Chapter 66
Obara and Arya led the party to the Small Council chamber. They bowed to Hannibal and motioned for the group to take their seats. Obara then went to stand behind Queen Margaery while Arya slipped into the shadows along the wall. Brienne stood behind King Hannibal.
Hannibal was wearing a modest crown upon his head as he looked upon the group that entered. He stood from his seat and acknowledged them as they all moved to their seats around the table. He watched as Bran was placed in a chair and he felt a tug of pity for the boy. It was cruel that he was robbed of his legs at such a young age. Hannibal then took his seat again and the few members of his council that were present sat after him.
Jon gave a nod and his group sat down. He had noticed that they were not followed by any guards. Nothing seemed out of place as they walked, that made him feel more uncomfortable somehow. His mind was racing to find where the trap would close around them.
Once everyone was seated, Hannibal looked to Jon. "Let us get straight to business. I am aware you have information for me concerning The Wall. We will discuss that. However, there is something important I must ask you first. The Eyrie is a great stronghold without a proper lord in control of it. That leaves an excellent castle, land and warden missing from my realm. Considering your recently-discovered ancestry, and the fact that your oath to the Night's Watch has been fulfilled...I am extending an offer for you to be my Warden of the East and Lord of the Vale. The title and lands will be passed down to any children you may have. You will be given the opportunity to change your name to that of the house you wish to claim."
Jon's group was stunned at the generous offer. Jon's mouth was slightly agape with how surprised he was. He had expected many things to happen once they got here, but this was the furthest thing from his mind. It took him a moment to collect what thoughts he could muster. "Why me?"
Hannibal was not surprised at this reaction, it showed how truly humble Jon was. "You are my kin, and well known to be an honorable man. I do not know of another who could be trusted to rule the Vale justly and to bear the responsibility of a Warden. You should also recall that the Vale was ruled by your aunt's sister for a time. There is no one more qualified than you to inherit the Vale."
Jon recognized the logic and shifted in his seat a bit. "That is a generous offer. I would like some time to consider it."
Hannibal gave a nod of his head. "Of course, it is a big decision to make." He looked at the other Wardens around the table. "The rest of you are dismissed."
Everyone other than Obara, Arya, Willas, Margaery and Brienne left the room. Hannibal then looked over the small company before speaking. "Ser Davos, I thought you had perished with your former master in the wild seas around Dragonstone."
Ser Davos seemed shocked at being recognized. "No your grace, I found myself too late to return and save my master from himself. I found the Lady Melisandre and we left Dragonstone. She insisted I take her to Castle Black, so I did."
Hannibal gave a nod of his head then looked to Melisandre. "You are the first Red Priestess I have met in person, I suspect you are who I have to thank for restoring my distant nephew to this world."
Melisandre flashed an easy smile to Hannibal. "It is a great honor to meet you, your grace. But it is the Lord of Light to whom you owe thanks, I am merely a vessel for his power."
Margaery did not like how this red headed woman smiled at her husband. She felt a twinge of jealousy as she gently rocked young Aenar in her arms. The rest of the group looked quite ragged from their journey. The young girl looked almost like a boy in some ways. The poor creature needed a good bath.
Hannibal looked to Bran, "I am glad to see that you are still breathing Bran. Not many have traveled beyond The Wall and returned."
Bran just nodded his head, but he still felt a bit uncomfortable with how harshly the Lannisters had been punished.
Hannibal was not familiar with the other two but he suspected the man to be a wildling and focused upon him. "I certainly hope the other Wildlings are as fierce warriors as you appear to be. If you represent the other Wildlings as a whole, I am willing to speak with you about lands for your people south of The Wall to keep them safe from the dangers that lie beyond it."
Tormund had not expected that. He looked at this man to read his eyes. He had a difficult time, but he didn't see anything that seemed completely dishonest. "I am willing to listen to what you have to offer. However, the Free Folk do not bend the knee."
Hannibal nodded his head in understanding before returning his gaze to Jon. "What is it you wish to tell me about the White Walkers?"
Jon found himself slightly impressed with how well this King seemed to know his party. He leaned forward a bit as he began. "There is more than just White Walkers. They are the commanders of a large army of undead we call Wights. Their top commander, we call the Night King. He has the power to bring newly-dead bodies back to life to fight for him. Their eyes are ice blue and they move fast. There is magic in The Wall that keeps them at bay, but he is building his numbers with the various tribes of wildlings north of The Wall along with any stray rangers."
Bran picked up where Jon left off. "Meera and I traveled north of The Wall to meet the three-eyed raven. He trained me to use the ancient weirwoods to travel through history and see the various events that have happened in the past. I saw the children of the forest create the first White Walker, the Night King himself. They used dragonglass and magic to create him. I have been searching through various family histories to discover how he could be defeated."
Margaery felt her heart beginning to race and her blood running cold as she quickly began to understand exactly what was being said. If this was all true, it was a terrible threat to their newly-established reign. She immediately began to worry about their children. She shifted her foot to wrap behind Hannibal's leg to try and calm herself a bit.
Willas had been listening and observing carefully. He frowned deeply at this information. He did not like this one bit and he didn't like where this conversation would be heading very soon.
Hannibal had expected some of these facts, but the numbers he was calculating in his head were concerning. "Did you discover how to defeat him?" He asked Bran.
Bran nodded his head. "The three heads of the dragon need to come together to defeat him. The son reborn, the daughter in exile, and the son with ice and fire in his veins."
It was obvious to everyone that Jon was the one reborn and Daenerys was the one exile. However, the last one did not appear to fit Hannibal.
Hannibal tilted his head as he looked to Bran. He saw hesitation from the boy and from Melisandre. "What did you see in your visions about my family tree? How do I have ice as well as fire?"
Bran looked directly into Hannibal's eyes. "Maegor the Cruel had a child with a Red Priestess called Tyanna of the Tower. She fled King's Landing and landed at Hardhome north of The Wall. As she made her way through the various Wildling tribes, she encountered the Night King. He attempted to claim the child growing within her. She fled south of The Wall and was discovered by Rogar Bolton. She used her magic to convince him the child was his. She taught him part of a spell where her child was branded with a blade of valyrian steel upon his birth. The baby was born with ice blue eyes and cold skin. After he was branded, his eyes turned dark brown. This child became the first heir of House Bolton after the line of Red Kings had ended."
Melisandre jumped into the conversation. "The spell she used was powerful enough that it did not need to be repeated. The ancient powers are still within your blood. You are the only man alive who could face the Night King in battle and not be turned by his touch or powers." She then turned to Jon. "Because you have returned to the world of the living, the Wights will not attack you. Only the White Walkers will focus on you."
Jon nodded his head. "You will need all of those dragons of yours, along with the three owned by Daenerys Targaryen. Fire is the only thing that destroys the Wights completely."
Willas, Beric, Arya and Obara seemed stunned at what they had just heard. They were greatly confused by all of this information. What exactly did this mean?
Margaery's worry only grew. She looked to her husband and realized that he had not expected this information. She froze her reactions and returned her mask. She would share her concerns in private with Hannibal over this news.
Hannibal kept his face a mask of stone as they began to reveal their information. His dark eyes were focused upon Melisandre and Bran. "So, the two of you are saying that my family line allows me to be immune to the powers of this Night King? I am assuming any injuries from a weapon would still do damage?"
Melisandre nodded her head. "Yes your grace. He can only die by wounds from a blade of valyrian steel. You are the only man who can face him in battle and fight him as if he were any other man. His magic will not aid his strength or cripple you during battle. His blades can still damage you; however, the magic within them will not poison you."
Everyone realized exactly what weight was just set upon Hannibal's shoulders by those words. They all watched to see how their new King would react.
Hannibal's jaw was set as he sat tall in his chair. He turned to look at Willas. "Draft a message to my dear niece across the Narrow Sea. Inform her that she is invited here to King's Landing for a family reunion and to discuss some important business matters. Send this with a black raven to Mereen."
Margaery had kept her mask and continued to rock young Aenar. She chose to remain focused on the poor girl that looked like she needed at least one hundred scrubbing baths to get cleaned up. She was not going to show an ounce of doubt at this table.
Hannibal stood to his full height slowly and gave a nod to those around the table. "I thank you for this information. Chambers have been prepared for you. We will meet together with my full Small Council tomorrow morning to discuss what preparations need to be made based upon this information." he looked to Jon. "If you are able to have an answer for me prior to that meeting, I would like to introduce you as my Warden of the East."
Jon gave a bow of his head.
Hannibal gave a nod as he reached for Aenar and offered a hand to Margaery to signal she could walk with him. Just as he was passing Jon he added one final comment. "It would be good if you could join my family and I at dinner tonight, nephew. My children are quite excited to meet you."
Jon nodded his head and bowed as Hannibal walked past with Margaery.
Chapter 67
Yara had been sailing for Mereen for a month when the lookouts called out that a flock of ravens was flying overhead. Yara went onto the deck to look at the birds - they were black. She was to carry out her secondary mission. They would arrive a few days behind the ravens that had been sent. Her mission was to weaken as many of Daenerys' troops as possible if she insisted on bringing them, but to act as if she was trying to be helpful.
She had also been tasked with trying to put a small wedge between Daenerys and her husband, by whatever means necessary. Yara found this part of her task to be the most interesting. The best way to cause a fight between a married couple...was to test their fidelity.
...
Jon looked around the table at those who had traveled with him. He was a bit shocked at what had just happened during this meeting. It had gone better than he had thought it would.
Bran looked at Jon. "I was right."
Davos chose to finally speak up. "I don't see how this could have gone any better."
Jon looked to Tormund and Melisandre. "What do the two of you think?"
Melisandre spoke up first. "He is more open minded than I thought he might be."
Tormund spoke next. "He was expecting bad news, but he seemed to handle what you said to him." He focused on Jon. "I would trust him and fight by his side if he asked." He knew Jon would understand how much trust that was. Tormund was not willing to fight and probably die next to every person he met.
Jon nodded his thanks to Tormund. "I will always be suspicious, but if you all agree that you would trust him...then I need to get ready for dinner."
They all nodded in agreement and stood. As they left the chamber, servants were waiting to escort them to their individual chambers. One had a special chair with wheels instead of legs. A special invention made by the wagon makers to help Bran move a little easier throughout the castle.
Meera's room connected to the one Bran was given. Jon was led to a room on the other side of Bran's. Melisandre was led to a room across the hall from Jon and Bran; and Ser Davos was in the room next to Melisandre. Tormund was put in a room next to Ser Davos. They all began to settle in before dinner.
...
Willas was walking alongside Hannibal and Margaery. Hannibal turned to him. "Send out an announcement in the city. A new royal armorer is to be hired. Every smith in the city may enter his name for consideration. They must each make a full suit of armor. The strongest and lightest armor that prevents all weapons from penetrating will be the winner."
Willas nodded and set off to send out the notice, he would get Hannibal's measurements from the seamstresses.
Hannibal led Margaery to their chambers and laid the sleeping Aenar down in his crib. He then turned to Margaery and pulled her close to him in a tight hug.
Margaery had forced herself to be numb during that meeting to not show weakness. As soon as she felt Hannibal's strong arms around her in that tight embrace, tears of worry started to form as she curled into him.
Hannibal kissed her temple tenderly. "I am going to have new armor made. I will have the best trackers and historians find as many Valyrian steel weapons in the realm as can be found. I swear to you now that there won't be an inch of my body that is left unprotected. I will end this threat and secure our kingdom and the future of our children." He swore to her.
Margaery was still afraid, what if they lost everything they had worked so hard for - what if it was all for nothing? They had just gained victory and claimed the throne. She pulled back to look up into his eyes. She didn't say it out loud, but the worry was plain to see in her eyes.
Hannibal saw the look and used his hands to frame her face. "We will not lose what we have gained."
Margaery nodded her head in understanding. She trusted him, but she was still worried.
...
Gregory had just returned to his shop after hearing a few of the 'best' armorers bragging about their skills for the King's competition. The King had set a challenge to find a new royal armorer for the Red Keep. He wanted the finest set of armor that was absolutely indestructible by any weapon known to man, including poisons and acids.
Gregory heard another complaining that the mobility and weight requirements the King had given would be impossible to replicate. But Gregory had an idea of what to make and present to the King. He would keep it a secret until he was finished. He was going to show those other armorers and smiths. They had put him down for years, he was going to prove them wrong.
He was going to win the competition and the job of royal armorer for the King. He set to work with leather. That would be the key to mobility and weight.
...
As Tormund moved to settle in his room after dinner, he felt a presence moving behind him. He settled himself and ignored it to let them think they had the upper hand. He began to strip off his clothing until he was bare from the chest up. It was then he made a move to pin the person behind him to the wall.
Obara smirked when she found herself pinned. "Mmm, you have good reflexes for such a large man. I did not expect you to discover me so early. I'm Obara Sand." She purred as she rocked in his grip to try and press up against him. It was a technique she used to get out of a situation without looking like she was trying to get away.
Tormund felt his cock getting hard when he realized who he had pinned. He increased his grip when she didn't cry out in pain. He closed the distance between them and used his body to pin her against the wall. "It's a fuckable offense to break into a man's room where I come from." he said as he loomed over her.
Obara felt a rush as he pressed into her. She nipped at his lips as he came in closer. "I never say no to a good fuck. But I'm not a little doll that will lay back and let you fuck me as you want." Her eyes flared with arousal.
Tormund smirked at that as he pressed into her so that she could feel how hard his cock was. "We'll be fucking all night. Name's Tormund." He said before claiming her lips in a crushing kiss.
Chapter 68
Daenerys had summoned her Small Council to her as soon as the message had arrived. The seal alone caused her great anxiety and anger. The still-sealed message sat upon a small table in the middle of them all as they stared at the wax.
The seal in the red wax was the three-headed dragon of the Targaryen sigil.
Daenerys looked around at her closest advisors. "Who could have possibly sent this?"
Varys hesitated a moment before speaking. "There was a very secret rumor in King's Landing that Jon Snow was not a bastard at all. Some claim your brother fell in love with Lyanna Stark, rather than simply kidnapping her, and the pair ran off to elope together just at the beginning of Robert's rebellion. Some whisper that Ned Stark was his uncle and claimed him as his own bastard son to keep him safe from his friend Robert Baratheon. If any of that was true...Jon Snow would actually be Jon Targaryen, your nephew."
Tyrion had heard some of those whispers as well and nodded his head in agreement. "That is a possibility. Ned Stark cared very deeply for his family. I recall he was heard saying that he 'kept his promise' just before he was executed."
Daenerys gave a nod of her head. That was a more comforting notion in her mind. A nephew would bend the knee to her and give her proper claim to her throne. She reached out to pick up the message and opened the seal.
The others watched as she read, but they saw her face darken in absolute rage. Jorah did not like how much his wife's face had darkened as she read. This was bad news indeed. Daenerys' eyes flashed to Varys, "It seems you were correct that I have a nephew. However, this message is from a man who claims he is my great-great uncle." She said as she dropped the letter on the table.
Tyrion picked up the message and he too seemed upset by the contents of the letter.
Grey Worm could not stand the wait any longer. "Who from?" He did not like seeing his Queen so upset.
Tyrion found himself unable to speak and passed it to Varys.
Varys frowned as he read before he looked up at the others who had not yet read it. "This message is from the King of Westeros. King Hannibal Targaryen. He has recently finished a successful campaign in freeing the Seven Kingdoms from what he calls the 'tyranny of the Lannister filth'. He has re-established what remained of the Stark clan as Wardens of the North and returned Winterfell to them. He has discovered another lost Targaryen, Aegon Targaryen known to all of Westeros as Jon Snow, son of Rhaegar, who has graciously accepted being Warden of the East and the new Lord of the Vale. Seems this King Hannibal is formally inviting Queen Daenerys to visit King's Landing, along with a large enough entourage of her choosing to keep her and her family safe during the dangerous journey across the sea. He is sending the admiral of his fleet with ships to assist in transporting her to King's Landing. He specifically requested that she bring her dragons so that they could play with their cousins at King's Landing. He mentions breaking bread together and celebrating the reunion of the three heads of the dragon."
No one moved as Varys explained the message. There was a lot of information tucked into those words. None of it was good.
Missandei spoke first. "What did he mean by cousins for Drogon?"
Tyrion had drained his wine glass and was pouring himself a second when he heard the question. "It means he has more than one dragon."
Jorah saw how Daenerys was seething and he looked from Tyrion to Varys. "How is it possible that he has any dragons?"
Varys hesitated for a moment. "How is it possible we have three? There are certain circles of people who know how many petrified eggs are in the world. They would also know how to possess them. A clever man like Hannibal would be able to riddle out how to cause them to hatch."
Daenerys was clinging to her fury. She looked at Tyrion and Varys. "Go to the docks. Find out from the various merchants and sailors how much of this message is true. Have your little birds give us as much information as possible before this admiral arrives." She looked to Grey Worm. "Make certain we are prepared in case this 'admiral' intends to attack when we are not expecting it."
They all bowed their heads and stood to leave and begin working on their tasks immediately.
Jorah waited until they were gone to kneel down next to her chair. He reached to take one of her hands between his. "My love?"
Daenerys was still filled with anger as they left. She saw Jorah moving closer and didn't stop him from holding her hand. At his words, her eyes closed softly as a few silent tears rolled down her cheeks. "We were robbed of future children from that Lannister woman. Now the throne has been taken by a man who claims my name and that he has the right to the throne over me."
Jorah stood and pulled her into his arms as he hugged her tightly. He kissed her temple tenderly. "Do not despair, my love. He just claims he has that right. I don't know how in the seven hells he intends to prove it."
Daenerys curled into Jorah when he hugged her. She smiled sadly as she heard his words. They were a comfort to her, even if they were just hopeful ideas. "Thank you Jorah."
...
Jon had not known what to expect at that first dinner, but he had definitely not expected to be eager to spend more time with the young prince and princess. They were quite intense for being so young, but that was not a complete surprise considering their father.
Jon was dressing himself to go to another meal with the royal family. He had insisted that Bran join him this time. Hannibal had graciously agreed. Jon found Bran and pushed the chair towards the small, private dining room. He smiled down to Bran. "This chair is quite light. Have you found a way to move around a bit on your own?"
Bran had been a bit hesitant at first when he sat in the chair. However, the increase in his movement was a nice change. Even if it was for a short period of time. He nodded his head at Jon's question. "I have just a little. I had not expected him to do such a thing for me."
Jon nodded in agreement. "I had not expected this level of kindness either."
Bran grinned. "I told you, a family makes a man rethink what he does to those around him."
Jon gave a tilt of his head. "I guess you are right." He said as he pushed Bran into the room and found the royal family already gathered there.
Rhys and Reina had been playing peek-a-boo with their baby brother when the two entered. They raced over with wide smiles on their faces. "Jon!" They greeted as they looked around him.
"Where's Ghost?" Rhys asked.
Jon chuckled as he gave a whistle and Ghost bounded into the room. Rhys cheered and pet Ghost as he looked to his sister and gave her a wink. Reina called for Mab who came out from behind the table next to Margaery. She stopped next to Reina and seemed to ignore Ghost.
Hannibal chuckled at the sight. "It seems my wife's wolf has inherited some of her personality. I do hope your Ghost is careful not to make her cross." He said. He was not certain if Ghost would try to mate with Mab, but he was well aware that she had not allowed any other wolf to mate with her so far.
Margaery glanced at Hannibal with a raised brow. "That is quite a bold statement. You might want to take your own advice."
Hannibal smirked as he leaned down to speak lowly into her ear and nibble upon it to tease her. "You know I am referring to not going beneath yourself for your mate correct?" He said so only she could hear.
Margaery smirked at that before nodding her head in consent to his comment. He was right of course, her wolf had not yet allowed any of the other wolves to mate with her yet.
Rhys and Reina were smirking at each other as the adults talked. They both hopped onto their respective wolf. Margaery's eyes had widened and she shouted in surprise and a bit of anger.
The twins ignored their mother and cried out "Race!" Both wolves took off around the room and made two circles around it before Hannibal managed to scoop both children off of the wolves safely. Mab and Ghost continued the race out of the room and down the hall.
Hannibal set both children down on their feet and looked down at them with mild frustration on his face. "Rhys, Reina...how many times have I told you not to race in front of your mother! The two of you know how much it frightens her, it is very dangerous to do such things." He said with a stern tone.
Both Rhys and Reina looked down at their feet before answering. "Yes Papa." They looked up at Margaery with regret on their faces. "We are sorry Mama." They said together.
Hannibal gave a nod of his head. "You will be punished after dinner. Now, go wash your hands and sit in your seats."
They both nodded their heads and went to wash their hands in the bowl near the door. Hannibal turned and gave Margaery a wink before looking at Jon and Bran. "Sorry for the excitement. Unfortunately they inherited an adventurous streak and have been causing a bit of havoc for us from time to time."
Jon and Bran shook their heads. "It is all right. Children are children." Jon answered with a smile.
Bran smirked a bit wistfully himself. "I recall giving my mother a hard time with my many adventures. It is refreshing to see children running around and playing like this. It feels like ages since I have seen joy like this on the faces of children."
Hannibal smiled as Rhys and Reina returned and took their seats. Hannibal motioned for Bran and Jon to take their seats at the table. He looked to Bran. "It will take some time for my niece to arrive here. I have some very skilled inventors. If you would like, I could see if they can find a way to make this chair you are in easier to use. Perhaps even replace it with something better."
Bran seemed surprised at what he was hearing. He looked at Hannibal for a long moment. "Why would you help me be able to move on my own again?"
Hannibal looked into Bran's eyes directly for a long moment before he answered. "I respected your father and I did not like how I was forced to betray your family by my own father. I swore to repay your family for the part I played in the betrayal. That is why your sister is my Warden of the North and is free to marry. This is why I am offering to give you some independence and mobility back. You are a young man Bran, with many years left before you. If I knew how to fix your legs, I would. I honor those whom I respect."
Jon realized then that Hannibal was a more honorable man than he had assumed. This moment erased his doubts about the man. Now he would more willingly serve and fight with his uncle.
Bran's eyes widened a bit, but he saw the truth of the words Hannibal said. He gave a nod of his head. "I would like that very much if you have a plan."
Hannibal smiled as he nodded his head. "I do indeed. I will set them to work immediately." He said.
Margaery smiled in pride. Her husband had won over two more allies at this meal. Based on the sounds she had been hearing last night, it had sounded like Obara had secured the Wildling as another ally. Westeros was now firmly under their absolute control. Her confidence began to grow that this Dragon Queen would simply fall into line when she realized she would have no hope of success in a coup. Margaery was determined to remain focused on that young queen's arrival and not worry about what would follow for the time being.
Chapter 69
Daenerys was sitting with her small group of councilors high in the great pyramid. Varys had heard back from his little birds and he needed to give his report. They knew from Braavos that ships bearing the sigil of the Houses Greyjoy and Targaryen were making their way to Mereen and would arrive within a few days.
Daenerys took her seat and looked to Varys. "What have your little birds reported to you?"
Varys looked out at the council. "My little birds have reported a great deal. Hannibal is an excellent military strategist and he is not afraid to use a variety of tactics to win. He managed to take over King's Landing without having to fight any battle and only lost a handful of men in the process."
Grey Worm seemed suspicious of that. "How can he win throne without fight?"
Varys looked at Grey Worm. "House Frey was utterly destroyed overnight as his first stop towards claiming the Iron Throne. He flew upon his dragon's back and dropped small containers of wildfire onto their castle. He also commanded his dragon to spit fire upon any who tried to flee the castle. Everyone within was killed that night and the castle was utterly destroyed."
Jorah felt his stomach drop when he heard that. "Wildfire? He has wildfire?"
Daenerys knew of her father's invention and what his intentions had been for it. She looked at Varys. "If all were killed, then how is all of this known?"
Varys nodded his head at the questions. "Had wildfire. It is my understanding that he does not have any more of the substance. There are men from various military units who spoke of what they saw along the road from the Dreadfort to the Red Keep near the docks. Many merchants heard them telling the story. The next stop on his campaign was to retake Riverrun and eliminate the threat of the Lannister army."
Tyrion took a sip of his wine. "Obviously he was successful."
Varys nodded his head. "He was, not a single arrow was fired in the exchange is what I have heard."
Jorah narrowed his eyes at that. "How did he manage to win without attacking?"
Varys glanced to him. "He planted terror in the minds of the men within the keep. They had seen the green glow from the remains of The Twins. It is reported he used three Lannisters on poles and worked them over with every skill known of House Bolton to terrify the men within even more. He was able to kidnap Jaime Lannister using his dragon, and the Lannister army surrendered to him out of fear. He then killed every man who had surrendered to him without mercy."
Daenerys eyes glowed with anger. "He killed men who surrendered? That is cruel."
Those around the table hesitated a moment, but Tyrion spoke up. "Not if he is trying to ensure security. No good leader would trust a deserter or a traitor. Letting them live would have filled whatever prison he had until he could try them and find them all guilty. He was bold to outright kill them after their surrender. He is not afraid to show his true personality as a leader. He does not hide behind a mask of false promises."
The others around the table nodded their heads in agreement with Tyrion's words.
Daenerys frowned as she considered this. After taking Mereen and all of the struggles she had with her own people, she understood why it was simpler to simply kill all members of the enemy rather than allowing them to live. But it was a fine line between brilliance and cruelty.
Tyrion looked to Varys. "Did he kill my brother after capturing him?"
Varys hesitated for a moment. "Your brother and sister have not yet met their end according to what my little birds have reported to me."
Daenerys tilted her head in curiosity. "Did he destroy anything else on his way to King's Landing? It surprises me that he has taken prisoners since he executed those that had surrendered to him."
There was a look on Varys' face that gave Jorah an uneasy feeling. Tyrion did not like that look either. He finished his glass of wine before looking at the eunuch. "They are not prisoners are they?"
Varys shook his head. "No, they are examples."
The room grew quiet. Daenerys steeled herself before speaking. "What did he do to them?"
Varys hesitated for a moment. "It is quite gruesome, my queen."
Daenerys nodded her head. "I want to hear it. I want to know what this man is capable of."
Varys gave a nod of his head. "Very well. One of my little birds heard from a sailor who had just left King's Landing shortly after the coronation of the King. He was able to witness the sentencing for the Lannisters." He hesitated for a moment before continuing. "Apparently they were strung up in the great arena for the pleasure of anyone interested to physically enjoy for one full day. Then they were taken to special displays on either side of the main gate. There they were publicly flayed from the neck down and left up there to die. He said they were still alive when he left."
Tyrion was intently staring at his empty cup as he listened to the fate of his siblings. The rest of the room sat in shocked silence as Varys described the terrible punishment. Missandei looked as if she was going to be sick. Jorah felt his own stomach turning a bit at the thought. Daenerys was sickened to think that someone could do such a thing to others. However, she would have been harsh with Cersei for denying her further children by sending her assassin.
Grey Worm looked to his queen. "This is dangerous man, Mhysa. He will make trap for us."
No one seemed to argue that opinion. Daenerys looked to Grey Worm. "You are right, this is likely a trap. What should we do? His envoy will be here in a few days, he is expecting me to accept."
Tyrion set his cup down. "Or he is trying to force you to accept by sending an envoy."
Varys gave a nod of his head. "That is a possibility. Based on the message we received from Braavos, there are enough ships in that envoy to carry half of your forces if it came here on skeleton crews. There was no mention in the message he sent that you were forbidden from taking more than half of your forces with you. He seemed to invite you to bring your draconian children as well." He pointed out.
Jorah leaned forward, "This envoy of his might have additional restrictions to the message he sent. You mentioned the sigil of House Greyjoy. Has there been any word on which Greyjoy has been sent?"
Varys shook his head.
Daenerys frowned at this. "Grey Worm, have scouts keep an eye on these ships and all of the crew upon them. Watch and listen if there are any whispers of treachery from those that arrive. Lord Varys, have your little birds listening to what these sailors say when they arrive and see what they find. I want everyone to be prepared for this to be a trap."
They all bowed their heads to her before leaving to prepare for the incoming envoy.
...
Yara looked out across her ship as she spotted the pyramids of Mereen in the distance. They would be there by nightfall. She breathed the salty air in deeply. She knew what she had to deliver back to King's Landing. Her crews knew what their orders were. Yara found herself a bit excited at her mission. She had heard that this Mother of Dragons was quite the beauty. She didn't mind the idea of being bold with the woman and planting seeds of doubt in her mind of her husband's abilities in the sack.
...
Tormund had grown to greatly enjoy King's Landing. The woman Obara was one of the best fucks he had ever had. She was even wilder than many of the women he had fucked north of The Wall. He even grew to respect the king after just a few days. He was a hard man who did what he said he would do. He might be tricky with his words, but he didn't hesitate to act. Tormund had even heard him fucking his queen every day; he found it impressive that this man managed to fuck his queen so regularly every day. He began to wonder if the man had some Wildling in him.
Tormund had arrived at the private meeting with this king, and the queen, to discuss options for the Wildlings to settle south of The Wall. He was curious what sort of terms they might set. He gave a nod of his head to them as he entered.
Hannibal gave a nod of his head in turn, "How are you liking King's Landing so far?"
Tormund smirked at the question, "The company here in the south is far better than I had heard. I guess I should have asked you how nice of a ride the women of the south are."
Hannibal smirked as he looped an arm around Margaery to hold her close. "The women in the north might consent to be ridden all night, but the women of the south demand to ride as well. I am glad to hear you are enjoying that challenge."
Tormund smirked before he barked out a laugh. "Aye, I do! There ain't nothing like a good, hard fuck before bed. It really helps a man to sleep well through the night."
Margaery was blushing lightly from how crude the conversation was, but she didn't put up any protest. It was seeming to win over the Wildling even more.
Hannibal smiled before motioning to a chair for Tormund to sit in. "Why don't we sit to discuss terms for your people to have some lands?"
Tormund gave a nod of his head before he sat in one of the chairs. "What terms do you have in mind?"
Hannibal sat across from Tormund and pulled Margaery into his lap as he looked at the Wildling. "I know that you and your people are Free Folk and have no desire to bend the knee to me. I am willing to allow you to claim land south of The Wall and live there without bending the knee to me. In exchange for this...any Free Folk who live in my kingdom will need to be prepared to help fight should they be called upon to keep the kingdom safe. They will be allowed to join the Night's Watch if they so choose, and any man who volunteers to join will get the same benefits as any Westerosi man who volunteers. A monthly pension will be given to the man's family so that they can buy what they need."
Tormund listened carefully, he sat back as he considered what he had just heard. "Those terms are reasonable. What kind of land will the Free Folk be allowed to claim?"
Hannibal was pleased that Tormund was so open to listening to his terms. "There are many lands that are currently unoccupied due to the various wars. I can have a map drawn with all of the available lands that can be claimed by the Free Folk. Once a claim is made, a representative of the clan would need to be sent here to formally claim the land. There is not a fee to claim the land. Once it has been marked, that clan has proper claim to that land. If there is a dispute, each clan will need to send a warrior here to petition before me why their clan should have the land. If a diplomatic solution cannot be reached, the warriors who came will fight each other to the death. The winner will win the claim for their clan."
Tormund continued to listen carefully, he recognized that this man seemed to understand Freefolk very well. This was similar to how Mance had managed them north of The Wall. He gave a nod of his head as he stood and held out his hand. "I agree to your terms for my clan. I will speak with the other clan leaders about your terms. I think they will all agree as well; but, I do not speak for them here."
Hannibal shifted Margaery so that he could stand. He took Tormand's hand and shook the great man's hand. "Very good, I will have multiple maps drawn up immediately so that you can share them with the other clan leaders. If you see land you would like to claim while the maps are being copied, my copiers can list your name so that no other clan will attempt to make a claim."
Tormund smiled wide at that. "I will take a look at the options."
Margaery had been listening and watching carefully. These Wildlings were indeed quite crass, but she was pleased to see the great man so willing to work with them. She was relieved to hear that they were willing to be somewhat civilized at the very least.
Hannibal gave a nod of his head before taking Margaery's arm and leading her out of the room and towards their chambers.
Tormund stepped out and watched them for a moment before going back to his chamber. He was about to undress when he spotted a black feather on the ground. He smirked as he looked around, Obara was teasing him again. He was going to fuck her even harder once he found where she was hiding in his room this time.
Chapter 70
Olenna had not been pleased with the invitation sent to Daenerys; however, she was not the ruler to make such a decision. She understood what was said and knew that Margaery was aware of all the facts. She watched as Hannibal created new alliances and waited for her first opportunity to bring questions up to the pair of them in true privacy.
She had requested the pair of them to come, without the children, for some tea. Willas was with her as they waited.
Willas glanced at his grandmother as they waited. "I'm surprised that you haven't been named as the Master of Whispers."
Olenna gave him a sly glance as she took a slow sip from her tea. "Some things have no need to be announced."
Willas chuckled as he sipped his tea and waited in silence.
Hannibal was leading Margaery to this tea with Olenna and Willas. They had left Rhys and Reina with Jon and Bran as their babysitters. With Mab and the three rapidly growing dragons, Hannibal felt that his children were well-protected.
Margaery was carrying Aenar in her arms and chuckled as he wiggled about in her arms. "This son of yours wants you to hold him. He is quite fond of you my dear."
Hannibal smiled as he reached to take Aenar out of Margaery's arms and carry him the rest of the way. "He is going to be watching us more carefully over the next few weeks as he wants to learn more."
Margaery smirked as she glanced at him. "Will he need to stay with his older brother and sister at night so that we can play?" She teased.
Hannibal chuckled at that as he nodded his head. "Perhaps."
As they entered he gave a pleasant greeting to Olenna. Both Olenna and Willas bowed their heads as Hannibal assisted Margaery down onto the bench before joining her on it. He sat Aenar on his leg so that his son could see the table and what was going on.
Olenna waited for the servants to serve the tea and leave before she picked up her cup slowly and studied Hannibal over the rim. "I do hope you have a plan for this 'niece' of yours who just might come with her entire army."
Hannibal reached for a cup of tea as well and took a slow sip before focusing on Olenna. "She has a very weak claim to the throne now that mine is so well–established. She has claimed a throne for herself in Mereen after 'ending slavery'. However, she married a convicted slaver who was banished by Ned Stark to never return to Westeros upon pain of death. He is her second husband, who many believe she only married because she became pregnant with his child. There are rumors that she gave birth on her wedding night. No family here would consider that child a trueborn Targaryen, meaning her daughter is a Blackfyre. It has also been reported that the couple has yet to have another child, their girl is reported to be nearly five years of age. It would seem that Daenerys is unable to bear any further children." He explained.
Margaery was aware of all this information. She knew that her husband's reign was very secure through their many children. They were both young and virile enough to have more children if they wanted.
Willas listened and gave a nod of his head that he did not disagree. He did think that Hannibal clearly had an advantage when it came to whom he was married to and their strong line of children.
Olenna was not concerned about the claim. She was concerned about if the girl would attack. "I do not think anyone in the Seven Kingdoms would prefer an exiled woman, daughter of the Mad King, who is married to a banished man twice her age. I am far more concerned about her bringing her entire military strength here."
Hannibal's eyes danced in delight at her question. "She cannot bring all of her forces here without the aid of my fleet of ships. A large portion of her army are Dothraki. They are well-known for being highly superstitious and afraid of the sea. It is common for men and women to die at sea during their first trip West. I suspect a fair number will struggle with the journey here to King's Landing."
Margaery smirked to her grandmother. "I have heard reports that quite a number of people who work in or visit a variety of comfort houses are not fond of her. They are afraid that they will be taxed considerably higher if she comes here and shuts down the comfort houses to free the 'slaves'."
Hannibal smiled at Margaery. "Recall that the young Lady Mormont is the power of Bear Island. She has no love for her banished kin and has voiced her opinions quite loudly even so far south as King's Landing. I do believe there might be a riot of people requesting Daenerys to return to Mereen upon her arrival. I have ordered that guards wait at the docks to keep the peace."
Olenna chuckled as she took another sip of her tea. "It would appear that I was worried over nothing then."
Margaery beamed with pride. "Of course not, grandmother. My King is quite wise, despite his age."
Willas gave a nod of his head. "I will begin working on a security party for her arrival. I suspect we will have word from Mereen in a few days."
Hannibal nodded his head in agreement. "Indeed, I find myself curious what she has found for a Maester to handle such work." He said as a light joke.
The table chuckled softly and Aenar clapped his hands in excitement as he joined into the laughter.
...
Daenerys waited in the throne room for this admiral to arrive. She was the very picture of royalty in a flowing dark blue gown. She sat at the top of the staircase with her daughter Daella sitting in her lap. Jorah was standing just behind her. Tyrion and Varys stood off to her right. Grey Worm and Missandei were standing on the bottom step as Yara Greyjoy was allowed into the great pyramid.
Yara came in with a confident swagger. She looked over this Mother of Dragons and did not hide her interest in the slender woman. She was quite attractive, Queen Margaery would not like being replaced in certain circles with dirty talk about this younger woman. She bowed at the bottom of the steps.
"It is a great pleasure to meet you. I have been sent by King Hannibal of House Targaryen. He has requested that I personally escort you and as many of your men as you desire upon my ships. His request is that any arms brought are left upon the ships once we make berth at King's Landing. He also ordered me to personally ensure you and your family's safety on this journey. My ship has been fortified to carry the weight of your dragons aboard. However, that limits the amount of people you can have aboard my command ship with you."
Jorah did not expect a woman to be brought in...he didn't like the looks she was boldly giving his wife. He frowned down at her and shifted closer to Daenerys.
The confident swagger and the raking look were not lost on Daenerys Targaryen. She knew what that look meant. Men had looked upon her in such lust for some time now. She flashed a smile, but didn't otherwise engage. Her eyes narrowed when her dragons were mentioned and she leaned back in her throne.
"My dragons can fly. The distance across the Narrow Sea won't disturb them, but why should I trust you? Why should I trust that this king of yours has any intention of delivering me alive? For all I know, you plan on taking me aboard your ship and back to the Iron Islands to spill my innards on the rocks." Or worse, throw her to the crew.
Yara kept her eyes locked on the beautiful woman in front of her. There was a slight smirk on her face when she saw that moment of anger. "Aye, you ask a fair question. I swore to bring back the king's beloved niece. After he took his time in punishing the Lannisters...I'd rather not risk my hide on crossing him." She came off as amused and casual with her words and demeanor. However, there was a glint of fear in her eyes for the briefest of moments. Yara's grin widened as the moment passed. "If I were to take you back to the Iron Islands, spilling those lovely innards of yours would not be my plan."
Jorah's eyes hardened as he reached to rest a hand on his wife's shoulder. He said nothing, but he did not care for how this Greyjoy was speaking.
Daenerys did spot that glint of fear, but she said nothing on the matter. This was a bold, hard woman who was terrified of this Hannibal. She wondered what kind of power and fear he gripped the people with. The term 'niece' pulled a growl of annoyance out of her. "Beloved niece...he claims the Targaryen name. I don't care how he claims the relation, he is no relative of mine."
Yara didn't bat an eye, nor did she seem the least bit concerned about the growl from Daenerys. She wasn't intimidated in the least by this dragon queen. "I don't blame you for doubting. However, I can't argue with what I see with my own two eyes. His oldest children each have one eye that I swear to the Drowned God look identical to yours. His youngest son, I swear could be your younger brother...his hair matches yours exactly." She said honestly.
This news of Hannibal's children showing Targaryen traits made Daenerys suspicious. "That doesn't mean he's a Targaryen," Daenerys pointed out. "His wife may be of some Targaryen descent." The Tyrells had fair and lovely women after all.
"Let us not be so hasty to refuse an invitation, your grace," Tyrion advised softly before speaking to Yara. "So you will be escorting us back to Westeros?"
Daenerys gave a tilt of her head as she looked at the Greyjoy woman. "When would we be able to set sail?"
Yara gave a shrug of her shoulders. "As soon as the ships can be supplied with extra water stores and some food rations we will be ready to sail."
Jorah raised an eyebrow. "Extra water?"
Yara chuckled as if he were a fool. "How many of your armed men have sailed before? The sea is not kind. She is an angry bitch who will do her best to humble the saltiest of sailors. I have a feeling some of your men might have difficulty finding their sea legs. Extra water is good to keep men alive who find themselves perched at the rail." She answered frankly.
Daenerys looked to Jorah when she heard the recommendation that they bring extra water, but she nodded her approval. "Prepare your vessels then. I will prepare my troops."
Yara bowed again. "Very well, I shall give my men their orders. If your dragons will fly on their own for the whole distance, then more of your men can come aboard my ship. I will keep in mind that one of your dragons might desire to rest for a bit though. Too much weight would sink my ship." Her cocky smile returned to her face.
Daenerys nodded. "My Hand will send the extra supplies to your ships."
Yara gave a nod of her head as she looked at Tyrion. "You have a rare man...you should keep him close should he come to King's Landing. Lannisters are not popular there if they can speak and walk."
Tyrion shifted at the comment, but didn't speak up for the time being. He had been contemplating on not going at all. It could cause the situation to be even more dangerous than necessary.
Daenerys nodded her head to dismiss the Greyjoy woman to begin her preparations. She wanted to speak with her advisors in private about this turn of events.