. Euron's face dropped, ordering his men to reload the Scorpion. The three rushed in, trying to reload as fast as possible. Except, they dropped it.
"Hurry, you fucking mutes!" Euron demanded.
A roar caught his attention as Viserion hovered over the Silence. Euron stared at Viserion before glancing up to see the Black Knight, Alysanne, undoubtedly glaring at him. Through the chaos, he managed to hear her scream:
"Dracarys!"
Euron's eyes went towards the golden dragon's mouth.
"Fuck," were Euron's last words as the fire consumed him and his men.
Alysanne watched, seeing Euron Greyjoy perish within the flame, claiming one out of the three people involved in Daenerys's death. She had Viserion moved up to the air, away from the bay. Jon noticed this and followed, leaving Drogon to continue in his burning blaze. They were up far in the sky away from the bolts.
"We need to get rid of the Scorpions off the battlement!" Alysanne yelled.
Jon nodded, "You take the west side, I'll go to the east!"
"All right!" she confirmed.
As the two swooped down towards the city.
.o0o.
Gate of the Gods.
Moments Earlier…
Ser Davos joined Tyrion on the boulder watching the two armies at the wait. In front of the army was Jorah on his horse, waiting for the signal. Any moment now, the dragons will arrive. He knows what the signal will be and the reason why he keeps turning Tyrion about the bells down. And just thinking about it, they heard the bells ringing. Not only one bell but many.
"The bells are ringing," Tyrion sighed.
"I've never known bells means surrender," Ser Davos said.
Glancing over the city skyline, Ser Davos can make out the smoke coming from the bay along with the dragons. The dragons have arrived and are burning down the Iron Fleet. Therefore, the bells were notifying the people that the Siege had begun.
Jorah took a deep breath. He glanced at Kovarro, who was next to him.
"Ready Kovarro?" Jorah asked.
"Yes, Jorah the Andal," Kovarro answered.
Jorah nodded, adjusting his helmet, and drew his sword.
The Dothraki have a massive battle cry, raising their arakh into the air. Without another word, he raised Dark Sister and led the charge into battle. The Dothraki will be the first wave before the Unsullied march in. Forty thousand Dothraki Screamers against twenty thousand Elite Sellswords.
Captain Strickland's eyes widened, ordering the Lannister archers to fire along with the ballistas. The archers ready aimed and fired towards the wave of savages. Seeing the arrows soaring across the sky and blindly striking earth, horses, or a Screamer. The massive bolts being launched, penetrating both rider and horse. However, the bolts take longer to reload, while the archers were given the order to continue firing their arrows.
Jorah continues to lead the Siege, eyes forward, ready to strike the cavalry that was the Golden Company's front line. For a second, he thought he saw Thoros of Myr running ahead of him with his flaming sword, yet when he blinked, the apparition was gone. No longer did Jorah feel afraid, for he fought the Dead and knew his enemy. The numbers were on his side, as pride and money oaths will be the Golden Companies downfall.
The Dothraki were getting closer; despite being shot down by arrows and bolts, they did not falter. Closer they come, with the Unsullied marching right behind them. Captain Strickland's eyes widened, for his men never dealt with savages.
"Calvary, charge!" Captain Strickland ordered. "Soldiers spears ready!"
By blind obedience, the Calvary of two thousand horses went for the attack. Meanwhile, the men on the ground placed their spears on the defense. The phalanges got their spear set, prepared for the wave of horses. Captain Strickland and his leading officers stood in the back of the phalanx, watching a small slither of a wave rush towards a tsunami. However, seeing Jorah leading the Dothraki, Strickland hopes one of his men can knock the Knight down and be trampled by the savages. As he recalls, the Dothraki stop when their Khal is defeated.
Jorah saw the calvary, he secured his grip on Dark Sister and the reins of his horse. The screams of the Dothraki right behind him. All ready for the collision. His heart pounding in his chest, watching the calvary coming closer. His thoughts thinking about Alysanne. The woman who has changed him for the better. Not like Lynesse, who wasted everything for luxury. No, Alysanne was not about luxury. She was a true honor, a warrior, a companion, and a home. A shieldmaiden with dragons' blood. Someone who forgives when most would disown. She is someone worth fighting for, killing for, and dying for no matter the consequence. Although things have changed, he will kill every person who dares harm her.
The seconds shorten as the two calvary's meet. Knowing he was a fighting man, and not the unknown or death, he was ready. His training on Bear Island, Robert's Rebellion, and the battle of the Tridents. The Greyjoy Rebellion during the Siege on Pyke. His years in tournaments, before becoming a Sellsword in many battles for the Golden Company. Until joining the Dragon Sisters. Fighting off Qotho, the Warlocks of Qarth…until the sacking of Astapor, the Siege of Yunkai and guidance in Meereen. Jorah lost his way, desperate from the truth of his betrayal that leads him to exile once more. Until finding Tyrion and bringing the dwarf to Meereen, only to be plagued by Greyscale from the Stonemen, and enslaved in the fighting pits, in order to protect Alysanne. His year in finding a cure and volunteering on the Expedition Beyond the Wall, where he faced Death with thousands of faces.
He saw things that cannot be explained. Legends and folklore combining back to life. The forbidden arts of Blood Magic, the worlds of Shadowbinding from Quaithe, and the Night King. As he led the Dothraki before into the Unknown of Darkness when the defenses were down. And here he was, leading the Dothraki again, only this time, they were fighting against the living.
With a deep breath and locking his form, he embraced the impact of his past to fight for Alysanne's future. And the possible future of his children.
A brown armored horse came his way, as a sellsword in gilded steel armor aimed his spear like a lance. Jorah adjusted to the side, squeezing his thighs tight to the saddle, as they collided. The spear passing next to him, missing by a foot. Both horses collided by a wave of power, nearly knocking their riders down. Yet Jorah's experience in tournaments taught him how to stay on as he raised Dark Sister, forcing it down to cut straight through the staff of the spear. The Sellsword eyes widen before Jorah turns the Longsword and slashes across the man. The Valyrian Steel slicing through the armor.
The first row of the Dothraki and the second row easily trained calvary in haste. As those fallen were trampled over. As the rear guard of the Screamers split off from the formation and began to pinch their way around the Golden Company.
Tyrion stood there, observing the slaughter of a battle. It brought back memories of the Battle of the Goldroad. A wave of Dothraki riders charging in with ease, without dragon support. A mere slaughter than he originally intended. Although, Tyrion knew it had to be done. They were removing a threat before the actual blockade could happen. Trapping the people inside King's Landing and waiting. The Halfman has been in battle before, fighting alongside the Hill tribesmen if you call it fighting at the Green Fork, followed by the Vanguard in the Battle of the Blackwater, and lastly, the Daznak Pit. Violence leads to nowhere, then again, neither do words when both parties won't listen.
Captain Strickland watched his Calvary of two thousand men be trampled. Watching men, he would call savages, stampede their way towards them. Watching some jumping on the saddles with bows at the readying firing arrows.
"Spears and shields!" Captain Strickland ordered.
The Golden Company had their shields at the ready, creating a wall of skulls and spears. They forced all their weight into their feet, preparing for impact. They fought battles similar to this, except the numbers were not with them. They were more of the offensive, and here they were under Strickland's orders to be the defensive.
The collision was massive, the Dothraki horde forcing their way through the Vanguard. Hooves stomping on shields. Spearheads penetrated through horses, causing them to die and their rider falling in the collision. Sacrifices the Screamers making in taking down their enemy and those protecting it. The Dothraki will trample the Golden Company to get revenge on Cersei Lannister, who murdered their Great Khaleesi.
Follow by the pinching to the sides. The Golden Company was being trampled. Despite the arrows and bolts falling upon them, nothing can stop the Screamers. The Golden Company was being pushed back, being pressed into the gate. Captain Strickland ordered the spears out, surrounding them creating a defense along with the door. The Dothraki stopped, retreating far away from the battlement.
The Lannisters archers continued to fire arrows, trying to get the best in what they could get. Still, the Dothraki continued to fight through the raining arrows, so why are they pulling back Lannisters archers now? Strickland was confused until he heard shrieking and a roaring sound.
Jorah had spotted the dragons making ways, like one on each side destroying the Scorpions and the top of the battlement of archers. He had ordered a retreat, as Korvarro and many of the Dothraki saw, pulling away knowing the dangers of dragon fire. At a safe distance, they saw two armored dragons reaching towards the middle of never-ending dragon fire. And when the dragons need breath, they swoop into the air, high into the clouds, then dive down to burn away the archers and Scorpions.
Jorah was relieved to see Alysanne was safe, for he had worried about her fighting the Iron Fleet. Yet, here she was, dealing with the archers with Jon's assistance. Alysanne did not notice him, as her eyes focused on the Scorpions, burning them down. She was careful, ensuring the fire does not go too far into the city or destroying the battlement walls. Focusing on the top. Seeing archers fleeing down the stairs or nearly jumping off to avoid the flames. In the end, she did not care. Those who serve made their choice to fight.
The Golden Company crouched, using their shields to cover their heads. Strickland could feel the heat as his armor grew hot, yet the flames did not touch. Debris was falling everywhere, as many started running away, fleeing from the dragons, as Rhaegal and Viserion finished off the remaining of the Scorpions. The two dragons met at the gate, taking air, then flew towards the other side of the field behind the Unsullied as they roared and breathed fire into the sky, showing dominance.
Captain Strickland didn't know what to do. He wanted to be inside the city walls and tell the Queen to surrender. The Golden Company fought against and for the Free Cities and other nations when paid by gold. And here he was, trapped, pinned to the wall by his men surrounded by Dothraki savages. A barbaric tribe that seeks revenge on the culprit who murdered their leader. Let alone dragons. Especially dragons. As he stared at the green and gold glaring at them to surrender.
Not once has the Golden Company surrendered or broken a contract.
The golden dragon jumped and soared across till landing on the battlement near the gate. There were no archers on the ground as the beast gave a deafening screech. As Captain Strickland covered his ears. Once the Golden Dragon was done, it glared at the company.
Jorah watched Alysanne doing this intimidation tactic. Trying to get the Golden Company to submit. A chance to surrender, and these men can be pardoned. As many were trampled and slaughtered, half pinned to the wall while others lay dying or injured on the battlefield—so much strength from the Dothraki to hold back. Yet Alysanne needs to show mercy.
That was when Jorah saw a grey flag being waved. It was not of surrender. However, the grey flag means two things, negotiation, or a duel. No doubt, Strickland wouldn't talk to Alysanne while on Viserion. Therefore, he told an Unsullied to rush to Jon, to tell Alysanne to return. The Unsullied nodded, running over to Rhaegal, delivering the message. Jon nodded as he took Rhaegal over, landing on the other side of the gate.
"Jorah wants you to fall back; they want to negotiate again," Jon said.
Alysanne nodded as Viserion gave one more roar before flying back to the Dothraki and waited. Jorah made his way over, staring at his wife, seeing her clad in black armor. She appeared fine, yet Viserion's lower armor had a massive dent in it, yet did not break through. Nor were there any signs of blood.
"What's going on?" Alysanne asked. "Why have they not surrendered?"
"They want to negotiate or declare a duel," Jorah answered.
"A duel at this very moment?" she asked, surprised.
Jorah nodded, "Between the two leaders."
Alysanne nodded, contemplating about this. She removed the harness and climbed off of Viserion. The moment she set foot on solid ground; Jorah observed her. Noticing her posture was off, putting weight on her right leg instead of her left. Starting where Viserion was shot and the massive dent, he assumed Alysanne did a Dragon Spell and is injured while Viserion is fine. There were times he hated magic, especially the deep magic in Valyrian Dragon Riders. Commands are one thing, but taking the dragon's pain is another.
"I'll do the duel," Jorah announced.
"But you are not the leader of this war," Alysanne argued.
Jorah looked around, noticing surrounding them were all Unsullied. He leaned forward, whispering into her ear, "I'm not the one with a secret." He pulled back, eyeing her belly, then back to her face. Her eyes widened slightly, which indicated he needed to confirm his theory that has been taunting the last few days. He knew how Alysanne lies. Read her body features, after many years. She can keep a secret well, yet when confronted about her secret…she can't hide it amongst loved ones.
"How?" she whispered.
He sighed, not going to answer right now, "I'll do the duel."
"It seems like that is all you ever do for me," she muttered.
Jorah would have made a remark when Grey Worm came forward. Both looked at the Commander, wondering what news he'll bring.
"They are here," Grey Worm announced.
They nodded, making their way to the front line as Unsullied came to guard their Queen. Three men from the Golden Company came forward. One being Captain Strickland. Unmounting their horses, they came over, yet kept their distance. Seeing the Dragon Queen in person, dressed in black armor with decorative ornate, but not elaborate as a tourney.
"Alysanne Targaryen," Captain Strickland greeted.
"You must be Captain Strickland," She replied.
Captain Strickland nodded, "You've proven yourself today. However, we are at a compromise."
"A compromise?" she said. "Last I check, my army has outnumbered yours. Although, if you surrender now, I assure you, you and your men will be spared and compensated as the Realm citizens. I do not seek any more bloodshed."
"Neither do I," Captain Strickland agreed. "That is why I request a duel between your champion and me. If you win, my men will stand down and take no further action. However, if I win, you and your army leave Westeros."
Alysanne stared at Jorah, who nodded before looking at Strickland, "Very Well. I accept."
Captain Strickland nodded as he walked away to keep a distance.
Jorah turned to Alysanne, placing a hand on her shoulder. Although he instead kissed her, yet her helmet, though exposing her face, was narrowed. No words needed to be expressed since he knew she loved him dearly. Yet, he will keep the promise of his duties. Let alone the child she was carrying. So, adjusting his helmet, he made his way over with Grey Worm and Kovarro to form the ring. With the remaining commanders, a square was made for the melee.
Jorah drew Dark Sister, "I offer you again to surrender."
"You know I cannot," Captain Strickland replied as he pulled out Blackfyre. "Our word is good as gold."
Both Valyrian swords at the play of siblings. Both worthy of cutting the wielder and opponent in half.
"Sometimes oaths are meant to be broken," Jorah said.
Captain Strickland shook his head and went for the attack. Jorah raised Dark Sister and blocked the attack before shoving him away and struck back.
Alysanne stood there, watching the duel at a safe distance. Tension rising inside that she felt useless. Jon made his way over and stood next to her watching the confrontation. Both watched as Jorah and Strickland fought hard. Their fighting styles were similar since both were trained as knights. Metal clashing metal, leather creaked, and feet stomped so hard that the earth sounded hollow. The men grunted as bodies thudded together, sparks from both Valyrian swords colliding as both were in a lock.
Alysanne examined both of their conditions. Jorah was on the muscular side, while Strickland was on the leaner side, yet muscularly defined. Both men were tall. Through the shifting of bodies, Strickland kicked Jorah away and slash forward. Jorah turned to the side, dodging the attack, and slammed his sword down. It brought anxiety as Alysanne thought back to the Daznak Pit, from the gladiator duel. However, this was more than honor and redemption. She knew Jorah was fighting for their future to reclaim what has been stolen from her.
The duel was getting brutal. Over and over the attack, until Strickland shoved Jorah hard, knocking him to the ground. Strickland charged in, yet Jorah turned around, blocking the assault. By spinning his leg around, he managed to knock Strickland down. Making a side attack, Jorah managed to hit his opponent's face. Both quickly got up. Strickland swung, yet Jorah put both their blades in a lock. Jorah took the risk by grabbing Blackfyre and yanked it out of the Captain's hand. Using the hilt to smack Strickland in the face. As the Valyrian blade cut through the gloves and skin. Meanwhile, Strickland stumbled back as the impact caused blood to burst from his nose.
Jorah secured Dark Sister and tossed it away from Strickland. The Captain stumbled back, holding his nose, seeing blood. But also lost a sword. Not breaking his company's motto, he drew a dagger and went for the attack. Having no choice, Jorah swung his sword hard straight into Strickland sternum. The Captain gasped, staring down where Dark Sister impaled him before looking up at Jorah.
Jorah gave a remorseful expression, knowing Strickland was following his beliefs. Born and raised for the Golden Company. Removing the sword from the man and helping him down on the ground before standing up. The duel was over, and the Golden Company had lost. The remaining commanders had no choice but to surrender. As the code of combat goes.
Not saying a word, Jorah grabbed the scabbard for Blackfyre off Strickland's corpse before making way towards the sword. He sheathed Dark Sister, then picked up Blackfyre and sheathed it as well. Holding the sword of kings, he walked over to Alysanne and presented her ancestral sword.
Alysanne's eyes widened, looking at her husband, amazed before accepting the sword and raising it into the air. The Dothraki cheered while Unsullied tapped their spears on the ground.
The war and Siege were not over.
However, they removed the Golden Company from battle and eradicated the Iron Fleet.
.o0o.
Cersei watched from the tower seeing the Iron Fleet burned or being captured from the enemy. Meanwhile, the battlements where the Scorpions were on fire or destroyed. Let alone, the dragons were flying around the city, yet they did not come inward.
Qyburn entered the chamber, "Your Grace."
"All we need is three good shots," Cersei murmured.
"The Scorpions have all been destroyed, Your Grace," Qyburn reported.
Cersei took a deep breath, "The Iron Fleet holds Blackwater Bay."
"Your Grace, the Iron Fleet is burning," Qyburn added. "The Silence is no more. The Golden Company –"
"Our men will fight harder than sellswords ever could," Cersei interrupted, glaring at him. "They will defend their Queen to the last man."
Qyburn nodded, "Yes, Your Grace."
"The Red Keep has never fallen. It won't fall today." She promised, glancing at the common folk in the courtyard.
Sorry for the long wait. I hope you enjoyed this chapter. This one took me two weeks to write because so much was happening. Remember, Alysanne is trying to prove to the people she is not about sacking an entire City. Along with reducing the casualties. trying to save the populations after so many wars. Yes, she destroyed the Iron Fleet, but she knew they were a danger to society and gave the Golden Company a chance to surrender.
Thanks for reading and please leave a review.