Hey everyone, here is Chapter 11 of the Blue Wolf. William the Conqueror has captured the final city in Slaver's Bay. That alone is a massive blow to the slave trade in Essos and it shows that Will's bite is as bad as his bark. Good news is that he has experience in rebuilding infrastructure of former slaves cities. Bad news is that Meereen is gonna big a big challenge. And the biggest challenges are often the hardest. Enjoy!
What to do now?
295 AC: Meereen
The sun peeked up over the horizon shinning a light on Meereen like it would always do but on this day it had a new meaning. The reason for the new meaning is because of the recent change it had undergone. William the Conqueror had arrived, starting his conquest in Astapor, then Yunkai and he now finished in Meereen. The whole of Slaver's Bay was freed from the Masters and Slavers who called it home for centuries. Many thought that the idea of freedom was just a pipe dream but it was now made a reality. And the person who led the charge and change was William the Conqueror AKA William of House Baratheon, son of Robert of House Baratheon and Lyanna of House Stark and Crown Prince of the Seven Kingdoms.
Will had woken up early and was looking out over the city from inside one of the great pyramids of Meereen that was now housing his men for the time being. He leaned against the balcony, letting the gentle sea breeze from the bay tickle his skin. He was wearing some trousers and a light tunic as he looked out at the bay before he looked down at Durran. The little dragon was perched up on the balcony next to him when they heard a bird cry from above. Orys flew down with a fish he caught from the bay and plopped it down next to them and began picking at pieces of fish. He dropped the pieces of fish to the side and Durran used his fire breath to cook the fish he then ate. Will smiled and pet Orys on the head before running a finger under Durran's chin much to the dragon's delight. He was still small but had grown a little bit with all he ate.
"So, now that Meereen no longer has the Masters it would seem that Slaver's Bay would need a new name? Any suggestions?" Will asked them and the two animals looked at him. "Some names have been tossed around. Freedom Cove? Liberation Bay? What do you think?"
Orys and Durran just returned to their meals and ignored him. "Thanks for the advice." Will huffed when he heard footsteps and Ser Arthur joined him on the balcony. "I don't suppose you have any ideas?"
"Not really. Naming has never been my strong suit." Ser Arthur pointed out as the two just enjoyed the early morning view. "I noticed it was just you this morning. No one else. Everything all right?"
"Fine. Tyene is wonderful but we're not attached at the hip. And I wanted a moment alone to think." He admitted and Ser Arthur nodded.
"Think about what?"
"What to do next." Will said. "There's still plenty of work to do here in Meereen and I'm not done with Astapor or Yunkai either until I'm sure they're safe but then what after?"
"Hard to say. You do plan to go back home, don't you?" Arthur asked him.
"I do, of course but I'm just worried that when I leave that Yunkai, Astapor, and Meereen will be in danger. And I wouldn't mind a shot at the Triarch of Volantis for nearly killing me. At least the two who have it out for me." Will told him. Arthur nodded and liked that idea as well.
"How would you go about it?" Arthur wondered and Will gave it some thought.
"As much as I would like to drive my hidden blades into their chests or take their heads off with my swords I think I would stick to a range option. I'd watch their movements, study their habits and when I have a shot, I take it from a distance." He replied. "Give me a clean shot at 175 yards and they're done."
"I like the idea but something that will take considerable planning." Arthur reminded him and got a nod in response. "If you would like I can get word to some of the guilds and allies in Volantis. Have them keep their ears to the ground for any useful intel."
"Do it." He said and Arthur nodded. "If an opportunity presents itself then I want to take it but my main focus has to be here in Meereen."
"What are you thinking?" Arthur questioned.
"That slavers and slavery took a big hit and will come after me with everything. Whether it's the Triarch of Volantis, other slavers, or people in this city I need to make sure that this doesn't fail." He replied before cracking his neck. "We've got work to do."
Ser Arthur followed Will and the two worked together to plan out Will's stay in Meereen. Cedric and many were awake but some like Tyrion and Oberyn had to be roused up from their sleep for their morning breakfast and so Will could discuss with them what to do going forward. While it seemed like they could just relax now and prepare for the journey home that wasn't in the plan just yet. He promised that they would go home but he wasn't planning to leave until he was sure that Meereen was safe and that the Masters couldn't try anything. He had this nagging feeling that the Masters would try something and he wanted to be ready. Many in his party called him a little paranoid and that they should just celebrate their victory. They conquered Slaver's bay. Those tended to be the people who weren't as strategically inclined as the prince.
Those that were understood Will's worry about Yunkai, Astapor, and Meereen. He did a lot to liberate them, then rebuild their infrastructure, give them new life and a new chapter forward so that they could sustain themselves away from their slaver past but then what? The Triarch were still out there and haven't taken kindly to the prince's interference in their business. They had already attempted to kill him once so who's to say they wouldn't try again. Astapor, Yunkai, and Meereen in Slaver's Bay acted as the heart of the Slave Trade in Essos but just because he liberated them doesn't mean the slave trade was over. Sure, Slaver's Bay was now secure but their ships still encountered slave ships and slavers in the area every now and then. Suffice to say they were taken care of harshly and Cedric's experiments in black powder weapons made pirates and slavers think twice but it wasn't just in Slaver's Bay.
Lys, Myr, Tyrosh, and Volantis were now the slave capital cities in Essos with Slaver's Bay taken out of commission and their business was hurting which meant that they would do anything to try and restore what they lost. Will had to stay on the offensive but he had some defenses in play. He was the Prince of Westeros and the three cities were protectorates which meant that if the cities tried all out open war on him then they'd face reprisals. He was a seasoned warrior and leader with an army of Unsullied and Dothraki horde that he took by stomping a Dothraki charge in combat and he's the one who led the defense of Yunkai and destroyed the Second Sons and the Golden Company. His status and his reputation helped shield him but he was smart enough to not just rely on that.
Will's ever growing armada of ships consisting of the four personal Swan Ships from the Summer Isles and 14 war galleys commissioned from the Arsenal of Braavos encountered slave ships further west with destinations to other cities. The war galleys were for the armada of the freed cities of Slaver's Bay which mainly protected the bay and trade ships coming in and out. With Meereen taken they could now count the 93 Meereense ships as part of that. The sailors and captains quickly surrendered when the city fell so now they would be retrofitted and fixed up for continued trade but also for defense. Ser Davos was more than happy to offer his advice and years of experience with ships and the sea in this matter and of course Will also had the security of the Iron Fleet coming to assist as well should he need it. Still, Will kept up commissions with the Arsenal of Braavos for more ships out of his personal coin. It was of no real consequence to him and protecting Slaver's Bay was important.
Not to mention maintaining strong ties with Westeros but also Braavos which is why he would send a letter to the Iron Bank to meet again. He first met with representative Tycho Nestoris after he took Astapor to foster business ties with the Iron Bank and facilitate monetary development. The Iron Bank was a powerful entity and keeping them on his side was a good idea. Not just as Prince of the Seven Kingdoms but for helping to safeguard Slaver's Bay. Braavos as a city, outlawed slavery but he wasn't naïve to think that there were some that skirted around that if it made them money. The Iron Bank was one such thing, if only by proxy, and Will's endeavor had to be a gamble. Tycho Nestoris expressed some trepidation when he first reached out to him but now that he had all three cities he was sure that things might change a bit. He wasn't just promises and wishes but proof backed up with evidence and the bank liked that. He needed their support, even if only indirectly to keep Slaver's Bay safe.
The rest of the meeting composed of the usual beginning talks he had with his advisors when they took one of the slave cities. The usual bureaucratic planning for the city like they had to do with Astapor and Yunkai which included forming a Meereense council to run the city. They had already announced the new system of laws in place applying to every single citizen of the city whether they were former slave or not. Will had to make sure that the regular citizens of the city didn't see him any more negatively than they already did. Over time he had won over his most staunch detractors so hopefully he could do it again. That was the easy part. The harder part was figuring out what the city would do going forward. Like Astapor and Yunkai, Meereen offered it own challenges and hurdles to overcome. It was the northernmost city of Slaver's bay which offered some unique defenses. It was surrounded by hills and ranges to the south in the Yunkish hills and a range of rounded sandstone mountains to the north.
The Dothraki sea lies to the north beyond the Skahazadhan river. It was located at the mouth of the Skahazadhan, a brown water river that begins in the southeastern section of the Dothraki Sea and flows Southwest through Meereen into Slaver's bay. You'd think that having a river that close that flows into a city would be great and it was but it also wasn't. It was a brown water river and the Meereenese use it for waste carried by great brick sewers and closed off with iron gates. They instead drank from deep water wells scattered throughout the city. One of the first things they would need to do would be to get some more fresh water available. There were Pike fish in abundance in the river so there was food available and Pike were rather tasty if you knew what you were doing which thankfully the people of this city had found a way to deal with and eat Pike to make it a tasty meal. Due to its location, there was good farm land in the nearby hills where wheat, other grains, fruits, and vegetables are grown as well as herdsmen tending to sheep and goat.
Missandei and Grey Worm asked the slaves and the reason the river ran brown was because of nearby clay and copper deposits. The city was once known for clay work, copper mining and even salt mining but those had fallen to the wayside since Slavery made the bulk of the trade and commerce in the city. Given everything they learned, Cedric theorized that the nearby ridges and mountains by the river could hold other surprises and deposits the Masters never bothered to look for. Given how Astapor had a nearby diamond mine in the hills that had been under their noses the entire time it was possible. He wasn't sure if it was another diamond mine but there could be an iron deposit which meant steel so that was worth it alone. And Cedric knew enough to know what to look for so he would begin work immediately.
They had stopped for a meal break around mid-day but all of the work took many hours taking into consideration all the discussion, planning and logistical work it would entail. Will could see that the long talks had drained everyone so it might be best to leave things where they are. "I believe that's enough for today." Will said and he could hear some sighs of relief. "We'll reconvene tomorrow."
"Sounds good." Oberyn was the first to stand up and quickly left the room.
"That was fast." Garlan Tyrell remarked and some people chuckled, knowing that Oberyn likely went to find Ellaria and get drunk or go to a brothel. Probably a combination of the two.
Tyrion got out of his chair and stretched his back, hearing some pops in his spine when he saw Will get out of his hair and crack his neck. "Your grace? Care to join me for a cup of wine?" Tyrion wondered.
"Sorry Tyrion but I have other plans." He replied.
"Oh, going to meet your Dornish lover?" Tyrion joked and there was some light-hearted chuckles and snickers. Ser Arthur chuckled and even Will had a smirk on his face.
"No, I'm not going to see Tyene. I'm just going for a walk." Will corrected him before walking to the door with Ser Arthur following him. Missandei followed as well when he stopped her. "You can stay and rest Missandei. You've earned it."
"Your grace, I'm fine. I can accompany you on your walk." Missandei assured him and he just walked over to her and gently touched her shoulder.
"It's all right. You've earned a rest and this won't be a leisure walk." He told her and she nodded before he and Ser Arthur left.
"I'm guessing regular clothes and hoods so we don't stand out as much?" Ser Arthur suggested.
"Like last time." Will told him and Arthur nodded before they separated to go get changed. Will entered his chambers and immediately grabbed the arm of an attacker holding a knife. That's when a whip was wrapped around his arm and he was pulled forward but Will caught himself and pulled his attacker off balance before grabbing their arm and taking them to the ground with a hip throw. He activated his hidden blade and held it to the throat of his attacker only to see it was Nymeria Sand.
"Well done, my prince." Nymeria let out some shallow breaths as she was both winded and excited by their little truss.
"Nymeria." Will retracted the blade and undid the whip around his arm. "You could have just said hello."
"Where's the fun in that?" She maneuvered her body and hooked her legs around his side before rolling. She managed to get the leverage to roll him onto his back and straddle him. "This is a much better position don't you think?"
"For what?" He asked her and she snickered.
"Has my little sister never done this to you before? Is she too shy?" She asked, being both coy and playful to get a reaction out of Will but he was just stone faced. If this was him a year ago then he'd be stammering and his face bright red but after being around the Sand Snakes and their father for so long it no longer fazed him like it used to. "That doesn't sound like Tyene so maybe she never gets to do this to you? I bet a strong stag/wolf like you dominates his partner. But I wonder my prince, how would you fare against a woman who fights back?"
"As much as I find this flattering I'm afraid I don't have the time. I'm needed elsewhere." Will told her before rolling her off him. He got up and she looked at him in disappointment before blowing a piece of hair out of her face.
"And what could possibly be so important for the crown prince that he ignores a beautiful Dornish women like myself?" Nymeria wondered.
"Work." Will removed his blue jacket and grabbed a sand-colored one from his chest and put it on.
"All work and no play makes the prince a very dull man and even duller king." Nymeria warned him before walking over and laying herself down on his bed. "And here I was thinking that after enough time sleeping with my sister that it would take your edge off but clearly your edge is still razor sharp."
"Sorry to disappoint you." Will told her but she smiled.
"I'm not disappointed. If anything, I'm more interested now." Nymeria sat up and cross her legs over one another trying to draw his gaze but it didn't work. "Tyene has gone on and on about your time together. You've done much to impress her and I've heard many tales of your wonderous tongue. Clearly it's used for more than just your powerful speeches."
"Cute." Will walked over to his chest and picked up his two Valyrian Steel swords before deciding to take Wolf's Fang. He placed Storm's Wrath back and secured his snow-colored Valyrian steel blade around his waist.
"And I've also heard that you surprised her with how large your other sword was." Nymeria said while being not so subtle with her innuendo. "And you've definitely learned how to use it well."
"It there a point to his conversation?" Will asked her. "Are you made that I've been sleeping with your sister?"
"No, I'm not mad at that. I'm more mad that she's kept you to herself." Nymeria stood up and walked over to him. She looped her arms around his neck and pulled him in close so she could whisper into his ear. "You'll see me soon at your bedside my prince."
Nymeria nibbled his ear and kissed him on the cheek before she left with a sway in her hips. Will just stood there for a moment when Orys flew down and landed on his perch by the balcony and let out a caw. "Yes, Orys, the saying is true. Dornish women are crazy." He said before pulling up the hood on his sand-colored jacket.
Outside of the great pyramids of Meereen the people of the city, both former slave and not, were going about their new day in their new city. The Unsullied were standing guard in various streets, squares, and centers to keep the peace during the transition. Will had seen it happen in Yunkai before. Some of the more angry, resentful, and violent prone former slaves would use their newfound freedom as a chance to take their revenge against the freed people that were still in the city. He encountered that in Yunkai more than once and despite their beliefs that the Conqueror was on their side, any murderers, thieves, and rapists were dealt with accordingly recently freed, or not. When the city was freed after the masters and slavers were dead, Will had the word spread of the changes and new path forward for the city but he couldn't see everything going on while up in the pyramid. That's why he and Ser Arthur would disguise themselves and walk down the streets dressed as travelers or sellswords to get a real look. He did it a few times in Yunkai and he would continue the tradition in Meereen.
He and Ser Arthur had hoods up to obscure their faces and they didn't wear any recognizable clothes as they walked down the street. They saw Meereense citizens walk the street to get some things from a market as some newly freed slaves walked past them wearing new clothes. There were some glances shared between them, not all of them friendly but nothing started which was good enough. And they weren't the exception as Will could see uneasy looks between the former slaves and regular citizens. He needed to keep things from escalating or else it wouldn't be long before the city tried to tear itself apart. The duo continued their trek through Meereen and silently observed the conditions of the streets and the mood of the city which was a long walk.
Meereen was the largest city in Slaver's Bay, bigger than Yunkai and Astapor combined. It was built that way do to its location as the center for the world's slave trade and as a regular stop between the Free Cities to the Jade Sea. Well, it was now the former center of the slave trade. Inside the city lies narrow twisty alleys and wide brick streets, temples, granaries, hovels, palaces, brothels, baths, gardens, fountains, and fighting pits. Nobility lived in stepped pyramids with the Great pyramid located in Meereen's central plaza which stands eight hundred feet tall. It has a great bronze harpy on its apex. The pyramids are colored to represent the noble houses residing in them. Pink and white, green and black, yellow and green. Some visual adjustments might be necessary like adjusting the giant bronze harpy overlooking the city.
Will was familiar with large cities given he grew up in King's Landing and they were tricky. The large city and increased population made it a hub for trade and commerce which brought money and development into the city but it also made it a place easy for crime, people to hide and to plan against him. There were numerous places to hide and Will couldn't be everywhere at once and neither could his Unsullied. There were too many narrow alleyways and hidden passages that would get them killed. Fighting alongside his Unsullied let him know their strengths and their weaknesses. Army against army, the Unsullied were practically unbeatable. They were well armed, well trained, and fought as one combined with his strategic mind and improvisation making a deadly combination. He took over the three cities of Slaver's Bay, trampled a Dothraki Horde, and destroyed the Golden Company. The Unsullied were excellent in a large scale battle but their method of fighting and tactics weren't as effective in the tight corners and alleyways he saw in Meereen. In those areas, their long spears and tight formations would work against them. They would get bottlenecked in tight spaces and wouldn't have the reach to use their weapons effectively when they're bunched up together.
Sure, they could stay in the large squares and wide enough streets but that meant there were areas they couldn't monitor. Thankfully he had the members of the Golden Company who stayed behind and he could use them to fill in the gaps of security. He'd have Hercules and Autolycus lead the efforts in making sure that they weren't caught unaware and build up a spy network. That combined with the people he had working for him in the various guilds and trade groups would give him and ears everywhere.
As Will and Ser Arthur walked through the street unnoticed by everyone it gave them a better understanding of the city's layout. The further away he got from the pyramids or the main squares by the city walls the more cramped things got. Clearly the further away you got from pyramids the less financially wealthy resided which likely included a majority of the slaves who lived in the extremely cramped quarters of small buildings or in the tunnels beneath the city. He wasn't sure what to do with the tunnels below the city but he knew that he would need to get builders to make more buildings and houses for everyone.
He also noticed that some of the houses and terraces of certain buildings had roof gardens. Olives were grown along the shores of Slaver's Bay and he saw night-blooming flowers, lemon, and persimmon trees all over. They literally had no room and had to place them on the roof of buildings but there was plenty of space outside the city walls so Will could implement the canals and spider-web farm lines he had constructed outside of Yunkai.
Will and Ser Arthur sat down at a table outside a tavern and watched. A tavern maid came over with a jug of wine and two glasses and while they were filled neither one of them drank. This wasn't a break but rather an observation and they needed their senses for that. The tavern was located near one of the main open squares that was intersected with several wide streets. It was filled with trade and commerce and ringed with buildings occupied by skilled tradesman, inns, taverns, and the occasional brothel. This area was filled with a lot of people so it was the perfect place to watch.
Several hours later…
The sun was setting over the horizon so the streets were starting to empty and torches were being lit to light the city. Will walked back into the pyramid he and his men were using while they were here. When he got to his room he saw Missandei waiting outside by the door. "Missandei, please tell me you didn't wait here all day for me." He wished.
"No, your grace. Ser Arthur spoke with an Unsullied to let them know you two were on your way back to the pyramid so I made myself available." She corrected him. Will didn't remember seeing Ser Arthur speak with an Unsullied guard but then recalled him stepping aside to relieve himself as they were heading back so he must have spoken to one then. "I hope your journey into the city was helpful."
"It was, in more ways then one but it wasn't without its issues." He admitted as they walked into his room. He saw Orys sitting on his little perch but Durran was next to him. The small dragon was only about the size of a cat but was perching himself up like he was an eagle which was rather amusing and it was funny how much of a kinship he had developed with Orys. Will walked over and pet Orys and Durran on the head and then scratched their chins. "I hope Durran hasn't been causing any problems."
"No. He's been very good. No problems at all." Missandei assured him as Will picked up the small dragon and placed him in his cage. "How was your trip in the city?"
"Illuminating." Will undid his belt and placed Wolf's Fang with his other sword. "The city is slowly coming back to life but I detect unease between the former slaves and the always freed of Meereen. Ser Arthur and I have even had to intervene when some former slaves tried to take advantage of their new found freedom. We stopped two muggings, several thefts, and an attempted rape."
"Much like Yunkai." Missandei pointed out and Will nodded.
"Yes but the difference is that Meereen is bigger than Yunkai and I can't be everywhere at once." He pointed out. "Still, things in the city could be worse after what happened. Time is both our ally and our enemy. If we don't make things better or seem like they are getting better for everyone then it won't be long before this city tears itself apart."
"If anyone can do that it's you, your grace." Missandei told him and he smiled.
"Thank you, Missandei. You always know what to say and I've valued your wisdom, counsel, and your friendship." He said and she smiled. Will removed his sand colored jacket and placed it to the side before sitting down to remove his boots.
"And it has been my honor to stand by your side, your grace." She told him. "There are still days when I can't believe that we've come this far. I owe you my life, your grace."
"And it is not mine to take or control, Missandei. You have a great mind and have been a good friend." He told her. "That'll be all for tonight, Missandei. Get some rest and we'll reconvene in the morning for work."
"Yes, your grace." She smiled and bid him a good night. Will removed his heavy clothing and laid down on his bed in a pair of light breeches and no shirt to keep cool. He closed his eyes and slowly drifted off to sleep. He knew he had a lot of work but he was determined to get it done.
Line Break xxxxx
King's Landing, Westeros
Jon Arryn, Lord of the Eyrie, Lord Paramount of the Vale, and Hand of the King was in his chambers in the Tower of the Hand to go about the normal business of running the Seven Kingdoms. Dealing with the usual business of King's Landing while also responding to ravens and scrolls from all over the Seven Kingdoms. Many dealt with taxes, land disputes, farming lands divisions, food distribution, and any bandit activity with the occasional message from the Night's Watch involving sending more prisoners who were going to take the Black instead of spending the rest of their lives in a cell or die. Jon Arryn had been doing this for so long that he knew what to do and was able to get through the mundane stuff rather quickly.
The things that took most of his time was the new trade agreements and partnerships with the cities of Astapor and Yunkai. That came curtesy of Prince William and suffice to say it was as profitable and impressive as it was mind boggling and adding to the workload he had. Lord Arryn finished writing his reply to the council of Astapor about increased trade talks that would profit both cities and stimulate growth before folding and sealing it up. That's when he spotted the tapestry hanging up in his office. It was of Robert and William done when the prince was around 7 years old. Immediately Jon Arryn was hit with wave of emotions as he recounted fond memories of the prince when he was a child. A young boy with such a good heart, a keen mind, and a vast potential for good. How right he ended up being and a part of him still couldn't believe it. The young boy he looked at like a son as he did his father and Ned Stark had grown to be a fine young man. He showed interest in running the Kingdoms when he was young and defended them during the Greyjoy Rebellion. After that his path took him to new heights and now he was waging a war against Slavery in Essos.
Part of him would like nothing more than for William to come back home so he can spend his time learning to rule but then he realized that the prince likely knew more than his father. Granted, that wasn't saying much but the ravens he received from the Prince and the prince's advisor Cedric let him know that he was continuing his studies and was getting valuable practice in Slaver's Bay. And he believed that what the Prince was doing was right and from what he's heard it's been looked on rather favorably by most. Of course, there were some who voiced the Prince shouldn't have left his home. Those were typically people close to Queen Cersei who continuously brought up to Robert and the council that Prince William should be stripped of his claim to the throne for leaving Westeros in favor of a debaucherously adventure in Essos. And she voiced that Prince Joffrey be named heir to the Seven Kingdoms. Suffice to say that her suggestion went in to Robert's head as quickly as it left.
Jon picked up the next letter and saw the split sigil of the Stag and the Wolf so it was from William. He opened it and proceeded to read.
I hope this letter finds you well, Lord Arryn. I miss you and home a great deal but I promise to return and the end to my journey is reaching its final chapter. The last city of Slaver's Bay has fell. Meereen is no longer under the control of the Masters and the whole of Slaver's Bay has been liberated. I will stay as long as I need to make sure that Meereen is stable, and safe from the Masters but I will return. Lord Stannis and Ser Davos Seaworth should return soon after their business with me is done. I understand that many in the Seven Kingdoms don't believe in what I am doing but you have always taught me what is right and to live by the principles of a true knight to be a future good king. I hope this is but the first step in that journey and when I return, I look forward to your continued and wise counsel.
-William
Jon read the letter and felt as though he could hear the prince speaking to him. He hadn't seen him in a long time but if he was even half the boy he was when he left…he would return a good future king.
As for the current king?
Robert had just gotten out of the bath after a long training session. He still kept at it with his training spurred on by one of his son's letters telling him that he would like the chance to spar with him and to get in shape so it would be a fair fight. Robert was still rotund and his large belly wasn't gone but he was training fairly regularly. At least every other day now and if not every other day then every two days he would train. Lifting up his mighty Warhammer and crushing training posts and straw targets. He wasn't the man he was in his prime but his training had some initial effects. His face had lost some of its excess fat and his rotund belly was still large and rotund but looked more defined with some muscle. If there was ever proof that the gods could work miracles it was that.
Robert dried himself with a towel and poured himself a cup of wine before drinking it in one gulp. Despite the small, small progress he made miracles only went so far. Robert put on some pants when he heard at knock on the door. "What is it?" Robert asked as the door opened and in walked Ser Barristan Selmy.
"A letter from the prince, your grace." Ser Barristan walked over and handed it to Robert so he could see the split sigil wax seal.
"That's him." Robert broke the seal and opened the letter. "I'm not sure about the split sigil but I do like the boy honoring his mother's family."
Robert unfolded the small letter and read it.
I hope this letter finds you in good health father and that you've taken my request at a sparring match to heart and have trained. I am hopeful and would like a fair fight against the might Robert Baratheon. I know it would be a fight for the ages.
Robert chuckled when he read that part. He was now going to make sure he could teach his son a little humility and show him why he was so feared.
My journey in Slaver's Bay has reached the next chapter which may be its last. Meereen has fallen, the masters and slavers who called it home are dead and the whole of Slaver's Bay has been liberated. There is still work for me to do here but part of my journey here is over. I admitted to you that when I took the journey to the Summer Isles it was to make my own mark on history and find my destiny. I can't say for certain that I've found it but I found what I stand for and I'm willing to fight for it. And all the slavers and my enemies that fall know it too. Perhaps one day my name will echo in history like that of my father, the man who toppled the Targaryen Dynasty. I suppose the only thing greater than a toppler is a conqueror.
I will return home soon.
Best wishes, William
Also, should you hear anything in Volantis regarding the Triarch that will likely be me but should questions be asked then deny everything.
"How is the prince?" Ser Barristan wondered so Robert handed him the letter. Robert walked over and poured himself another glass of wine before sitting down and taking a small sip with a smile on his face. "The prince has grown into a fine man."
"More than that. He finally laid with a woman." Robert said with a smile. "My boy has finally done it. I didn't think it would take so long but thank the Seven it happened."
"How do you know, your grace? There's no mention of anything like that in the letter." Ser Barristan pointed.
"Trust me, I know. A father knows these things and I can tell by his letter. The boy's got a pop in his step which reflects in his writing and there are only two reasons that happen. He's made his first kill or he's fucked his first girl and he's already done the killing." Robert chuckled and took another sip of wine. "Fucking finally."
The Reach
The Tyrell Matriarch, the Lady Olenna of House Redwyne, now Tyrell was the true power in the Reach and don't let anyone tell you different. Her son Mace may have been the Warden of the South but he wasn't exactly the brains of the family. Lady Olenna was smart, calculating, and politically savvy with years of experience. She could easily outmaneuver someone as easily as she could threaten. That earned her the playful nickname of the Queen of Thorns. Well, the Queen of Thorns did everything she did to protect her family, especially her grandchildren and wanted the best for them and her house's future.
Part of that was making sure that the Tyrell name in the Reach and beyond stayed powerful through trade, political maneuvering and connections. Her grandson Loras went to King's Landing to squire for Renly Baratheon, the king's younger brother so that was an avenue to exploit but a very minimal one. The youngest Baratheon was the lowest on the totem pole so whatever benefit Loras would get from Renly was minimal. The real goal was the crown Prince William the Conqueror and she had two pieces to play. The first one was her second eldest grandson, Ser Garlan the Gallant. He was fighting side by side with the Crown Prince in Essos and from his various letters the two had struck a good friendship. Garlan wrote to his grandmother that the prince saw that he was here to further bonds between the Prince and the Reach and wasn't an idiot but the two had struck a good friendship, nonetheless. Garlan was part of her plan and the other was Margaery.
Margaery Tyrell was as beautiful as she was clever and both were in abundance. She learned well under her grandmother's tutelage and had the love of the people both common and elite and knew her way around the court. She would make the perfect Queen and that was both their goals but there was a bit of a wrinkle in the plan. According to Garlan, the prince had taken one of the Dornish women at his bedside, one of Oberyn Martell's bastard daughters. She was concerned but wished this girl no ill-will yet as Garlan wrote that the relationship wasn't started in the realm of a possible marriage. Oberyn never broached the subject and neither did the prince or the girl. It was more of a spur of the moment thing fueled by lust. Garlan told her the prince was still the respectful, kind, and valiant knight he had fought beside but just had finally popped his cherry which just sounded weird.
The relationship seemed purely physical but he would keep her updated. Olenna just hoped the prince would come home soon so he could meet Margaery. She had no doubt that she, if anyone, could win him over but she was also curious to meet him.
After hearing so much about him, a part of her wanted to see if the boy lived up to his legend.
Dorne
Prince Doran Martell sat in a chair and looked out from the balcony of his room in Sunspear. He looked out at the bay which was busy with activity but more so than usual due to the influx of trade ships from Essos, curtesy of his brother Oberyn and the Crown Prince. Oberyn kept in contact with his brother and it would seem he was doing more than just fucking and fighting over there. A part of him was surprised that he was being as helpful as he was and wouldn't believe it if Oberyn didn't write it. His letters home were very interesting as was the Crown Prince.
It had been over a year since he met the crown prince when his ships stopped in Dorne for supplies on their way to the Summer Isles. He had to admit he didn't think much of the young boy but now it would see that the boy had grown tremendously. William the Conqueror who destroyed a Dothraki horde, the Golden Company, and liberated Slaver's Bay. He hoped that he would meet him again before he returned to King's Landing. He wanted to see how much he had changed and gauge his mind.
And he hoped that Oberyn hadn't corrupted him too much.
Winterfell
Lord Eddard Ned Stark was in the crypt beneath Winterfell to place a Winter rose on his sister's statue and burial chamber. She was always fond of Winter roses so whenever he had the chance he would place one down. He wondered how she would react to how much William has grown. He received his recent letter about his progress and the recent taking of Meereen. He wished his cousins goodwill and when he returned he wished to see them all.
Ned looked up at the carving of his sister's face on the statue and sighed. He hadn't seen William in a long time. Being in the north while he was in King's landing made travel to and from very difficult. He could tell from the letters that William seemed to be doing well but he wondered just what kind of man he had grown into. People knew William the Conqueror but who was the man that earned that moniker.
Pentos
Pentos was one of the Free Cities located on the western coastline of Essos like Braavos. It was a large, rich, city-state of merchant lords. It's economy was based mostly on trade and commerce with other cities on Essos and in Westeros. With such a reliance on trade, its merchant lords held a great deal of power. Pentos was ruled by the Prince of Pentos who was chosen by the City's Magisters from among the Pentoshi noble families but there was no mistake that the prince was more of a ceremonial position. The prince held power in name alone and many in the know knew that the council of Magisters, the wealthy merchant-lords were the real ruling power.
One thing of note in Pentos was that since it was a free city it meant that slavery was technically illegal. However, wealthy merchants and lords were able to skirt this rule by keeping bronze-collared servants. While they were called servants they were slaves in all but name which is how they got around that rule. Some Magister merchant lords were even involved in the slave trade which meant that some of them cared about the recent activity in Slaver's Bay. The liberation of Slaver's Bay hurt their business and you'd think that they would want to do something about it but none of them had actually made plans. The reason? They didn't want to go against William the Conqueror. His reputation had spread throughout the whole of Essos and they weren't stupid or suicidal. He destroyed the Golden Company and a Dothraki Horde and had an army of Unsullied. And if the stories are true then the prince survived an assassination by a Faceless Man. The fee for someone or anyone to try and kill the prince would be huge. That and he was the Crown Prince of the Seven Kingdoms so they didn't want to face the financial consequences of moving against him. Trade was their livelihood.
Unknown to the rest of the world but residing in estate of Magister Merchant Lord Illyrio Mopatis were two of the last living Dragons of House Targaryen. Viserys Targaryen and his sister Daenerys. The Magister Merchant didn't take in the two Targaryens out of the goodness of his heart but rather because it was a good opportunity. He was working with other Targaryen Loyalists to hopefully return them to the throne and in exchange he would be well compensated. However, the plan had run into a bit of a problem. That problem was King Robert's son and heir to the throne.
Illyrio Mopatis and his allies have essentially fed Viserys Targaryen and his sister stories that the people in Westeros clamor for their return. They want them back on the throne, drink secret toasts to their return and denounce the Usurper and while part of that may be correct it wasn't the entire truth. Thanks to the efforts of Jon Arryn and the Crown Prince, things in Westeros were better. Increased trade and resources stimulated growth with more resources coming from Essos and the Prince's war on Slavery was seen in a positive light. William the Conqueror's legend had spread throughout Essos and the tales of his deeds were well known. The man who fought like a demon with the skill of ten men. The man who destroyed a Dothraki Horde that attempted to sack the city of Astapor, sent the Second Sons scurrying away in fear, and destroyed the Golden Company while liberating Astapor, Yunkai, and Meereen. His legend was vast and it irked the Targaryen.
"WHY HAVEN'T YOU HAD HIM KILLED YET?!"
A loud and shrill voice could be heard through the large estate of Illyrio Mopatis and it belonged to Viserys Targaryen. He kept the classic Valyrian features that House Targaryen had including the silver-blond hair, the pale lilac eyes but was a gaunt young man with hard lines in his face, a feverish look in his eyes, and was nothing you'd think a might Targaryen would look like. More like a weasel of a man both in appearance and in character. Viserys was a cruel, condescending, arrogant moron. He believed that the Iron Throne is his by right and it entitled him to obedience and reverence and was inherently owed the respect he felt he deserved but the man was not mighty, legendary, or a king. The only thing grand about the man was hie ego and his grandiose delusions that he was a mighty dragon. He set himself as one, wearing fine silk clothing and having a beautiful sword around his waist but both were not earned. The clothes were gifts from Illyrio Mopatis and the sword was just for show as the man had never fought a day in his life. The would-be king was having an argument with Illyrio Mopatis about William Baratheon. Stories of his exploits in Slaver's Bay had reached Pentos and when Viserys learned that the Usurper's son was so close and what he was doing he wanted him dead. With him dead it would give him the opportunity to take his Unsullied army and get him one step closer to the Iron Throne.
The man was an idiot.
"Your grace, the matter is a little more complicated then that." Illyrio tried to tell him as the two spoke in his office.
"No, it is not. Just hire some men to go to Meereen and have him killed in his sleep. It's that simple." Viserys told him, not understanding how over simple and idiotic the plan was. "That man's continued existence is an insult and the longer he is alive the more powerful he gets. But he made a mistake and left the security of Westeros behind to head to Slaver's Bay. A few sellswords and the man can be killed so get it done."
"Your grace, believe me I have looked into it but the matter is not that easy. The Conqueror is a skilled warrior with an entourage of the Usurper's most trusted bannermen by his side. He has sworn sellswords into his service and the stories I've heard of them indicate that they are more skilled then most. And the prince has already survived an attempted assassination by the Triarch only to recover even stronger. And the Conqueror is a proven battle commander who vanquished the Golden Company, the mightiest army in Essos." Illyrio told him.
"Well, then find another army. There's bound to be more than enough people on his bloody continent who need work and it'll be a privilege to work for a King." Viserys told him.
"Such an endeavor will take time and considerable coin, your grace. More coin then my fair pockets may possess." Illyrio informed him.
"Then figure something out. If I'm able to take care of the Usurper's son now then the better it is for me. I can then take his army and his ships and march to Westeros and take my throne back from his father." Viserys said, completely believing that his plan would work but that was just his ego talking.
Unbeknownst to him, his sister Daenerys was listening to his conversation from outside Illyrio's office. Daenerys had the same classic Valyrian features as her brother including the violet eyes and long silver-blond hair but while Viserys was as much as weasel in human form, Daenerys was a beauty. She was slender in frame but could be described as fair and beautiful. She was polite and well-spoken but very demure as she was easily cowed by her brother's ambitions and occasional cruel rages. She spent her entire early live on the good will of others, bouncing back from benefactor to benefactor who thought they could use her family's name for their own ends. She never had a true home and lived under the care of her brother which gave her a rather narrowed education and view of the world.
She listened to her brother speak with Illyrio about William the Conqueror. She had heard stories from the servants and her own handmaidens had told her stories that they had heard from traveling merchants. The man was a force of nature on the battlefield, wielding dual blades with ferocious power that he was able to fight multiple opponents with ease. One of the stories claimed he had special powers which he used to scale the mighty walls of Yunkai and made bright colored explosions in the sky. One merchant said that the Conqueror could move with the speed of a wolf and climb up buildings with the sharp eyes of a hawk that let him rain down arrows on his enemies. There were other stories of him stopping a Dothraki charge in Astapor and fighting against the Golden Company outside of Yunkai and all these stories made him seem legendary. She was also told stories of his kindness and good heart and how he was trying to help the former slave cities to be better.
And then she heard he was a Baratheon. Viserys told her that the Baratheons were responsible for what happened to their family and that it was the Conqueror's father who killed their older brother Rhaegar and took the throne from their father. The bastard son of a Usurper knows his brutality and further adds insult to the Targaryen name by calling himself Conqueror, Viserys told her.
Was her brother right? Was William the Conqueror as bad as Viserys made him seem?
Or could there be more?
Would their paths cross one day and if so…what would happen?
End of Chapter 11
Hey everyone. I hope you're all staying safe and healthy. Things are a little crazy but be careful out there. I know this chapter was short but that was by design. This was just an interlude chapter to set up stuff to happen. Next chapter is when things really pick up and not all chapters can be massive 20,000 word beasts. But let me assure all of you that I'm not abandoning this story at all. That is a promise. I've got too much put into this story to let it go.
Next chapter, Will's adventure in Meereen builds up his strength and his arsenal. He secures his defenses and decides to take the offensive against Slavery by doing something not thought possible? What is that? He's going to Volantis to kill the two Triarchs who tried to have him killed. And like he wrote to them, he won't miss. Until next time!
Updates: For June, The Perfect One and Omniverse-Earth 38 on June 30th.
William Baratheon: Son of Robert Baratheon and Lynna Stark, Prince of the Seven Kingdoms, the Blue Wolf, Slayer of the Iron Born, The Wolf of Storms, Breaker of Chains, Wolf of Justice, Stag of Righteousness, William the Conqueror, Khal of Tonitrua (Thunder)
Appearance: Young Stephen Amell
Birthdate: 279AC: 16 years old
Regular Clothing/appearance: Boots, long black or grey trousers, light white tunic/shirt, dark blue/black leather jacket with hood and facemask. Gloves. Vambraces with hidden blades, Valyrian daggers holstered in boots, and Storm's Wrath slung over his left hip
Armor:
Steel plated combat gloves
Steel plated vambraces/forearm guards with Valyrian steel forearm spikes and attached hidden blades.
Light metal leg greaves
Iron plated Samurai Dō (Chest armor) colored black with flecks of dark blue and white with sigil of House Baratheon and Stark. Attached leather shoulder pauldrons with light metal covering.
Weapons:
Black/Blue Goldenheart tree Composite Recurve Bow and Arrows usually kept in saddle holster
Small throwing knives looped in belt
Valyrian Steel stiletto dagger & Valyrian Steel Dragonbone dagger holstered in boots
Valyrian steel bastard sword Storm's Wrath holstered around left hip. Black scabbard with a black colored blade streaked with ripples of gold and red.
Valyrian steel bastard sword Wolf's Fang holstered over left shoulder or in saddle holster when riding. Grey scabbard with blue and white colored blade.
Hidden blades taken from assassin and secured on forearm bracers
Pouch of small smoke or gas bombs
Swan Ships: The Jackdaw, The Aquilla, The Black Pearl, The Flying Dutchman
Notable Talents: Expert archer/trained in the Summer isles speed archery, knife thrower with expert aim and marksmanship. Ambidextrous and trained in sword combat by Ser Arthur Dayne and Ser Barristan Selmy. Close combat training by Hundred Eyes. Agile and quick moving, self-trained in parkour, Free running, and urban exploration. Smart and quick thinking on the battlefield. Knowledge of battle tactics, poison, wildlife, history, politics, and economics. Fluent in Low Valyrian, High Valyrian, Summer Tongue, and Dothraki.
Personality: Smart, attentive, wise, honorable up to a point, caring, generous, humble and cares about others. Hates backstabbers, deceivers, people who violate his trust or think they are superior to others. Doesn't like to be treated like a child or an idiot. Unrelenting against his enemies or those who harm innocents or his family. Prone to carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders or self-doubt in certain situations.
Army: 11,000 Unsullied soldiers, 3,000 Dothraki Calvary, 1,000 former Golden Company soldiers
Allies:
Cedric Angar: personal tutor and once trained to be Maester, trusted friend
Ser Arthur Dayne: Sworn Sword, protector, and trainer
The Stark Family of Winterfell: Family
Robert Baratheon: Father
Stannis Baratheon: Uncle and Lord Paramount of the Stormlands
Ser Davos Seaworth: advisor of Stannis Baratheon and trusted friend
Ser Barristan Selmy: Commander of the Kingsguard, sworn to protect him
Hundred Eyes: Kung Fu trainer and friend
Gendry: squire, friend, and younger half-brother-age 13
Edric: friend and younger half-brother-age 12
Hercules: Leader of band of mercenaries, incredible strength, and skilled fighter
Autolycus: Second in Command, expert knife thrower, thief, and spy
Amphiaraus: Expert spear fighter, supposed seer and prophet
Tydeus: Feral warrior, relentless and highly dangerous in combat
Atalanta: Excellent combatant, tracker, and Amazon Archer
Iolaus: Persuasive, excellent negotiator, storyteller, and orator
Joshamee Mr. Gibbs: Commodore and captain of the Prince's Swan Ships, expert sailor and naval combat operator
Adewale: Second in command of the Prince's Swan Ships, expert sailor and naval combat operator
Orys: Golden Crown Eagle
Missandei: Personal handmaiden, translator, advisor, confidante, and friend.
Grey Worm: Unsullied soldier and commander of Unsullied Legion
Roach: Personal horse, fast, brave, a bit of a jester
Durran: Dragon. Blue scaled with black markings, green eyes. About the size of a small dog.
Disclaimer: I don't own Game of Thrones or any mentioned properties, all rights belong to their respective owners. I'm just a big fan.