YEAR 132 AC
Stepstones ― Along the Narrow Sea…
Reports have surfaced that the Triarchy remnants have launched yet another attack on the Stepstones to reclaim the archipelago and its vital shipping lanes. However, thanks to the strategic advantage of having previously constructed watchtowers and fortifications and establishing a garrison of soldiers to hold the ground seventeen years ago, the Velaryon fleet patrolling the region responded relatively quickly. By the time they arrived, House Velaryon had already established a foothold around the Stepstones well ahead of the Triarchy remnants' approach near the islands of Scarwood and Highwatch, thanks to the unwavering support and provisions provided by their Valyrian counterparts in House Targaryen.
The battle at sea was inevitable, with the Velaryons mobilizing an impressive fleet of 80 longships from Driftmark and receiving another 40 from Dragonstone. Their prowess on the open waters was well-known, and they were poised to decimate their enemies. Even the legendary Sea Snake was determined to eliminate what remained of the Triarchy once and for all, and nothing would stand in his way. And with the Principality of Dorne opting to stay neutral, many people haughtily thought that the remaining forces were as good as done for.
"We have a favorable wind, my lord!" Alyn of Hull called out. Throughout recent years, the illegitimate dragonseed of Valyrian lineage had garnered an impressive reputation as a skilled seafarer under the employ of his lordship. As a result of his exceptional abilities, he ascended to the position of captain, ultimately assuming authority over the flagship Queen Rhaenys. "Enemy ships coming in starboard side!" he pointed in one direction.
"I see them! We've got more at port!" Addam of Hull also chimed in. Like his younger brother Alyn, the dragonseed also enlisted in the Velaryon navy and was appointed commander of the highly-regarded vessel Lord Aethan's Glory. "Come on, men! To arms! We will give no quarter! Let's drive these Triarchy scum into the sea!" the youth barked orders at his sailors.
Standing tall on the bow of the flagship, the Sea Snake, was none other than Lord Corlys, commander of the Velaryon fleet, Lord of the Tides, and ruler of Driftmark. He observed the ocean's horizon, his sharp eyes analyzing the enemy ships. Although the Triarchy remnants were fewer in number than before, the Sea Snake was made aware of two high-profile targets in the vicinity: the Lynese admiral Sharako Lohar and Tyroshi general Racallio Ryndoon. As per the Young Dragon's intelligence reports, these two were not to be underestimated, for they were known for their cunning tactics and were considered a serious threat. "Ready the armaments," he ordered his men.
"Ready the armaments!" the sailors reiterated their lord's command.
"Load! Load! Put the stones on there!"
"Paint them with tar!"
"Careful where you put that thing!"
The Velaryon fleet was a force to be reckoned with, no doubt about it. Thanks to their skilled engineers and top-notch longships and war galleys, they were able to use their catapults and scorpions to inflict heavy damage. These weapons were no joke, as stone projectiles were coated in tar and set ablaze, ready to be launched from catapults for long-range attacks; for mid-to-close-range combat, the scorpions were used to fire yard-long iron-headed shaft bolts and fiery spears that could damage ships and kill a man with a single, well-placed precision shot. But it wasn't just about the naval armaments themselves - the skill of its handlers was crucial to their success. The Velaryon ships, with their sheer size and power, were indeed a sight to behold on the open waters and commanded a formidable presence. It was no wonder that they were known as the largest fleet in the Seven Kingdoms.
"Angle yard to port! Prepare to broadside!" Corlys ordered.
"Prepare to broadside!"
"All hands, loose!"
With a mighty release of its trigger mechanisms, the catapults launched their fiery ammunition high into the sky. Some of the flaming stones found their mark, striking the surface of the vast ocean below. Meanwhile, the remaining ships of the Triarchy scattered in different directions, doing their best to avoid the relentless barrage from above. But the Velaryon fleet was not done yet, unleashing a storm of bolts that tore through the sides of several Triarchy vessels. The resulting chaos sent sailors, wood, and iron hurtling overboard.
Amidst the chaos of naval warfare, the Triarchy's smaller ships displayed an impressive level of maneuverability and skill, despite being outnumbered and outgunned by the Velaryon fleet. With each side spinning broadsides towards the other, ships were quickly coming into range for a confrontation. The Sea Snake, however, had realized the enemy's plans - calculating the Triarchy's strategy for quick shots and dispersing before his ships could return fire. It's pretty clever how these pests were using their limited numbers to gain an advantage. When longships and war galleys are bunched up too closely, their ability to maneuver becomes restricted. This can become problematic if there are too many vessels clustered together. So, with a commanding gesture, Corlys directed his fleet to spread out and allow for greater freedom of movement.
Under the intense fighting, catapults continued to release barrages of flaming stones while crew members on both sides raced the length of the deck, dodging scorpion bolts as they went. Then, to the surprise of the crew on board, the Sea Snake suddenly found itself encircled by four agile Triarchy vessels, rapidly closing in on them from different angles. The hostile intent of the enemy became apparent as they apparently planned to board the ship by force.
"My lord! Boarding parties are incoming!" Alyn warned.
"Prepare for close-quarter combat! And get these vermin off my ship!" Corlys hollered. Standing tall with his trusty battleaxe in hand, the seasoned sixty-five-year-old Sea Snake was prepared to face any challenge that may come his way. He was determined to defend his ship from any unwanted invaders, making it clear that they would meet their end if they dared to set foot on his deck. As the hooks were thrown and the enemy began to climb aboard, Sea Snake's crew unsheathed their swords and charged forward, ready to protect their vessel at all costs as more attackers were soon upon them.
"For House Velaryon!"
"For Driftmark!"
In the midst of the raging Narrow Sea, a brutal and unyielding battle raged on between the Velaryon soldiers and the ruthless Triarchy marauders. The clash of swords echoed through the tumultuous waves as the combatants fought for supremacy. The soldiers were constantly swaying and jostling, trying their best to maintain their footing amidst the unpredictable ocean currents. Both sides were equally determined to emerge victorious, and the ferocity of their fighting reflected this. On the deck of the ship, the legendary Corlys stood his ground, his battleaxe flashing as he laid waste to his enemies. Even with all his years of combat experience and his status as a formidable warrior, the Sea Snake was starting to feel the strain of advanced aging and exertion weighing heavily upon him. Despite this, his fierce loyalty to his proud Valyrian lineage never wavered, and he fought on with all his might. Corlys had achieved greatness through sheer determination and a relentless pursuit of his goals. He was, without a doubt, the greatest seafarer the Seven Kingdoms had ever known, having completed nine successful voyages across the world to accumulate so much wealth and political influence, surpassing House Lannister. His ultimate aim was to make House Velaryon one of the most powerful noble houses in existence, and he would not let anyone stand in his way.
Corlys is beset by attackers, as are his men. They just kept coming. As they fought down the length of the deck, the Sea Snake heard a near-inhuman roar and turned to the assailant.
"Ryyaaaaaah!" Standing tall and proud on the battlefield, Racallio Ryndoon was a force to be reckoned with. Despite his unconventional choice of attire - women's clothing - his actions spoke louder than his appearance. Being ambidextrous, he wielded his two swords with such effortless grace, quickly cutting through the ranks of Velaryon soldiers. Among the Triarchy's remaining forces, Racallio was hailed as one of the most lethal warriors, and his ferocity in combat was the stuff of legend among his own men. His ambidexterity was a key advantage, allowing him to switch effortlessly between attacks and catching his enemies off guard. In addition, before each battle, he would toss bones before a battle to choose which deity he would offer as a sacrifice, hoping to secure victory. His unique stoop in posture and uneven gait, caused by one shoulder being higher than the other, only added to his intimidating presence. And his hair and beard, a striking shade of purple with bold orange streaks, made him an unmistakable sight on the battlefield. "Pathetic," he jeered, eyes scanning the room until they landed on Corlys. "Well, well, well… what do we have here, boys? Why it's none other than the legendary Sea Snake himself, Lord Corlys Velaryon." He swung both swords in his hands. "Your reputation precedes you. Even in the Free Cities."
"So… you're General Racallio," Corlys identified.
"Oh, I see my reputation precedes me! It's an honor, truly. Though, I couldn't help but notice your usual comrades, Prince Daemon and Prince Aeonar, aren't by your side at the moment. If memory serves me right, you've had some pretty intense encounters with Craghas Drahar in the past. I mean, who could forget the devastation caused by your Young Dragon and the chaos that ensued even after Drahar was defeated? The streets ran red with blood, it was a sight to behold. With that being said, it might not be the safest decision to venture out alone in this area."
"Take a good look, Triarchy scum. It's clear you're facing impossible odds given there's nearly none of you remaining."
"Have you ever considered that winning a battle might not always come down to having more troops, regardless of what your superiors across the sea might say?" Standing tall with a fierce expression on his face and two gleaming swords at his disposal, Racallio confidently taunted his opponent. "It appears that you have fallen right into my trap, Sea Snake. Once I kill you, your entire fleet will be thrown into complete disarray, divided and confused, unable to withstand the might of the Triarchy. Are you prepared to face your ultimate demise at my hands?"
Corlys huffed aggressively, ready for the inevitable battle. "My house has been resilient for millennia. Even after we survived the Doom of Old Valyria, we still stood tall and unbroken against the tides. You will not kill me that easily!" he charged, narrowing his eyes to his enemy.
The two commanders clashed in a fierce battle, each determined to come out on top. Lord Corlys was a seasoned warrior, battle-hardened, and skilled in combat. However, Racallio was young and sly, with an unpredictable nature that made him a formidable opponent. The Sea Snake fought with all his might, blocking and parrying, only to have his attacks deftly countered by the Tyroshi general. Despite this, Racallio's physical strength allowed him to effortlessly resist the Sea Snake's battleaxe with one hand while striking back with the other, causing Corlys to maintain his distance. It was a genuinely intense battle between two skilled fighters. Steel met steel. Plate met studded leather lamellar. From nearly every direction across the Narrow Sea, the sounds of blaring horns and fervent battle cries can be distinctly heard, echoing across the vast naval battleground. These haunting sounds emanate from the remaining fleets of the mighty Velaryon and Triarchy remnant forces, serving as a warning of an imminent and catastrophic event that is sure to come.
Within the confines of the ship, the tumultuous naval battle between the Trarchy remnants and the Velaryon forces rages on with unrelenting determination. Both sides relentlessly attack each other, refusing to yield even an inch of ground. Despite sustaining some damage, the Velaryon fleet manages to strike a heavy blow to the remaining Triarchy ships, sinking three more vessels in the process. The seafarers stand firm in their defense, determined to protect their comrades and repel the enemy's advances at all costs. Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the Sea Snake, Corlys and Racallio engage in a ferocious and unbridled clash, each fueled by an intense fury. Despite momentarily losing his balance, the Sea Snake quickly regains his footing, bracing himself for the next inevitable assault. It becomes increasingly evident that Racallio is indeed a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield, as previously warned by his closest ally. He will have to be cautious.
Racallio observed, "Is that a hint of fatigue I see in your movements, Sea Snake? Already worn out? Don't try to deceive me or yourself because I can hear you breathing quite heavily from here." But the towering Tyroshi remained unperturbed, displaying an unwavering, self-assured demeanor. "Jeme paez aertan isse, vala uēpo. (You're getting slower with age, old man.)" he said in High Valyrian.
"Kōttan uēpo iksan, yn Velario Lentro morghūltan nāqopsa ȳdra daor. (I may be old, but we in House Velaryon don't die so easily.)" Corlys retorted.
"Good. That makes things more interesting."
Once more, the two opponents exchanged fierce blows. Corlys seized the chance to launch an attack, but Racallio quickly countered and charged towards him, forcing Corlys to raise his battleaxe and face the Tyroshi's double swords to defend himself. The sound of steel clashing echoed through the air as the two fighters battled it out, Racallio gradually pushing Corlys back toward the edge of the ship. It was a tense and thrilling fight that kept everyone on the edge of their seats. With quick reflexes, Corlys deftly rolls to his side to dodge the imminent attack. He then swiftly retaliates by forcefully striking the back end of his weapon towards Racallio, resulting in a deep nick on the Tyroshi general's shoulder. The impact was so powerful that it tore through the leather lamellar and women's frocks that he was wearing. However, even though Racallio appeared to be injured, he quickly regained his composure and seemed to recover from the blow.
As Corlys navigates the narrow end of his vessel, he notices Racallio approaching with newfound vigor, swords at the ready. The Sea Snake's agility is on full display as he quickly maneuvers around the mast positioned at the center of his flagship. In a split second, one of Racallio's blades strikes down, causing wood fragments to scatter in all directions. The ship begins to tilt, and the ocean's current causes it to sway back and forth. The tension in the air is palpable as the two opponents continue their intense battle. However, Racallio proved to be the more relentless, faster, and stronger of the two, and now the advantage shifts to him. As Corlys takes a step back, he loses his balance and tumbles down the stairs. Meanwhile, Racallio looms at the top of the staircase, poised for an attack.
"I have you now," Racallio jumps from the upper deck toward the Sea Snake and attacks, forcing Corlys on the defensive in confined spaces. As the Tyroshi general turns the tide against Corlys, he rushes at him with a frenzy we have not seen before, each consecutive blow parried but his swings becoming stronger and more confidant, forcing him almost to go overboard.
Corlys finds himself in a precarious situation as Racallio's swords relentlessly strike with increasing force. Despite his best efforts, Corlys falls to his knees and desperately attempts to block Racallio's onslaught with his battleaxe. As the battle wears on, frustration sets in and Corlys pushes Racallio away from him. However, in a swift and fluid motion, Racallio spins around and swings his swords at a high angle towards Corlys' neck. Although the battleaxe manages to intercept the first sword, the second sword lands a successful hit on Corlys' neck, ultimately determining the outcome of the fight.
As Racallio aimed to deliver the decisive strike, a sudden impact from another ship caused Sea Snake to sway precariously. It was none other than Lord Aethan's Glory, arriving just in time to repel the Triarchy remnant invaders. However, the force of the collision had also resulted in Corlys and Racallio being knocked off the upper deck, caught in the midst of the chaos.
Corlys falls into the water, bleeding from the neck. The water turns red, tilting with him as he drifts down. The Sea Snake was still alive but felt his body's strength slowly leaving him as his armor weighed him down. Holding his breath, Corlys pressed one hand against his bleeding neck as he struggled to remove his armor, rolling around while sinking deeper. The ocean's pressure pressed against his chest the further he descended. The situation was dire for Corlys as he fought to break free from his predicament. In addition to the deep wounds he had sustained on his neck, he was also rapidly running out of air. If he didn't succumb to his injuries first, then surely the suffocating embrace of the water would claim him. Above him, the sun's warm orange light reflected brilliantly off the surface of the vast ocean expanse. Despite his weakened state, Corlys valiantly moved his arms in a desperate attempt to rise toward the surface before his vision began to fade.
Before passing out, the Sea Snake heard multiple splashing dives at the Narrow Sea's surface. Both Addam and Alyn of Hull had removed their armor and dove underwater to rescue Lord Corlys. Holding their breaths, the bastard dragonseeds removed the last pieces of their lord's armor, wrapped both his arms around their necks, and made a break for the surface.
"Baaah!" Alyn gasped. "My lord!"
"Check his pulse!" Addam suggested.
"He's still alive, but he needs a maester quickly!"
As the Lord Aethan's Glory approached, Addam signaled to the crew with a wave. It was hard to tell how much time had passed, but the Velaryon fleet was still standing strong. Addam and Alyn worked quickly to bring the unconscious Lord Corlys aboard the ship. Meanwhile, the Triarchy remnants' fleet was spotted retreating into the distance. It seemed that Admiral Sharako Lohar knew when it was time to cut their losses. The Velaryon fleet was still too strong for them. Although House Velaryon emerged victorious once again and secured their control over the Stepstones, however, the Triarchy remnants managed to score a tactical victory, with General Racallio delivering a devastating wound to the enemy commander. It was doubtful whether Lord Corlys would make it back to Driftmark alive with such a severe injury.
"Send a raven to High Tide! Hurry!" Addam ordered his men. "Tell Princess Rhaenys everything that's happened!" He turned back to Corlys, who remained unresponsive, still bleeding from his neck. The bastard dragonseed pressed hard against the wound with the assistance of his sailors. "Hang on, my lord. We're going to get you the help you need. Just hold on!"
Chapter End
Author's Note: Ladies and gentlemen, we've reached the conclusion of the last filler arc chapters. We now are ready to begin the next phase. Here we see Lord Corlys Velaryon and his fleet engaging in a naval battle against the Triarchy remnants to repel them from the Stepstones; Alyn of Hull has returned and made a name for himself, but we are also met with his older brother and fellow bastard, Addam of Hull. Moreso, we catch a first glimpse of Racallio Ryndoon in action against the Sea Snake himself. What was your take on the battle and what we weren't able to see compared to the show? Let me know because we're now ready to delve into the thick of it.
garrysprawson123: I have this question will Rhaenyra beg Aeonar to save her children and help them to claim Drift Mark?
―She'll try
XavierWright: Welp, looks like the filler Arcs are done. I enjoyed them quite a lot.
BTW, what's Aegon the Elder up to? Is he at the Night's Watch like Aeonar said he'd be?
―I'll reveal his fate in the next chapter or two
C.E.W: So Corlys Velaryon is victorious in battle against the Triarchy, although at great cost. He sustained a wound in the neck, but the concern now is the fever that will follow. Blood fever which is dangerous and according to Vaemond has overwhelmed men half of his age. With Corlys' survival in question, his younger brother will now move to petition for the lordship of Driftmark once he hears what has transpired.
The milk of the Poppy with King Viserys. I guess the Caltrops are doing it, to set up Aeonar so they can accuse him of harming the king, abusing his power and usurp royal authority. Given the number of years of it has been going on, its no secret Aeonar has had it out for his father since Queen Aemma died. Aeonar has expressed his contempt for the king time and again, in public so it is something that court will believe. Trying to weaken his position as Hand of the King. Something the Caltrops can use against him when he handling the petition. Which is why King Viserys' presence would be required. King Viserys handling the situation in defense of Rhaenyra and her children, and by extension Aeonar could kill such talks.
Questions:
Will Aeonar meet with Princess Rhaenys when she arrives, before he has to deal with the petition in court?
―Yes
Did Racallio Ryndoon survive and escape?
―Yes
Will Jaehaerys and Aemond spar in the courtyard?
―Yes
Has Aeonar and Alicent handled the Milk of the Poppy situation with King Viserys?
―Yes. They figured out who was doing it, why, and punished them rather severely... as recommended by Otto
randomdude24: I was half hoping Coryls Velaryon would kill Racallio Ryndoon, taking away a major adversary from the Triarchy or what's left of them. Even weakened they are a nuisance, oh well. Glad your slowly introducing more of the dragonseeds, but I wonder what's your plan for them? I just can't see Aeonar allowing them to take dragons, I know Rhaenyra did due to lack of early support, but Aeonar isn't lacking in support nor can I seem him giving dragons away.
―Addam and Alyn of Hull are more suited to remain in the Velaryon navy.