YEAR 133 AC
King's Landing ― Mud Gate…
The Targaryen men-at-arms, clad in their distinctive black and red armor, worked tirelessly alongside the Velaryon sailors in a synchronized and efficient effort, their muscles straining as they loaded barrels of provisions, crates of weapons, and bundles of arrows onto the waiting ships. The air was thick with anticipation as each man knew the battle ahead would test their skill and loyalty to the royal House Targaryen. Once word had reached them of the Triarchy remnants' preparations for an invasion, the Blacks wasted no time organizing a response.
With Corlys Velaryon assuming command of the Blacks' naval forces, he was given the freedom to act without being bound by political bureaucracy and with access to the crown's resources. This put Corlys in a much better position than before, allowing him to wield his authority as Master of Ships more freely, unencumbered by the constraints that often hindered those in government positions. This gave him greater flexibility and control over his actions. His piercing eyes surveyed the scene before him atop his flagship, the Sea Snake, confident he would seize complete victory against the Triarchy. Corlys was a seasoned veteran who sailed nine voyages across the world and led his fleet to numerous victories in the past, earning his reputation as a formidable naval commander. The Velaryon fleet stood at the forefront of their maritime might as each ship floated along the banks of the Blackwater. The men aboard these ships were experienced sailors, their expertise honed through years of navigating treacherous waters and engaging in fierce naval combat. With over 200 ships at their disposal, each meticulously maintained and armed, stood at the forefront of their maritime might as each vessel floated along the banks of the Blackwater. Lord Corlys ensured that every ship was fully equipped, from the weaponry to the provisions, leaving no room for weakness or vulnerability.
But the Velaryon fleet was not alone in this endeavor.
King Aeonar I of House Targaryen entered the fray against the Triarchy as he had done before twenty years ago and dispatched reinforcements to bolster his allies. These Targaryen knights, led by skilled commanders, stood side by side with the Velaryon counterparts, their banners proudly displaying the three-headed dragon sigil on their breastplates. Accompanied by a contingent of nine dragons, they would take to the skies, raining down fire and destroying their enemies. Five of these dragons had proven their worth in battle before, their mere presence instilling fear and awe in the hearts of their foes. With their aerial advantage, they could scout the enemy's movements, disrupt their formations, and assist the Velaryon fleet. The combined Targaryen-Velaryon might was a force to be reckoned with.
As the loading of cargo onto the ships neared completion, the tension among the men-at-arms and sailors grew. They knew the battle ahead would be fierce and unforgiving, but they were ready to fight with every ounce of their strength. The Blacks had prepared meticulously, leaving no stone unturned, and their determination burned bright within them.
"We've made the necessary preparations. All ships are fully loaded and ready to embark, and our sailors are fully assembled. Per the quest of His Grace and Lord Corlys, we've searched out the veterans to help establish order among our volunteers," Addam of Hull said, carefully studying a detailed map depicting the Narrow Sea connecting the continents of Westeros and Essos. The map was adorned with miniature representations of the Velaryon ships, Targaryen dragons, and Triarchy armada, strategically placed to provide a comprehensive overview of the region. A group of commanders gathered around the map, intently studying it to gain valuable insights and plan their next move.
"A Lynese admiral commands all their ships, and a Tyroshi general leads its corsairs," Alyn mentioned.
"Sharako Lohar and Racallio Ryndoon," Jacaerys mentioned. "Yes, we know about them. Lohar is known for his expertise in sea-faring and his inclination towards murder, while Ryndoon is said to be just as skilled in close-quarters combat and is a cunning adversary. He nearly killed our lord grandfather the last time their paths crossed. What makes this different is that they both have a thirst for vengeance. They will be just as tenacious as they are dangerous. What else do we know?"
"Our intelligence reports suggest the Triarchy will likely split their armada into two squadrons to breach the Gullet. Their boarding forces are reported to have a number in the thousands."
"We know they're coming. With their plans for a surprise attack exposed, they will be forced to launch a costly naval assault. But we must be prepared for anything, so don't do anything reckless that'll endanger yourself or the lives of your crew," Jaehaerys said while meticulously rearranging miniature ships on a table, carefully considering the potential trajectory the Triarchy forces might pursue. Immersed in studying the map, the new Prince of Dragonstone engaged in a collaborative exchange of ideas with Addam, Alyn, Jacaerys, and other naval officers. Their collective objective was to formulate a tactical plan to thwart the Triarchy remnants' impending incursion into the Gullet, ensuring they would be intercepted before reaching Driftmark. "If the reports are accurate, their approach will likely come from the north and south of Dragonstone. We can set up a blockade here, here, and here to halt their advance. That way, they could only come at us from these intersections and leave Driftmark better protected. What's more, the weather itself will be a deciding factor in this battle. While the fog will provide ample cover, it also affords our enemies a place to hide." With his mind focused on the task at hand, Jaehaerys continued to study the map, identifying potential weaknesses that could be exploited. The fate of Driftmark and its people rested on a well-divised strategy.
"The other houses in the Crownlands and Blackwater Bay have sent anywhere from a handful to a single ship, but, of course, House Velaryon bears the bulk," Addam mentioned.
"We have reports that a small advance force of Triarchy ships will be armed with anti-dragon artillery aboard each vessel," Alyn said.
Jaehaerys expected a possible scenario would occur and formulated a contingency plan should that moment ever arise. At the Battle of Rook's Rest, he and his brothers and sister witnessed the effective utilization of such weaponry. If Aegon and Viserys had not quickly neutralized them in time, the outcome of that battle against the Caltrops would have been significantly different. If the Triarchy were to unleash their entire arsenal of artillery and crossbow bolts, House Targaryen's dragons would find themselves in grave danger. Given his familiarity with such armaments, Jaehaerys comprehended the strategic importance of neutralizing the Triarchy remnants' scorpions employed before they could cause substantial harm. However, this plan also carried a significant risk: it meant getting dangerously close, and with the encroaching fog, visibility would be severely impaired and make it more challenging to execute the plan.
Moreover, flying too close on dragonback would expose them to the enemy's long-range artillery, which could be disastrous, or send their dragons crashing into the ocean with almost no chance of escaping. Therefore, they would have to plan out their approach very carefully, considering the fog, the Triarchy's anti-dragon armaments, and the safety of their dragons. Knowing the stakes, Jaehaerys knew that every detail had to be carefully considered and accounted for. The timing, the positioning, and the coordination among himself and his siblings would all be crucial in ensuring the success of their mission.
"Leave them to us. We'll use a combined attack," Jacaerys volunteered. "Although our dragons might not be as large as Vaelor or Vermithor nor possess the same battle-hardened experience, Vermax is more nimble and agile. He can swoop in, render the scorpions useless, and then dash to safety before the enemy can react. While the Velaryon navy deals with the Triarchy at sea, our allies shall receive aerial support from our dragons with no shore to narrow the battle."
"Who shall be deployed to the north squadron?" Addam inquired.
"And who will take the south?" Alyn echoed his brother's thoughts.
Jaehaerys pondered extensively, carefully considering the options available to him. As the Protector of the Realm held ultimate military authority, his father's command overshadowed all. However, as a newly-appointed regimental commander, he was given substantial authority in the Blacks' ranks to make crucial decisions. The weight of countless lives rested squarely on his shoulders, and he was responsible for them and their actions. Each officer under his command displayed unwavering dedication, prepared to sacrifice their lives to ensure the mission's success. There will be casualties; dragons are powerful but are not invincible and are impervious to ballistae and other weapons designed to bring them down. Jaehaerys has accepted that grim reality.
Timing will play a crucial role; they would have to adapt quickly in battle, yet their survival depended on their ability to work together as a team. He, Aegon, Viserys, and Aemma exemplified this by coordinating and communicating with each other to make the impossible happen. Adopting a new approach, Jaehaerys determined that each dragonrider would be paired in groups of three. With a total of nine dragons – four of them large – the smaller ones would use their speed and maneuverability to bombard the Triarchy armada with dragonfire and swiftly evade retaliatory strikes. The larger ones would serve as destroyers, constituting the primary force in aerial combat, capable of accomplishing feats beyond the capabilities of their smaller counterparts. Tapping his fingers upon the map, Jaehaerys strategized the allocation of dragonriders, carefully considering who to send and who to pair them with.
As he studied the map, Jaehaerys weighed the strengths and weaknesses of each rider. Aegon was known for his bravery and skill in combat, while Viserys possessed a strategic mind almost on par with his own. Aemma, on the other hand, was a master of aerial maneuvers and could navigate the skies with ease. However, Nettles, his aunt Rhaenyra, and his cousins Jace and Luke were the only ones who were inexperienced in battle. They would require one of his siblings to accompany them. Each dragon and rider had their own specialties, and Jaehaerys wanted to capitalize on that.
"Viserys, you, Nettles, and Luke take Maelyx, Sheepstealer, and Arrax and rendevous with the Queen Rhaenys. Take Lucerys with you as well. I'll need you to do some reconnaissance, use your new spyglass to detect suspicious activities within the enemy's formations and report your findings to Alyn. Once Addam's auxiliary ships begin their attack, you will provide them with aerial support to help bolster their efforts."
"Understood, brother," Viserys complied. Being Nettles' handler and a seasoned dragonrider, he willingly accepted being responsible for her and assisting Addam of Hull's ships. Additionally, with Lucerys accompanying them, it would ensure his safety and keep him out of danger for the time being. Naturally, Viserys swore to do whatever it took to protect his young cousin from the threats the Triarchy posed.
"I-I… I'll try my best," Lucerys said meekly. Even though nearly a year had passed, the haunting memories of what happened at Storm's End with Daeron continued to torment him. Night after night, plagued by nightmares, Lucerys' hands shook uncontrollably. He blamed himself for Daeron's death, compounded by the weight of survivor's guilt.
Viserys noticed. Seven hells, he's got it really bad. "Hey," he said in a comforting tone. "Luke, look at me." With a gentle yet firm touch, Viserys grasped Lucerys's chin, guiding his gaze to meet his own. "You must understand that what happened back then was not your fault. None of us hold you accountable for Daeron's death. That was Aemond who killed our brother, not you."
"B-But… If only I had… done something, maybe he… he would still be alive."
"No 'buts,' Luke," Jaehaerys interjected. "There was nothing you could've done to prevent it. You would've been killed, too. Listen: it is our bond as a family that holds greater importance. We look out for and support each other, even if it means sacrificing ourselves to ensure each other's safety. Daeron wouldn't want his sacrifice to be meaningless. He'd raise holy hell otherwise."
"'Get back out there, or I'll kick your ass!'" Viserys mimicked his late brother's voice.
Lucerys couldn't help but let out a gentle, mirthful chuckle as if the words spoken were precisely what he would have expected Daeron to say.
"Um, not to interrupt or anything," Nettles said, "but what does 'reconnaissance' mean?"
"It means to observe from a distance and acquire information about the enemy," Viserys explained.
"Then why didn't you say that earlier?!"
"We did, but apparently, you didn't pay attention again."
Jaehaerys shook his head. Now, it was Viserys who was likely to have his hands full with Nettles. "Aegon," he turned to his brother, "you and aunt Rhaenyra must act as a decoy and attack at the south. Once you've drawn Triarchy's attention to Corxes and Syrax, Alyn's vessels will move to outflank and thin their numbers." He turned to his sister. "Aemma, you and Silverwing will back them up as best you can."
"As you command, brother," Aemma acknowledged. She exuded an air of tranquility, grace, and regality. Ever since the start of the Dance of the Dragons, the princess has gradually grown into her role as a Targaryen dragonrider. Hidden beneath her mesmerizing beauty lies the fierce spirit of a dragon, ready to unleash its fiery wrath to protect those she holds dear.
Alyn acknowledged. "The Triarchy ships are strong at the front, but they are weak in the middle. We'll ram them there and sink them to the depths of the Narrow Sea," he said.
"You got it," Aegon cracked his knuckles with anticipation, his eagerness palpable as he yearned to demonstrate the true power of the Targaryens to those who opposed his father. "My rules of engagement?" he inquired.
"Don't be reckless out there, and don't take unnecessary risks. Pick your targets, time your shots, be mindful of your surroundings, and stay safe."
"We need you all back in one piece. Your mother would never forgive me if anything were to happen to you. So don't let it go to your head. She's already lost one child. Don't make her lose more," Rhaenyra, in agreement, reproached her nephew Aegon with the same sternness she would have used towards her own sons. Despite Aegon and Aemma's greater experience in battle, Rhaenyra, as their aunt, held the authority to assert control over them should either of them misbehave. Fortunately, she had the support of her niece – who was more well-behaved than her brother-husband. "That leaves the center. If I know my brother, which I do, he'll likely have Vaelor's speed to inflict maximum damage. But at the same time…" I worry about his state of mind. He's up to something but refuses to disclose it. "That just leaves you and Jace. He's my first son, Jay. I'm entrusting you with him, understand?"
"I understand, aunt Rhaenyra," Jaehaerys acknowledged. That only left one more role to fill. This upcoming battle will have the Blacks treading in very dangerous waters. He needs an officer who thinks and relies on more than just their skills. While Jacaerys showed promise, he lacked experience and was far from matching Jaehaerys' own capabilities. Nevertheless, he was confident that Jace would learn fast and grow, especially if he were to one day inherit the lordship of Driftmark. "I need a second-in-command. Want the job?" he offered.
Jacaerys's raised eyebrow betrayed his surprise at Jaehaerys's unexpected proposal, appointing him as his second-in-command. It was an unexpected honor for Jaehaerys to choose him over other skilled officers and experienced veterans within the Blacks, but his cousin – the Silver Dragon – chose him instead. It'll be just like when they were children: Jacaerys Velaryon and Jaehaerys Targaryen, the inseparable duo, two brilliant young minds, and now, they had the opportunity to fight side-by-side. Jace was eager to prove himself as a prince, the heir to Driftmark, loyal to his cousin and the Blacks. "I've got your back, Jay," he accepted.
"Likewise, Jace."
As the plan was being finalized, Jaehaerys didn't waste any time and immediately called for a meeting with his fellow commanders, who arrived with determined expressions on their faces. The group gathered around the map, studying it intently. Jaehaerys took charge and started explaining his strategy with great emphasis on the importance of coordination and communication during the attack. He ensured that everyone understood the plan and their respective roles in it.
It was clear that the mission's success hinged on the Targaryen dragons' ability to work together seamlessly with the Velaryon fleet. Each pair would have a specific target, and they would need to combine their firepower in a synchronized manner to minimize casualties. The commanders nodded in agreement, well aware of the risks that lay ahead. They knew their success depended on their ability to work as a team and trust each other's skills and instincts.
Jaehaerys reminded them once again that they held the lives of not only themselves but also their soldiers in their hands. They had a responsibility to protect their troops and lead them to victory. With this sense of duty and purpose, Aegon, Viserys, Aemma, Rhaenyra, Jace, Luke, and Nettles prepared for battle with their dragons Corxes, Maelyx, Silverwing, Syrax, Vermax, Arrax, and Sheepstealer. They ensured their beasts were well-fed, rested, and ready for the upcoming fight. They reviewed their tactics and rehearsed their maneuvers, ensuring everyone was familiar with their roles and responsibilities.
Rhaenyra halted in her tracks, her eyes catching sight of Baela and Rhaena, who were patiently waiting for them on the docks. "Jay, Jace," she said, turning towards the two young men behind her. "Take a moment and speak to them. It's as good a time as any to share your thoughts. This may be your only opportunity."
As Jaehaerys approached Baela, he noticed the scowl on her face and knew she wasn't happy about being left behind. Baela wanted to go with him into battle, but she was forced to stay back while a small group of Lykirī Mēre arrived to take her sister Rhaena and her cousin/stepbrother Joffrey back to the Vale. A change of plans had occurred, and instead of being fostered in Gulltown, they would now be under the watchful eye of Lady Jeyne Arryn in the Eyrie. Having learned of their intent after the Battle of Rook's Rest, Aeonar expressed his disapproval of their departure and what he perceived as them openly defying his decree. This time, he would take no chances and would ensure that his own assassins kept a close watch on them, preventing any sneaky escape attempts. Despite Baela's fiery demeanor, Jaehaerys knew she had a deep affection for him, which she kept hidden beneath the surface.
"You take good care of yourself out there, okay?" Baela said.
"I promise, Baela," Jaehaerys replied.
Baela gracefully stretched her arm behind her neck, her slender fingers delicately undoing the clasp of a stunning Pentoshi silver necklace. The necklace had a beautiful silver three-headed dragon in the amulet, with metal work resembling swirling grey and black smoke. She then carefully wrapped it around Jaehaerys's neck, ensuring that it sat perfectly on him before fastening the clip so that it remained securely attached. "Mēre amāzigon ezīmos… iā ēre amāzigon zaldrīzes kipi. (Come back in one piece… or come back a dragonrider's.)" she whispered in High Valyrian.
Jaehaerys was acutely aware of what it meant. It was unambiguous: either come back alive and victorious or perish in the attempt like a true dragonrider. "Keesa, nykēla shifang, Ābrāzmā Baelā. (Yes, I understand, Lady Baela.)"
"What did I say about calling me that?"
Silence lingered in the air as Jaehaerys and Baela stood face to face, a profound connection shared through their intense gaze into each other's eyes. 'Goodbye, my love.' They don't say it. There was no room for weakness here. The unspoken words between them were heavy with emotion, and the weight of their impending separation hung in the air. Without a word, they leaned in and touched their foreheads together, the tips of their noses just barely grazing each other's skins. It was a tender moment that conveyed more than words ever could.
Rhaena, meanwhile, gifted Jacaerys with a scarf she had personally crafted. The level of her skill and diligence was evident in every stitch of the scarf, which had a mesmerizing sea green color with a hint of cerulean hue. The intricate details of the silver seahorse, the sigil of House Velaryon, were woven delicately into the fabric, along with the Valyrian words 'Uēpyr, Drējor, Nēdȳr' – meaning 'The Old, the True, the Brave.' The scarf was not just a beautiful accessory but a testament to Rhaena's talent and the care she put into her work. "Be… Be careful out there, okay?" she implored.
Jacaerys wasn't sure how to respond, as if trying to mimic his cousin and Baela, and followed suit, albeit clumsily. As he wrapped the scarf around his neck, he couldn't help but notice how warm, soft, and comfortable it felt. Jace had to admit it, but Rhaena's scarf was warm, soft, and comfortable. "It's very nice," he complimented. "Listen, I want you to stay safe in the Vale until we return. Then… maybe…" Come on, think. What would Jay say in this situation? "Maybe once this is all over, we can finally have that wedding you want."
"You mean it?"
"I promise." Jacaerys then turned to his younger brother. "And you, Joffrey," he ruffled his hair, "you stay out of mischief."
Joffrey grumbled, "I'll try."
As the Targaryen royals bid farewell to their mother, Queen Alicent Hightower, and rode away to battle, there were some among the Young Dragon's inner circle who questioned whether it was wise for Aeonar to take all his children with him against the Triarchy. Yet, with their father, the king, accompanying them, they had no choice but to follow. The air was thick with tension as the realm desperately needed an heir to propagate the royal line from Jaehaerys, Aegon, and Viserys. With Aeonar away, the governance of King's Landing had fallen to Ser Otto Hightower, the Hand of the King.
As the Targaryen royals bid their mother, Queen Alicent Hightower, farewell before riding off into battle again, the air was thick with uncertainty and fear. Despite their father, the king, accompanying them, there were some among the Young Dragon's inner circle that somehow questioned whether it was a wise choice for Aeonar to take all his children with him into battle against the Triarchy. The realm still needed an heir from Jaehaerys, Aegon, and Viserys to propagate the royal line, and the prospect of losing them all posed a severe risk.
With Aeonar away, governance of King's Landing fell to Ser Otto Hightower, the Hand of the King. As Jaehaerys, Aegon, Viserys, Aemma, Rhaenyra, Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Nettles mounted their respective dragons Vermithor, Silverwing, Sheepstealer, Corxes, Maelyx, Syrax, Vermax, and Arrax, the tension was palpable. The dragons roared with anticipation as their riders prepared them for the fight ahead.
Aeonar, determined to achieve victory at any cost, glanced over his shoulder as he securely strapped himself atop his dragon Vaelor, the Swiftrunner. The menacing growl emanating from Vaelor's black scales only heightened Aeonar's anticipation of the impending battle. Despite being fully aware of the dangers involved in bringing his children into the midst of conflict, Aeonar remained resolute in his pursuit of victory, regardless of the sacrifices required. The ultimate strategy to dismantle the Triarchy, Project Shadowhand, was within his grasp. With the Velaryon fleet finally disembarking, the rest of the forces were expected to follow suit. However, Aeonar couldn't help but question his heir's appointment as his second-in-command. The promotion of family members without merit had the potential to backfire in the future. You might have a keen eye for strategy, but you can't save everyone in times of war. Because that is the way of things. I carry every death with me. So unless you're ready to take my place on the Iron Throne, Jaehaerys, then you'd best be prepared to take the hit. "Don't screw this up, boys," he muttered under his breath. "Sōvēs! (Fly!)"
"*Raaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrh!*"
With a resounding roar reverberating across the vast expanse of the Blackwater, each dragon took to the skies. The nine dragons soared through the air, their wings beating in unison as they hovered over the Velaryon fleet. The alliance between House Velaryon and House Targaryen had been forged in the crucible of war, a bond strengthened by blood and a shared desire for justice. Together, they had weathered countless battles, their determination unwavering, their loyalty unyielding since the Doom wiped out Old Valyria. As the sun lit the Narrow Sea's oceanic surface, the combined forces of House Velaryon and House Targaryen slowly disappeared beyond the horizon, united against a common enemy once again.
Chapter End
Author's Note: The stage is set for the climactic Battle of the Gullet; the Blacks - led by Corlys and Aeonar - are on the move to intercept the Triarchy remnants before they reach their shores. For his role in the Battle of Rook's Rest, it seems Jaehaerys Targaryen has been appointed a regimental commander and has a lot on his plate. What do you guys think will happen when the fighting starts? Because I might break it into multiple parts again. Let me know of what you'd like to see/expect 'cause the insight helps a lot.
C.E.W: Now Aeonar Targaryen and Corlys Velaryon have joined forces in combating the Triarchy once again. Except this time Daemon isn't with them, they are older, they have more dragon riders heading into battle, and they fought the Crabfeeder instead of Sharako Lohar and Racallio Ryndoon. The realm along with the world will now bear witness to the full combined might of House Targaryen and House Velaryon the remnants of Old Valyria.
With the fog though, it will be tougher for the dragon riders to spot the Triarchy fleet from the sky. On the other hand, it might be hard for the Triarchy to spot them too. House Velaryon commands some of the most experienced fighters in the realm with the skirmishes in the Stepstones. And the dragons can give Velaryons the edge, they are more organized and trained than in the books and the TV show. On the other hand many of the Triarchy are experienced fighters as well, and have dealt with dragons before. Therefore they armed their ships with anti-dragon weapons.
Sharako Lohar might come up with ways to combat the strategy made by the Targaryens. Racallio Ryndoon might lead a ground assault on Driftmark. But the area is more fortified and likely reinforced. Not to mention the Velaryon treasure has been moved, so unlikely as devastating for the Blacks as it was in the books.
In such a battle, its going to be difficult on how devastating it will be. There is no dealing how whatever or not Aeonar's madness will compromised them. Aeonar's madness could get him, or worse one of his fellow dragon riders killed. If one of Aeonar's children dies, it can make him worse, and Alicent may never forgive him. And if Rhaenyra loses a son, she will either go mad as Aeonar did after Daeron died, or blame Aeonar for it. Either way that is bad for the Blacks.
Regardless though, after the Battle of Gullet, the Triarchy will be crushed once and for all.
Questions:
What's the current status of Cregan Stark and the assembling of the Northern host?
―The Winter Wolves are the first to arrive; Cregan Stark is amassing his full host and will march south soon
How are things going in the Stormlands, Borros Baratheon fighting against Black loyalists?
―Houses Connington, Fel, and whatever lords loyal to Aeonar won't be able to hold out much longer
Any word from Ormund Hightower and the fighting in the Reach? With most of the Black dragons fighting the Triarchy and Daemon the Reach, Aemond with Vhagar pretty much has free rein to attack any Black loyalist house in the Reach.
―With the Tyrells not saying a word, it's every man for themselves in the Reach. Yet, the Hightowers are able to amass a force of 15,000 strong - but are preoccupied routing out Caltrop loyalists while also trying to defend Oldtown
Have the garrisons of Driftmark and Dragonstone been reinforced in case of Triarchy ground assault?
―Yes
Why is Jaehaerys the one explaining the plan? As king and leader of the Dragon riders in the coming Battle of the Gullet, shouldn't Aeonar be the one doing it?
―Aeonar's testing Jaehaerys
Is Daemon even aware of the coming Battle of the Gullet?
―Yes, but Daemon's busy maintaining control over Harrenhal
randomdude24: Battle of the Gullet, here we go. So far, blacks have an advantage. With the knowledge of the impending battle, they seem to be as prepared as possible. The only real problem is that the weather can both act as an ally and enemy.
Jay seems to be in charge of the assault and has plans for all dragons. He's definitely smart and has experience fighting and strategy, but unfortunately, his father is right. You can't save everyone in war, no matter what you do. This tells me someone will die if not more. If this plays out the same way, it might be a costly black victory.
Seems Rhaenyra is overly concerned for her brother state of mind. She loves him but is growing worried about what he'll do.
One thing I love about your dance of the dragons is that the blacks are far more united than the caltrops, because they act like a family and support each other no matter what, they still help lucerys even though he's haunted by the death of dareon. That core value is why I hope they win this war
Questions,
So, with Aegon crippled and bed ridden for the next probably half year and the knowledge, he's a bastard is now public. What would stop someone like Aemond from putting him out of misery and declaring himself as King? I don't believe Aemond loves his brother in any way
―I don't believe he did, either. Regardless, many people know the stories of Vhagar and are terrified of her. Once he recovers, Aemond will put his plans in motion as he seeks to establish a regime for himself.
What is the status of the Westerlands? Has the entire lannister army been completely destroyed? If so, why haven't they been offered terms of surrender?
―The Westerlands are in a state of chaos after Lord Jason perished in battle at the Red Fork. No, the Lanniter army is still around. Just leaderless. Jason's widow, Johanna Lannister, is acting as Lady Regent in place of her four-year-old son Loreon.
Is the north going to play a larger role in this war? I know Cregan Stark didn't march until he knew things are settled in the north given it was winter.
―While it'll take some time for Cregan Stark, a contingent of Northmen have crossed the Neck: the Winter Wolves.
Dante 101: Why haven't the Caltrops been wasted already? Why not just kill them off & be done with it already since the Blacks know who they all are? Why drag the war out? Why are the odds so far been the Black's favor? Doesn't that sort of make them sues since everything is mostly going their way?
As they say in war, "Neither side is just" Who are the heroes & villians at this point?
How crazy has Aeonar gotten? In fact, despite his apparent decent into insanity, he's been holding himself better than expected. Just how bad is he going to be before this is all over?
How many chapters are you aiming for?
―No official confirmation on how many chapters there will be.
garrysprawson123: I'm just scared that one of the characters will die and Aeonar if he ever loses one of his sons during the battle would really devastated him, and also if one of Rhaenyras sons also die she will also turned mad like Aeonar to avenge her kids against Beatrice