章 33: Alliance or not?
Daeranyx Drakonar POV
I'm swiftly adapting to this world as well. I understand that in a place where people don't elect their leaders, one must forge connections with the more powerful using whatever resources are available. Often, the only asset less powerful families can offer in alliances with more powerful ones is the women of their family. This doesn't imply they are trading their daughters for power, but from their perspective, it's clear why they would do this.
Often, the powerful are perceived as more noble and just, possessing abundant resources and protection in this world. Being powerful means that internal betrayal, rather than external threats, is the primary concern. Thus, their daughters can lead lives even more prosperous than their own, securing connections and respect from another powerful house to them in doing so. However, there are exceptions; not all-powerful individuals are noble and just, and not every lord values his daughter's opinion on matrimonial matches. At this moment, all I can do is seek Laena's opinion and ensure that my future children learn to respect women's opinions, provided I live long enough to have them.
Recently, I've been contemplating an alliance with a family in Volantis. However, after the Targaryen's departed, I retreated into my mindscape to quell the storm of emotions and think clearly. During this introspection, I realized my fear stemmed from the discovery that my magic is ineffective against dragons, and the sheer size of the Volantene dragon lords overwhelmed me. This fear of being vulnerable led me to consider an alliance as a means of self-preservation. Acknowledging this, I've concluded that I must gain greater mastery over my thoughts.
I would not have considered a peaceful approach if it were an option, but now, I am indifferent to the size of their dragons or the number they possess. If they confront me, I am prepared to fight, as I know several methods to defeat dragons, despite most magic being ineffective against them. My purpose here is to form an alliance with the Targaryen's and to marry into the Dragonlords. Additionally, the potent magical blood and abilities present in Westerosi bloodlines will benefit my descendants, which is one of my reasons for coming here. Moreover, I am a great admirer of House Targaryen and many of its members from my previous world, although I would defend myself if threatened.
Just as I was contemplating, another thought occurred to me: if I were to eliminate all the Targaryens and marry their daughters or women from their house, wouldn't I be emulating the ancient Starks? This is how the Starks incorporated as much magical blood into their lineage as possible, isn't it? And upon further reflection, why would they do this? Could it be because they foresaw the Long Night and sought to make themselves as powerful and magically potent as possible? I would appreciate an answer to that.
I've strayed a bit from the situation at hand. Ultimately, I chose to align with the Targaryens and Velaryons. There were numerous reasons for this decision, which I had just considered. With the significant powers at my disposal that could change the world, fear of others is unnecessary. I intend to create magical contracts that will bind my house and Velaryons, ensuring that betrayal and subversion are not concerns post-contract. The knowledge gained from the two wizards about the contracts is sufficient to understand that I, too, will be bound by them. However, there may still be an escape for me, as my essence is capable of more than I currently comprehend.
However, there is one factor that could either tie me to the two Dragonlords' house here or compel me to establish my empire sooner at the location I desire. That factor is whether Laena and House Velaryon would consent to the polygamous traditions of my house. I believe they won't refuse, as I won't be taking five or six wives; rather, I'll be emulating Aegon the Conqueror.
I inclined my head slightly, I maintained a cautious expression, keen to avoid resembling a leech such as Lord Walder Frey, though it's unlikely they would recognize the expression. "Your offer is generous, Lord Corlys. Lady Laena is indeed a woman worthy of respect and admiration, and the union of our houses would restore the strength of my house and numbers as well if gods are good. However..." I paused, allowing the silence to underscore my words. And to notice how blush look on Laena's face as she is blushing right now after hearing about the Childrens. "As a Drakonar Dragonlord, my family's legacy—our tradition—demands more."
Corlys' brow furrowed slightly; his expression is that of concern as he started to think about what would happen if he could not meet my demands. "Speak your mind."
"In Old Valyria," I continued, "a Dragonlord of my house was expected to marry more than once. To carry forward the strength of his house, to expand its influence, and to protect its bloodline. I would have no objection to taking Laena to wife, but I must honor my heritage. I would need to marry another—perhaps even two." I played my heritage card, and it was not like what I'm saying is wrong either. However, framing it this way might help others understand my motives, which, in essence, are also about safeguarding my lineage. If you know what I mean.
[AN: - Everyone knows that he is just using an excuse of his house less numbers for marrying multiple women. I'm sure he would rue the day he made the decision of marrying more than one woman. I would make him. Evil Laughter could be heard from author's room]
The air in the room grew thicker as my gaze shifted to Laena, gauging her reaction before continuing. "If Laena and your house are amenable to this arrangement, I will gladly accept the alliance between our families. In return, I will see House Velaryon rise higher than it ever has before, with dragons and ships ruling the skies and seas alike." Just as I mentioned that Velaryon would be ruling seas and skies alike, I could see Daemon's and Viserys' expressions change drastically. However, within a few seconds, they returned to their previous joyful state upon hearing that I would be marrying multiple women. I suppose Daemon also desires to have his house allied with mine.
Corlys' lips pressed together in a tight line; the weight of the proposal clear on his features. He looks like he has no objection to this, but he is father who will not sacrifice his daughter for more power. So, he glanced at Laena, who stood proud and defiant previous blush nowhere to be seen, her eyes burning with the fire. "What say you, daughter?"
Laena's gaze locked with me. And I could see that she was not a woman to be cowed by tradition or the demands of men, but she understood the game of power too. After a pause, she spoke, her voice steady and unwavering. "If this union strengthens both our houses, then I will accept. But know this, Daeranyx Drakonar: I will not be overshadowed by anyone—not another wife, and not even a Dragonlord." I can envision myself cherishing a woman like this, for Drakonar appreciate not only the fierce Dragons but also their life partners. [ANL: - Cringes. But I had to do it. There is no other option.]
A smile tugged at my lips, a flicker of amusement and admiration crossing my face. "I would expect no less, Laena Velaryon."
Corlys, watching the exchange, finally nodded with glee. "Then we have an accord. An alliance between House Drakonar and House Velaryon will be forged in fire and blood." Corlys appears as though he might rise from his seat to dance in the chamber were he alone. Initially hesitant and annoyed, Rhaenys begins to smile upon Laena's agreement, watching Corlys with a reluctant but genuine happiness.
Daemon chuckled softly from the corner, his eyes gleaming with mischief and slight mockery. "Fire and blood indeed." But no one paid him any attention except for Viserys, who simply shook his head at him.
Viserys shifted in his seat, a thoughtful look on his face. "May this union bring strength to both houses. We live in dangerous times, and such alliances are more necessary now than ever."
Corlys raised his cup in a toast. "Lord Drakonar, should you wish, we could discuss a dowry for Laena to further solidify the pact between our houses." It was clear that Corlys intended to leave no stone unturned in this alliance, as a dowry would all but seal the marriage between Laena and me as a mere formality awaiting its time. I nodded to prompt his proposal, knowing well that beyond his alliances and support—which could indeed supply me with many needed ingredients until I could traverse the world and gather them myself with apprating—there was little he could offer. "Forgive me, Lord Drakonar, but with the impending war, I cannot offer more befitting your rank. However, I pledge that after the war, you shall have your desires fulfilled. For now, thirty thousand gold dragons and fifty ships from the Velaryon fleet, along with House Velaryon's unwavering support to House Drakonar whenever you call upon it," he declared. Corlys's gaze held a tinge of concern, hoping the offer would meet my expectations.
Although it pales in comparison to what I might receive if a Dragonlord from Old Valyria sought to marry their daughter to me, it is not insignificant, as it could elevate a peasant to a lord, and a wealthy one at that. Thirty thousand gold could fund a considerable army, and fifty ships are formidable, given that the Redwyne fleet peaks at around two hundred ships.
Even the Targaryens could not offer me as much, though they might grant me lands, which they possess in abundance, just as Corlys has his gold and ships. The Targaryens' expressions confirmed my thoughts, as both appeared quite shocked upon hearing Corlys' offer. Rhaenys also seemed quite concerned, indicating that Corlys has raised the stakes to such an extent that House Velaryon would suffer greatly, for Rhaenys would not show such concern if the situation were not grave.
Well then it wouldn't be good if I just accept that and not give something back to my future father-in-law, would it? Corlys may not realize it, but it is his thoughts that matter to me, not gold, for I possess far more than even his household. However, ships could be of use to me in the future. If I am to reciprocate, it must surpass what he has offered, as anything less would be an affront to my house, given our unequal standings. Dowry is of no concern to me, for Laena is a Dragonlord, and nothing compares to that; a single Dragonrider can shift the tides of war, securing gold, ships, and land if wielded wisely.
"Let me also present you with something to solidify our alliance and serve as a symbol for both houses to remember our unity."I spoke, and Corlys seemed relieved to hear that I was not dissatisfied with what he had offered. However, before he could voice any objections, I reached into the pouch I always carry and drew a longsword—specifically, a Valyrian longsword. Since I trust no one here, I carry Valyrian weapons and items made from it with myself. As I revealed the sword, its rippled pattern evident, Corlys closed his mouth, halting any protest, for no one could refuse such an offer. And to my knowledge, House Velaryon does not possess any Valyrian steel weapons. Holding the sword, I presented it to Corlys. "Here you go Lord Corlys. Consider this as gift from House Drakonar."
Corlys grasped the sword with the tenderness of a father cradling his child. The Targaryens gazed upon it, their eyes wide and faces etched with awe, for their house possessed only two such blades. The Velaryons shared this reverence, their attention equally fixated on the steel. Laenor looks ready to take it out of his father's hand. What would they do if I gift them Valyrian armour?? Not that I would.
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