Bloodline (End)

"Last night, Your Grace."

With a slight nod, Ser Lena handed the reins in her hand to Daenerys, and everyone swung up onto their horses.

Atop the towering mountains, the morning light drifted softly over the world like a veil of golden gauze.

Hooves beat rhythmically against the ground as Daenerys and the others rode slowly along the winding path.

A gentle breeze swept past, carrying the fresh scent unique to mountain mornings.

"The Vale's knightly trainees were already fully prepared and could depart south through the Bloody Gate at any time."

Daenerys's violet eyes shifted slightly as she turned her gaze to Lena and gave a small nod. "Please, continue."

"Ser Rick's nine warships have already docked at Gulltown's harbor..."

As Daenerys listened, she recalled the secret letter Gryn had sent her.

"...The warships built in Braavos are indeed excellent. I even went aboard to look around. Rick was so afraid I'd damage his 'wives' that he watched me from beginning to end."

Lena's complaint instantly filled Daenerys's gemlike eyes with amusement. "You have my thanks, Ser."

Before one of the Eyrie's gates, Ser Amparo Thorns waited with her adjutant and attendants.

As Daenerys and the others approached, Ser Amparo and her party all placed hands over their chests in salute. "Good morning, Princess."

Amparo?

Daenerys glanced to the side in mild surprise, while Ser Lena answered with a snicker.

Giving Lena a glare, Daenerys nimbly leapt from her horse and stepped forward to take Amparo's hand. "What a wonderful morning. I never expected all of you to be back."

She looked her over briefly. "I am truly delighted to see you return covered in glory."

During the Vale's harvest season, the Mountain Clans living at the foot of the Mountains of the Moon had descended to raid the