A Dragon's Song

Between Brothers

The sky was a tapestry of pink and orange as the sun began its descent, casting a warm glow over King's Landing. High above the city, two dragons soared through the air—Vhagar, massive and ancient, her wings spanning wide enough to cast shadows over the streets below, and Gaelithox, smaller but equally fierce, his sleek black body streaked with flashes of white like a night sky speckled with stars.

Aemond rode atop Vhagar with a commanding presence, the wind whipping through his silver hair. Beside him, Naerys guided Gaelithox with practiced ease, her face set in a contemplative expression as they flew toward the Kingswood. The serenity of the moment contrasted sharply with the storm brewing within her.

As they neared the Kingswood, the two dragons began their descent, circling gracefully before landing amidst the ancient trees. The dragons' heavy footsteps made the ground tremble as they settled, and the scent of pine and earth filled the air. Aemond dismounted first, offering his hand to help Naerys down from Gaelithox. She accepted, though her mind was elsewhere, preoccupied with the weight of the conversation she needed to have.

Naerys took a deep breath as they walked among the towering trees, the silence between them comforting but also laden with unspoken concerns. She had always found solace in the Kingswood, but today, even the ancient heart tree seemed to echo her unease.

As they reached the center of the Godswood, Aemond was the first to break the silence. "I'll be flying to Ser Criston at Rook's Rest soon," he said, his voice calm but laced with the weight of what was to come. "We anticipate that Meleys and Rhaenys will meet us in battle."

Naerys stiffened at his words, her heart constricting with worry. "Rhaenys on Meleys... Aemond, she's as experienced as they come. You've never faced another dragon in battle before."

Aemond stopped walking, turning to face her. His gaze was intense, but there was a softness in his eyes reserved only for her. "Vhagar is older, larger, and stronger than Meleys. But you're right—I haven't fought another dragon. Not yet. But this war has forced our hand, and I won't shy away from it."

She nodded, trying to push back the fear gnawing at her. "But should I come with you? Gaelithox and I—we could help. I know I'm not as strong as you, but together... maybe..."

Aemond shook his head, a small, reassuring smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "No, Naerys. If something happens to me, someone needs to be here to protect Aegon... and the realm. Vhagar and I can manage."

Naerys bit her lip, frustration and worry mingling. "I wanted Rhaenyra and Daemon. They're the ones responsible for Aerion's death, not some lesser dragon rider. My anger... it's like a fire I can't put out."

Aemond watched her carefully, noting the hard edge to her voice that had rarely been there before. "Would you really go up against The Blood Wyrm?" he asked, his tone serious.

"Despite my fear... yes," Naerys replied, her eyes flashing with determination. "For vengeance, I would." Then, as if catching herself, she let out a soft, mirthless laugh. "But I'm not scared of Rhaenyra on Syrax. Gaelithox could eat them both for breakfast. It's Caraxes and Daemon that worry me."

Aemond nodded, understanding her fears all too well. "Caraxes is a formidable beast and Daemon... he's a different kind of monster. But we'll deal with them when the time comes."

Naerys's expression softened as she looked at him, a mix of love and worry in her gaze. "I just wish things were different," she murmured. "I wish we could face this together."

Aemond stepped closer, taking her hands in his. "We are together, Naerys. Even if we're apart. But you're right to be cautious. Aegon's insistent on coming, and that's a problem."