“I’m going to be the next King,” Rhaegar said to Talisa in disbelief. “W-What about Rhaen?” Talisa said back. “My parents don’t think she’s going to want to come back home…I can’t believe it. Rhaenys is loved here by everyone already, and she knows everything that was ever taught to her. Ned and I have sat in on a lot of lessons, so I do know some things but I’m not as prepared…will I be accepted?” Rhaegar said.

“Listen, Rhaegar, if you don’t want to, I’m sure you can just tell your parents. You have other brothers and sisters. But if it is fear of not doing well or not being liked, those are not valid excuses. This entire family is smart and will have your back. You will have the best counselor’s any King could have. Your mom and dad are widely accepted and if they chose you to reign, the people will listen. Be strong and tough but also show kindness and mercy. Always remember that. You will be great, and you have time to learn, as your parents aren’t stepping down anytime soon. Here, your mom wants you to call a town briefing, why don’t you go fetch Tyrion and Sam and go over what to say. I’ll go talk to the courier’s and tell them to notify the city. Will sundown work?”

“Yeah that should be enough time. Thank you, Talisa” Rhaegar said to her. She walks off and Rhaegar takes a breath. The first thing that needs done is to talk to Ned and Bharbo. Rhaegar feels bad for Ned, they all always thought the triplets would make up the Targaryen dragon. He is quite nervous to tell Ned, but he has his mother’s letter in his hand for proof. He slowly walks through the castle trying to find his brothers. He passes Tyrion to which he asks “Can you find Sam and meet me in the small council room shortly?”

He finds his brothers in one of the sun rooms. It has a tall ceiling and a large map of Westeros painting on the floor from the days of Cersei. Daenerys didn’t want to cover it up, as she thought it was a nice work of art regardless who ordered it to be painted. Ned is playing with Bharbo and they’re passing a ball back and fourth. When Rhaegar walks in, Bharbo throws the ball to him and Rhaegar quickly catches it. He tosses the ball back and fourth for a while before he says “Listen, I need to tell you both something…Mom wrote me” he said standing there quite nervous, shifting his weight back and fourth on his feet. Ned sensing the discomfort says “what’s wrong? What did she say about the attack?”

Rhaegar speaks “well she’s glad we are all safe, and that we were all brave and handled the situation well, but I think you should just read it…here.” Rhaegar hands Ned the letter and takes a few seconds to read the note. Rhaegar knew when he got to the part where their mother said he wasn’t apart of the Targaryen dragon because his eyebrows furrowed and he frowned. Ned shoved the letter to Bharbo who began reading it very quickly. “What the hell does she mean, she knows there’s another path for me? We all thought it would be Rhaenys, you, and I. I have lived my whole life believing so, and that bit about you being King? Why wasn’t I considered?” Ned said, with each word getting louder. Rhaegar felt sorry for his brother. He wasn’t sure how he would feel if he were in Ned’s position. He had no words for his brother, feeling his anger, and all he could say was “I’m sorry.” Ned stormed out of the room.

Bharbo gave the letter back to him and looked up innocently at his big brother and said, “I think you will make a great King. Ned probably just feels like he lost his purpose. He will be happy for you soon.” Looking surprised, Rhaegar said “when did you get so wise?” Bharbo shrugged his shoulders and simply said “do you need help with this meeting?” Rhaegar thought for a moment and said “yes, actually. I might need you to recall what exactly went on here at the castle when I was on Dragonstone. Would that be okay with you?” Bharbo nodded at once. “Would you like to come talk to Tyrion and Sam with me to tell them the contents of the letter and to prepare for this evening?” Rhaegar continued. “Sure, I’m bored now anyways” Bharbo said. They both walk up to the small council room and fill them in. Both Tyrion and Sam were shocked at the news. “Well, if Daenarys thinks her daughter will want to stay over there, there is not much to be done. I guess her training won’t go to waste if she decides to rule over there. You are really bright, Rhaegar, and an equally great choice. But we will need to start counseling you at once” Tyrion said. Rhaegar knew he had a lot of catching up to do, but he was ready. They made plans on how this evening will go.

Sundown came and the turnout was huge. The Throne Room was overflowing with people from all backgrounds. Nobles, peasants, and everyone in between. Tyrion spoke for a while and then Rhaegar stepped in to retell the tale of some of the events at Dragonstone, which prompted a quick statement from Talisa and Loras that Dragonstone is unharmed and the Stark-Targaryen family remains strong. Then little Bharbo announced what happened in the castle. There was an uproar when the people heard someone tried to attack the little prince. Rhaegar then had to answer many questions about who their attackers were, why they wanted to attack them, who the Shrouded Lord was, and what it meant. “It means, we might be faced with another very difficult war, only this will be more challenging than the army of the dead because we cannot risk being touched by the stone men. It means, if things escalate, we will need your help to fight and to come up with a solution.” No one knew what to say, until a young peasant boy, no older than 13, dressed in rags and was very dirty, stepped forward and said “we are loyal to the crown and will do whatever we can to help!” One by one the crowd started saying “aye!” Even the ladies of the court. Rhaegar couldn’t help but smile, feeling thankful for the world their parents built for their children, but no one in Westeros knew that the new stone men couldn’t be killed by fire or Valyrian steel yet. Rhaegar dismissed the crowd but welcomed the poor to stay behind to eat dinner. Rhaegar, Talisa, Loras, Tyrion, Sam, Gilly, and Bharbo stayed in the dining hall to eat with all the people and engage in conversation. Rhaegar befriended the young boy who spoke up in court, and found out his name was Xavier. He did not have a last name, as both his parents were low born. At the end of dinner, Rhaegar allowed the people to empty the tables to take the rest of the food home to their families. He pulled a few children aside who looked like they needed a lot of help, and offered them a wash and new clothes. Xavier’s mom looked saddened and said “he grows so fast, I can’t afford to buy him clothes every time he grows.” Bharbo speaks up and says “but we open our doors to the less fortunate and help when we can. Mom always wanted it that way.” Xavier’s mom said “I know, and that’s very kind of her, but a lot of us don’t like being a burden.” Rhaegar was baffled and said “no one is a burden! We are the royal family and it’s our duty to help everyone in need!”

“But it would be impossible to cloth everyone, especially growing children,” Xavier’s mom said. “Well we can try, can’t we?” said Rhaegar. Truth was, Daenarys has a large group of wealthier women who will send in donated clothes the women have made or no longer need from their family. When Gilly, Dany, Rhaenys, and Rhaella had downtime, they often would knit simple shirts, pants, socks, and put together shoes. Sansa and her daughters were doing it for the North, while Missandei and her daughters were doing it for Highgarden.

There were two medium sized rooms in the healing wing that stored all these clothes and a large bathing area. One for men and one for women. Only Sam realized it wasn’t practical to have bathtubs, as the water would quickly get dirty after each person used it. So with the help of Tyrion, they hired a lot of Flea Bottom residents to lay pipes that went from the Blackwater Rush River, to a few parts of the Red Keep, one going directly into the healing wing. The water would go into large tanks that sit over a fire outside the castle, and then run though other pipes in the castle to spigots. Iris then built another large tank that could fill with water. There was a sliding piece of metal that once removed, would show various holes, and the water would fall through the holes. This was more effective, as more people could be washed better and more quickly. Gilly made the soap. Tyrion continued the project into Flea Bottom so they would have proper drainage and so they could be able to place a few water pumps for the residents to use. Flea Bottom now no longer smells of piss and shit, and less people are getting ill.

Sam and Rhaegar walked off with the boys while Gilly and Talisa took the girls. Within minutes, they were all clean and picking out a new pair of pants, a shirt, socks, and shoes if needed. Rhaegar grabbed a second outfit that was two sizes larger than what Xavier was currently and handed it to his mom and said “for when he grows.” His moms eyes begin to water and she mutters “thank you.”

Rhaegar felt like he did his duty well today but was still feeling sad for his brother. He talks about it with Talisa for a bit, and she assured him that Ned will come around. They fall asleep next to each other every night for the next week.

But Bharbo kept thinking about his mother’s letter.

——

Rhaenys changed into a night gown and brushed out her hair, leaving soft curls behind. She grabbed a book and a cup of wine and waited for Zhowo.

Nearly a quarter of the way done with the book, she heard the familiar tapping on the glass doors and eagerly ran over to the balcony to let him in. But instead of him coming inside, he held out his hand. “Where are we going?” Rhaenys questioned. “You’ll see, but you should probably change into pants if you have them” said Zhowo. Rhaenys was confused. She changed into this night gown because she assumed they were going to stay here again. No matter, she was excited regardless. Zhowo waited by the opened glass door. Rhaenys walked up the few steps to the bedroom area and opened her wardrobe. She grabbed a pair of brown pants and a blue top she changed behind the lattice on her wall, to which Zhowo could still see through parts of it. Rhaenys knew he could see her but she didn’t care. He stood there gazing at her, wanting so bad to go over there and lay her on the bed, but he didn’t move, remembering what his mother taught him. When she was done changing, Zhowo quickly looked away, staring beyond the balcony, pretending to gaze upon the large fire in the distance that Khaleesi and Jon were sitting in.

Rhaenys emerged on to the balcony and they begin to scale the wall. Having landed on the second balcony and Zhowo already on the ground, he whispered “jump.” Rhaenys looked down and his arms were out. She smiled, sat on the railing, and slid off, having Zhowo catch her under her arms, making the landing smoother and easier on her legs. “This is so exciting, I never even snuck out of the castle back home,” Rhaenys whispered to Zhowo who laughed lightly. They walked quietly around some buildings and found a beautiful, massive, black and white striped horse. “I’ve never seen a horse like that before,” said Rhaenys. “It is called a zorse. The Jogos Nhai breed them. They are half normal horse bred with another type of horse that is all stripes. Some Dothraki have them from trading but some of us killed their former rider to get the zorse. I got mine from a Jogos Nhai who was caught stealing from the market. I followed him until he was out of Vaes Dothrak and then I killed him with my arakh, shedding his blood just beyond the border. Took back the stolen items and then I took this” finished Zhowo and patted the zorse. “She’s beautiful, does she have a name?” asked Rhaenys. Zhowo said “no, the Dothraki don’t name their animals.”

“She needs a name, Zhowo, I assist on it. Any animal that is part of someone’s life needs a good name!” demanded Rhaenys. Zhowo laughed and said “then I shall think of a good name. Come.” Zhowo mounted his zorse and then helped pull Rhaenys up. He leaned back and said “hold on.” Rhaenys wrapped her arms around his chest, feeling his abs pressed against her fingers. They rode for several minutes and soon approached a massive field surrounded by mountains filled with thousands of tents and yurts. “Is this where most of you live?” Rhaenys asked. “Some of us. We are spread out far into the Dothraki Sea, as there are over 50,000 of us. We encircle Vaes Dothrak. Those of us you like coming into the city live the closest, that’s my yurt over there. Those of us who tend to be more nomadic live on the outskirts,” Zhowo said. Rhaenys looked over to the yurt where he pointed. It was bigger than the ones behind them and any other tent that she could see. She figured this was because he was a Ko. “So what do you do when you travel? Do you take the yurt with you?” Rhaenys asked curiously. “Oh no, I have a tent I travel with, much smaller and easier to carry. Some Dothraki will take along their tents but a lot will just take a bed roll so they can strap it to their horse.” Rhaenys then saw two Dothraki fighting in the distance and a crowd was gathering around them. Rhaenys said ” look, they’re fighting!” Zhowo didn’t seem to care. He only said “I wonder who will win, they haven’t liked each other in a long time……….ah Bakho won, good, I like him.” Rhaenys looked back and saw a man slice off another mans head and then cut off his braid. “How often do fights like this happen?” Rhaenys asked him. “Before Khaleesi took charge, my father told me there were several deaths a day. But when Khaleesi took charge, she united us a lot more than we have ever been. We fight better, and our ranks have grown because of it. I only see a deadly fight only a few times a week now. There still are a lot of hands on fights though, without weapons or the intention of killing. I see those several times a day.”

There weren’t many fights in Westeros, or at least from what she has seen. She’s never seen such big and brave people all around her. She wondered why so many Dothraki decided to stay in Westeros, she thought this was much better. Life here was exciting.

Staying out of view from people, they continued to ride on for nearly and hour and Zhowo announced they have arrived. Rhaenys who was enamored with the night sky the entire time, finally looked around her surroundings for the first time. There was a large lake in front of them that had a sandy beach. There were boulders and tall exotic trees and plants spread out over the area, and the moon was reflecting off the water. “This is beautiful,” Rhaenys said. “It is my favorite place to come,” said Zhowo. He untied two fur blankets from his zorse and then he tied the zorse to a tree. He grabbed Rhaenys hand and headed down towards the sandy beach. He laid the first blanket down to sit on and then wrapped Rhaenys in the second one. Zhowo built a small fire in seconds, and then sat down next to Rhaenys on the blanket. Rhaenys offered him half the blanket, which forced them to sit very close to each other, but both of them preferred it that way. “So did you think of a name yet for your zorse?” asked Rhaenys. Zhowo paused and said, “what about Rain? It sounds a lot like your name.”

“My siblings and Daario call me Rhaen all the time. Only they spell it like my name,” Rhaenys said. “Then I’ll spell it like yours too. R-h-a-e-n instead of r-a-i-n,” says Zhowo. Rhaenys blushed.

They sat there for a long time, watching the moon pass over the sky. Rhaenys worked up the courage to sit in between Zhowo’s legs and leaned back on his bare chest. They talk for a long time, before Zhowo then worked up the courage to lift Rhaenys up and turn her around to face him so her legs were now wrapped around behind him. For a moment she didn’t know what was happening, but then he slowly and gently cupped her cheek with his hand and leaned into kiss her. Her heart was pounding. As soon as she felt his lips touch hers, she ignited on the instead. She wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned hard into his lips. His hands were slowly moving down her back and he rested them on the curves of her hips. They stay like this for a while, before Zhowo pulls away and says “I’m going to need to leave tomorrow, to lead the khalasar to Dragon’s Bay.” Rhaenys looked heavily disappointed. She was looking forward to more night time adventures and conversations. “There are other Ko’s you know. Why don’t you stay back and ride with me?” Rhaenys asked innocently.

Zhowo looked nervous and said “on Dreamfyre with you?”

“But of course,” said Rhaenys. Zhowo spoke again, “I don’t know. They’ll expect me to ride with them I’m sure. And what about my zorse? I’m going to need her for the battle.” Rhaenys said “no problem, I can take her on Dreamfyre or we can ask Cavo to tie her to his zorse and take her with him. The rest of the Khalasar won’t mind you staying behind if I ask you to. After all, all of us were going to stay behind ourselves with the Dosh Khaleen, and other women, children, and elderly. They’ll think you’re staying for protection.” Still looking unsure, he nodded and said “whatever you wish.” They continue to talk for another hour, but then Rhaenys ended up falling asleep, with her head on Zhowo’s chest and an arm draped around him. Zhowo smiled down at her watching her sleep for a few minutes, then gazed up at the night sky, soon falling asleep too–unexpectedly.

Rhaenys has another strange dream. More sorcerers with glowing hands, trying to show her something but she couldn’t tell what they wanted. Then pictures shown flying across her face. From a city that her mom told her was probably Meeren, across the Great Grass Sea, across a wasteland with red sand, past the Bone Mountains, past many strange cities and the Jade Sea. Finally on a peninsula on the southern most tip, the words Asshai appeared.

Rhaenys wakes up quickly because something large and warm nudges her body. It was Dreamfyre. Rhaenys noticed that dawn would soon be here, as the sun was slowing beginning to rise, but it was still dark out. “I wanted to be sure you were alright, it’s best if you get back now, before everyone wakes up at the house” said a deep female voice in her head. Rhaenys acknowledges her and wakes up Zhowo. “We have to go back now” said Rhaenys as she is shaking him awake. “We have to go back on the zorse, everyone will see me come back on Dreamfyre” she continued. “Can you wait for me outside the house? I will need help being lifted up to the top floor, pretend you’re just sleeping behind the house until I get there,” Rhaenys said to Dreamfyre, and her dragon took off. Zhowo quickly packs up and Rhaenys puts out the fire. They mount the zorse and head off, riding quickly. “I had a great time with you, Zhowo.”

The sun was rising more, and by the time they reached the house, they were able to make out all the figures walking around. It seemed Jon and Dany’s fire was nearly out, and Rhaenys could see baby dragons sitting on both her parents. They were so small, they could be held in the palm of your hand. Rhaenys quickly kissed Zhowo on the lips and said “I’ll see you around lunch” and jumps off the zorse. She climbed on Dreamfyre who lifted a wing to the third floor balcony and Rhaenys hopped off. Rhaenys quietly went back into her room, slipped into a night gown, and fell back asleep happy. Zhowo went to his yurt and fell asleep happy too.

The following days were some of the best Rhaenys ever had. During the day, she hung out with Zhowo and her family and friends, who all seemed to like Zhowo. Daenerys, Missandei, and Sansa spent a lot of time caring for the baby dragons, and Arya and Yara went exploring a lot around the Dothraki Sea. Rhaenys would also help raise and train the little dragons, she always thought the babies were so cute. They would often perch themselves on top of Dany’s, Jon’s and Rhaenys shoulders purring and looking all over the place. Izi loved playing with them too.

At night, Zhowo would come visit her. Most nights they stayed in her room, but others he’d take her out on an adventure and one time he took her to his yurt. Rhaenys and Zhowo were falling in love, and nothing made them happier.

The evening before they were going to fly to Meereen, Rhaenys got a letter from Rhaegar, Talisa, and Bharbo checking in with her and asking her how her ceremony went. They also told her that Ned didn’t take the news very well, and that he has been hiding out with Cella and Jojen in Storm’s End. She felt horrible for her triplet brother, but she heard what Uncle Brandon said. He will have another duty, taking after the direwolves. Rhaenys ended her letter with this:

“…and I seem to have found someone. A person I can see marrying. But would Westeros accept a Dothraki King? Would a Dothraki even want to be a King? I’m not sure if I belong in Westeros, to be completely honest. I feel like I belong here, in Essos, but mom and dad would be furious. They spent all those years preparing me for my duty, I cannot let them down. If it depends on my happiness, would they perhaps listen to me reasoning then? I feel like this land and these people are apart of me.

I need to make a choice soon.

Can you ask Bharbo if he has been seeing dreams of strange people and glowing hands? I have them every night and I don’t know what it means. It has to do with Asshai, but that’s all I know.

I am nervous for my first battle, but I have no doubt we will destroy the enemies army quickly.

Love you, can’t wait to see you,

Rhaen

”

The morning came and they all get ready to leave for Dragon’s Bay before the sun was even up. Dany, Missandei, Sansa, and Rhaenys line up once again to braid each other’s hair, but only for the flight. They all put on their Targaryen-Stark armor, besides Zhowo who only wore blood red pants, looking fiercer than ever. The baby dragons stayed behind in the house, which took much convincing. Two of them desperately wanted to follow Aegon and Sansa. Dany asked her handmaiden’s to look over them.

Jon, Daenarys, and Rhaenys call the dragons, and with in a few minutes, they all come flying towards them.

Izi came running towards them, with her hair parted down the middle and each side contained a braid. She was wearing traditional Dothraki clothes and carried an arakh. “I have decided I would like to come” she said speaking to Rhaenys. Now closer, Rhaenys saw that she had black and red war paint on her face. “Are you sure? Do you fight well? I don’t want you to get hurt,” Rhaenys said to her. Izi smiled politely, “yes I am sure. All Dothraki who are capable are taught to fight, even the low born.”

“Well, okay. You can come with Zhowo and I on Dreamfyre,” said Rhaenys.

Dany looked like she was speaking to all the dragons whom weren’t transporting dragonriders, presumably to ensure they were still okay with doing so. She pats each on their head and walks towards Jon who she kisses quickly and mounts Drogon and Jon mounted Rhaegal. Once on Rhaegal, Jon looked over to Rhaenys with a worried face, and then glared at Zhowo who took his place sitting behind Rhaenys. Rhaenys chuckled lightly, then gave her dad a reassuring smile. Everyone else mounts their dragons and Izi gracefully climbed into the pocket on Dreamfyre’s saddle where she felt the most safe. Dany yelled “fly” in old Valyrian and they all took off.

They flew for several hours. Rhaenys, Zhowo, and Izi all chatted on their way there. Rhaenys was trying to ignore the anxious pit in her stomach, as she was going to see Dragon’s Bay very shortly, and in two days time, she will be fighting in her very first battle. She glanced over and saw during part of the flight that Sansa landed over on Syrio, Arya’s dragon, to speak with her and Yara. They looked like they were talking about something serious and then all agreed on something. Dany also shortly went to talk to her two best friends on Visenya. Every time someone would jump off their dragon, Zhowo and Izi gasped, thinking that they’d surely fall to their death. Rhaenys was used to it by now, as Tormund and Octavia did the same thing. After another long while, Dany flew in closer to Rhaenys and yelled “look! There it is! The Great Pyramid of Meereen and Dragon’s Bay!” It was very early in the afternoon when they arrived and Rhaenys locked her eyes upon the 3 great cities her mother liberated and ruled from for a while. The pyramid that was once the color of limestone was now all black and had a giant red Targaryen symbol painted on it. If she looked closely, she could see the beautiful grey marble balcony’s on it.

The cities here have been slave free for 9 years now, and things seemed to be going smoothly. House workers were still allowed, so long as they were paid a fair wage, were given a proper room and bed in the house, and were no longer subject to beatings. Dany, Grey Worm, and Tyrion thought of ways to bring more jobs in the cities and it was so successful that the cities actually needed to expand. A secondary wall was placed around each cities perimeter to hold all the less fortunate families, which Dany ensured they still had decent living conditions. Meereen alone now held four million people, which is almost four times larger than King’s Landing. Astapor and Yunkai held slightly over three million people.

Dany fly’s ahead and she lands right on top of the Great Pyramid and Drogon let out a mighty roar. Without directing Dreamfyre, Rhaenys lands on the wall to the left of her mother and Jon lands on the wall to the right. Dreamfyre and Rhaegal roared loudly. Dany must have overruled the communication with the dragons because Rhaenys didn’t tell Dreamfyre anything. One by one, the rest of them land in a circle all around the wall, gently enough so the wall didn’t crumble. Everyone as far as Rhaenys could see started crying out “Mhysa!” and raising their arms in her mothers direction. She then noticed Daenarys climb of Drogon and walk down the steps that led from the top of the pyramid to the highest balcony. Rhaenys then heard Dreamfyre and Rhaegal speak at the same time “time to dismount, take your weapons, walk along the wall to the steps, and meet Mother inside.” Rhaenys told Zhowo and Izi what to do, then she grabbed her sword, shield, and bag and slid off Dreamfyre. Noticing what Rhaenys and Jon were doing, the rest followed their lead.

This city was so different from King’s Landing, but Rhaenys thought it was much more beautiful and exotic.

Looking beyond the walls, Rhaenys saw the massive Khalasar camping around the perimeter. All the dragons take off, with Drogon, Rhaegal, and Dreamfyre staying close to Meereen, and the others taking off towards the other two cities. Rhaenys makes her way towards the pyramid and she caught whispers of people saying how much she looked like her mother. This made her smile. Daario greets everyone just beyond the entrance and says “welcome to Meereen.” Rhaenys is taking in every detail of the pyramid, and as she was looking around, she noticed she wasn’t the only one. Zhowo, Izi, Octavia, Arya, and Tormund are all moving their eyes around so fast.

They get led into the Throne Room. The throne itself sat on top of large limestone steps. There was a marble floor and limestone pillars, and there were even pools of water on the floor that contained exotic looking fish. Dany was already there and Jon went up to where she was and stood by her side. Daario’s wife and children come down to greet everyone as well. Rhaenys knew Daario’s kids, as they often traveled with him when he came to King’s Landing.

Everyone talks amongst themselves for a while until Dany stands up. “I think we should discuss some plan of action before we relax this evening. Daario informed me that the other army doesn’t have confirmation that we are here and are prepared. They think by the time we find out they are attacking, we will be too far away, so we use that to our advantage. The largest battle will be fought here, outside the outer walls of Meereen, since they would have to come through here to get to the other two cities on foot. Octavia and Jamie, I need you to command the left flank. You will have the Dragon’s Bay warriors behind you and some of the Second Son’s. Daario will command the right flank with the rest of the Second Son’s. Daario, if you would take them to the meeting place so they could become aquatinted with those who they’ll be in charge of keeping safe…” Dany drifts off and Daario bows his head slightly to Dany and walks out of the room with Jamie and Octavia. As soon as they walk out of the room, a group of strange women came in. They wore no shirts, had jewelry in their nipples, were heavily tattooed and had rubies in their cheeks. Everyone in the room looks taken back by their entrance. Only Daenerys, Grey Worm, Missandei, Zhowo, and Izi seemed to know what they were. They march in and the room falls very silent. The woman, who appears to be the leader approached the bottom of the steps while Grey Worm and Aegon step in front of her so she can’t go any further. The woman looks at the both of them then up towards Dany and Jon and takes a few steps backwards. She speaks in a strong accent but in the common tongue, “Queen Daenarys, we are the Hyrkoon–from the Bone Mountains. My name is Annithi, we were here on our trade routes and saw you all fly in. We have been wanting to meet with you for a long time, but we have never been in the same place at the same time. We heard of your arrival in the Dothraki Sea and some of us left the mountains to make our way over to you. We have made camp about 15 miles east of Meereen, in the Khyzai Pass. We know there is a fight coming and we want to help defeat those bastards coming this way. They never respected us or the Dothraki. We saw how you ruled here in Dragon’s Bay for the last 20 years and we know how strong and fierce you are and how much you truly care for the people here. But we ask for your help with something. We need help with eliminating the Jogos Nhai. They have been attacking our people for many generations, and their numbers are getting so large, they are killing and raping many people in our cities, and even in Yi Ti and surrounding areas. They are stealing from us and attacking us whenever they can. They have become a big problem in the Far East,” Annithi trailed off for a moment. Dany glanced at Zhowo to see if he knew anything about this and he spoke, “the Jogos Nhai have started attacking the Dothraki too. They find smaller sites where only a few of us live, and attack them with overwhelming numbers. Dothraki are better fighters, but they are cowards and only attack when only a few of us are around. They’ll bring triple the number of fighters to attack. They try stealing from Vaes Dothrak too. They are being a problem. The Dothraki and the Hyrkoon have understandings with one another, and I believe her. The Hyrkoon can be trusted, and if she wants to fight for you, let them. No one else in the Known World has all female fighters, and they’re great with spears and bow’s.”

Annithi smiles politely at Zhowo and slightly lowers her head out of respect and Zhowo does the same. Dany takes a moment to consider this and then speaks to Zhowo, “so you wouldn’t mind riding part of the Khalasar to the land of the Jogos Nhai and fighting with these women, destroying an entire culture?”

“Yes, Khaleesi. I know innocent lives deserve not to be punished but the Jogos Nhai are not innocent. They want all of us dead.”

Dany had a glazed look in her eye. Jon spoke next and said “will you then, pledge your loyalty, for all of the Hyrkoon, to House Targaryen?” Rhaenys was used to his father saying “House Targaryen-Stark” but they once told her the Stark name doesn’t mean anything in Essos. Daenerys Targaryen, and Daenerys Targaryen alone liberated Dragon’s Bay and won over the Khalasar.

Annithi spoke and said “of course. What do you Westerners do? Bend the knee, correct?” Annithi didn’t wait for a response and she dropped to one knee and said “I, the leader of the Hyrkoon promise our loyalty to House Targaryen until the end of time.” The other women behind her drop to one knee too.

“Very well, please note my daughter over there, Rhaenys, will rule after me. Your loyalty will extend to her once it’s time” said Daenarys. Annithi looked over and said “we will remain loyal to your entire bloodline.” Rhaenys suddenly noticed how pretty Annithi was. She was tan and had very long and very curly black hair. She wore it in a high half pony that sat on top of her head. She had a bit of dark makeup around her large green eyes. She looked to be no more than 25 years old. The tattoos on her arms and legs were beautiful patterns that she’s never seen before. The rubies in her cheeks glisten. People in Westeros might find her strange and unattractive but Rhaenys thought she was the opposite. Rhaenys gave her a small smile in return. The woman continued staring at Rhaenys and when Zhowo noticed this, he moved closer to Rhaenys. Annithi’s eyes shifted up to Zhowo and then she quickly turned back to Dany.

“How many of you are there?” Dany asked. “Nearly 2,000 of us are here, but in the mountains, there are about 23,000 of us. We needed to travel quickly without many breaks, so only the strongest made the trip, we rode non stop to get here in time” Annithi said.

Jon looked at Dany and Rhaenys could tell they were impressed by their numbers. Between the Second Sons, Dothraki, the Essos Unsullied, and now the Hyrkoon, and other Dragon’s Bay waarior’s, their Essos army was 100,000 strong.

“Gendry and Meera, you both will be in charge of the archers. You will line up along the outer walls and prevent anyone from getting passed the city. Meera, I want you to command Meereen and Gendry, I want you to command Astapor. Those are the two most critical positions. Meera you’ll have 800 to command here of the Hyrkoon and Gendry you’ll have 800. Annithi, you’ll take 400 to Yunkai and command there. You’ll be the most secure as Yunkai is the center city. If any enemies make it through to you, you will see that they will not continue their journey. Gendry and Meera, ride to the place were they are camping and separate them accordingly and tell them to camp outside their stationed city’s walls or if they would like, to stay overnight within the city” stated Dany. Gendry, Meera, and Annithi nod. Gendry and Meera stand next to the warrior women, waiting to hear the rest of the tactics that may concern them or be dismissed.

Dany speaks again, “Grey Worm will command the Unsullied, but he will be here in Meereen. The Unsullied will be stationed behind the Dothraki while the Dothraki ride into the opposing army. Grey Worm, I’ll need you to go to Yunkai and Astapor to speak to the Unsullied there to let them know our plan. Zhowo, you will go to to speak with the Dothraki. Rhaenys, I want you to fly them and attend their meetings to get familiar with Dragon’s Bay. It shouldn’t take long. When you’re done, you can come back here.”

“Okay,” Rhaenys responded.

“Missandei, you will fly over the northeastern most part of Dragon’s Bay and the area between Meeren and Yunkai you are you burn any ships that make it that far, and any travelers that make it ashore.”

Missandei gives a small smile and looked reassuringly at her husband.

“Sansa and Arya, I want you to do what you do best. I think you know what I’m going to say. Your main task will to sink all the ships coming into the Bay. Each of these ships will be equipped with the weapons Euron had 16 years ago, so use caution. Yara, I want you to command the southern most troops. Some ships will no doubt try to land south of Astapor and charge the city on foot. Aegon, you will fly around Astapor while helping with any ships in the eastern part of the Bay. Brienne and Tormund, you will command the troops on the road and shoreline between Meereen and Yunkai. Jon, myself, and Rhaenys will be flying over the main battle, as I am sure we are going to be outnumbered there. We will take out all the large weapons first and then burn those who we can. The other dragons in the area will fly overhead helping wherever they are needed. I don’t want to call upon any other dragons nearby yet because I don’t want to draw any attention to us. I want them to continue to think we aren’t here. Are there any questions?” asked Dany.

There was silence.

“Alright. So if Aegon, Sansa, Yara, and Yara want to stay the night in Astapor, so you’re close by to where you need to be, Missandei can show you the way. She can introduce you to the city officials and the housecarl’s there. Gendry and Meera, you should leave now with Annithi. Stop by the stables and tell them you’re the princess and prince of Storm’s End and I sent you. They’ll give you the best horses. And be quick, the riders who need to make it to Astapor need to leave immediately, as it will take them well into the evening tomorrow to reach there by horse. I hope your women are well rested, Annithi. Ride hard and ride fast” said Dany and the three of them started to make their way out of the room and Dany added, “Gendry, if you’d like to come back here afterwards you can, I can have you fly to Astapor tomorrow evening, it will only take about two hours by dragon.” Gendry smiled as a thank you. He didn’t want to be separated from his wife just two days before a large battle.

“Brienne and Tormund, if you’d like to stay in Yunkai, you can fly with Rhaenys and Grey Worm will get you settled. If no one has anything further to say, I suggest we move on then, so we can spend tomorrow resting and doing last moment preparations. If for some reason anything changes or occurs, I will have the dragons around you roar twice if battle has begun here, three times if I want all of you to come back here immediately, or four times if we are being over taken and you need to hold your city at all costs and you will need the common people to help fight too. Are we understood?” asked Dany.

The mood in the room was now very serious, but everyone agrees.

Daenerys turned to Rhaenys and said “go now with Grey Worm, please. I should see you in a few hours.” Rhaenys walks out the door with Grey Worm, Zhowo, Brienne, and Tormund at her sides. Izi walks passed her and says she is going to find Cavo and will be back when she returns. Missandei, Arya, Sansa, Aegon, and Yara are walking behind them. Rhaenys called for Dreamfyre back in the Throne Room, so by the time they exited the Great Pyramid, she was spotted flying in. When they got outside the wall, Dreamfyre landed near where they were standing. They all climbed on her and took off. With Dreamfyre being as large as she is, everyone fit on her with ease. For the hour they rode, Zhowo, Tormund, and Brienne were talking about life in the far north and making jokes. Periodically, Rhaenys would chime in and even Grey Worm. Grey Worm was generally quiet, but through the years he has shown more personality and interest in conversation. Grey Worm told Zhowo about Highgarden and his training arena, all which sounded very interesting to him and even asked Grey Worm if he could come to visit. Grey Worm was very proud of his home, and it was heartwarming to see.

Yunkai comes into view and Rhaenys sees a city much like Meereen, only it’s covered in smaller, stepping pyramids. The whole city is yellow and copper, and camels are wondering all over the desert surrounding the city. Where there was once a large harpy statue Rhaenys saw from old drawings of the city, now stands a massive statue of a dragon, about the size of Drogon and Dreamfyre. They circle the perimeter of the city once, and Rhaenys saw millions of people looking up at the sky. They were used to seeing a large black and red dragon, but not her blue and silver one. Dreamfyre lands just outside the outer wall and by the main entrance, to which they were greeted by a high born family. Her mother told her about who the lord and lady were of Yunkai. After the liberation of Dragon’s Bay, Dany and Daario thought it was best to have trusted members of the Second Sons be in charge. The members who were chosen were to marry a high born from that city, so the people would more easily accept the new rule. In Yunaki, it was a man named Daemon, a Second Sons member who is lean with black hair and has many scars, but is still handsome, especially because of his blue eyes. Yezza is his wife. Yezza was a daughter of the wise master Yezzan zo Qaggaz. Yezzan was the fattest man to have ever existed, he couldn’t even move. He was considered one of the greatest slave traders in Essos, but he was known for being “kinder” to his slaves. He was very sick and was dying a slow death for years, and he’d reward anyone who could make him forget that, which is what resulted in Yezza. He eventually died of the pale mare, a horrible jungle disease. Yezza, unlike her father, was of normal stature.

Yezza has shoulder length wavy dark brown hair and copper skin. She was wearing a yellow dress and standing close to her husband. She reminded Rhaenys a lot of Ellaria. There were four small children standing in front of them, two of which also had yellow eyes, and the other two had bright blue. They all bow their heads and say “welcome to Yunkai, Princess Rhaenys.” They bow again to welcome Grey Worm. They lead them through the city and the children run ahead. There are the familiar whispers amongst the crowd in High Valyrian and the common tongue, making comments of Rhaenys beauty, and hearing little girls say they want to be a princess like her when they grow up. Little boys were whispering how they wanted to be a strong warrior like Grey Worm. The little girls were standing by a shop which Rhaenys could see sold toys. Dolls, wooden swords, toy soldiers, riding sticks, spinning tops, and glass jewelry. Rhaenys walked over to the shop and placed a coin purse on the table. “I think this will be enough to buy everyone? Rhaenys said to the man in High Valyrian. The man looked at Rhaenys with wide eyes and nodded. Rhaenys then said “the poor children may pick out one toy until all of the items are gone.” She picked up a few dolls and took them over to the little girls. She keeled down and said “here you go. Tell your friends to go pick out a toy too.” The little girls gasped and giggled, one even gave Rhaenys a hug. She always did charity work wherever she went. It was important for the public to see the crown doing acts of good, as that is how you kept the loyalty and support of the people, but Rhaenys just liked doing it, the people’s children were her children too.

They continued to walk to the largest stepping pyramid, which was only a little more than half the size of the Great Pyramid. When they approached the entrance, they saw Syrio, Valyria, Olenna, and Visenya flew overhead. Tiny specs on top of the dragons were waving.

Once inside, they went straight into the war room and began discussing the plans Dany ordered. A few high ranking Dothraki, Unsullied, and Second Sons were there. Zhowo spoke to his Dothraki and Grey Worm spoke to the Second Sons and Unsullied. Rhaenys sat in a chair observing the conversation and contributing when necessary. A handmaiden brought her a cup of wine and a silver plate of cheese and crackers. The meeting was going smoothly until one of the Second Son’s questioned whether or not the Hyrkoon could be trusted. “It seems odd that they now want to join forces with House Targaryen. Why didn’t they 20 years ago when we were trying to stabilize Dragon’s Bay?” Rhaenys speaks up, “I beg your pardon, but it sounds like you’re questioning the judgment my parents made. We trust the Hyrkoon because the Dothraki do. They have always had a civil and respectful relationship and have never done anything to make us believe otherwise. They most likely didn’t come to our aid 20 years ago because they didn’t know who Daenarys Targaryen was. They saw a war between a foreign queen and cities that were known to enslave thousands of people including some of their own. We mustn’t blame them for that. One day, we hope to free all the cities of their slaves and abolish the act once and for all. To bring all of Essos under Targaryen rule, and in order to do that, we will need many more allies and friendships. I trust them, and so do my parents.” With that, it ended the conversation. All the information was passed along, so Yezza took Brienne and Tormund to their quarters. They would be in charge of all operations here until after the battle was over.

Rhaenys, Zhowo, and Grey Worm now head back outside and climb back on Dreamfyre to head to Astapor.

Flying for another hour and Rhaenys and Zhowo talk most of the way. Grey Worm has fallen quiet and Rhaenys can sense there is something off. “You haven’t been back to Astapor since my mom freed all the Unsullied, have you?” Rhaenys asked. Grey Worm shook his head. “I have kept in contact with the Unsullied there but no, I have not been back.” Following Rhaenys lead to unease Grey Worm, Zhowo asks him about the Night King and what the battle of Winterfell was like, “I’ve always wondered what it was like. Of course I know many Dothraki, including my own father, who fought in it, but not many like to speak of it. Dothraki aren’t afraid of much, but whatever they saw over there did scare them,” he said. Grey Worm then sat up a bit straighter and faced the two of them. He told them about the overwhelming numbers, how Jon and Daenerys helped from above, how Jorah and Dany fought bravely on the ground, and how Jon almost died but Dany came to save him. He even told them about the Red Witch and how she saved a lot of people. Rhaenys knew all of this of course, Sam, Tyrion, and Uncle Bran wrote a book shortly after her parents won the war. She must have read it a thousand times and asked her parents a thousand questions when growing up. The book was about each of her parents journey to power, how and why they met each other, and recalled every detail of the war against the dead and the war against Cersei Lannister. Rhaenys made a note to bring Zhowo the book whenever they saw each other again, which gave her a sinking feeling in her stomach. She didn’t want to leave. It wasn’t just because of Zhowo, but he was a small part of the reason why.

Before they knew it, they were in Astapor. Another family met them outside of the gates and in the distance over the bay, Valyria, Olenna, Syrio, and Visenya were flying amongst themselves.

There was Noho, the Second Son’s member with his wife, Alia, a descendant of Kraznys mo Nakloz, who once was a slaver in Astapor. Noho was muscular with blonde hair and brown eyes, and Alia had dark red hair with auburn eyes. She was tall and thin. This couple had 7 children. They walk into the city, and it’s very similar to Yunkai, only it’s mostly a city of red and bronze.

The briefing goes well and ends quickly, when one of the Unsullied say “we have 2,300 more Unsullied soldiers who can fight. Not all of them are fully trained but they’re still better fighters than most people.” Grey Worm nods his head and says “good.”

“I thought the Unsullied were done making soldiers?” Yara asked. Aegon says “not quite, but it’s done differently now.” Arya says “how?”

“We do not force anyone to become Unsullied. The men, and now women, join because they want to. These people mostly come from poor families and want purpose, or because they see no higher honor. They come from all over Essos, even some from Sothoryos. We do not cut them or force them to kill. They are taught discipline through hard tasks and by practicing long days. Their weapons training is the same I received a long time ago” Grey Worm said. Aegon added “we make it worth their while. They get free barracks to live in and are given free meals. They are in charge of their own farm by the river, just outside the city.”

Grey Worm went back to Meeren with Missandei and Rhaenys gave her Aunt Sansa, Arya, and Yara a hug goodbye as well as her Uncle Aegon. She calls back “good luck” and leaves the city with Zhowo. The sun was setting over the Bay and it was beautiful.

Sometime later they arrive back in Meereen. As soon as the Great Pyramid came back into view, Rhaenys seemed to lose control of her dragon again. Dany took over once more. They flew to the peak of the pyramid, the same spot where Daenerys landed when they first arrived. Rhaenys climbed off and landed on a small and flat surface. For the first time, she saw the narrow set of steps that were chiseled into the side of the pyramid that led to the largest and highest balcony.

Rhaenys and Zhowo followed the steps down and jumped onto the balcony. The glass doors were all opened and she saw her parents relaxing around a table in what she assumed were the Queen’s Quarters. It was smaller than what they had in King’s Landing, but it was just as nice. Dany is the first to speak,

“You made it back with good timing. I would think you both are hungry so I could have food sent to your room, Rhaenys, or you both could go into city for dinner. The Moonstone Inn has wonderful Meereeneese food, Daario and I go there every time I am visiting.” Zhowo looked at Rhaenys and shrugged his shoulders as to say he didn’t care which they did. “I think I’d like to explore more of the city,” said Rhaenys. Dany nodded in confirmation and said “very well, come back when the moon is high. Your quarters are below mine. Zhowo, I want you to meet us in the Throne Room tomorrow morning, we have something to do.” Both Rhaenys and Zhowo acknowledged.

They ran into Izi and Cavo walking in the streets on their way to the Moonstone Inn and they both decide to join Rhaenys and Zhowo.

They arrive at the Inn and get the table closest to the fire. Zhowo and Cavo sot next to each other while Izi and Rhaenys sit across from them. A plump, big chested, but pretty lady with curly light brown hair that was pulled into a messy topknot, walks over to them and asks them what they want to eat and drink. Rhaenys remembered that Izi told her on the way to Meereen that while she was getting fair wages, she had to save her money for something important, and that she’s nearly at her goal, so before anyone could speak, she said “get whatever you three want, it’ll be my pleasure to buy us a meal.” Izi looked into her eyes and they spoke “thank you” without her mouth moving or making a sound. The two women ordered wine from Yi Ti and the two men ordered ale. They also got a chicken, vegetable stew, and a slice each of apple pie. Daenerys was right, the food was very good and the others seemed to agree. Once they were done, Rhaenys left money on the table and walked out with the rest of her friends. They took a long walk around what they could of the city. A city of this size couldn’t be explored fully in one night.

There was a large group of children and teenagers playing in a small field in the center of the inner wall. There was what Rhaenys took as a large fishing net suspended in the air by two large wooden poles that were sticking out of the ground on each end. They had a leather ball that they were hitting across to the other side of the net. When one side let the ball drop to the ground, the other side cheered. Rhaenys walked over to a nearby log to sit on it and watch the game. Of course, everyone was distracted by their presence–three Dothraki and one Targaryen Princess, who is the daughter of their Queen. It wasn’t a common sight for the Meereenese to see. After a while, a dark skinned boy approached them and asked in High Valyrian if they would like to play with them. Rhaenys translated it in Dothraki and Cavo stood up right away, obviously excited to play. Rhaenys laughed and stood where the boy told her to. Rhaenys and Zhowo stayed on one side while Izi and Cavo stood on the other side of the fishnet. The dark skinned boy hit the ball hard to the other side and then they hit it right back. The ball came to Rhaenys a few times to which she would hit it back as hard as she could. They played for a long time under the light of the moon and the surrounding fires. As they played on, a small crowd gathered around to watch the Princess and some people were watching from their windows in their homes. When the moon was high, she bid them all a goodnight. A few of the younger kids ran to give her a hug and the ones closer to her age bowed their heads. She was exhausted and had such a long day. Cavo and Zhowo walked with Izi and Rhaenys back to the Great Pyramid. Zhowo gave her a hug and kissed her hard on the lips.

“I guess I won’t be seeing you tonight. Would be difficult sneaking into the pyramid, wouldn’t it?” Rhaenys said with a laugh. “I will see you when the sun rises. Goodnight, beautiful,” Zhowo said with a half smile and brushed a loose strand of hair behind her ear and kissed her again. Rhaenys takes a step forward towards the entrance of the pyramid and turns back around to say “Arent you coming, Izi?”

“Oh! I could stay with the rest of the khalasar, I brought a roll to sleep on. We aren’t in Vaes Dothrak anymore, so I do not have a place in this home” and Izi motioned towards the pyramid.

“Nonsense! I would love it if you stayed!” Rhaenys told her. She didn’t want Izi sleeping on a thin roll on the ground while she could sleep in a comfortable and warm bed. Izi paused for a moment but then smiled and nodded. Cavo, who seemed to be learning from Zhowo, took Izi’s hand and kissed the back of it. He said “until the sun rises” in Dothraki and turns around to walk off with Zhowo.

Izi tried hard to restrain her smile but she ultimately failed. She leaned into Rhaenys and Rhaenys looped her arm around Izi’s and they walked off smiling together.

It was late, so they only ran into a few guards in the halls. They climbed many sets of stairs and a level before her parents quarters, they wandered off down the hall. A large sitting room opened into view and it was very luxurious. The furniture was ornate and the walls were painted with beautiful murals. Similar to the home in Vaes Dothrak, there were gold ornaments hanging off the ceiling. There was a massive fireplace at the end of the room made of the same white/grey marble that the balconies were made of. There were so many book cases filled with books, Rhaenys couldn’t help herself, she had to look at them. Reading was her third favorite activity to do, after flying with Dreamfyre or riding Shadow and spending time with her friends and family. More than half of these books she’s never heard of before, so she grabs one and walks further. There was a large set of doors at one end of the hallway, and a metal sign was on the wall beside it that read:

“Daario Naharis, Hand of the Queen in Essos, Deputy Ruler of Dragon’s Bay, Master of Coin for Westeros and Essos, Leader of the Second Son’s.” His quarters seemed to take up a lot of the second level of the pyramid.

Rhaenys walked to the other side of the room. There was a small dagger holding up a piece of parchment on the doorthat said “Rhaenys.” She pulled off the note and opened it up and she saw that it said “don’t forget to meet me and your mother tomorrow. We have some flying to do tomorrow. I hope you like your room,

love,

Dad

”

She opened the door and the luxurious feel continued inside the room. There was a huge limestone basin in the middle of the floor–in was the bath, something Rhaenys has desperately been wanting since she arrived back into Meereen. It was filled up with steaming water already and flower pedals were floating in it. The basin was longer than a very tall man, and nearly the same width. Several feet away was the biggest bed she’s ever seen. There was a wardrobe too of course, in which Rhaenys walked over to it and pulled out two nightgowns.

“Would you like a bath? There’s plenty of room for the both of us,” asked Rhaenys. Izi responded with “sure.” They both get undressed and step into the basin. Standing in it, the water came above her waist. There was a bench in the water to sit on, and they both do so. This was the first time Rhaenys could fully see all of Izi’s tattoo’s. She didn’t have many, but she did have a few. Curious, Rhaenys asked “what do the markings on your skin mean?” Izi pointed at the pattern on her upper arm first. “This is my family’s symbol. Many Dothraki have symbols or patterns that represent their family, and they are almost always on our arms” said Izi. Rhaenys observes the circle- triangle-circle pattern wrapping around her arm. “If you noticed, Zhowo’s are a series of horizontal lines of different lengths and small dots,” she continued, “this one,” pointing at a red circle that has red lines coming off of it on one side, “is for the red comet that brings more dragons.” Pointing at the flames on her back shoulders, “and these are for Khaleesi. If we win the battle the day after tomorrow, I’ll be able to get my first set of stripes on my chest. One for the battle itself, two if our side wins.”

“Does getting them hurt?” Rhaenys asked. “Only at first, then you get used to it,” Izi responded. Rhaenys is intrigued and thinks that maybe one day she would like to get one.

Both of them gossip about Zhowo and Cavo, and the surprise visit from the Hyrkoon. They help wash each other’s hair out, put on their long gold night gowns, and brush their hair out. Of course, Rhaenys searches for the wine and pours it into two tankards and walks back over to the bed sitting on it. She gestures Izi to sit on the bed too and she does. Rhaenys passes the tankard to her. They stay up for a while longer talking to each other, before they both fall asleep.

The next morning came quickly. A handmaiden came and knocked on the door. Izi got up first to open the door. The handmaiden was carrying a tray with breakfast on it and said “the Queen has ordered for Princess Rhaenys to quickly finish her meal and get dressed. She said to prepare to ride. May I assist her with getting ready?” Izi said “no thank you, I’m her personal handmaiden, I will get her ready for the day.” Izi took the tray and set it down at the table. The Meereenese handmaiden bowed slightly and then left.

Rhaenys got up and stretched. Izi begins to turn down the bed while Rhaenys makes her way over to the breakfast. She offers Izi some food which she happily accepts. “I wonder what Khaleesi will have you be doing today?” she asked. “I’m not sure. But you’re welcomed to stay here, though I’m sure you’re going to be with Cavo,” Rhaenys said with a smirk.

Izi picked out a pair of dark red pants and a black vest. There was just the front made of leather, and at the sides, hung a strap, like a belt. Izi tied the top behind her neck and them strapped the top in place. Her entire back was exposed, and so was her mid section. Izi tossed her a pair of black boots and Rhaenys laced them up. “Interesting outfit,” Rhaenys said. “Perhaps for you, but many warriors here wear similar items. The colors were made for you, of course,” said Izi. It was something she never wore before, but she did like it, as she observed herself in the large mirror. Rhaenys sat at the vanity while Izi put a few smaller braids at the top and sides of Rhaenys head, and then pulled her hair up into a large pony tail. It looked a lot like how Octavia’s hair looks, only Rhaenys hair is silver and much longer. “Do you want me to do your hair before I leave? I think I have some time” Rhaenys asked Izi. Izi nodded. “Same thing?” ask Rhaenys, and Izi smiled slightly and nodded again.

Once Rhaenys was done, she gave Izi a quick hug and said “help yourself to anything in the wardrobe if you’d like. I’ll see you later!”

Rhaenys quickly makes her way down to the Throne Room where she sees her mom, dad, Zhowo, Daario, Jamie, Octavia, Gendry, Meera, Grey Worm, and Missandei. As soon as she walked in, Zhowo was eyeing Rhaenys up and down with the smallest smirk on his face. It made Rhaenys stand a little taller. Her mother is dressed almost exactly like her, only she’s wearing all her braids like usual and her whole outfit is dark red, besides the black boots.

Jon greets her and gives her a side hug while she tells her mom good morning. She then goes to stand next to Zhowo.

“Now that everyone is here, we will all be flying west to observe where the enemy army is at, how large they really are, and what they have…” says Dany before she could finish, Jamie chimes in and says “well what about not being seen? I thought we wanted the element of surprise of us being here.”

“…we will all be going on Dreamfyre, who blends in with the sky. I gave instructions for Aegon to do the same over the Gulf of Grief, as Valyria is white and can hide in the clouds. Tonight we will set out to see where their final campground is so we can see how long it will take for them to arrive. For that, we will take Drogon. Are we ready?” There was a consensus around the room. Rhaenys calls for Dreamfyre who of which spoke back in her head saying “Mother already called me, I am outside the wall.”

Rhaenys is the first to approach Dreamfyre and mounts her first, then Zhowo, Dany, Jon, Gendry, Meera, Octavia, Jamie, Missandei, Grey Worm, and Daario. They all straddled Dreamfyre and clutched to a spike. Rhaenys, Zhowo, Dany, and Jon were able to hold on to the reins.

They were off, and flew not even an hour before they spotted a large mass on the land. Thousands of people with large catapults and crossbows. There’s a giant wooden structure that is very long and sturdy as well, being carried by at least a hundred people. “What is that for?” Rhaenys yelled back for someone to answer. “It looks like they’re going to use it to knock down the city walls, or try to,” said Meera. Rhaenys swallowed hard. They flew quietly over the army, just barely leaving the clouds. Dany, Jon, Grey Worm, and Daario were taking notes on everything they have. After the fifth time around, Dany said “okay, let’s go back.”

They arrived back and waited around until it was dark out. Gendry left on the back of the green and brown dragon by now to go to Astapor where he was needed for the fight. He was able to tell the others on the way what they saw and when they thought they were going to arrive at Meereen.

The group hung around with each other all day, talking about what they saw, and what Valyria shown Drogon. The massive fleet is waiting to sail in, on the edge of the Gulf of Grief and Dragon’s Bay. Dinner was brought in, but Rhaenys was feeling nervous now. She couldn’t eat more than a roll of bread.

Nightfall came and they left again, but on Drogon. They were much closer–only about 3 miles from Meereen. They could see the light from their bonfires. They decided to fly south to check over the Bay. They flew for two hours and that’s when they saw in the distance the huge fleet. “I hope Aunt Sansa and Arya can handle that” Rhaenys thought out loud. Jon, who was sitting in front of her said “they destroyed Euron’s fleet in the matter of minutes once Arya arrived at the scene during the Battle of Kings Landing. As long as they think we aren’t here, they won’t expect it. But they have hundreds of those crossbows just in case. Sansa and Arya are familiar with those as well. They’ll be great.” They turned around and went back to Meereen. Rhaenys fell asleep resting her head on her fathers back.

The landing woke her up. Thankfully they landed on top of the pyramid instead of outside the wall, she didn’t feel like walking that far to her room, but she didn’t even feel like walking back to her room now. She climbed down the narrow steps and jumped on the balcony. She stumbled a little and her eyes her half closed. Before she knew it, Zhowo scooped her up in his arms and said to Jon and Dany, “I am going to carry her to bed, I’ll see you at dawn.” Jon shifted his weight and said “uh…” before Dany cut him off and said “that is fine, Zhowo. Izi is probably in there waiting for Rhaenys,” and she playfully nudged Jon. Rhaenys couldn’t keep her eyes opened. After not getting much sleep from the night before and it being as late as it is, she was tired. She felt Zhowo open the door, walk down a flight of stairs, through a corridor, and open another set of doors. It was her room. She heard Izi say hello and Zhowo whispered hello back. He laid her down on the bed and took off her shoes and kissed her forehead. She reached out and took his large hand with her tiny one, forced herself to open her eyes, and say “I wish you could stay.” Zhowo smiled and said “me too, but I need to get back and inform the other Ko’s. I’ll need to get them into position too as soon as dawn comes. I also think your father will come in here shortly to make sure I did leave. Sleep well.” Zhowo caressed her cheek and walked out of the room.

“So we need to be ready by dawn then?” Izi asked nonchalantly. “Yes, the army is only 3 miles away from Meereen and their fleet is only about a mile from southern shore. You ready to fight?” Rhaenys said. “I think so, I guess we should try to get some sleep. It is very late and both of us were up late last night too. Can I help you with anything?” Izi responded. “Just help me get out of these clothes, I want nothing more than to feel my silk nightgown on my skin.”

Soon, they both fall asleep. However, Rhaenys felt another kiss on the top of her head and she opened her eyes slightly to see the dark outline of her father. He closes the door and she falls back to sleep.

Rhaenys wakes on her own. She gets out of bed quietly, as Izi is sound asleep on the other side of the bed. She walks out on to the balcony with a cup of tea, that is supposed to give you energy. It was very good, it tasted like fruit.

It was still dark outside, but she could tell that the sun was going to rise soon. She sat on a chair on the balcony and spoke to Dreamfyre, “are you able to see if Zhowo is awake?” There was a purr of acknowledgement, and in a few minutes, Rhaenys saw Dreamfyre flying in the distance towards Meereen. She made her way over to the large Dothraki camp and circled once. She landed by all the tents and walked around, but Rhaenys couldn’t see past the wall. Dreamfyre projected an image in Rhaenys head. She was seeing what Dreamfyre was seeing. This was so cool! She never done that before. There was no sign of Zhowo being awake, only a few Dothraki guards who were staring at Dreamfyre, which made Rhaenys laugh softly. “Okay, it’s important that you stay on the ground until the battle. We don’t want to risk you or any of the other dragons being seen…are you ready to set an army on fire?”

“Yes I am. Mother and Father are now calling for all the dragons in the area to come to Dragon’s Bay but to stay hidden. I’ll be sleeping next to Drogon and Rhaegal until you come for me,” the familiar low rumbling voice said. Good, this means mom and dad are awake. Rhaenys gets another cup of tea and Izi wakes up. “Tea?” Rhaenys asked. “Sure, thank you,” Izi said in a groggy voice. She stands and stretches her arms and back. She takes the tea and follows Rhaenys out onto the balcony. The sun was slowly rising now. “Are you ready?” Rhaenys asked Izi. Izi grinned and said “yes.”

They got ready without talking much. Rhaenys was nervous. She knew Dreamfyre was indestructible but what if she was knocked off her dragon? Would Zhowo and Izi be safe on the ground? Would the other dragons who weren’t indestructible like Drogon, Rhaegal, and Dreamfyre be okay? Especially Sansa with Olenna and Arya with Syrio? Would Jamie and Octavia hold their flank? If anyone got passed Meera, would Brienne and Tormund stop them on the dragon road? Rhaenys heard the dragons give the signal in her head.

She wore a single braid in her hair, as this was her first battle. She put on her armor/riding gear that she wore when they left Kings Landing. The black dragon scale pants and the Targaryen-Stark symbol vest. She laced up her boots quickly and helped Izi get ready. Izi wanted to wear her hair in the single braid too, and she put on her traditional Dothraki leather. She put some war paint on her face and offered it to Rhaenys. She had black and red. “How do I do it?” Rhaenys asked. Izi took some on her fingers and put some around Rhaenys eyes and down her face. “There. This is Zhowo’s war pattern. He will be wearing black and you’ll be wearing red,” Izi said. Rhaenys quickly looked in the mirror while Izi grabbed her shield and weapon. They both looked like warriors. They ran out of the room, down the steps, and head towards the Throne Room, where Rhaenys knew the dragonriders would be. Izi doesn’t come into the room with Rhaenys, as she needs to join the rest of the Dothraki. Rhaenys hugs her quickly outside the Throne Room and says “stay safe. You know I’ll be watching you from above. Send Zhowo my love.” Izi hugs her back and says “if we win, we need to celebrate tonight. Today’s in 16th name day.” Izi runs out of the pyramid. Rhaenys went into the Throne Room, where children were starting to gather. “I bought everyone into the inner circle and I’m bringing all the children into the pyramid,” Dany told her. “Yeah, that’s a good idea,” Rhaenys said back to her. Dany then smirked and said “well, you sure look like a Dothraki with that war paint on your face. It looks good.” Rhaenys smiled back.

Missandei, Dany, Jon, and Rhaenys stood around for a few minutes, trying to calm down the panicked children. “Alright. We need to go out now. They’re in viewing distance. Our dragons are staying hidden behind the eastern wall. We will only take off when I say so. Got it?” Dany said. They all agreed, even Jon.

They make their way outside the wall, through a small stone gate that Rhaenys hasn’t seen before. It’s only wide enough for two people to walk side-by-side. “I had it installed for defensive and offensive purposes, when it closes, you can’t even tell there’s a gate here. Two Unsullied who are staying to guard the inside of the city nod at them. Dany says “keep the children safe.” They nod again. They close the gate quickly behind them once they entered. Rhaenys saw six dragons, two she never seen before, and they’re still young. About half the size of Rhaegal. They were still large enough to carry three adults though. “They were close by already. Eight more came, I sent four to Yunkai with the others and four to Astapor with the others. More may be on their way, but I’m not sure if they will make it in time. We will definitely be okay with just these though.” Dany gives Missandei a hug and says “you should leave now. Once you get to the Bay, stay landed until you need to fly. Fly as low as you can, so you’re not seen in the distance.” Missandei hugs her tightly back and before she says anything, Dany knew what she was going to say, “I will watch out for Grey Worm. He will stay safe, I promise.” Rhaenys gives Missandei a hug too, then she turns around to her black and white dragon, Visenya, mounts, and takes off.

Jon speaks now, “Rhaenys, when we take off, we are going to head to the middle and back of the army masses. If we kill them first, they won’t have a chance to make it to the front lines. When they get mixed with our army, it is more difficult to set fire to the enemy because we of course, don’t want to catch our own people on fire. Dreamfyre maybe indestructible and impenetrable, but if she gets hit with one of those massive boulders, she will get knocked around and you could be at risk of falling off. Hold on to the reins when you can. When we’ve done what we can do with fire, fly low enough to where you can shoot your bow at targets, but high enough so you’re not an easy target. Only come to the ground if absolutely necessary. If you do, stay in front of Dreamfyre. She will protect you.” Rhaenys agrees. Both her parents give her a quick hug and then Jon and Dany hug and kiss. All three of them mount their dragons. “They’re here” Dany said. They hear the Dothraki battle cry. It has begun.

The sound of the occurring battle was loud and was nothing like anything Rhaenys ever heard before. She closes her eyes and takes a few deep breaths and then she feels Dreamfyre start to move. Dany must have ordered them all to take off. Her heart was racing. As she was flying to her destination, she searched the ground for Zhowo and Izi. She spots Zhowo first because not many of the Dothraki have a zorse. He had a weapon in each hand and he was already splattered with blood, but we was doing fine. Octavia and Jamie look fierce. Izi, where is Izi? She can’t pick her out in the crowd. All the Dothraki has the same type of hair, clothes, and skin. Rhaenys needed to focus on the task her mother gave her. When she looked ahead, she noticed that a lot of the army was looking up, terrified and confused. They flew lower, just gliding a few feet above their army, going towards their enemy. Drogon, Rhaegal, and Dreamfyre roar. The three other dragons were already up in the sky, raining fire. They were really fast.

Large boulders were now flying through the air. Most were missing the Targaryen army, but some people were devastatingly hit. This made Rhaenys want to destroy the catapults as soon as possible. Rhaenys spoke to Dreamfyre and said “tell Drogon we’re heading towards the catapults and we we’ll attack from behind.” Dreamfyre made a growling sound in agreement. Dany looked over and nodded her head. “Now, until we get there, DRACARYS!” Drogon, Rhaegal, and Dreamfyre all released their fire. Rhaenys guided Dreamfyre up into the sky, so she could safety get behind the catapults. Dreamfyre was hit by something. It was a giant spear. She was getting bombarded with them, and when she looked down, she saw Rhaegal getting hit too. People knew from the Battle at Kings Landing Drogon was impenetrable, but they didn’t know about Rhaegal and Dreamfyre. All the spears were just falling on top of their own army once they hit Dreamfyre. Rhaenys laughed and pushed forward and laid flat on Dreamfyre to avoid getting hit.

The mass of people who were carrying the ram were half way to the outer city wall of Meereen, with their goal of knocking it down.

——

Arya and Sansa are standing on the beach next to Astapor, watching the approaching fleet enter Dragons Bay and the army that is protecting Astapor is shuffling around getting into their final positions. The other dragons that Dany sent are standing, waiting to take off. Aegon is further down the beach, southwest of the city, ready to fly. Gendry is standing in the middle of the city’s wall that faces the Bay, all the archers are waiting for his command. He has a bow in one hand, and his war hammer on his back, looking serious and extremely focused.

“You ready to do this again?” Arya asked Sansa. Sansa had her hair in magnificent braids. She smiled and looked down upon her sister and said “let do this. As strange as is sounds, I miss the thrill of battle, especially on the back of my dragon.”

“I think I understand. New battle, new continent, new enemies, and new cities to protect, but the same small minded men. Battles and wars make me feel alive. Olenna is a bit faster than Syrio, you take the south end, I’ll take the north and we will meet in the middle?” Arya asked. She had a tight top knot in her hair and both she and Sansa were wearing simple pants and a simple vest with a large Stark direwolf on it. They opted out of wearing shoes, because they would be getting wet very soon.

“Sounds good, little sister” said Sansa. It was time. The ships were coming in quickly, only about 2,000 feet from shore now. There were whispers of good luck to the two women from the Second Sons and other warriors as they walked to their dragons. Yara paces quickly over to Arya and kisses her. “Stay safe and keep your eyes opened,” she told her. Sansa and Arya mounted their dragons, looked to each other one last time and took off. Their plan was simple. Destroy as many ships as possible from the air, and destroy from below the water when necessary. Dragons could hold their breath for several minutes, but Arya and Sansa could only for a little over 60 seconds. They take off.

As planned, Sansa flys as fast as Olenna could and heads to the back of the fleet and Arya stays in the front, already setting ships ablaze. It was long before giant spears were flying towards them from every direction. Olenna and Syrio weren’t impenetrable like Drogon, Rhaegal, and Dreamfyre, so they needed to be very cautious. Sansa was weaving in and out of the spears and setting fire to the ships that were on her way to her position. She briefly looked to the east and saw a white spec in the sky and an orange trail below it. Aegon and Valyria were at work now too.

Sansa finally arrived at the back of the fleet and got to work. There was a group of 6 ships who were separated from the fleet by a line of burning ships. They were attacking her relentlessly and she couldn’t get close enough. She said “okay girl, let’s go under.” Olenna dived straight into the water and pushed herself under the ships. A few bubbles came, then a lot, then the hot fire. She sunk each ship in the matter of seconds. When the 6th ship started to sink, Olenna shot out of the water. Sansa was soaked and her eyes were burning slightly from the saltiness of the sea. She wiped her eyes quickly with her fingers and kept going. She was now able to see the blue spec in the air that was Syrio.

Arya was making through the fleet quickly. Since she was in the front, they had less time to prepare for the dragon attack. She wasn’t getting bombarded with spears until she was a fifth of the way done with burning her half of the ships. But Arya was a really good flyer, graceful too. She was the best flyer after Jon, Dany, and their immediate family.

Her and Sansa continued to burn the ships for a long while, and finally, they were close enough to see each other. Almost done, with the help of the other adult and younger dragons Dany sent. Arya looked to her right for a moment, and in that moment, Arya heard a thud and a loud screech. “No!” Arya cried.

——

The ram reached the wall and was beginning to hit it very hard. The archers were raining arrows down on them, but whenever someone died, another person would quickly take their place. After a dozen hard hits, the wall cracks and makes a decent sized whole. A young dragon flys over and ignites as many people as he could, but even then, a few hundred soldiers made it into the city. The dragon sets the ram on fire so no one else can make it through the hole. The 300 Unsullied who stayed in the city will stop them, even some of the archers were already running along the wall shooting arrows down into the city.

Jon and Dany were doing amazing. Rhaegal was spinning around doing as much damage as he could. Drogon was like a giant wrecking ball, not bothering much to get out of the way and just destroying everything in his path.

Rhaenys was now at the very back of the army, flying towards the front line, and setting everything she could on fire. The catapults and the giant crossbows were spread throughout the massive field. She destroyed nearly half of them when Rhaenys felt a huge pain in her chest, so bad she could barely breathe, and Dreamfyre made a strange noise she’s never heard before and swerved a bit in her path. “What is it?” Rhaenys asked Dreamfyre. “I think…” she began to say but then cut herself off. A huge boulder that was on fire hit Drogon. Hard. Drogon was tumbling in the air and Dany fell off. Drogon couldn’t regain control yet. “MOTHER!” growled Dreamfyre and sprinted forward so fast, Rhaenys nearly was blown off, not prepared for the speed. “Let anyone catch her, please get there!” she thought loudly to herself. Her mother was still falling through the air, like slow motion. There is no way Dreamfyre could get there in time. She saw Rhaegal and Jon flying now towards the scene and Rhaenys told Dreamfyre “No! I’m closer! Get Rhaegal to destroy the rest of those catapults!” It was like there wasn’t and hesitation. Rhaegal stopped abruptly and turned. Right as she finished, a small yellow/orange dragon caught Dany just in time. He was definitely too small to fly a grown adult for a long period of time. When he caught her, he dipped several feet in the air under the impact of her weight. The little dragon was flapping his wings hard. It was Aggo!

“Drogon? Are you okay?” Rhaenys asked him. She saw he was on the ground now, but standing. “I am,” said the deep, strong voice. Dreamfyre was close to Aggo now and Rhaenys saw that her mother was slightly shaken, but okay. Dany got to her feet, but stayed in a crouching position. Dreamfyre hovered in the air while Aggo flew right to Dreamfyre’s shoulder. Rhaenys reached her hands out to her mom. Dany grabbed both of them and jumped, while Rhaenys pulled her on. The little dragon flew away, toward the direction of the catapult that knocked Dany off. In a few seconds, he seemed to be attacking the people in charge of it while Rhaegal was burning it. The last one.

“What happened?” Rhaenys asked her mom, who just looked angry now. “You felt the pain too?” Dany looked right into Rhaenys eyes. “What? Yes, just before you fell I felt-”

“That was a dragon dying,” Dany said. Dreamfyre moaned again. “You and Dreamfyre felt it strongly, like Drogon and I. We got distracted for only a second and that’s how we got hit. When the dragons close by saw me falling, they must have momentarily looked to you on what to do. That’s how you must have overruled Rhaegal. Jon was fighting to come to my aid, I felt his and Rhaegal’s struggle, but ultimately listened to you when you told him to go finish the task. I didn’t order any of them to catch me either. I’m guessing you did that too, thank you by the way” she said with a small and awkward chuckle.

“Why did I feel it like you?” Rhaenys asked, but as soon as she did she knew the answer. “First head of the dragon,” they both said together. “You will also be their Mother one day. I only felt that once when Viserion died…I think we got as much as we could. The armies are mixed together now. Fly me to Drogon. It’s time to fight from the ground,” Dany said. As they were flying, Rhaenys had to ask “Which dragon was it?”

“Drogon showed me an image from Syrio. One of the young dragons I sent to Astapor, she was protecting Arya. A spear was flying towards Arya’s head and she flew in front of her.” Rhaenys felt an overwhelming sadness and fought hard to hold back tears. Then anger towards the people who started this battle in the first place. Dreamfyre landed on the ground close to Drogon and Dany clutched Dark Sister as she slid off Dreamfyre. “Remember, use your bow, only come down here if necessary!” Dany yelled back. Dreamfyre rose into the air again. Rhaenys saw her mom climb on Drogon to grab her Valyrian steel shield out of the pocket. She slid down Drogon and then began fighting next to her dragon. It wasn’t long before Rhaegal shown up with Jon, who embraced her first, glad to see she was alive. Then he wielded Longclaw and took out his shield too. Rhaenys wanted to look for Izi and Zhowo again, now that she was able to offer them help. “Find Zhowo,” Rhaenys told Dreamfyre, as he’d be easiest to find. Dreamfyre glided again over the intertwined mass of people. Between Drogon, Rhaegal, and Dreamfyre, they must have killed 50,000 people. The combat was numerically in their favor now.

Rhaenys climbed back to the pocket on the saddle and pulled out her bow and arrows. She then straddled herself perfectly on the center of Dreamfyre’s back and began aiming.

——

“Bharbo, I really think we should head to Meereen instead. The battle is in two days. They will need our help. I didn’t come here for some detour. I only came for mom and dad,” said Ned. “Can you get trust me? How many times do I need to prove to you that my visions are always right? I only said mom and dad would need help to get you to come. They are fine. We are needed elsewhere and we are running out of time!”

Ned, Bharbo, Rhaegar, Rhaella, Talisa, Loras, Margaery, and Benjin were all flying east. They already stopped in Old Valyria so Rhaegar could do his ceremony. With the help of stories from their parents and insight from Bharbo, they were able to find the right volcano quite easily. Meraxes, Rhaegar’s dragon, dived into the lava and arose. When he came out, the third head of the dragon was announced. Everyone thought it was either going to be Rhaella or Bharbo, even though Bharbo insisted it wasn’t going to be him. Rhaella did not care if it was her or not. It wouldn’t change who she was or what she wanted in life.

But shockingly, to everyone’s surprise, it wasn’t either Rhaella or Bharbo. When Meraxes told Rhaegar, his mouth dropped and stared at the person it was.

Talisa Catleyn. It was her. She was speechless, like everyone else. She was still mounted on top of Dusk. Margaery was the one who spoke first, “well come on now, sis. Time to get off so Dusk can go in.” Talisa had a blank stare on her face, but climbed down and stood next to Margaery, who hugged and congratulated her. Dusk then dived into the lava and came out. Talisa changed too, like her dragon. Her eyes now were just violet instead of blue and violet and her hair turned silver at the bottom. It was like a gradient–the top of her hair was deep orange and then it slowly changed to silver at the very tips. Rhaegar embraced her. They slept a few hours in the volcano, where they knew they were going to be safe, as the fields around Volantis wouldn’t be.

All but Talisa, Rhaegar, and Bharbo knew were they were truly heading. On their second to last day in Kings Landing, Bharbo called for all the people with Targaryen blood back to the Capital. Bharbo and Rhaegar had to set out first light to get to the Iron Islands and Winterfell. Bharbo had a seven hour flight and Rhaegar had a nine hour flight. Bharbo spent the night at the Iron Islands with Corlos and Rhaella, and Rhaegar spent the night in Winterfell with Benjin and Margaery. Before Rhaegar left, he flew to the Dreadfort quickly and told Sandor to go back to Winterfell. He rode quickly on the back of his direwolf.

When they got back to the Capital later in the day, Rhaella, Benjin, and Margaery stayed hidden in the dragon pit with the dragons. While Bharbo and Rhaegar were gone, Talisa and Loras were covering for them in case Tyrion or Sam went looking for them. If they saw they brought the others back early, they’d know they were up to something. Tyrion would have the Royal Guard’s barricade them all in their rooms if he knew they were leaving. Rhaegar and Bharbo thought it would be a good idea to take some of the direwolves with them. They were sure Rhaenys missed Shadow. There were nine other wolves that came to the dragon pit that night, none with a master. They were a bit different than the tradition direwolves, these ones had much shorter hair, as they adapted to the southern climate over the years. “I think they want to come with us?” Ned said in a questionable tone, unsure of why he knew that. Rhaegar, Rhaella, Talisa, Benjin, Loras, and Margaery left their direwolves behind. Rhaegar took Shadow and one of the others with him, Bharbo took Red and another one, while Rhaella and Talisa took two, and Ned took Tully and another direwolf. Loras took the last two.

They set out when it was dark, and left Tyrion a note saying:

“We are safe, and we are sorry. We have a task to do. If for some reason all of us die in Essos, you shall be king.

With love,

Rhaegar, Bharbo, Ned, Talisa, Loras, Margaery, and Benjin.

”

When they woke up in the volcano, they headed to Vaes Dothrak. Bharbo saw that the Dothraki city was going to be attacked when most of the herd was in Meereen. He saw many causalities at the hands of pointed headed people who owned striped horses–they were black and white. They had to make it on time, as the Dothraki were their people. They flew all morning, all afternoon, and most of the evening. Ned was complaining the whole way because all wanted to help with the Battle of Meereen, and that’s all.

Bharbo was right. The women, children, and elderly that stayed were attacked. They yurt that held the Dosh Khaleen was fallen and on fire. A lot of bodies were on the ground surrounding it. There were short, pointed headed people on striped horses everywhere, trying to flee once they saw sight of the dragons. They were nearly done, and were about to leave. Rhaegar, Ned, Talisa, and Loras knew who they were–the Jogos Nhai. Rhaegar didn’t know his mother was soon preparing the attack on those people, but he took matters into his own hands anyways. He knew his mother would approve of their actions next.

“Bharbo, Rhaella, Benjin, and Margaery, go to the ground and see if there are any survivors. Help them if you can. Talisa, Ned, Loras, lets go.” The group in the air did not hesitate to set the attackers on fire until there wasn’t anyone left. When they were done, Loras and Ned headed to the ground. Rhaegar and Talisa dropped the direwolves on the ground quickly and then decided to fly further east, to the land of the Jogos Nhai to see what could be done about them. Shadow took off south in a sprint, the others seemed to follow. Shadow appeared to be the Alpha here, where Nymeria was the Alpha in Westeros.

There were three Dosh Khaleen members still alive, but badly injured. Bharbo was telling the his family members how to treat the other victims that were still somewhat alive. This broke Bharbo’s heart. He knew how important the Dosh Khaleen was to the Dothraki.

Several hours pass. Bharbo, Rhaella, Ned, Loras, Benjin, and Margaery were able to get most of the survivors stable. In their efforts, two more people died while trying to care for them. Margaery, Rhaella, and Loras rebuilt the Dosh Khaleen’s yurt the best they could and patched it up. Ned worked on burying all the blood that was spilled, as it wasn’t allowed in the sacred city. Benjin and Bharbo worked on building pyres for all the dead. They decided that it would be best if they didn’t burn them yet. Their own would want to pay their respects to their people, especially to the fallen Dosh Khaleen. They just laid the dead gently on the pyres.

“We should stay here until the day after tomorrow. Let’s keep cleaning up and caring for the wounded. I can’t believe they would attack this city and the sacred Dosh Khaleen…” Ned said. All were silent for a while.

Two of the baby dragons that were staying in the Khaleesi estate were flying around Margaery and Benjin’s heads, making them laugh. The one above Benjin’s head was green and white, and the one above Margaery’s head was dark red and a pale grey.

They didn’t want to interfere with the Battle of Meereen so they all decided to set up camp and wait for Rhaegar and Talisa to come back. Once they do, they’ll head to Meereen.

——

Rhaenys was shooting arrows wherever she saw a person needed help. It wasn’t long before Dreamfyre spotted Zhowo, and Rhaenys was helping him out as much as she could. Zhowo was repeatedly fighting off at least 5 opponents the entire time. She was shooting anyone who was coming his way. She saw in the distance the archers on the city walls were busy at work, attempting to hold the entrance to the dragon road, but the gate was being knocked down in addition to the giant hole in the city wall. Missandei will get them if they make it far.

She was out of arrows, but they needed help. Rhaenys made the decision to go to the ground, grabbing her new sword and shield as they descended. A group of Dothraki pushed aside to make room from Dreamfyre. Their spirits were much higher now that a dragon was standing near them. Dreamfyre wasted no time getting to biting people and lashing her massive tail. There were people who were trying to stab her and it wasn’t working at all, their weapons just bounced off of her, leaving her attackers terrified. People slowly began to notice who Rhaenys was–it wasn’t hard with the silver-white hair and violet eyes–and it became dangerous for a Targaryen on the ground. Two people charged at her right away but Rhaenys was ready for it. Over a decade of training with the best warriors and assassins in the world would finally pay off. She got in her stance, and smirked at the two hopeless men charging her. Rhaenys was fast and moved like water, never stumbling and always moving. A sword comes flying at her head but she quickly ducks and slashes the knees of the person. He screamed in pain, but only for a moment because Rhaenys then swung her sword hard and took his head off. She didn’t believe in making people suffer in death, even if they were unkind, she just wanted it to be over with.

As soon as she was done swinging her sword the other man reached her and she had to quickly jumped to the right to avoid being hit. This man was a bit better than the last one, but not by much. Their swords clashed only three times before Rhaenys was able to confuse him and send her sword in the middle of his chest. Blood was gushing out of his mouth and his eyes were wide, full of fear. She took off his head too.

She had to do this twenty more times before she had a small opening to make her way over towards Zhowo. “Follow me,” she said to Dreamfyre. Rhaenys stayed right beneath her head as they slowly walked deeper into the fight. The Dothraki were riding quickly by on their horses and zorses, decapitating anyone in their path A few times Dreamfyre had to reach her head around Rhaenys to people who were charging at her. Dreamfyre would grab them with her mouth and launch them 100 feet away.

She finally saw Zhowo, still riding around on his zorse. He was covered in even more blood, but looked unbothered. He saw Dreamfyre first then Rhaenys. There was panic in his eyes and rode over to her. “Why are you down here?” he yelled. There was someone who was trying to take advantage of his back being turned and charging at Zhowo fast, good thing Rhaenys was paying attention. She got in front of Zhowo and was fighting the guy who tried to take his life. Before Zhowo could process what happened, Rhaenys sword already met the guys neck.

“I’m fighting. You shouldn’t get distracted,” said Rhaenys, half amused. “It’s not safe for you down here!” pled Zhowo.

“Listen, I killed 23 men and I just landed a few minutes ago. I’m capable. Im going to be the future Queen and Khaleesi, I’m not going to let my people fight for me and my family without showing them I am fighting for them too. Now, where is Izi?”

Zhowo was impressed, and so were the other people close by who heard her speak. “She was with Cavo’s section, they’re probably fighting near each other,” he said. “Let’s find them,” Rhaenys said.

They needed to push further and further in, with Dreamfyre’s chest nearly pressed against Rhaenys back. Her and Zhowo had to kill another 30 or so people together and Dreamfyre chucked a dozen more into the air and out of the way.

They see Cavo, who appeared to be doing fine, covered in blood, just like Zhowo. Rhaenys was now scanning quickly for Izi. Dreamfyre growled loudly and took off walking as quickly as she could, pushing people aside and stepping on the dead. Rhaenys ran after her and followed, with Zhowo trailing behind her. She then saw Dreamfyre raise her neck high in the air and come down hard. Her neck made several quick movements but Rhaenys could not see the scene in front of her and ran harder. There were five dead bodies laying around her and a dead horse. Izi seemed to have gotten knocked off her horse and was almost overpowered. Dreamfyre got to her just in time because she’s badly hurt. Cavo takes notice of the scene and is frozen, not noticing his surroundings. Again, thankfully Rhaenys was paying attention. She grabbed a dagger from the strap around her thigh and threw it hard, right passed Cavo’s head and it landed center face in the person who was charging Cavo. She walked over, pulled the dagger out of the mans face and looked up to Cavo and said “you men really need to stop getting distracted. The crowd was thinning out now, and an hour later the battle was over. The healers made their way onto the field and moved anyone that was still alive to a large tent they set up. The survivors surrendered and those who could, bent the knee. The dragons took care so cleaning up the dead. Whatever they didn’t eat, they burned to ash.

It was crucial that Dany and Jon flew to Mantarys, Tolos, and Elyria right away to claim the cities. Grey Worm, Missandei, Jamie, Octavia, and Daario flew with Dany and Jon. They also flew as many Unsullied and Second Sons members as they could on their dragons and with the help of others, while 3,000 Targaryen loyalist marched towards Mantarys and Tolos, while another 1000 sailed to Elyria. Their army was so huge, their cities cannot be largely populated anymore. Dany dropped Daario off with 20 Unsullied and Second Son’s members on the tiny island of Elyria. She left two dragons to constantly circle the island, as a threat and reminder to anyone who retaliates. The architecture in these cities where different from Dragon’s Bay, as these three cities were founded and governed by the Valyrian freehold. Since the Doom, they sort of just ruled together.

There were tall circular structures with a mixture of flat and pointed tops. A lot like the city of Valyria. Before Dany, Jon, and everyone left, they landed together on the island and made their presence known. Since the battle ended, six more fully grown dragons showed up. A dozen dragons landed on the beach and let out a roar. The inhabitants of the island looked terrified but bent the knee, knowing they didn’t stand a third chance in trying to defeat the Dragon Queen. They walked through the island until they came across the tallest circular structure in the very center of the island. They entered and dropped a massive Targaryen banner from the top window and Daario took his place. Dany and Jon exited and they noticed they drew a crowd of people now.

“If anyone has any concerns, you may line up at the entrance and Daario will address you one by one. Like under the Targaryen rule will be better! You mustn’t deny the popularity of Dragons Bay!” People were slowly lining up at the castle. Daario would stay inside the castle at all times until the other troops could arrive while the Unsullied guard the castle day and night, it would take almost a week for the ground troops to arrive in Tolos and Elyria. About a week and a half to arrive in Mantarys.

They did the same thing in Tolos and Mantarys. In Tolos, Octavia and Jamie took over rule and also had 20 Unsullied with them. They also had four large dragons and a small dragon to watching over them.

Mantarys was going to be the tricky city. It was said to be a city full of monsters, even Tyrion saw a two headed girl from there before. They had no idea what to expect when they arrived.

It looked much like Tolos and Elyria, but hidden in the mountains. The city looked beautiful from afar, like it was carved perfectly into the sides of the mountains. There was a massive town in the valley, surrounding the rivers and the lakes, while a smaller town seemed to sit higher in the mountains. They took the largest castle in the upper city, dropped the banner, and let Grey Worm and Missandei settle in. They were given 30 Unsullied, as well as Visenya, and five other fully grown dragon and two smaller dragons. Dany and Jon walked through the city in the valley surrounded by six Unsullied. It was huge, nearly the size of Meereen, but you could tell the battle took a devastating toll on the population. There were a lot of stares and whispers, then finally a man who appeared to be in his 40’s approached them with caution.

He had silver hair, like Dany’s, bright blue eyes, and wore purple robes. He kind of gave off this dim glow, the same way Dany, Jon, Aegon, and their children gave off. He must have been a true Valyrian descendant, like they were.

“Valar Morghulis,” he said. “Valar Dohaeris,” Dany said back. “My name is Jaemyx Narralis and it’s a pleasure to meet you, your Grace,” he said in the common tongue but with a heavy Valyrian accent. Jon said “it’s nice to meet you too. What could we do for you?”

“Your Grace, I was wondering if we could speak in private?” he was only talking to Dany. Dany wasn’t sure why, but she felt like he would be worth her time. “Very well, but my husband, and Missandei and Grey Worm of Highgarden will also listen to what you have to say. We can go to the castle, come along,” said Dany. Jaemyx looked nervously at Jon but decided to follow.

Once in the castle, they gathered in a large, grandiose, circular room that was filled with deep purples, greens, and blues. It was very beautiful. The floor and the ceiling looked like the ones in Valyria, made of Valyrian steel. It appeared to be a Throne Room, as long benches ran along the sides of the rooms and a single large chair was in the center of the room, high up on a platform. Dany didn’t see the point in sitting on the throne when it was just the five of them in the room. She closed the door and said “carry on, Jaemyx.”

“Your Grace, there have been some of us who waited a long time for you to come. Some of us who wanted to join you since your conquest in Meereen. The Mantarys politics up until this point have been very warped. We’ve been in charge of ourselves, Tolos, and Elyria for such a long time, the noble families were hungry for power and permanent independence. There is a group of us however, who believe that we need to go back to our Valyrian roots instead of continuing on as Ghiscari. We thrived under the rule of the Valyrian freehold before the Doom, and now we are shut out from the rest of the world and are under strict laws. I suppose not anymore, though. But it’s been like this for so long, it’s going to difficult to change the minds of some people,” he said.

Dany spoke now, “you said there’s a group of you who’ve been waiting? Who is this group?”

Jaemyx said “we are the true blood of Old Valyria. We are made of six old families who have only married and bred with each other so our bloodline stays pure. Three of our families, mine–the Narralis’, the Caltigar’s, and the Vaeltheon’s, were actually cousins of the ancient Targaryen’s. So a lot of us actually share blood with you, your Grace. And we’ve been waiting for you for so long. When we heard you and your brother were hiding in Pentos all those years ago, we were hoping Viserys would come here to free us…but then…you know…he wasn’t a good person or would be a good ruler. Then we turned to you. When we heard you married the great Khal Drogo, we were excited because you were closer than ever and now had a huge khalasar behind you. Then he passed on and you went out on your own and birthed 3 dragons yourself. When you brought the dragons back we knew you were meant to rule the world and we were all so eager. We tried to get word to you but it was impossible. The city gates were being watched all day. Then you caused quite a scene in Qarth, then at Slaver’s Bay. When you sent a request to be allies and the city rejected you, we were angry. We retaliated, but our numbers weren’t great enough to win the fight. We lost 27 people that day and suffered punishments. They didn’t want to kill us because we had ‘good blood.’ Now that you’re here and defeated the tyrants, we are ready to go back to the days of having a Valyrian ruler.”

“How many of you are there? And why is this called the city of monsters? No one here looks like a monster,” Jon asked before Dany could.

“In total, there are 238 of us. The city of monsters was just a rumor started by the government here to keep outsiders away, none of that is true.”

“What about that two headed girl my Hand of Westeros saw that came from here?” Dany asked curiously.

“That was a birth defect, it wasn’t something that happened here often. No one wanted her, not even her own mother. I remember when she was born, the whole city was scared of her. She was sold into slavery almost right away,” Jaemyx said.

Daenerys said one last thing, “my daughter Rhaenys is 16. She will become the Queen and Khaleesi here in Essos. Do you pledge your loyalty to her, the Dothraki, the Second Son’s, and the Unsullied as well?”

“I swear by it,” Jaemyx said, and he bent his knee.

“Very well, please bring the heads of each of the six houses here. I’d like them to pledge their loyalty to my daughter too, when the time comes,” said Dany.

Each of them did, and were very happy to finally meet Daenarys Stormborn Targaryen. They all had silver hair and blue or violet eyes.

“You are now all the new noble families of Mantarys. It will be your duty to help transition this city into the Targaryen era. Talk to the people. Organize work. Uphold my laws. Now, Missandei and Grey Worm will be working with you for a fortnight, until my Unsullied arrive and a trusted advisor comes to help rule the city in my absence. Make no mistake, I have control of 94 dragons and counting, betray me, my family, or friends, and I will not hesitate to send them all here. Missandei is of Valyrian blood, I think you will find her most capable of setting up the new regime. I trust you will respect her and her husband while they are here. That black and white dragon outside is Missandei’s,” said Dany.

There were a few smiles and a lot of nods. Even Missandei smirked. Dany gave Missandei and Grey Worm a hug, Jon shook their hands, and they left. Drogon and Rhaegal were outside the city waiting for them. Before they mounted Jon said “can you believe we have 238 cousins? Distant, they may be, but cousins nonetheless. Aegon will not believe it.”

“I know, it’s difficult to comprehend. When I was banished and when Drogo killed my brother for me, I truly thought I was alone. After the witch told me I couldn’t have children, I believed I would be the last one and that the dragons would die with me. Then I found you. Then Aegon. Then we all had Targaryen children and I couldn’t be more happy with that. Never would I have thought that there would be hundreds of distant family members here waiting for me, knowing I existed…” Dany cut herself off. Jon looked at her and could see Dany’s eyes stare off into nothingness. She stumbled and fell to the ground. She had a vision of dead bodies laying in Vaes Dothrak, and her children flying here. Bharbo in Vaes Dothrak helping the wounded and then Rhaegar setting fire to a village with Talisa. Jon runs to her and says “what’s wrong? What is it?” and helps her stand.

“Something happened in Vaes Dothrak…the Dosh Khaleen… and our children snuck out of the Capital and are here! I saw Bharbo in Vaes Dothrak and Rhaegar and Talisa somewhere else but not that far away. We need to go back to Meereen, Jon. Now.”

“We won’t get there until the late morning, Dany.”

“Then we will have to fly through the night. Try to get some rest on Rhaegal.”

Their dragons purred. Dany and Jon mounted them and took off.

Back in Meereen, the Dothraki were having a traditional celebration in the fields outside the walls of Meereen. Zhowo, Rhaenys, Izi, and even Daario’s children were all outside drinking and having fun around large bonfires. Rhaenys had the cook from the Moonstone Inn bring out a dozen large pies for Izi. Izi didn’t care that she was all bruised and had some cuts, Rhaenys could tell this was the first time Izi has enjoyed her name day. As the night went on, Arya, Yara, Gendry, Aegon, and Sansa came back to Meereen and joined in on the festivities. Arya was still upset about the dragon dying, but Rhaenys went to her and offered comfort, and told her that she and Dany already knew. She cheered up a bit as the night went on but then got a strange feeling. Direwolves? Here in Essos? Why was she sensing them? She tried to shake it off but it was like she could almost hear them. She looked around but saw nothing, so she kept it to herself.

The next morning, Rhaenys woke early in Zhowo’s tent to a loud howl. Why did that sound like Shadow? Zhowo woke up when she stood up and he exited the tent with her. There was Shadow, Red, Tully, and nine other direwolves she hasn’t seen before all jumping on Arya, who was still awake and by herself. “How?” she muttered under her breath. “I could feel them coming here all night!” Arya yelled, half giggling. She was happy to see them but was afraid of why they were here. Shadow finally saw Rhaenys and ran over to her. She jumped on her and Rhaenys gave her a big hug and kissed the top of her head. “I missed you, girl. But why are you here?” Rhaenys said quietly to her. Just then, Rhaenys had the same vision her mother had.