Bab 54: Way of persuasion
Daeranyx POV
I clarified to Viserys the nature of the contract and its terms, which we would both sign. Viserys quickly grasped the concept of the contract, and once that was settled, I outlined the terms to him. Observing his reaction, I noted the relief that washed over his face, dispelling the prior tension, as he learned that I, too, was subject to the contract's penalties. Internally, I chuckled, knowing his relief was premature, as he had yet to learn of the penalties. My anticipation proved correct; upon learning about the penalties, both Viserys and Aemma were utterly shocked and began to protest the severity of the consequences.
Like Corlys, after realizing that the issue about penalties could be resolved by members of two family discussing and settling the matter among themselves, and with further persuasion, he agreed to sign the contract. Once that was settled, they began to consider what they could offer the northern lords to appease their anger over gradually losing their lands. From Northan Lords perspective, it might seem as though the Iron Throne also regards them as barbarians, like some Andal lords do, and is seizing their land as well as influence. I began to ponder a solution to this. While I could use my magic to assist the North or the Starks, I've reserved this as a last resort because they might refuse my aid. The reason is that although the First Men do not despise magic as much as the Andals, they too might be wary of my magic and think they are better off without my help.
After contemplating the issue, I believe I have a concept that might appease the North's anger. Suppose the lands gifted to the Night's Watch were governed by Lords who catered to all their needs. If this gift is as fruitful as the one I recall from a past life, it would yield enough food to have surpluses even after supplying the Night's Watch. This excess could then be distributed to the North. While it wouldn't suffice to feed the entire North, it's an improvement over the current yield from those territories. These Lords would prioritize the Night's Watch but still swear fealty to Lord Stark as their bannerman, albeit with some modifications. I'm aware my idea isn't flawless and there may be factors I haven't considered. Hence, I've presented it to the two individuals before me to assess its feasibility.
Upon hearing my idea, Viserys and Aemma began to ponder it thoughtfully. I could see the gears turning in their minds, their expressions growing happier the more they considered it. "It's not perfect, but with the limited news from the North that reaches the Capital, it seems somewhat feasible. I'm confident that with the council's help, we could make this idea work. If not, then the council might propose a solution that could be beneficial in our situation. I will keep you informed about all matters related to this, Lord Drakonar. You have my gratitude for providing us with this idea, which has surpassed anything my wife and I have conceived so far," said Viserys, smiling. Aemma appeared slightly embarrassed when Viserys mentioned their lack of progress in finding a solution to appease the impending anger of the Northern lords.
"There is no need for gratitude, King Viserys, as I am the one who benefits from the whole fiasco after all. Please do keep me informed about this matter if possible, as my unique perspective may prove helpful with any problems you might face. Regarding the ritual that house Targaryen will get from me, I will provide you with a list of items needed for the process. Once everything is gathered and all members of your house are prepared, send someone to notify me, and I will come to demonstrate how to perform the ritual, rather than just providing a written description." I reminded Viserys of the ritual, as he seemed to have completely forgotten to inquire about it amidst his considerations of the Northern lords.
"Certainly, your assistance with the ritual will be invaluable, and I will ensure someone is sent to escort you at the appropriate time. Because I'm certain that once Rhaenyra and Daemon are informed about the ritual, they will not wait a moment, and I would have to dance to their whims. And Lord Drakonar, do try to join us for dinner occasionally. I'm sure Velaryon's would not mind your absence once in a while," said Viserys with his characteristic jovial laugh. However, I suspect he feigned his mirth, given the frustrated expression on Aemma's face. It appears my absence from dining with the Targaryens has led them to suspect Velaryon's influence over me. Despite the current misunderstanding, I am certain it will be cleared up shortly. I don't have the time to justify my decisions; they are solely my own, and my stay with Velaryon has not swayed me in any manner. Now, I must attend to my daily ride with Anarion, who is known for his impatience.
After bidding farewell, I departed. Yet, my thoughts remained preoccupied with the forthcoming negotiations with the Starks and their possible results. Ultimately, I resolved to seek out items that might tip the scales in my favor with Lord Stark and the Northern lords should the need arise. I am hesitant to offer magical items immediately, as I will be their neighboring lord in the future, and such items could serve to forge a stronger bond with them. Therefore, I am reserving these items as an alternative option, rather than presenting them outright.
***Flashback End***
I opened the doors of my chambers and began searching for my cloak, essential for my imminent journey to Skagos. Initially, I had planned to depart tomorrow, but a recollection of my conversation with the Targaryens about their desired ritual, and the memory of my daily flights with Anarion, hastened my decision. Resolved, I gathered the necessities to persuade a certain someone which I would need in Skagos, and then I apparated to the sole piece of land I currently possess.
I appeared in the cave that is slated for renovation, together with some part of the island. After surveying the area briefly, I proceeded towards Anarion's cave, where a ritual had taken place over a month prior. On my way, I noticed a slight rise in the lava level—not as significant as the increase following Anarion's ritual, but still noticeable. I surmised this could be due to Anarion's extended stay, requiring more magic for his growth, or perhaps the volcano itself is gradually coming to life, causing the lava levels to rise. Upon arriving at Anarion's cave, I found it deserted, save for scattered bones. The cave now emits a foul odour, a stark contrast to my previous visit.
Emerging from the mountain where Anarion's cave is nestled, I sense the onset of winter by the chill that's sharper than during my last visit. As I step into the open, I attempt to summon Anarion with the aid of our bond. Yet, before I can call out, I feel Anarion's emotions pulsing through the connection—joy and eagerness, mirroring my own, signal his awareness of my arrival. I barely wait a few minutes when a silhouette, grander than Vhagar, sweeps across the sky above me.
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