(298 AC - Dothraki Sea)
The arduous voyage from Meereen to Pentos lasting for three months proved to be overwhelmingly tiring as Anakin relentlessly pushed the 6,000 Unsullied accompanying his journey, marching tirelessly day and night.
First they had to cross the Dothraki Sea. The Dothraki Sea, also known as the Great Grass Sea, is a region on the continent of Essos, thousands of miles to the east of Westeros. It is located in the continental interior, east of the Free Cities, and is a vast landscape of steppes and plains covered in low green grass which makes it look like a sea from afar. It is named for the Dothraki people who inhabit it, horse-mounted warriors who migrate across the plains in large hordes called Khalasars (each of which may contain thousands of riders) to plunder neighboring lands. Vaes Dothrak, the only city of the Dothraki and central hub of their society, lies on the northeastern edge of the Dothraki Sea. The Dothraki Sea lies north of Lhazar, Slaver's Bay, and the forbidding Red Waste, which even the Dothraki fear to cross. The southern border is loosely marked by the Skahazadhan river. The Red Waste protects the city of Qarth from Dothraki attack. The Dothraki sea stretches almost all the way to the Jade Sea, but stops short due to intervening mountains and forests. However, the Dothraki still occasionally raid the rich cities of the western Jade Sea for treasure and slaves. The Dothraki Sea borders the Forest of Qohor to the west, separating it from the Free Cities. However the forest does not present a significant obstacle to their hordes, which frequently threaten the Free Cities with raids or to exact tribute.
Even though the Dothraki Sea was notorious for being perilous, it was not the primary worry during this journey. The Dothraki were well-informed about the Unsullied army marching alongside them. The Dothraki had a negative reputation against the Unsullied, as they were aware of only 3,000 of these soldiers managing to repel a huge Dothraki horde while protecting Qohor. A horde could encompass a vast number of fighters, ranging from 40 to 100,000.
The Dothraki hold strength in high regard, therefore only showing respect to those who can withstand their power. Those who have been conquered and enslaved are considered unworthy and insignificant. The Dothraki typically have a disdainful attitude towards foot soldiers, except for the exceptional Unsullied warrior-eunuch army.
The Dothraki are nomadic horse-mounted warriors, who sweep across the vast central plains of Essos in search of plunder. The Dothraki frequently raid neighboring regions, such as Lhazar to the southeast or the Free Cities to the west. The Dothraki live by taking what they need including supplies, valuables, and new captives to serve as slaves.
The reason for any delays encountered during their journey was due to Anakin's impulse to interfere upon witnessing multiple Dothraki armies ravaging villages and disrupting peaceful establishments. As he became aware of the Dothraki's enslavement of captives, his determination to rescue the raided villages intensified.
Looking on the positive side, the rise in raided villages indicated that they were nearing their first stop in Qohor.
(298 AC - Qohor)
During the two month voyage through the Dothraki Sea, there were challenges that arose. Nearly 20 Unsullied warriors were lost, but this was outweighed by the addition of new followers.
As they ventured to save ravaged villages and liberate enslaved individuals, Anakin's troops intervened in Dothraki raids, showcasing their compassion and might.
Numerous nomads, displaced and without a place to call home, opted to join Anakin, while those who witnessed his incredible force abilities were overcome with admiration and chose to follow him.
After a considerable journey, they finally reach Qohor, one of the nine independent cities in the western region of Essos. This city lies between the Narrow Sea and the Dothraki-controlled grasslands. From Qohor, it will take them only a few weeks to travel west to their final destination, Pentos.
Born as a settlement under the rule of the Valyrian Freehold, Qohor stands apart from other Free Cities, such as Braavos. It was established as a holy city, dedicated to the worship of the god known as the Black Goat. The inhabitants of Qohor are referred to as Qohorik. The city prides itself on its exceptional blacksmiths, who possess the elusive capability of reshaping Valyrian steel.
Upon Anakin's arrival in Qohor alongside the Unsullied, they were warmly received and invited to stay for an extended period before setting off once more. The Qohorik people held the highest regard for the Unsullied, especially after witnessing their brave defense against a relentless Dothraki attack on their city.
Accompanied by a handful of Unsullied guards, Anakin meets with King Orea Talordis and he is graciously invited to stay. In celebration of the King of Meereen's arrival in Qohor, a magnificent feast is held. Anakin engages in lively conversation with King Orea Talordis during the festivities.
"What brings you this far North, Your Grace?" Talordis asks him.
"I have business in Pentos," Anakin flatly replied.
"Ahh, yes. You know, not too long ago we heard news of a Dothraki Khalasar traveling towards Pentos. They were somewhere in the Flatlands last I recall," Talodris shares with Anakin, capturing his interest.
The Flatlands, situated to the east, north, and south of Pentos, is a fertile expanse of open fields and plains that plays a crucial role in sustaining the City. Countless magisters and nobles have properties in this region.
Anakin cleared his throat, his tone professional and respectful as he asked, "Do you know why the Khalasar are heading there?"
"Who knows. But the Dothraki are known for only one thing," Talodris expresses a negative perception of the Dothraki, implying that they are known for their savagery.
Agreeing with a solemn nod, Anakin was well aware of the horrors that the Dothraki were capable of, having traveled through the harsh Dothraki Sea. Their savage philosophy of the strongest prevailing made them formidable foes. It was at that moment when Anakin came to the realization that the army he had heard the Red Priestess speak of, which he would cross paths with in Pentos, could very well be the Dothraki.
(298 AC - Pentos)
After hearing about the Dothraki Khalasar, Anakin's time in Qohor was cut short to just two days. As soon as the Unsullied had recuperated, they resumed their travels through the Flatlands.
Compared to the Dothraki Sea, the dull voyage lasting an entire month across the land was uneventful. There were no bands of marauders or captive individuals to delay this trip. The few individuals they did come across while journeying through these lands were too cautious of the powerful and intimidating Unsullied.
As soon as they reached Pentos, they wasted no time and could see the Dothraki army gathered outside the city gates. Anakin, not wanting to act hastily, ordered two Unsullied soldiers named Ash-Insect and Menial-Snail to go undercover and abduct a Dothraki from their camp, bringing him back to him.
Anakin's demand for information prompts the Dothraki captive to reveal the reason behind their gathered presence. Despite a harsh beating from Ash-Insect, the captive remains stubbornly tight-lipped. Anakin, inspired by lessons from his encounter with Kinvara, resolves to attempt a new approach- tapping into his undiscovered power of telepathy.
The influence of the dark side granted Anakin the ability to delve into minds and extract information, regardless of the strength of the individual. He employed this method to forcefully extract the visions from the prisoner's mind, resulting in him shrieking in agony. The Unsullied guards, who encircled them, observed with fascination, speculating on the type of sorcery their king must be employing and whether it was as excruciating as it appeared.
In a brief amount of time, Anakin comprehends the situation unfolding before him. Viserys is bartering Daenerys for the loyalty of a Dothraki force. Annoyed and conflicted, he can't decide what infuriates him more - Daenerys being offered as a pawn or the confirmation that the Red Priestess was correct in her belief that Viserys sought the Iron Throne. Numerous thoughts swirl in his mind, many of which center on his Uncle, but he immediately focuses on devising a plan to rescue them. As he recalls the memories he extracted, he realizes Daenerys shows little eagerness to wed the Dothraki Khal.
A small force of 1,000 soldiers will be led by him, while the remaining 5,000 will encircle the Dothraki settlement.
An audience will be sought by Anakin to negotiate with Khal Drogo for the release of Daenerys. This tactic, hopefully, will distract the Dothraki while the Unsullied will surround the area and be prepared for any combat.
Anakin makes sure to inform the men who will be stationed around the camp that a red flare in the sky will serve as the signal. This 'flare gun', as Anakin has named it, was the first invention he made since becoming king. A flare is a tube packed with explosive chemicals that burn very brightly or give off smoke. With more resources at his disposal, he is currently working on multiple gadgets that he deems useful back in Meereen. The flare gun has proved to be extremely valuable during their voyage across the Dothraki Sea and the Unsullied have already started incorporating it into their warfare.
Anakin's force makes their presence known as they are held up just outside the encampment by guarding Dothraki forces. In fluent Dothraki, he requests an audience with the formidable Khal Drogo, making his intentions clear.
As Anakin patiently awaits, Khal Drogo appears and his soldiers swiftly clear a path for him to proceed, punctuating the way with the rhythmic tapping of their spears on the ground.
He emerges from the pathway and lays his eyes on them all: Khal Drogo, Viserys, Daenerys, and Ser Jorah Mormont.
Khal Drogo commands a great presence with his towering stature and fierce demeanor as a Dothraki warlord. His long, black locks and prominent blue war paint on his chest add to his imposing appearance. With a robust and muscular build, Khal Drogo embodies the strength and skill of a true leader of the Dothraki horde.
Viserys Targaryen, on the other hand, boasts shoulder-length silver-blonde hair, captivating violet eyes inherited from the Targaryen lineage, and a slender frame.
Daenerys Targaryen, sister to Viserys, shares the same striking silver-blonde hair and violet eyes, complemented by a fair complexion. Her expressive features and graceful presence adds to her charm and elegance.
The unfamiliar knight, Ser Jorah Mormont, sports short hair with graying strands, a well-groomed beard, and a face weathered by battles. Anakin immediately recognized him as a knight, prompting memories of Ser Willem Darry to resurface.
"Mighty Khal," Anakin introduces himself in the Dothraki language to Khal Drogo.
"Who are you? Why are you here?" the warlord demands to know.
"Wasn't the family supposed to be invited to weddings? I am Anakin of House Targaryen, the King of Meereen," he informs Drogo.
Unable to contain himself any longer, Viserys strides up behind Khal Drogo approaching Anakin. "So it's true. You are alive," Viserys exclaims with wonder, his eyes fixed on Anakin and his army.
"Where have you-" but before Viserys can finish his sentence Anakin shuts him down by gesturing with a pointed finger and hushing him. He then moves towards Khal Drogo.
Anakin clarifies to the warlord that in accordance with his culture, the household leader, which in this situation is himself and not Viserys, is responsible for arranging marriages for their children and unmarried kin. Therefore, Viserys did not hold the power to offer Daenerys to him.
Khal Drogo has heard stories of the King in Merreen, a skilled warrior with incredible powers. He was known as a foreign invader lands and a formidable warrior who has proven himself in many battles. But Khal Drogo was not one to simply kneel over and accept defeat.
"You mean to take my Khaleesi from me?" Drogo questions Anakin.
"No, I mean to tell you she was never your Khaleesi to begin with. Nor does she want to be," Anakin declares, shifting his attention from Drogo and advancing towards Daenerys.
Anakin and the majority of individuals significantly loom over his aunt, whose height is only 5'2". He reached out and gently touched her shoulder, posing the question, "Is this what you want?" alluding to the proposal and agreement made by Viserys. She struggled with the decision, something that Daenerys had not experienced in quite some time. She was rendered speechless and could only manage a soft, almost inaudible, "no."
This caused him to shift his gaze towards Khal Drogo, giving him an 'I told you so' look.
The scenario rapidly intensified as Drogo moved closer to Anakin and adamantly refused to let go of Daenerys, while also looking back at Illyrio, who had orchestrated the whole thing.
The front row of Unsullied behind Anakin pointed forward their spears, causing the Dothraki to raise their guard. The Khal and his warriors recognize the formidable strength of the Unsullied, and even dismounted, the Dothraki know they will be put to the test.
After facing Anakin, Khal Drogo ponders his choices and decides whether or not to set Daenerys free and walk away, an act he sees as a display of weakness. Alternatively, a battle between them could result in the loss of many lives on both sides. However, Anakin is not caught off guard by Drogo's answer, having gained an understanding of the Dothraki customs in their journey here. In a bold move, Drogo challenges Anakin to a one-on-one fight.
During the unfolding of events, Viserys, Daenerys, and Ser Jorah are completely unaware of the situation until Illyrio enlightens them. As they receive the information, the Dothraki gather to encircle them.
As they observe the scene, they see Khal Drogo being given his two arakhs and getting ready for an impending fight. These are the typical weapons utilized by Dothraki fighters. Each arakh boasts a unique shape resembling a crescent moon and a curved blade measuring approximately two and a half feet. The handle is also notably thick and nearly the same length, giving it a dual purpose as both a sword and a scythe. While it may not be effective against armor, the arakh grants its wielder exceptional wrist dexterity and mobility.
After hearing it from Illyrio, Ser Jorah is amazed to discover that all the rumors he has heard about Anakin are, in fact, accurate. Additionally, he is even more impressed by Anakin's willingness to engage in a duel with Khal Drogo in order to secure Daenerys' freedom. He knows that regardless of what happens, he must inform Lord Varys of the unfolding events that will occur.
Viserys informs Illyrio that this plan is senseless and suggests that Anakin simply acquiesce to the marriage and incorporate the Dothraki into his army.
Upon removing his hooded-cloak and passing it to a soldier, Anakin was approached solely by Daenerys, who witnessed his gray chest armor and accompanying shoulder plates.
"You don't have to do this. I'll marry him, you can have an arm-" but before Daenerys can finish, Anakin unsheathes his sword featuring a golden grip, a small diamond-shaped pommel, and no crossguard.
After pausing, he takes a moment to fully admire her appearance. "Wow. Aren't you an angel," Anakin remarks, completely taken aback by her beauty. He acknowledges that his aunt is the most stunning woman he has come across, even surpassing the Red Priestess. As Anakin nears Khal Drogo in the midst of the assembled Dothraki, he reassures, "Don't you worry about me."
As dusk sets, Daenerys takes her place beside Ser Jorah once again. The two warriors stand at the forefront, with an audience gathered around them. Jorah's curiosity is piqued, as he's never witnessed Anakin's prowess in combat. On the other hand, he is familiar with the long list of victims claimed by Khal Drogo.
Taking the initiative, Anakin wields his sword and takes a swing, only to have Khal Drogo skillfully block it with his arakh. But instead of continuing the fight, he turns his back to Anakin and starts to talk.
"The rain will fall on your rotting skin…Until nothing is left of you but bones!" Drogo declares as the Dothraki crowd roars with excitement.
"Poetic one aren't you," Anakin responds.
As Khal Drogo charged towards Anakin, his arakhs swiftly cut through the air. However, Anakin's sword remained virtually still, skillfully parrying any attacks that were able to land. The fight between the two skilled warriors was like a graceful performance, a display of both speed and power, as they each utilized their distinctive talents in their pursuit of triumph. Anakin's style of combat was defined by forceful attacks, quickly followed by a defensive stance before launching a retaliatory strike. On the contrary, Khal Drogo was more than just a display of speed and strength. His selection of arms and combat techniques made him a cunning warrior. Each one of his attacks had a purpose, all with the intention to deliver a fatal blow.
With adept skill, Anakin deftly engages in a bladelock with each of Drogo's arakhs, granting him a hand to forcefully strike the Khal's cheek with a backhand, causing him to stagger.
Anakin lands the initial blow, enraging Khal Drogo who retaliates by slashing through the sand below Anakin's feet, causing a blast of sand to blind him.
"The fuck!" Anakin lets out a frustrated exclamation as he struggles to rid the sand from his eyes, aggravated by Drogo's rolling presence nearby.
Standing back up, the Khal raises his arakh menacingly towards Anakin's face. With quick reflexes, he narrowly evades the attack that slices across the right side of his eye.
Backpedaling with a wince, Anakin gingerly presses his fingertips against the gash on his face only to realize his gloved hand is now stained with blood. The sensation triggers a distant memory - the last time he had been in pain like this was during the relentless beatings from his cruel master, and after that, in the brutal battles of Meereen's fighting pits. Khal Drogo had proven to be a far more formidable adversary than Anakin had originally anticipated.
The sight of Anakin's bleeding face makes the Targaryen siblings and Ser Jorah all wince, each displaying their own distinct response. Ser Jorah carefully observes the battle and notes that the Targaryen heir is holding his own very well despite the recent injury. Daenerys is visibly concerned, not wanting her nephew to face death because of her refusal to wed a Khal. In contrast, Viserys is impatiently eager to converse with his nephew, particularly regarding Anakin's ambitions for the Iron Throne.
When the crucial strike is delivered, the entire crowd watching the fight is in awe. Anakin makes a move, rolling forward and evading the Khal's attacks, before thrusting his blade into Drogo's chest. As the Khal drops to his knees, Anakin extracts the blade from his chest and stands over him. He surveys the crowd, his gaze locking with that of Ser Jorah. Anakin knows without being told what will happen next; the Dothraki only recognize one form of communication: strength.
With determination, Anakin heads towards Drogo's arakh, determined to use it to end the Khal's life. However, as he bends down to retrieve the weapon, Drogo lets out a loud cry and suddenly plunges a hidden dagger into Anakin's lower abdomen. Reacting quickly, Anakin swiftly decapitates Khal Drogo with one powerful blow of the arakh, causing his head to roll to the ground.
A myriad of feelings permeated the atmosphere. The Dothraki were both enraged and reverent, left astounded by Anakin's strength as he triumphed over their Khal. The crowd is buzzing with whispers, as they are now without a leader and turning on each other in disagreements over who should take charge.
Suddenly, Viserys breaks out into uproarious laughter and embraces Anakin, warmly congratulating him as if they were long-time acquaintances. With a blank expression, Anakin fixates his gaze on Viserys, harboring discontent for the predicament the latter has imposed upon them. The obvious displeasure displayed on Anakin's face catches Viserys' attention, prompting him to release him. "Nephew?" he inquires.
Anakin pivoted away from Viserys, striding towards Khal Drogo's decapitated body. He raised the head triumphantly above his own, boldly proclaiming to the Dothraki that their Khal has met his end.
"Dothraki, you can fight me and share your Khal's fate…or…join me and reap all that is to come!" Anakin declares, presenting his two options to the Dothraki Khalasar.
In response Mago, a rider of Khal Drogo's Khalasar, raises his voice to contradict Anakin's proclamation. Stating in his native tongue, "The Dothraki will never follow foreign trash like you."
Anakin narrows his gaze at the man and boldly challenges him. "So who are they going to follow? You? Because you're the 'big man' around here," Anakin taunts Mago, who grows increasingly irritated with each word.
As the conversation continues, Anakin signals for Ser Jorah to escort his family to stand with the Unsullied, clearly anticipating a heated confrontation. Jorah promptly moves Daenerys and Viserys with Illyrio following closely behind to the new location.
Mago's inability to control his impatience causes him to recklessly rush toward Anakin, brandishing his arakh. Jorah's previous suspicions about their confrontation resulting in violence are validated. In the brief moment that their blades collide, Anakin swiftly removes Khal Drogo's knife from his abdomen and uses his free hand to plunge it into Mago's eye.
As soon as Mago's lifeless form slams onto the earth, a group of Dothraki warriors quickly advance towards Anakin, catching him off guard by their sheer numbers. But before he can fully process the danger, the Unsullied spring into action, forming a protective barrier around him and engaging in fierce battle with the approaching Dothraki. With a sense of urgency, Anakin leads Ser Jorah, Illyrio, and his family behind the line of Unsullied soldiers, away from the hostile confrontation.
"Now what," Viserys demands to know, Ser Jorah also wondering the same thing.
Anakin reveals a metal cylinder with a handle and trigger, pointing it towards the sky before pulling the trigger and unleashing a bright red flare. The night sky illuminated as the red light shone over the nearby hill, revealing the remaining 5,000 of Anakin's Unsullied army.
As the battle tilted in their favor, with the Unsullied encircling the Dothraki and capturing most of them while also putting to death those who refused to surrender, Anakin issued specific orders to his soldiers to take as many Dothraki as possible into custody.
During his expedition across the Dothraki Sea, Anakin gradually comprehends the truth in the words of the Red Priestess, whom he had consulted before embarking on this voyage. Kinvara had prophesied that he would encounter the army he needed to lead in the impending conflict. Anakin had gathered an impressive force of warriors and nomads throughout his journey, and it dawned on him that the Dothraki were the key to vanquishing the tyranny of the slaveholders in Slaver's Bay.
As the conflicts come to a close, the Unsullied set up their camp while Anakin gathers the remaining Dothraki under his control. He observed that some of them were not so hesitant to submit to a foreign leader, and those who were not willing were handled accordingly.
Later that night, Anakin retreats to a tent where he dedicates his attention to getting acquainted with the many new individuals present.
He starts by wrapping his arms around Daenerys in an embrace and asks about her wellbeing after all this time. Based on Anakin's perception, she appears to be introverted, meek, and very compliant. It is likely that her behavior has been shaped by the way Viserys has treated her. Speaking of Viserys, the man was overflowing with questions.
"Can you shut up about the Iron Throne!" Anakin barks aggressively at his uncle.
As Ser Jorah and Viserys watched on in shock, their astonishment was caused by the sudden intensity in Anakin's voice. They had not anticipated his lack of enthusiasm in pursuing his rightful place as heir to the Iron Throne. However, it was not as though Anakin was unaware of his heritage and the high status it held.
In his younger years, he had listened to numerous tales from Ser Willem Darry and even Viserys. There was a marked difference in how their stories unfolded, with Viserys' being filled with fury and concluding with a quest for revenge.
His rage-filled eyes made his uncle tremble as Anakin approached him, the flickering candles in the room adding to the ominous aura he exuded. Taking off his left glove, he looks directly into his eyes.
"Here's what's going to happen. I'm taking Daenerys with me back to Meereen. Magister Illyrio has extended his hospitality. You'd be more comfortable here. If-" However, just as Anakin begins to explain, Viserys interrupts loudly, objecting, "Now hold on. If you think you're going to leav-" But before he can finish, Anakin silences him with a swift slap across the face, much to the amusement of Ser Jorah and Daenerys. "And if you are going to tag along you will do what I say, when I say. Do you understand?" Anakin addresses Viserys sternly. "You can't-" Viserys tries to protest, only to receive another slap from Anakin, who reaffirms, "Do you understand?"
Viserys lifts his hands in surrender and departs from Anakin, uncertain whether to feel angered or impressed by his nephew's bold and no-nonsense demeanor.
Ser Jorah becomes the focus of Anakin's attention as he directs his inquiries towards him now. "And you are?" Anakin inquired of the disgraced knight.
"Ser Jorah Mormont of Bear Island. I served your grandfather, King Aerys II, for many years. I'm in your service, your grace," he says, respectfully introducing himself and pledging his loyalty to Anakin.
Following the introduction to everyone, Anakin concludes by letting them know that they will need to depart the following day as he still has some unfinished business to attend to in Meereen.
On that particular night, Anakin was completely unaware that Ser Jorah Mormont and Illyrio Mopatis were spies, gathering information to relay back to Lord Varys in King's Landing.
The following day, while Anakin searches for Daenerys, he encounters Jorah and Viserys engaged in a discussion. "Well, Mormont, as brutish as this life is, I suppose it is preferable to beheading. What did Ned Stark want you for? Buying from a slaver," Viserys inquired the knight about the cause of his exile.
"Selling to one…some poachers I caught on my land," Ser Jorah answered.
"You sold to slavers?" Anakin questioned as he abruptly made his way towards the two individuals.
Without any hesitation, Ser Jorah replied, "Yes, your grace," showing no signs of alarm like Viserys did in the king's presence.
Anakin was curious, inspired by the possibility, as he asked, "Is slavery considered a crime in Westeros?"
"Outlawed across all seven kingdoms," confirms Ser Jorah.
"I see," Anakin states with a menacing glare at Ser Jorah, clearly this information about the knight's previous actions have diminished his trust. "Where is Daenerys and Illyrio?" Anakin redirects the conversation away from the uncomfortable subject of slavery and the building unease between him and Jorah
"Illyrio is gone. Why? Should we care? He served his purpose," Viserys proclaims, a smirk gracing his face.
Anakin acknowledged, "and you're still here," fully aware that this decision meant Viserys would not be staying with Illyrio.
"Don't look so surprised. I'm very curious to see what wonders you've achieved in Meereen," Viserys said.
Anakin gives Ser Jorah and Viserys a pensive glance and states, "Change of plan. We're marching on Volantisen. We're marching on Volantis."
"And what awaits in Volantis, your grace?" Jorah asked Anakin, curious to know what he was walking into.
Anakin beckons the group to follow him as he leads them to a nearby tent, where Menial-Snail and Ash-Insect are posted as guards. Once inside, he directs them to a table with a map of Essos on display.
Anakin informs the pair of his war efforts in Slaver's Bay.
The Unsullied have successfully subdued the Dothraki army of 40,000. As a result, half of the Dothraki surrendered and refused to battle. The remaining 20,000 were easily defeated by the Unsullied with minimal losses, leading them to also surrender when their forces dropped to barely 10,000. Following the aftermath, Anakin commanded a massive army of 30,000 Dothraki warriors, which included additional nomads they gathered during their journey. Alongside the formidable soldiers, Anakin also had a team of healers, cooks, and prostitutes, as well as other civilians who were not trained in combat. Anakin wasted no time in extending aid to those who were seeking shelter and protection from the brutal Dothraki attacks of neighboring clans.
"From here we'll travel south through the Flatlands until we arrive on The Orange Shore. I have a contact in Volantis that will grant us passage across the Rhoyne River. We'll cross from Volon Therys to Sar Mell and march on Volantis from the north-west. My contact will open the gates and from there my armies will sack the city," Anakin proclaims as he details his strategy for the attack.
Sar Mell is a ruined city in western Essos, located on the eastern bank of the Rhoyne just north of its delta. The ruin is located north-west of Volantis and directly opposite the town of Volon Therys.
"And you trust this 'contact'," Ser Jorah inquired of Anakin, his curiosity piqued as he wondered to whom he might be referring.
"Hasn't led me wrong yet. But if you're so worried I'm sure Illyrio wouldn't mind extending his hospitality," Anakin declares.
Ser Jorah couldn't deny one thing - Anakin was undoubtedly less trusting than his family, and appeared to be a skilled commander on the battlefield. His recent victory against the Dothraki is evidence of that.
As they are preparing to depart from Pentos Anakin meets with Daenerys who is being helped onto her horse by her newly acquired handmaiden, Doreah, a former bed-slave. Daenerys' brother, Viserys, purchased Doreah as a wedding present for her, but her marriage never came to fruition. Despite this, Doreah wasted no time in establishing a warm relationship with both Daenerys and her sibling.
"Sorry we couldn't stay longer. I hear you've grown to like it here," Anakin says, striding towards Daenerys and locking eyes with her while she sits atop her horse.
"Yes, it was far better than wandering around the streets of Braavos," Daenerys replied.
"I'm sorry I couldn't find you sooner. How'd you come by Illyrio?" Anakin inquired. Ever since Viserys informed him that the man had departed, he pondered on his whereabouts.
He would need to conduct further research on the identity of Illyrio Mopatis. In addition, there is Ser Jorah Mormont, whose intentions he deems questionable. Based on the stories Anakin has heard about his grandfather, King Aerys II, who was notoriously called 'The Mad King,' it is perplexing that someone with such a reckless reputation could gain such devoted supporters. Thankfully, the knight will be accompanying them on their journey, allowing him to closely monitor his actions.
Daenerys confesses that "He found us," her gaze timidly turning away from Anakin's in spite of being positioned higher than him on the horse. Viserys had indeed kept the girl sheltered throughout these years, as seen through her introverted manner.
Anakin's hand gently guides Daenerys' leg into the horse saddle as he speaks up, "Well… you're with me now. As soon as we sort out this matter in Volantis, we can head to Meereen where you can settle in. I'm sure you'll feel right at home there," he assures her.
"Home?" Daenerys asked, her voice heavy with sadness. "You don't want to return home, do you? To our family's home?" Her question was directed at him, knowing that Viserys had undoubtedly filled her head with tales of vengeance and the wrongs inflicted upon their family by their enemies back home.
Anakin is determined not to crush her hopes and he is secretly intrigued by the thought of seeking retribution for his fallen family and revisiting his homeland. He reassures his aunt that they will have ample opportunity for that, trying to delay her inquiries until he himself figures out his plans. 'One war at a time,' Anakin soothes himself. Out of the blue, Anakin notices Doreah securing a chest to her horse's rear and he enquires of the handmaiden, "What's in the box?"
"Dragon eggs," Daenerys spoke and Anakin noticed a trace of happiness in her tone for the first time. "They were a gift from Illyrio. But they're petrified," she mentioned.
As Anakin peers into the force, he senses something stirring within the chest. Upon further examination, he discovers a strong life force emanating from the dragon eggs inside. 'They are alive, in a state of hibernation, perhaps,' Anakin notes to himself.
Daenerys speaks up, noticing that Anakin has been fixated on the box for quite some time, and asks, "What's wrong?"
"Nothing. Come on. We've got a long road ahead of us," Anakin exclaims with a smile as he pats the rear of Daenerys' horse and sends her off. Doreah follows suit and Anakin climbs onto his majestic white horse, leading the way towards the impending voyage and battle ahead.