Chapter 73: The Shield of Aenoris and the Shadow's Watch
The sun had barely begun its ascent over the hills of Aenoris, casting long shadows across the Freyna Estate, as Maegor issued his final commands to Count Peyos. The peaceful annexation of Aenoris County was a significant strategic victory, securing his northern flank and providing a vital resource base. Now, it was time to prepare for the storm.
"Count Peyos," Maegor began, his voice resonating with Royal Authority (Uncommon). "You have pledged your fealty, and Aenoris is under the Dragon's protection. However, Magister Ghazaro will not accept this loss lightly. He will attempt to reclaim what he perceives as his. Therefore, you will put all of Aenoris County on full defensive alert. Strengthen your village militias, fortify your strategic points, and be vigilant for any incursions from Qapys or Sweetpale."
Peyos Freyna, though a diplomat, understood the gravity of the threat. "It shall be done, My King. Our people will be ready to defend their homes."
"You will not be alone," Maegor assured him, his gaze piercing. "I will send my personal Shadow Archers to your northern border, operating discreetly. They will scout, they will observe, and they will set ambushes if any of Ghazaro's forces attempt to cross into Aenoris. They will be unseen, a silent warning."
Peyos's eyes widened, a flicker of awe and relief crossing his face. Elite, unseen archers. This was a king who thought of every detail.
"This defensive posture will be maintained for the next four months," Maegor continued. "This is the time I have allotted to prepare my main armies for the final conquest of the Duchy of Daarno. During this period, you will observe Ghazaro's movements, report any troop concentrations, any attempts at reconnaissance. Provide my Shadow Archers with all intelligence they require."
He then added another layer of protection. "I will also send 3,000 Dothraki raiders into your county. They will operate discreetly, spreading themselves across the northern reaches of Aenoris. They will be an unseen deterrent, capable of rapid, devastating response to any incursion by Ghazaro's forces. They will move like shadows on the wind, their purpose to defend Aenoris and crush any who dare to test my will." While the Dothraki struggled with "discretion," Maegor knew their mere presence, once suspected, would be a potent psychological weapon.
Peyos bowed deeply, visibly relieved. His county was secure. "Aenoris will be a fortress, my King. No Myrish man will set foot here without paying a terrible price."
With Aenoris secured, Maegor mounted Balerion. The immense dragon launched into the dawn sky, carrying his King swiftly back towards Pyrefall Castle. Viserys, now more confident and capable, followed closely on Umbra, the two dragons a terrifying sight for any early risers below.
Upon his arrival at Pyrefall, Maegor immediately issued a series of commands to implement his defensive strategy for Aenoris.
His first command went to Aerion Lightstep. "Aerion," Maegor stated, meeting the Elven Hero's calm gaze in his solar, "your next mission takes you to Aenoris County. Take your 50 Elves Shadow Archers. You will position yourselves along the northern border, observing all movements from Qapys and Sweetpale. Any incursions, any attempts by Ghazaro's forces to test our new domain, you will intercept them. Ambush them. Show them the cost of defiance. But do so with extreme discretion. Leave no trace. Be the whispers of dread in their ranks." Aerion bowed, a faint, predatory glint in his eyes. "As you command, my King. The shadows will sing."
Next, Maegor summoned Khal Drogo. "Khal," Maegor commanded, "I require 3,000 Dothraki raiders to move south, into Aenoris County. They will establish a discreet, mobile presence along the northern border. Their task is purely defensive: to deter any large-scale incursions from Ghazaro. Their movements are to be as subtle as possible for Dothraki, but their presence, once known, should serve as a stark warning. Coordinate with Count Peyos and Aerion Lightstep, if possible, but your primary objective is to make any attack on Aenoris unthinkable."
Drogo's eyes gleamed with anticipation. A defensive mission for the Dothraki was unusual, but the thought of crushing any Myrish fools who dared to cross Maegor's border was satisfying. "My King, it shall be done. Aenoris will be guarded by the horse."
As the Dothraki began their subtle deployment and Aerion Lightstep prepared his Shadow Archers for their clandestine journey, Maegor turned his focus to the remaining four months of preparation. The Northern Qehes Army under Jorah Mormont would continue to be honed into a razor-sharp instrument. The Southern Qehes Army under Gareth Blackwood would stand ready to defend the newly acquired Drasaho. Myrosh and Dilora would continue to be integrated under the guidance of Hand Aegon Duskryn.
The Duchy of Daarno would be Maegor's next conquest, but unlike previous campaigns, this one would begin with a meticulously crafted defense, a psychological war waged by unseen shadows and unseen horselords, designed to break the enemy's will before the main armies even marched.