Bound by Blood and Oaths

Chapter 45: The Coming of The Dragons

Daenerys sat at the side of the bed. Her gaze was on the sleeping Jaehaerys that lay comfortably in bed. The healers finished their work and managed to save the king. But he has not woken up since he was brought into the Pyramid. He has only been sleeping which worried Daenerys. The healer said it will be some time before he woke, but his body was healing in the right way. Whatever that means, it made Dany feel a bit better. But as he has not woken up, it leaves every responsibility of ruling to her.

Jeyne was quick to offer her services. And Dany would lie if she said she wouldn't accept it. She trusts the woman who is willing to sacrifice her life and willingly accept her love. Well, after hours of contemplation. Perhaps they will become closer through the time Jaehaerys sleeps. It only worries her about the dangers that are closing in.

They hoped the opening of the fighting pits would buy time. Enough time for an army to be raised in the defense of Meereen. And there is time but Grey Worm and Daario could not guarantee they will be ready by the time the slavers come. The latest reports gave the news that was not good. Instead of a month, they had two weeks. The fleet of the Free Cities has already set sail, Astapor and Yunkai along with New Ghis are gathering their armies. It won't be long.

The battle to determine the fate of Slaver's Bay is approaching. Three dragons with an army of ten thousand Unsullied and Second Sons plus former slaves and freedmen would fight against a force much larger than their own. A thousand ships and an army of eighty thousand men. That is what they face if the reports are to be believed. A grave prospect if you ask Daenerys, but what does she know of battles and fighting? Not much.

The knights seem to think they stand a good chance. Daario thinks so as well but he would always love a good fight and this will be one of the greatest in history. The commander of the Unsullied would fight against anything that threatens the ones that freed him. Grey Worm would fight to his dying breath. Dany is convinced of it and she hopes that is not the case. Luckily they have dragons. If history is any solace, it will be key to victory.

Dany got off her chair and sat next to Jaehaerys, her hand touching his hand, slowly intertwining their fingers. "Please wake soon, my love. I need you," her voice utters softly.

Daenerys gave his hand a squeeze, hoping her words reached him. Even without an answer, she continued her talk. There was not much else she could do as no answer came from him. Just soft breaths leaving his lips, closed eyes that would show him dreams. Not her face that holds deep etched worry. Eyes holding a sadness at seeing him like this in bed without moving his arms or legs. Not hearing his comforting words, seeing the warm smile on his face.

Just him sleeping.

"Do you remember, Jaeh? The time I was worried about not being able to carry your children? I proposed to have another woman for... doing what I thought I could not. But we have a wonderful and beautiful daughter. Yet now I made a promise and a queen should honor it. Jeyne asked to marry you..."

Dany paused to take a deep breath. Not due to her discomfort about the thought. Not even Jeyne herself as Dany will admit she is taking a liking to her. It is a pretty woman. The long dark hair, and deep purple eyes with a fierceness yet tender fire in them. There is nothing that would make her say no to falling in love with the woman. But it makes her uncomfortable to have made such a promise without his consent.

"... I said yes with the promise she loves me as well. Just like we agreed at the time. What I hope is you do not hate what I have promised. Of course, you could say no. She will probably feel saddened, but she knows your opinion will decide whether it will happen."

Nothing changed in Jaehaerys' expression when she explained her situation. It still made her feel better at confessing what has happened in his absence so far. Dany takes Jaehaerys' hand to play with his fingers as she tried to get her feelings across through her touch. Hoping it will be conveyed in some want to him.