Chapter 28.1- The Seadragon's Roar

“We must fly out to meet the fleets by dawn on the morrow” Rhaenys started the meeting with. I nodded. Part of me was surprised that they had not managed to overrun us in the day I’d wasted being unconscious, and then questioning Bernard. At least now I was somewhat sure of where his loyalties stood and that he understood that I would not be as forgiving in future if those allegiances managed to slip in the wrong direction again.

“I agree. But the question is how. The old formation can no longer stand” I said. Because that would mean Mother would be flying off to battle the Triarchy alone. The bigger fleet with only a single dragon? That was just ridiculous.

“I do not see why not”

“Be reasonable, mother. I know you want to protect us, but the Triarchy fleet is double the size of the Dornish. I say Laena follows you and I face the Dornish alone. We’d be losing out on Daemon’s experience with Caraxes, but Vhagar should be able to make up for that” I said. Because Vhagar was a mountain with wings. I doubted they’d even be able to keep their breeches dry much less aim a scorpion once they saw her. That was just the kind of effect she tended to have on lesser men.

“In that case, then I shall take the Dornish alone while you and Laeana battle the Triarchy” She instantly riposted.

“The Triarchy is the greater threat of the two. It makes sense to send our two largest dragons there to deal with them. The Dornish fleet is no true fleet. Icarus reports that they have many commanders and no clear chain of command. It would be child’s play for me to sew confusion in their ranks and deal with them from there.”

“Your spy is far from trustworthy. What if we find their fleet doubled in size and well disciplined, besides.”

“In that case, I would do what I could and then retreat”

“I don’t even see how this is a question, Laenor, Mother. Clearly Vhagar should be the one to face the fleet alone. She is the largest dragon and the Dornish won’t know what hit them”

“No chance” Rhaenys and I replied at the same time. At least we were in agreement on that much. Laena wouldn’t be going anywhere alone.

“I am your Lady Mother, Laenor, and you will listen to me. I will face the Dornish and you and Laena will deal with the Triarchy.” She said, and I met her gaze.

“Stay alive, Mother. No matter what” I backed down.

“Who do you think you’re talking to? The Dornish won’t know what hit them…that’s how you say it right?” She asked at the end, making me chuckle and having Laena break down in full laughter.

“Yes Mother. That’s how you say it” I said, walking forward into her outstretched arms. I felt our hug shift as Laena joined us.

“Now let’s all get some rest”