They waited hours for the delegation to finally arrive. Noho Volentin arrived first. His head was bare, and his curly hair was dyed red to match his lips and fingernails. He wore a long flowing robe of black silk trimmed with crimson, and a long black velvet cloak embroidered in silver thread. A gold medallion hung around his neck on a chain, and he wore a heavy gold signet ring on his left hand.

His attendants followed shortly afterward. "Have you heard about Beqqo Nestoris?" Noho Volentin asked Daemon.

"I have."

"That's good. That means we stand a chance."

Daemon smiled. "I am glad you think so."

Noho Volentin escorted his guests to the antechamber, where the others were waiting. "I've hired some of the best swordsmen in the city," he said when they were alone. "Four hundred of them, to be precise. I've also sent word to the Braavosi Republic, asking for additional support."

"How many ships do you have?" asked Daemon.

"Seven, including the Blackbird. But there are twenty-five other ships in port, and we have three more in the works."

"That should be enough to hold the line for a while."

"We'll need more than ships, though," said Noho Volentin. "The Braavosi Republic is divided among several factions, all vying for control. It will be hard for Lord Beqqo to hold the city together for long, without strong support. His enemies may well turn on him once he is weakened."

"I'll work on that," promised Daemon.

"And you must convince Lord Nestoris to consider my offer."

"I shall try."

"I know you will, my friend. You are a prince among sellswords, and an even better man."

"I am honored by your confidence, Lord Volentin."

"Now, I must leave you. My men are expecting me, and I fear the delay has put us behind schedule. We'll talk again soon." He bowed, and left the room.

Daemon was left alone with his companions. "I've never seen Lord Volentin like this," remarked Ser Garland. "It's as if he thinks we are about to fight the war together."

"He does," said Daemon. "He's offering Lord Nestoris a share of his spoils."

"Does the man actually think we'd follow him?" scoffed Ser Garlan. "Our loyalty is to our own houses."

"Lord Nestoris would take good care of us," said Daemon. "If he gets his way, the Great Council will have to recognize him as the rightful Sealord of Braavos. I suspect he doesn't want a war, but he'll be willing to wage one if he has to. So will I."

"We just have to choose the winner."

"And so we shall. For the next few years at least, I will be Lord Nestoris' man. After that..."

"We can always choose another man," suggested Ser Garlan.

"Perhaps," agreed Daemon. "But I like Lord Beqqo. He's got the makings of a real conqueror. Perhaps I'll return to the Braavosi coastlands when he rules, and build a little town for myself there." He glanced at Ser Garlan. "What say you? Would you come with me?"

Ser Garlan laughed. "You're a fool, Prince Daemon. That would be madness. Where would you build your little town?"

"Wherever I pleased, ser. And who would stop me?"

"Lord Nestoris will," said Ser Garlan.

"I doubt he will, but you're right. I shouldn't say it. I've had too much wine. Let us go see to the horses. Tomorrow I ride to the city."

The next morning Daemon and his men rode out to meet Lord Nestoris and discuss the terms of the appointment. They found him in the city square, surrounded by thousands of cheering supporters. He waved to the crowds and raised a cup to them.

"Good," said Daemon, "he's drunk."

Lord Nestoris was indeed intoxicated. He wore a black velvet doublet and a crimson cloak, and he drank from a flagon of wine. Daemon dismounted and approached him.

"Lord Nestoris," he called. "My name is Daemon Waters."

Nestoris turned and looked at him with bleary eyes. "Oh yes. Daemon Waters. I remember you now. Why are you here?"

Daemon took the cup from Lord Nestoris and held it up to the crowd. "My friends and I have come to offer our services to you, Lord Nestoris. You have a reputation as a man who knows how to lead brave soldiers to victory. I believe I can make you a better general than any other man in the world."

Lord Nestoris chuckled. "You must have practiced that a long time."

"I try my best, my lord."

"Well, I am flattered. What do you intend to offer me?"

Daemon gave his best smile. "Everything."