Jon disembarked from the barge and stepped on the wooden ledge. Dacey was also quick to follow and stood beside him on one of the entry points into Purple Harbour. The harbour only serves local merchants and the clients of Iron Bank. Only Braavosi vessels are allowed to dock in this harbour mainly for security reason. Not far from the harbour lay the Iron Bank and the Sealord's Palace. Jon could see the white polished dome of the Sealord's Palace even from the harbour glinting merrily under the sun. He saw Braavosi ships unloading cargo at an unprecedented rate. Most of these ships came from distant lands and the Braavosi were very boastful of that fact. His eyes suddenly found an open cage being carried down from a ship and inside that cage, he saw several peacocks.
"Dacey look!" he quickly pointed at the cage and Dacey's eyes widened comically
"That is a beautiful bird!" she said in awe "What is that?" she asked Jon never taking the eyes off from the bird
"I believe it is a Peacock. They probably brought them from the Summer Islands. I remember reading about them in one of the books in Winterfell." Jon answered as they looked on as the cage was being fastened on to a cart
Jon conspicuously threw a look at his companion. Dacey was older than him by almost six years yet he was already level with her earlobe in height. That doesn't mean that she was a midget. She was tall enough for her age and better yet more beautiful than any maiden he has seen in the North. She was not a girl with delicate features like his sister Sansa but the she-bear have a wild beauty about her. She was thin but not as thin enough to be overpowered by a grown man. He would describe her more as lithe and she had this intense look on her face whenever she encounters something difficult be it a person or a problem. It was like she was thinking up ways that she could crush whatever that was annoying her and throw it away amongst the trash. She had long dark hair and Jon was amused to note that she spent a lot of time to maintain it properly. She did this despite her claims of being stuck in living in a world where men consider women weaker and an object to be guarded, protected and owned. Those were her words and she claimed to dislike women who spend their time worrying about the dresses and gossips instead of more useful pursuits like learning to defend themselves or even read and write at the very least. Even though Dacey had some strong opinions about her fellow women she herself had certain girly quirks like combing her hair daily and sticking a white lily on her hair as she has done now. Her hair was neatly folded into a neat bun and a white lily was pinned to it. Jon found that quite attractive especially with the dark violet Riding Habit dress she was donning for the ball. Before she could catch him staring he decided to continue their journey.
"I can see an empty carriage. Let's not dally any more. The Sealord's Palace awaits us!" said Jon as he led Dacey to a carriage
The ride through the street leading to the Sealord's palace was without much incident. The only problem was that the road was not wide enough which made them lag a little bit but the city guard solved that shortly. The entire street was lit with candlelight as this ball was thrown in honour of the new First Sword of Braavos, Syrio Forel.
"The Braavosi takes great pride in their Water Dancing style, don't they? I don't really understand why they are making this a big deal. Next year someone is going to outperform the previous First Sword anyway." said Dacey with a roll of her eyes as she looked out of the window from the carriage seeing the rush in the streets. The whole city was in a festive mode and Jon was sure that he was also profiting from the increased business at this very moment.
"The Water Dance focuses on swiftness and agility. Anyone who masters it has an unfair advantage in a fight. I suspect the Braavosi learned this or built upon something the Rhoynar used before Valyrians torched their homeland. The Water Dance is a symbol of national pride for the Braavosi and I can't fault them for it. Of course, the Water Dance is useless in large scale battles like we see in Westeros but still, it is an excellent style of combat for individual development. Perhaps I should learn more about the Water Dance provided someone is willing to teach." said Jon while taking in the sights outside the streets. There were street performers singing and dancing dressed up in colourful outfits. Some were performing acrobatic stunts that left the crowd clapping excitedly.
"This place is so loud compared to home. All these celebrations but nothing exciting ever happens in this place that would make blood rush through our bodies. I think I am missing all the fights that Bear Islands offered." Dacey mused as she pulled the curtains to close her side of the window
"What about the daily training sessions we have? Even if I am not available all the time I am sure Asher or Thoros would pitch in to avert your boredom." Jon suggested
"Practicing can only go so far. I need a real battle or you can help me in more pleasurable ways." said Dacey as she suddenly crept closer to him and whispered into his ear with a suggestive tone
Jon felt that his face must be bright red from the embarrassment he was feeling. Dacey has been more forward than normal in the last week after the revelation of his true parentage which had caught Jon flat-footed. He had thought that Dacey would be more reserved after the revelation but after a few weeks, she was back to normal. He didn't understand what was going through her mind but her teasing was really affecting him. His stupid hormones were on overdrive whenever Dacey launched one of her teasing campaigns and that was really dangerous. Whenever that happened he felt as if his heart rate was flying through the roof. Sometimes he could swear that he would hear the roar of a dragon in his ears whenever Dacey does what she does which was kind of silly. On second thought he was hearing that roar right now as Dacey once again moved closer to Jon and he could feel her body being pressed against him. Thankfully before he lost his composure the carriage stopped and the driver knocked on the wood letting them know that they reached the palace. Taking the chance that graciously fell into his lap he quickly stepped out of the carriage and paid the driver. Dacey even laughed merrily as he paid the driver more than what was owed.
Turning away from his laughing companion with a huff Jon made to climb up the steps of the palace. He was quickly joined by Dacey who took his left hand into her own and climbed the steps though he could see that her eyes were sparkling in mirth.
The ball was just a formal ceremony that was held to declare the First Sword of Braavos and to hand over a ceremonial sword. Both of those functions went without a hitch. While Syrio Forel was being honoured Jon had his eyes set on the Sealord, Ferrego Antaryon of House Antaryon. Jon observed that the Sealord was old but by the way, his eyes moved Jon could see that the man was very much alert and assessing each and everyone subtly. For a moment the Sealord's eyes fell on him and Jon observed that the Sealord's eyes lingered on him for a time but promptly sought out others. There was a brief lull as the ceremony finished and many of the council members, as well as wealthy merchants, began to mingle. Jon could already see that the crowd was slowly splitting up as men and women separated.
"You should go and mingle with them." Jon whispered to Dacey pointing at the cluster of women
"I could think of a hundred different more productive ways of spending my time this evening and not one of them includes gossiping women." Dacey hissed back making a face at the giggling mess of women
"Let me give you a piece of advice my lovely bear. There are two forms of warfare, one is with arms while the other is with words. The one who is the master of both masters warfare. The women that you so callously dismiss as gossiping hens are a treasure trove of knowledge. Play the ignorant foreigner in front of them and project yourself as someone that is in awe of the city. They will spill the most sacred secrets to their hearts especially the vane ones. They never miss a chance to project themselves over others and you may learn a thing or two from them." Jon whispered back conspicuously
"So you think I am lovely." Dacey murmured coyly as she slipped her fingers through his hand and moving closer
"Out of everything that I said that's the part you are fixated on?" Jon asked incredulously
"You are no fun but since this is the command of my prince I shall oblige." said Dacey with a mocking tilt as she pressed a quick peck to his lips and skipped over to the flock of women
"Cheeky mind!" Jon muttered and quickly joined some of his partners for a small chat
After a few minutes, he found himself in the company of Jaqiros Baerraris and Aneros Froyr. Both of them were heavily invested in the lands adjacent to Braavosi Coastlands. Both of them owns significant acres of land and they make their wealth from Sunflower oil. They have been pressuring the council to increase ascertain Braavosi control to further inland. While both of them could care much less about the reasons why Jon was interested in Andalos who they consider an outsider and an ignorant child at best. For now, they were willing to work together as long as their interests are aligned.
"I hope this time we will be able to turn the council to our way of thinking. Our concerns have been silenced for too long." said Jaqiros who had large swathes of orchards in the area and has been paying a hefty amount of gold and silver to the Dothraki hordes as tribute
"If those Norvosi had grown a spine then the Dothraki hordes could have been thrown all the way out of Nyr Sar long ago. Instead, we have to pay up these barbarians for no good reason." Aneros complained as he let out a huff
"While I am new to Braavos and the political climate I believe the esteemed council was concerned with pushing too much into Andalos especially right after Pentos was brought to heel. There is also the fact that a large army is necessary to clean up the Dothraki. Braavos has the greatest armada in the world but ships can't sail on land." said Jon taking care not to insult the Braavosi leadership, especially in an open social event, hosted in the Sealord's palace
"Well said young master Snow." A thin man with dark skin stepped into their conversation and Jon was quick to note that a pin with the Titan's shield was on the man's silky attire.
"We have not met but let me introduce myself. I am Lazio Hestar. I serve in the council of Braavos." The man introduced himself and Jon quickly gave a respectful now to the councillor
"It is an honour to meet one of the councillors of the Free City of Braavos. How may I help you councillor Hestar?" Jon asked and was presented with a rolled-up scroll instead
"You are hereby invited to an official council meeting that will be held tomorrow in full court by the Sealord. You may present your case in court. This courtesy will be extended to others who have significant interests in the neighbouring lands to Braavosi Coastland." said Councillor Lazio as he handed over the scroll to Jon as well as his other two companions
"We are grateful for the Council's and the Sealord's grace to let this matter be heard, councilman." Jon once again bowed as did his two companions
"Valar Morghulis"
"Valar Dohaeris"
Jon turned cast one last glance at the retreating form of the councilman before turning back to his two companions.
"Well, it seems we are getting our day in the court and that too with a full council session. Is there any particular traditions or protocols that should be followed?" Jon enquired with his more experienced colleagues
"Just bring a ceremonial gift for the Sealord. It may not be expensive but something must be given to the Sealord and if it impresses him then he might even grant you a personal meeting with him. All of us must work towards that personal meeting. The council may remain neutral yet again and if we can convince the Sealord then we can circumvent the council." Aneros said excitedly as he thought about the golden opportunity that presented itself
"We must discuss amongst ourselves how we are going to present our case. Obviously, we must show a united front and we must emphasis the future benefits the expansion would bring. A portion of the Council is satisfied with Lorath and Norvos pushing their influence further inland. We must use this to try and swing the council to our side." Jaqiros suggested and Jon noticed that the man was very much well informed about the internal politics of the council.
"In that case, we must also be ready to show the council that we are willing to stand by our assessment if the area's worth for Braavos. We must be ready to do our part. We must hire a sellsword company that can safeguard our current holdings and yet expand further." Jon suggested while silently vowing to keep himself in the good books of Jaqiros
"Master Snow is right. We must be seen willing to put our wealth where our mouth is. I suppose we could hire the Golden Company. They will be expensive but they will get the job done and the Iron Bank can be of help there." Aneros mused
"The Golden Company is already in a contract and they are in the Disputed Lands. We must either go for the Company of Rose or the Second Sons." Jaqiros proposed and Jon was waiting for that exact opportunity to pounce
"While the Company of Rose might not be up to the same standards and discipline of the Golden Company but they can be trusted to keep to their promises. The Second Sons, on the other hand, have a penchant for switching sides when it suits them. We will need men that won't simply abandon us in the midst of battle." said Jon and he was relieved to note that both Jaqiros and Aneros were nodding in agreement
"Master Snow is correct. They did a good job for us in Pentos although they stopped at that and never went against the Dothraki despite several of our offers." Aneros reminded them
"They stopped because we couldn't guarantee the support of the Sealord. But if we can bring the council around I am sure this time around they can be convinced to smash the savages and throw them over the other side of Mother Rhoyne." said Jaqiros and Jon let out a silent sigh of relief as things were going exactly as he wanted. Now all that was left was for the Sealord and the council to flag-off the expansion
Dacey won't admit this out loud but she was enjoying the stay in Braavos more than she let on. For one there was no pressure on her to lead an entire Island of people. True, she missed her family as well as her home but she has never felt this much relief in her whole life. Because of her cousin's actions, House Mormont was shamed in the North and even the Bear Islands. Her mother worked tirelessly to restore even a semblance of honour to House Mormont after the disastrous ruin her house was pushed into not to mention the crippling debt. They had to recompense all the families that lost loved ones to slavery and if it was not for Lord Eddard, House Mormont would have had to sell their pride to stay afloat. Lord Tywin had asked for their ancestral Valyrian Sword Longclaw for a price of 2 million gold dragons. When they had first refused the Old-Lion had upped the offer even as far as 3 million but her mother and her uncle steadily refused. They were willing to go hungry to pay the debt that was owed but they would not sell their pride because that was all that her family had at that point. It was into such a situation that Lord Eddard gave a helping hand and her family would be forever grateful to the Starks. Her mother had made all the household guards as well as each and every member of House Mormont to wear a vow to always serve and help anyone with Stark blood. It was that same vow that let Dacey stay with Jon or rather Jaehaerys Targaryen.
Dacey was understandably surprised to learn the true parentage of Jon especially from a Red Priest of all people and a drunk one at that. At first, she and Asher had thought Thoros had gone tipsy but the reaction from Jon let them knew that there was some truth. That evening they all learned the horrible truth behind the rebellion. After hearing the detailed version of the rebellion from Jon she could only point one person to blame for the entire fiasco and that was Rickard Stark. According to Jon the previous Warden of the North had received repeated requests by Rhaegar Targaryen to accept his second marriage to Lyanna Stark. But the man was stubborn and refused to publicly accept that Lyanna Stark went willingly with the Dragon Prince because of his refusal to be mocked for his Southern ambitions. Dacey didn't understand why Rickard Stark thought that way. In her eyes, a marriage to the crown prince was the epitome of Southern ambitions especially when the said prince had annulled the previous marriage using the High Septon. Although, all these details were not verifiable and she had to trust Jon's word for it. Then again she was willing to believe almost anything after she was shown the flaming sword he kept locked up behind a steel safe. The imminent attack of the Others and the arrival of a second Long Night had almost put her in doubt but Thoros and Asher were willing to believe.
By helping Jon she would be inevitably helping the North and her own home. After all, Jon was preparing an army to fight in the Long Night and according to Thoros, he was the prophesied Azor Ahai. While Jon was younger than her he had boldly taken up the responsibility of saving the world all to himself. This was why she vowed to help him in ant way she can and one of the ways were by teasing the Targaryen Prince. His reactions proved to her that despite his maturity he was still a boy and he must have yearned for some form of support. Asher was also of a similar opinion and had vowed his sword to Jon's cause. Asher was in the unique position to understand what Rhaegar and Lyanna had to endure because of his doomed love for Gwyn Whitehill. Although she was sure that Jon was leaving out quite a few details from the story he said to them but she was not going to prod too much into it.
It was a beautiful evening and she intended to not waste this whole evening by listening to some old woman describe the colour of a dress her great grandmother owned decades ago. So she seemed out Jon just as a song started. She had only ever danced with steel but she would excuse this one time for dancing to a song with Jon. Despite her decision, she ended up dancing with Jon for more than one song that night and this time it was Jon that first initiated the kiss. She felt her heart skip quite a few beats when that happened and she knew it was a feeling that she would year for from then on.