Chapter 35.1- The Seadragon's Roar

“This is a terrible idea. I must state my objections to this”

“Yes, you have stated your objections, Uncle. Seven times at this point, If I’m counting right”

“Eight” Laena corrected by my side.

“Eight times” I amended.

“And yet you insist on going forward with this this this foolishness”

“And yet I insist” I agree.

“Please Nephew.”

“Your pleas are noted, as are your objections. Both are unfortunately disregarded.”

“This is foolish” He said.

“I disagree” I said right back.

“The Dornish are not to be trusted”

“Good thing I don’t trust them, then” I said.

“Then why are you negotiating with them. Leave the duty for this to someone else.”

“No one else knows exactly what I want and will manage to get the exact terms I desire.”

“You want their sand, you want them to pay some reparations for their failed attacks, and you want free access to the Dornish market for the goods you want to produce in the Stepstones. Anyone could state those terms to them”

“Well, yes. But the Dornish are likely to feel insulted if I do not go myself.”

“Insulting the Dornish matters little. Send someone else, Nephew. I beg of you”

“But who else could do it? Who else could manage to negotiate with them and get what I need”

“I can do it?”

“Can you, Uncle? I don’t think you’re willing to brave the dangers”

“Please Laenor. Send me. Send anyone. Just don’t go yourself” He said as we were only a few feet from my destination.

“Fine then Uncle. You and Maester Bernard can lead the delegation. I won’t come along” I said, getting a sigh of relief from the man as he turned and began to walk back to the castle.

“You never intended to go to Dorne did you?” Leana asked, and I barked a laugh.

“Who do I look like to you? A fucking idiot? I just wanted Vaemond to think I was really going to do it so he would volunteer. He thinks he’s convinced me to step off what he felt was a foolish path, not knowing I’ve pushed him on it in my stead” I said.

“Please tell me you’re not trying to get my favourite uncle killed”

“He’s the one still alive.” I pointed out

“And hence my favourite.”

“No. I doubt the Dornish would try anything. Killing Vaemond would be foolish and pointless. He doesn’t ride a dragon. He is a capable Admiral, but we have dozens of those. They’d do nothing but garner our wrath.”

“And if they choose to keep him hostage instead?”

“Then I will start at Starfall and burn one castle for every day he is not released to us.”

“Starfall? You’re still obsessed with Dawn?” She asked, and I had to turn my head to avoid her seeing the blush building on my face.

“Seven hells. If you get our uncle killed because you want your hands on a shiny sword, I’ll kill you myself”

“Everything will be fine, sister. Trust me.”