To keep pace with the ground troops and Daenerys, Viserys had King Ghidorah slow his flight.
Daenerys flew beside Viserys on Acmot, excitement and nerves still evident on her face.
After all, this was her first real battle. Although Viserys had repeatedly assured her that she would be safe, she could not stop her heart from racing.
Rhaenys flew on Meleys on Viserys's other side, her expression far calmer than Daenerys's. She had been through many battles and was used to how she felt now.
"Dany, are you still nervous?" Viserys called to Daenerys, a hint of amusement in his voice.
"No." Daenerys shook her head, but her hands gripped the dragon saddle so tightly that her knuckles had turned white.
"Relax." Seeing her reaction, Viserys reassured her. "Acmot is very clever. When the time comes, all you need to do is stay close to us."
At Viserys's words, Daenerys took a deep breath and tried to relax.
The Vale cavalry had gone ahead to wait along their route. They had camped west of Harrenhal, blocking the roads from Harlon Castle to the Westerlands and King's Landing.
Ser Andar Royce sat on his horse, gazing at the towering black castle in the distance as a tangle of emotions rose within him.
"Lord Andar." A scout ran over. "His Majesty Viserys's army has arrived. They're less than ten li from here."
"Understood." Andar nodded. "Pass the order: have the whole army prepare. Once His Majesty arrives, we'll make ready to attack Harlon Castle."
When the army brought by Viserys and Clinton reached the Gods Eye, the outline of Harrenhal came into view.
The supposedly cursed castle stood on the southern shore of the Gods Eye, its walls still tall and thick.
But of the five towers that had once pointed skyward