Nearly all the Free Cities and the Storm King Argilac Durrandon across the Narrow Sea joined forces in a prolonged struggle against Volantis. In the naval battle on Dagger Lake, Norvos and Qohor defeated Volantis together, destroying its power on the upper reaches of the great river. Pentos allied with the Storm King and Tyrosh against their powerful enemy. Later, Aegon the Conqueror rode Balerion into the war on the alliance's side, while the Braavosi lent a hundred warships to a Lysene exile. Revolts against Volantene rule also broke out in Lys and Myr.
Now Malaquo had thought of the most dangerous yet effective tactic: a strike at the heart. When enemies met on a narrow road, the brave prevailed.
"If we're talking about a long-distance campaign, I believe we've succeeded once before," the Lysene admiral said. "We won the Battle of the Gullet many years ago and plundered the Sea Snake's Driftmark. Now that our great host is advancing, our chances are good as long as we get past the Stepstones."
"But, but... my health..." Torello Rhaen looked at Malaquo, wanting to plead illness and refuse the expedition. But he depended on Volantene power, after all. Malaquo had lent him several thousand Tiger Cloaks, so he dared not defy his orders. Without Malaquo, those coveting the position of Torello would overthrow him.
"No buts." Malaquo roughly cut off the Lysene's attempt to back out. "If Storm wins the Seven Kingdoms as well, your city and mine will both face utter destruction. You should understand what even those fools in Slaver's Bay know. Besides, Storm's soldiers are wearing down their morale at King's Landing. We'll strike their rear without warning."
"As you command. I'll leave the Trade Prince behind, and others will accompany me on the expedition," Torello Rhaen said.