Chapter 17

Under the expert guidance of Ser Ryam Redwyne, Vaelar, and Lady Myrcella Penrose, the ten women embarked on a journey of rigorous training. Each day brought new challenges and lessons as they honed their combat skills, sharpened their instincts, and forged the unbreakable bonds of camaraderie that would define them as the Scarlet Shadows.

Ser Ryam Redwyne, known for his mastery of the sword and battlefield tactics, pushed them to their physical limits. His training sessions were grueling, focusing on strength, endurance, and precision, ensuring that each woman could stand toe-to-toe with any knight in the realm.

Vaelar, the former First Sword of Braavos, brought a different perspective. His lessons were steeped in the fluid and deadly style of Braavosi water dancing, teaching the women agility, speed, and grace. His emphasis on quick reflexes and the art of anticipation added a layer of sophistication to their combat techniques, making them not just powerful but also unpredictable.

Lady Myrcella Penrose, renowned for her unparalleled skill with a bow, introduced them to the art of archery. Her training sessions focused on accuracy, patience, and the subtle yet critical aspects of reading the environment and timing their shots perfectly. Myrcella's expertise ensured that the Scarlet Shadows were as deadly from a distance as they were in close combat.

Myrcella's lessons also encompassed strategy, discipline, and mental fortitude. She taught them the importance of unity, loyalty, and the strength found in a well-coordinated group. Her insights into courtly behavior and the intricacies of political maneuvering ensured they were prepared for any scenario, both on and off the battlefield.

As the days passed, the ten women grew stronger, more skilled, and more disciplined with each passing hour of training. Their dedication and commitment to excellence were unwavering, fueled by the knowledge that they were preparing to take on the crucial role of guarding the royal women, a responsibility they embraced with pride and determination.

In addition to the rigorous training of the Scarlet Shadows, Melony, Rhaenyra, and Laena took the opportunity to join the Water Dancing lessons led by Vaelar. Melony, who had been learning the art for years, moved with an ease and fluidity that marked her as an adept student of the Braavosi style. Her skill and confidence were evident in every precise step and swift strike.

Rhaenyra and Laena, new to the practice, approached the lessons with a mix of curiosity and determination. They were eager to learn, fully aware that the skills they acquired here could prove invaluable in the turbulent world of Westeros.

Vaelar, with his keen eye for detail and patient instruction, tailored his lessons to accommodate their varying levels of expertise. For Melony, he introduced advanced techniques and complex maneuvers, challenging her to push the boundaries of her abilities. He encouraged her to take on a mentoring role with Rhaenyra and Laena, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.

For Rhaenyra and Laena, Vaelar started with the basics, emphasizing the foundational principles of balance, agility, and precision. He demonstrated the graceful yet deadly movements of Water Dancing, guiding them through each step with careful attention. Despite their initial awkwardness, both women displayed a natural aptitude for the art, their progress steady and promising.

During these sessions, the bonds between them strengthened. Melony's years of experience and natural talent shone through, inspiring Rhaenyra and Laena to persevere through the challenges of learning a new skill. The camaraderie and mutual encouragement created an environment where they could grow together, both as warriors and as friends.

The Water Dancing lessons became a cherished part of their daily routine, a time where they could escape the pressures of their respective roles and focus on the pure joy of mastering a new discipline. Under Vaelar's watchful eye, they flourished, each step bringing them closer to becoming the formidable women they were destined to be.

—

While the newly formed Scarlet Shadows honed their skills and bonds, Jaehaerys and Daemon turned their attention to the pressing matter of the Triarchy's threat in the Stepstones. The conflict in the region had become a significant concern for the realm, and a strategic response was necessary to protect Westeros' maritime interests and secure its trade routes.

In a war council held in the strategy room of the Red Keep, Jaehaerys and Daemon gathered with Lord Corlys Velaryon, renowned as the Sea Snake for his unparalleled naval prowess; Garth Redwyne, master of the Arbor fleet; Princess Rhaenys, Corlys' wife and an experienced dragonrider; and their son Laenor Velaryon, a promising young warrior and dragonrider himself.

Jaehaerys opened the discussion, his tone resolute. "The Triarchy's influence in the Stepstones has grown unchecked for too long. It's time we take decisive action to reclaim control and safeguard our shores."

Daemon leaned forward, his eyes alight with anticipation. "We need a coordinated attack, both by sea and air. Our dragons will play a crucial role in this endeavor."

Lord Corlys nodded, spreading a detailed map of the Stepstones on the table. "Our fleet is prepared, but we must strike with precision. We can disrupt their supply lines and cripple their naval strength before they can mount a proper defense."

Princess Rhaenys, her demeanor calm yet determined, added, "With our dragons, we can target their strongholds directly. A swift and overwhelming assault will demoralize their forces and scatter their defenses."

Garth Redwyne, always practical, noted, "We'll need to ensure our supply lines are secure. The Arbor fleet can provide the necessary support, but we must also consider the logistics of sustaining a prolonged campaign if needed."

Laenor Velaryon, eager to prove himself, chimed in, "And I'll be ready to fight alongside you all, both in the skies and on the sea."

Jaehaerys nodded thoughtfully, then spoke with a measured tone. "Before we launch our full assault on the Stepstones, we must first target the sources of the Triarchy's strength. Lys, Myr, and Tyrosh are key supporters, providing them with resources and reinforcements. If we can cripple their morale by striking at these cities, we will significantly weaken the Triarchy's ability to resist us."

Daemon's eyes gleamed with approval. "A bold plan, brother. If we take the fight to their supporters, it will force the Triarchy to divert their attention and resources away from the Stepstones."

Lord Corlys leaned over the map, tracing routes to the three cities. "Our fleet can blockade their ports, cutting off their trade and supplies. Meanwhile, our dragons can launch coordinated attacks on their key fortifications and military installations."

Princess Rhaenys, her eyes narrowing in determination, added, "A swift and devastating strike will not only disrupt their logistics but also spread fear among their ranks. We can use our dragons to target their leadership, creating chaos and confusion."

Garth Redwyne considered the logistics. "We'll need to ensure our supply lines are secure for such a campaign. The Arbor fleet can provide the necessary support, but timing and coordination will be crucial."

Jaehaerys nodded in agreement. "We must strike hard and fast, leaving no time for them to regroup or counterattack. Once Lys, Myr, and Tyrosh are crippled, we can turn our full attention to the Stepstones, confident that the Triarchy's support network is in disarray."

Laenor, still brimming with enthusiasm, added, "I'll be ready to lead our forces in the skies. Our dragons will bring fire and fear to our enemies."

Jaehaerys then added, "Additionally, my Black Dragon Legion is already stationed in Essos. This army, made up of freed slaves, is a formidable force and is prepared to lay siege to Lys, Myr, and Tyrosh by land. With the legion's presence, we can cut off any escape routes and apply pressure from multiple fronts."

Daemon raised an eyebrow in interest. "It will surely send a message to the Triarchy about the strength and resolve of our cause."

Lord Corlys nodded approvingly. "With the Black Dragon Legion on the ground and our fleet in the waters, we'll have them surrounded and outmatched."

Princess Rhaenys smiled. "It's a perfect strategy. The Triarchy won't know what hit them."

Jaehaerys nodded and continued, "To ensure the success of our campaign, we will assign two Dragonriders to each city. Daemon and Laenor will take Myr, where your combined experience and strength will break their defenses swiftly. Rhaenys and Laena, you will strike Tyrosh, utilizing your strategic acumen and firepower to cripple their strongholds. Rhaenyra and I will handle Lys, cutting off their resources and leadership."

Daemon grinned, a hint of excitement in his eyes. "Myr won't stand a chance. Laenor and I will ensure they regret ever siding with the Triarchy."

Laenor nodded enthusiastically. "We'll bring them to their knees, cousin."

Rhaenys placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Tyrosh will be ours. Together, we'll make sure they understand the true power of House Targaryen."

Jaehaerys looked around at his assembled allies, feeling a surge of pride and confidence. "With our dragons, our fleet and the Black Dragon Legion, we will strike fear into the hearts of our enemies. The Triarchy's days are numbered."

Lord Corlys, his expression one of approval, added, "With each city facing the might of our dragons and armies, the Triarchy will be forced to fight on multiple fronts. They won't be able to withstand the pressure."

Garth Redwyne, nodding in agreement, said, "Our forces will be ready to support each of you, ensuring that no city can mount a successful defense."

Jaehaerys concluded, "This is our moment. Together, we will bring an end to the Triarchy's threat and secure the safety and prosperity of our realm. Prepare yourselves; the battle for the Stepstones and beyond begins now."

The war council dispersed with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. Each member of the Targaryen-Velaryon alliance knew their role in the upcoming campaign and was ready to unleash their full strength against their enemies. The Triarchy would soon face the combined might of dragonfire and strategic brilliance, ensuring the realm's future under the Targaryen banner.

—

Rhaenyra, muscles aching from her rigorous Water Dancing lessons, made her way back to her chambers, each step a reminder of the intense training she had been undergoing. As she approached her door, she paused, spotting Alicent Hightower standing there, waiting.

Alicent looked up, her expression a mixture of concern and determination. "Rhaenyra, I need to talk to you," she said softly, her voice tinged with apprehension.

Rhaenyra's face hardened, memories of her father's announcement and Otto Hightower's schemes flashing through her mind. She had been avoiding Alicent ever since, unsure of how to reconcile her friendship with the knowledge of Otto's manipulations. "Alicent," she replied, her tone colder than she intended, "I've been busy."

Alicent took a tentative step forward, her eyes pleading. "Please, Rhaenyra, just hear me out. I didn't know about my father's plans. I didn't—"

Rhaenyra cut her off, her frustration bubbling to the surface. "How could you not know, Alicent? Your father's ambitions are no secret. And now you're to be my stepmother. Do you have any idea how that feels?"

Alicent's eyes filled with tears, her voice trembling. "I never wanted this, Rhaenyra. I never wanted to come between us. But I couldn't refuse my father. You know how he is."

Rhaenyra looked away, struggling with her emotions. She wanted to believe Alicent, to trust her old friend, but the betrayal she felt was too raw. "It doesn't change what's happened. Your father's plans are set in motion, and we're all just pawns in his game."

Alicent reached out, gently touching Rhaenyra's arm. "You're not a pawn, Rhaenyra. You're my friend, my closest friend. Please, don't shut me out. We can still be allies, even in this."

Rhaenyra hesitated, her resolve wavering. She missed the companionship she had shared with Alicent, the late-night talks and shared dreams. But she couldn't ignore the reality of their situation. "I need time, Alicent. This isn't something I can just forget."

Alicent nodded, wiping away her tears. "I understand. Just… please remember that I'm still here for you. No matter what."

Rhaenyra watched as Alicent turned and walked away, her heart heavy with conflicting emotions. She knew their friendship would never be the same, but perhaps, in time, they could find a way to navigate the treacherous waters of court life together.

As Rhaenyra stood at the threshold of her chambers, the weight of recent events pressing down on her, she decided to take a moment to gather her thoughts. She entered her room and closed the door, leaning against it as she tried to process her conversation with Alicent. Her mind was a whirlwind of emotions and conflicting loyalties.

—

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the Red Keep, Jaehaerys and Daemon were deep in discussion about the upcoming campaign against the Triarchy. The room was filled with maps and strategic plans, their faces illuminated by the flickering candlelight.

"We need to make sure our plans are airtight," Daemon said, his brow furrowed in concentration. "The element of surprise is crucial. If we can take Lys, Myr, and Tyrosh quickly, the Triarchy will be left scrambling."

Jaehaerys nodded in agreement. "I've already sent word to our contacts in Essos. The Black Dragon Legion is ready and waiting for our signal. They will begin the siege as soon as we give the order."

Jaehaerys glanced at his brother, a determined look in his eyes. "We must ensure the safety of our family and the realm. This is our chance to secure our future and eliminate the threat of the Triarchy once and for all."

—

Rhaenyra sank into the chair opposite her father, a heavy weight pressing upon her shoulders. She had been grappling with the multitude of challenges that seemed to converge upon her all at once. Alicent's presence, the formation of the Scarlet Shadows, and the looming threat of war with the Triarchy had left her feeling overwhelmed and uncertain.

Her father's warm smile and comforting presence provided a momentary respite from the turmoil within her. Viserys' kind eyes met hers, filled with paternal concern.

"Father," Rhaenyra began, her voice laden with worry, "I feel as though I'm being pulled in different directions. It's all so much to handle."

Viserys reached out and gently took her hand. "I know, my dear. But you mustn't forget that you are not alone in this. You have your family and allies standing by your side, ready to support you through these trying times. Lean on them when you need to. Together, we are stronger."

His words were like a balm to her troubled soul, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos. Rhaenyra felt a sense of reassurance wash over her, knowing that she could rely on the unwavering support of her loved ones.

"Thank you, Father," Rhaenyra said, a note of gratitude in her voice. "I will try to remember that."

With a nod of understanding, Viserys squeezed her hand gently, silently conveying his unwavering belief in her strength and resilience. As Rhaenyra rose to leave, she felt a renewed sense of determination, ready to face the challenges that lay ahead with courage and resolve.

—

As the days melted into one another, the Red Keep buzzed with fervent activity. The Scarlet Shadows underwent grueling training sessions, pushing their limits and testing their mettle under the watchful eyes of their instructors. Rhaenyra, Laena, and Melony delved deeper into the art of Water Dancing, their movements growing more fluid and precise with each passing day.

Meanwhile, Jaehaerys and Daemon worked tirelessly, meticulously finalizing their plans for the impending campaign. Every detail was scrutinized, every contingency accounted for. The tension in the air was palpable, a silent acknowledgment of the weight of responsibility that rested upon their shoulders. Each member of the royal family and their closest allies understood that the coming conflict would shape the future of the realm.

Finally, the day of departure arrived. The docks bustled with activity as the royal family and their companions gathered, their dragons towering above them, ready to take flight. Jaehaerys stood at the forefront, his gaze steely and unwavering.

"Today, we embark on a mission of great importance," he declared, his voice ringing out across the gathering. "But let us remember, we do not fight solely for victory, but for the safety and prosperity of our realm. Together, we will face whatever challenges come our way, and together, we will triumph."

With a solemn nod, Jaehaerys signaled to the dragons, and they took to the sky with a powerful beat of their wings. The ships set sail, slicing through the waves with determination as they embarked on their journey. The campaign against the Triarchy had begun, and the fate of the realm hung in the balance, guided by the unwavering determination of those who dared to stand against tyranny.

—

Under the joint leadership of Daemon Targaryen and Laenor Velaryon, mounted on their powerful dragons, the forces of House Targaryen and their allies set their sights on the city of Myr, one of the three strongholds of the Triarchy. The journey was fraught with challenges, but the resolve of the Targaryen forces remained unyielding.

As they approached the city, they encountered fierce resistance from the Myrish defenders. The city's defenses were formidable, and the Triarchy had bolstered its ranks in anticipation of the Targaryen advance. However, the combined might of the Targaryen army, supported by the Black Dragon Legion, proved to be a force to be reckoned with.

Daemon and Laenor, riding atop Caraxes and Seasmoke, orchestrated a brilliant siege, their strategic acumen and unwavering determination guiding their forces through the chaos of battle. The Black Dragon Legion, made up of freed slaves from Essos, proved their mettle, their sheer tenacity and fighting spirit inspiring all who fought alongside them.

As the siege raged on, the Targaryen forces faced numerous challenges, but they remained steadfast in their determination to emerge victorious. With each passing day, they gained ground, slowly but surely chipping away at the defenses of Myr.

In a decisive and hard-fought battle, the Targaryen forces breached the walls of Myr, engaging the enemy in fierce combat within the city streets.

In the end, victory belonged to House Targaryen. Myr fell to their forces, its defenses shattered and its rulers defeated. The conquest of Myr marked a significant triumph for Daemon and Laenor, solidifying their position and dealing a severe blow to the power of the Triarchy.

As the city was brought under Targaryen control, the triumphant forces celebrated their hard-won victory.

—

Led by Rhaenys and Laena Targaryen, mounted on the mighty dragons Meleys and Vhagar, the Targaryen forces, accompanied by five members of the Scarlet Shadows led by Sayra Stone, embarked on the conquest of Tyrosh, another stronghold of the Triarchy. The skies above the city darkened as the dragons approached, their imposing figures striking fear into the hearts of the city's defenders.

As they descended upon Tyrosh, the Targaryen forces encountered fierce resistance from the Triarchy's armies. The streets of the city became a battleground, as the defenders fought desperately to repel the invading forces. But the combined might of the Targaryen dragons and the elite warriors of the Scarlet Shadows proved to be too much for the Triarchy to withstand.

Rhaenys and Laena, with their unparalleled skill in dragon riding, led the charge, raining down fire and destruction upon the enemy ranks. Meleys and Vhagar unleashed torrents of flame, engulfing the enemy in a blazing inferno and clearing the way for the Targaryen ground forces.

Meanwhile, the Scarlet Shadows, under the leadership of Sayra Stone, fought with unmatched ferocity and precision, cutting through the enemy lines with deadly efficiency. Their skill and discipline were on full display as they engaged the enemy in close-quarters combat, their martial prowess striking fear into the hearts of their adversaries.

Despite facing fierce resistance, the Targaryen forces and the Black Dragon Legion pressed on, their determination unyielding. With each passing hour, they gained ground, inching closer to victory with every step. The streets of Tyrosh ran red with blood as the battle raged on, but the Targaryen forces refused to be deterred.

In a final, desperate stand, the Triarchy made a last-ditch effort to repel the invaders. But it was too late. The combined might of the Targaryen dragons, the Black Dragon Legion and the Scarlet Shadows proved to be overwhelming, and the city of Tyrosh fell to the forces of House Targaryen.

As the dust settled and the fires of battle burned low, the triumphant Targaryen forces celebrated their hard-won victory.

—

Led by Jaehaerys and Rhaenyra Targaryen, mounted on the formidable dragons Gaelithox and Syrax, accompanied by five members of the Scarlet Shadows led by Lyra Mormont, the Targaryen forces launched their assault on the city of Lys, one of the strongholds of the Triarchy. 

As they approached the city, Jaehaerys, confident in his abilities, demonstrated his magic freely, unleashing powerful spells that wreaked havoc on the enemy's defenses. Bolts of lightning crackled from the sky, hitting wherever they stood, striking fear into the hearts of the defenders and clearing the way for the Targaryen forces to advance.

Gaelithox and Syrax descended upon Lys, their roaring flames engulfing the enemy's fortifications and scattering their ranks. The Scarlet Shadows, under the skilled leadership of Lyra Mormont, fought valiantly alongside the dragons, their prowess in battle unmatched as they carved a path through the enemy lines.

As the battle raged on, Jaehaerys continued to wield his magic with precision and power, using his abilities to turn the tide of battle in favor of the Targaryens. His spells struck with deadly accuracy, decimating the Triarchy's forces and leaving chaos and destruction in their wake.

Despite facing fierce resistance, the Targaryen forces pushed forward, their determination unyielding. With each passing moment, they gained ground, inching closer to victory with every step. The streets of Lys ran red with blood as the battle reached its climax, but the Targaryens pressed on, their eyes fixed on the ultimate prize.

In a final, decisive push, the combined might of the Targaryen dragons, the Black Dragon Legion and the Scarlet Shadows overwhelmed the remaining defenders, and the city of Lys fell to the forces of House Targaryen. As the dust settled and the fires of battle burned low, the triumphant Targaryen forces celebrated their hard-won victory.

—-

Upon hearing the news of the conquest of Lys, Myr, and Tyrosh, Prince Cragas Drahar, the Myrish prince-admiral of the Triarchy, stationed at Bloodstone, was filled with a mixture of shock and disbelief. The fall of three of the Triarchy's strongest bastions dealt a severe blow to their forces and shattered the illusion of invincibility that had long surrounded the alliance.

Rushing to gather his commanders and strategists, Prince Cragas knew that swift and decisive action was needed to stem the tide of the Targaryen advance. With the might of the Triarchy now severely weakened, he understood that their only hope lay in mounting a fierce defense and rallying their remaining forces for a final stand.

Despite the grim situation, Prince Cragas remained resolute, determined to defend Bloodstone and uphold the honor of the Triarchy. As he began to formulate his plans and prepare his forces for the inevitable clash with the Targaryens, he knew that the fate of the Stepstones and the future of the Triarchy hung in the balance.

However, it seemed fate had other plans.

Prince Cragas was taken aback when he saw the Velaryon fleet, led by the renowned Sea Snake himself, Lord Corlys Velaryon, arriving at Bloodstone. The unexpected appearance of such a formidable force at his doorstep added a new layer of urgency to an already dire situation.

Realizing that the battle for Bloodstone was now imminent, Prince Cragas knew that he would need to muster all of his strength and cunning to stand against the combined might of the Velaryon fleet and the Targaryen dragons. With the fate of the Stepstones hanging in the balance, he prepared to meet the impending onslaught with steely determination and unwavering resolve.

---

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