Chapter 24

Middas, the 29th of Midyear, Year 202 of the 4th Era

The Dragonguard had just passed a no-name fishing village on the shores of Lake Honrich when Daenerys saw her mounted scouts came galloping back. They came directly to her and reported that what she hoped was the escort from Riften was approaching from the east. Daenerys had expected the escort, but she had expected a token force, a dozen or so men led by an officer sent to keep the peace and expedite her trip to Riften. What her scouts reported was a score of cavalry riding in front of three score infantry with a score of archers in the center of the formation. That was not a polite escort. Someone had decided to send her the message that Riften could crush her forces if they chose. She had expected the soft approach. This was a harsh reminder that even the jarl of one of the smaller holds could still field a force large enough to overwhelm the Dragonguard without even trying hard.

She didn't have much time to deploy her forces based on the warning the scouts brought her, but she made the best use of the time she had. She stationed archers on either flank with some foot to protect them and had them hide in the tall summer grass. Not the best of concealment, but better than nothing. She had her main force line up in a battle line two-deep. Their spears would be a good deterrent against a cavalry charge, but even her Shouts and Faralda's battlemagic wouldn't overcome four-to-one odds. Although they could extract a bloody price. She made sure her troops had their Dragonguard shields showing. She also made sure that the one Dragonguard banner that had survived the attack of Lok-Nos-Dov was clearly visible.

She sat upon Nightwind as the Riften forces marched into view. Instead of Sofija, she had Vignar mounted on a horse beside her. While Sofija was her second, Vignar had already made contact with the jarl of Riften and her court. That prior connection could prove useful to make sure this meeting went smoothly. As a precaution Barbas was walking along beside them just in case.

The escort from Riften stopped outside of arrow range and formed lines. Their shields were all marked with the crossed twin blades of Riften, as were most of their banners. They also flew the blue bear banner which was both the banner of Windhelm and the Stormcloaks. In addition they flew a brown banner with a circle upon it. Although she couldn't make it the details, the brown circle had to be the circle of thorns for House Black-Briar.

"Slow advance, Vignar. We'll meet them in the middle." She flicked her reins to set Nightwind to moving.

"As you will, Lady Targaryen," replied Vignar.

Daenerys glanced over to Vignar. "We're both Companions. Every man his own. Every woman her own. You're my shield-brother. There is no need for any other titles between us."

He laughed. "That was before the Greybeards hailed you. I doubt you'll ever be just a Companion again. I'll still be glad to call you shield-sister in private, or in the Halls of Jorrvaskr, but not in front of those Rifties. In front of them you're Ysmir, Dragon of the North."

Rifties? That was an interesting slur. Perhaps there was some antagonism between the holds of Skyrim that she hadn't picked up on. However, he wasn't wrong about appearances. "Very well, shield-brother." She waved ahead at the approaching men. "Do you know these three?"

"Of course. I'll present everyone as soon as we're close enough to talk without shouting."

Daenerys regretted not asking about the minor nobles of Riften. Whoever these men were, they didn't even rank mentions in Vignar's briefing. However, there was no time to ask more now as they were now in conversation range. She pulled on her reins and brought her horse to a halt.

"As I know everyone here, please allow me to make introductions." Vignar sounded pompous most of the time, now he spoke in with an exaggerated manner that would make any herald proud. "Allow me to present Hemming Black-Briar. He is the son of Lady Black-briar."

Hemming Black-briar rode a beautiful bay stallion with a blaze of white upon the center of his forehead. The horse stood calmly. Hemming gave a nod a forced smile that was clearly fake. Although he was clearly a Nord, he shaved most of his face. Hemming only had a thin mustache and a little vertical strip of a beard on his chin. His dark hair was mostly hidden by a cap, and he was dressed in the Nord fashion, a coat over a tunic and with an animal fur draped over his shoulders, probably wolf. Clearly, he was a man who valued fashion over practicality because he was sweating under the summer sun.

Not that she was any more comfortable wearing heavy armor. Between the padding and the sky-steel plates, she was sweating in the summer heat despite the breeze off the lake. On days like this, she really missed the light silk dresses she wore in Essos. However, considering that she was facing off against a force that could crush her own, she appreciated the protection the armor gave her.

Vignar continued the introductions with a wave at the large man in the center. "In the center is Gonnar Oath-Giver. He is a veteran of the Great War where he served with Ulfric Stormcloak."

Gonnar Oath-Giver rode a dun stallion, a few years older, but still a serviceable horse. He was a large man, not quite as muscled as Val, but obviously still a powerful warrior despite his years. His salt and pepper hair and beard were cut short, but not clean-shaven. It was an unusual look for a Nord, but it worked for him. He wore leather armor, and the hilt of a two-handed weapon was clearly visible sticking out from his back. He gave her a deep nod of his head that only fell a little short of a bow.

Vignar waved to the last man. "And this is Harrald Law-Giver, eldest son of Laila Law-Giver, and heir to the throne of Riften."

Daenerys automatically translated his rank to Prince of Riften in her mind. Harrald Law-Giver wore scaled armor and looked fit. He carried himself with a confident air. He wore light armor of scaled leather that left his arms bare, much more appropriate for the weather. He looked to be in his late twenties, so a little too young to have taken part in the Great War. He had brown hair and the rugged good looks of a young warrior. He boldly met her gaze and appraised her just as much as she was appraising him.

Vignar turned to her. "Lastly, let me present Daenerys of the House Targaryen, the First of Her Name, the Unburnt, Thane of Whiterun, Thane of Winterhold, the Dragonborn, and by proclamation of the Greybeards, Ysmir, Dragon of the North."

All three men were visibly surprised by her new title, but it was Gonnar Oath-Giver who spoke first. "Does this mean that you have declared for the Stormcloaks, Lady Targaryen? Or do you prefer Ysmir?"

"Lady Targaryen is fine. I understand why you might believe that I have declared for the Stormcloaks, but I have not. The gods themselves have laid upon me the responsibility for defeating the dragons that plague Skyrim. The Dragonguard is neutral in the matter of the Stormcloak rebellion, and both the Imperials and the Stormcloaks have respected that neutrality and donated men to the Dragonguard. I trust that Riften will respect our neutrality as well."

Harrald Law-Giver finally recovered his wits and responded. "Yes, yes. Of course, we accept your neutrality. On behalf of my mother, Laila Law-Giver, Jarl of Riften, I would like to formally invite you and your officers to stay with us in Mistveil Keep while you visit Riften. I'm afraid we don't have enough room to host all your men, but they are welcome to camp outside the gates."

Daenerys smiled. The acknowledgment of neutrality was a good start. "I thank you for the invitation. I'm am delighted to accept. I look forward to speaking to the jarl. If I am informed correctly, we should reach Riften in three days' time."

Gonnar Oath-Giver frowned in confusion. "Lady Targaryen, I'm afraid that you have been misinformed. It's only two days from here to Riften."

"Yes, yes, if we were going there directly. However, we've been invited to stay at Goldenglow Estates by Lord Aringoth." She smiled at them pleasantly. Karliah had come through on that promise. Just a few hours ago, a messenger on horseback had brought an invitation for her and the Dragonguard to visit Goldenglow. Hopefully, Karliah would come through on her other promises as well. "I understand we're not far from the bridge to Goldenglow Estates, so it should only be a slight detour that's why I said three days."

Hemming Black-Briar scowled. "I'm afraid you have been misinformed, Lady Targaryen. Yes, there is a bridge, but it is still a rather large detour. It will delay us at least by a day. That is a rather sizeable delay for Jarl Law-Giver's men to wait while you attend a minor noble. Surely, you don't mean to insult the jarl that way?" His tone was forceful, insultingly so even, as if she was being foolish.

Daenerys smiled disarmingly back at Hemming. Did he expect a lecture to change her mind? His displeasure was a good sign. It meant that merely visiting Goldenglow Estates irritated the Black-briars. His lack of composure was a sign of weakness. She was used to dealing with nobles who knew how to lie with a straight face. Hemming was like a spoiled child, used to having his own way. He was making a big deal out of nothing. When this force was dispatched, they had at best a rough estimate of how long they would be gone. The jarl would have no legitimate complaint if she arrived in three days instead of two. However, Hemming also had a hundred men behind him, an obvious threat, but was he prepared to use it? "I mean no disrespect to Jarl Law-Giver, but I have already given my word. Surely the jarl will understand that I will keep my commitments?"

"Lady Targaryen," replied Hemming Black-Briar. "You are in the Rift, and the jarl of the Rift has commanded your attendance. You will send Aringoth a note of apology and come with us."

Daenerys fixed her eyes upon Hemming. "No. I keep my promises. I will not be foresworn."

There was a long pause where no one spoke. Hemming Black-Briar looked totally taken aback. Gonnar Oath-Giver looked pale and his hand strayed near his sword and watched her nervously. Both of them looked to Harrald Law-Giver who eventually broke the silence. "I am certain she will understand. She will just be disappointed."

"I will send a messenger," said Gonnar Oath-Giver. "To let the jarl know of the delay."

"Excellent. I am glad we have an understanding." And now she knew where the power lay among these three. "I will send also send a rider to Goldenglow Estates. I don't know if Aringoth can accommodate all your men on such short notice, but hopefully he will at least invite your officers to join. I can cut my visit short and we can depart first thing tomorrow. That's a pity. I understand the flower fields of Goldenglow are in full bloom, and they are a sight worth seeing."

"I'm sure the bees will be busy as well," warned Hemming. "Be wary that you are not stung."

Barbas gave a low growl.

"Easy, Barbas," said Daenerys without glancing at him. She kept her eyes on Hemming. "Best stay back. I don't think he likes you." Daenerys held herself to a tight-lipped smile, but inside she was grinning. Did he think he was being subtle? "Well then, gentlemen, the sooner we get started, the sooner we will arrive in Riften." She directed her gaze toward Harrald Law-Giver. "Will you be riding with me? Or will you travel with your own men?"

"I will be glad to ride with you, Lady Targaryen," declared Harrald Law-Giver immediately.

"We should agree on our marching order first," said Gonnar Oath-Giver. "Just to avoid any confusion."

"A good idea," agreed Hemming Black-Briar. "Perhaps half of our men should march before the Dragonguard and half behind. For their protection."

"Our protection?" After Harrald Law-Giver had agreed to ride beside her, she knew this was just posturing. He wouldn't have accepted her invitation to ride with her if they were planning to attack. "I think you'll find my Dragonguard is quite capable of protecting themselves, but that is an agreeable marching order. If you'll have your forward guard start marching and have your rearguard move off the road, we can get underway."

Harrald nodded his approval. "Gonnar, will you see to it?"

"Of course." He turned his horse and headed back to his men.

After a moment and a harsh glare, Hemming Black-Briar followed him.

Vignar waved at her. "I'll go inform the Dragonguard, Lady Targaryen." Then he rode off back to the Dragonguard.

Harrald cleared his throat. "While we're alone, I should warn you. I know you gave your word to Aringoth, Lady Targaryen, but I fear you have insulted the Black-Briars and they are one of the most prominent nobles of my mother's court. I suggest that you mend fences with Hemming before we reach Riften."

Daenerys nodded. "Good advice." That she had no intention of following. "I think that I will wait until after we leave Goldenglow Estates. No doubt my visit there would just offend him again."

Harrald chuckled. "That is probably true, but don't wait too long. All the Black-Briars know how to nurse a grudge."

"I'll keep that in mind. Perhaps his hot temper is from all the furs he is wearing?" She smiled at her own joke and fanned her face. "And that reminds me. I have an important question for you. It was still cool when I left Whiterun so it didn't cross my mind, but Skyrim summers are quite hot. What is the appropriate summer wear for a lady of my station in your mother's court? Surely there are summer dresses, or do I have to turn to Imperial fashion to find something cool to wear?"

Harrald laughed in return. "There are indeed summer fashions, but Ulfric is known for his bearskin mantle so wearing furs is currently the rage to show support for the Stormcloaks. I don't care for such frivolities myself. It's enough that mother pledged to support Jarl Ulfric. He won't know or care who is wearing furs in Riften. I suggest you talk with Hemming about fashions. That would be a good choice of topics to start a conversation with him." He flashed her a broad smile.

Was he flirting with her? Wait, did he think she was flirting with him? While the treacherous Doreah had given her lessons in seducing Khal Drogo, they had already been wed at the time. She had a lot more experience in fending off unwanted offers than in flirting. Of course, she had seen others flirting, especially when she had been a tavern wench at the Sleeping Giant Inn. Nords, both men and women, weren't very subtle about flirting. Although that might be because when she saw them flirting they were usually more than a little bit drunk. Sagyval had been obvious about what he wanted. On the other hand, she hadn't seen any signs that Jarl Kraldar flirting with her, but maybe he had in hindsight. She wasn't interested in Harrald Law-Giver as a lover. She just wanted information out of him… She found herself blushing as she realized that she had been flirting and just as badly as a drunken Nord. "Ah, well now… Tell me about yourself. I know you're the oldest son of Jarl Law-Giver, but that's all." Damn it to Oblivion! That sounded like flirting again!

Harrald flashed her the same broad smile. "Well, now there's really not much to tell."

For the next few hours Harrald, continued to regal her about 'not much'. He was obviously flirting with her. That was embarrassing since Sofija had was walking just a short distance behind them within easy earshot, but she trusted Sofija to be discrete. More important was that between the bragging and flirting he proved to be a veritable gold mine of information about Riften that neither Vignar nor Karliah had been able to obtain for her.

"The people think my mother doesn't care about the thieves because they don't bother the nobles. I tell you nothing could be farther from the truth. My mother hates thieves, and she hates that Riften has the reputation of being the most corrupt city in Skyrim. She's tried to root them out dozens of times. Part of it is corruption. We know there are some bad apples in the guard, but we don't know which ones. However, if you ask me the real issue is this myth of the Thieves' Guild.

"I believe that there is no Thieves' Guild. We just have an infestation of poor malcontents. We have the fisheries and gods bless the Black-Briar Meadery, but we just have too many people who are poor and unemployed. They breed like rats, and they steal from each other as much as they do from honest men and women. That's why they survive. There is no Thieves' Guild to crush, just dozens of thieves. If you ask me the cure is to stop being so soft on them. Instead of jailing thieves we should start hanging them.

"Why not put some of them to honest work? Riften has joined the Stormcloaks. Press gang them into the army."

"You would think that would work, but it costs a lot of money to feed an army. Plus, as Maven Black-Briar pointed out the war isn't going anywhere. Nobody wants to march troops across the country because a column of troops is as likely to be attacked by a dragon as a trade caravan. My mother wasn't even happy about sending out a hundred men to escort you in. Maven convinced her it was safe since you killed the dragon, and it wouldn't be right not to send you an honor guard."

Daenerys wondered if Harrald could really be so clueless not to understand that it was a message. "It's quite a few men for an honor guard."

"Tell me about it. It's almost a third of our guard force. There will be shortages just manning the walls, the gates, and Mistveil Keep until we get back, but mother wanted to show off. No one important ever comes to Riften."

Daenerys blinked at Harrald casually revealing the size of the Riften garrison. Although the part about no one important coming to Riften did put things into perspective. Because of Riften's unsavory reputation, it was pretty much left to tend to its own affairs. That also meant that Harrald had no one in the way of peers. Maybe that's why he was talking so much?

Harrald continued talking and went on a long rant about his brother, Saerlund. His brother didn't support the Stormcloaks, but not because he disagreed with their cause. Saerlund thought the Stormcloak cause was just, but he also believed that Ulfric Stormcloak was a gloryhound and only rebelling to become High King.

While Daenerys thought that Saerlund might not be far from the truth, she certainly didn't voice that to Harrald. Instead, she told how she believed that the gods had chosen her to save Skyrim from the dragons, and as such she was not taking sides in the rebellion.

"I think everyone knows that now. It's one of the more amazing things you've accomplished. You actually got the Imperials and the Stormcloaks to agree upon something!"

Unsurprisingly, Harrald had questions for her as well. Of course, the first thing he wanted to know about was the dragons she fought, so she told him about her battles with Mir-Mul-Nir and Lok-Nos-Dov. He also asked about her homeland. She described a little of the 'distant lands' of Westeros and Essos but avoided details. Fortunately, Harrald was glad to fill most of the conversation talking about himself and Riften.

After a few hours their conversation died down. Harrald grew pensive and silent for a long while. Eventually, he broke their silence with a question. "Lady Targaryen, is it true that you're also a healer?"

"I am, but there are many more powerful than me. I'm at best an apprentice at Restoration."

"You mean like a mage? I thought you were favored by the gods."

"I am, but I trained in Restoration magic at the College of Winterhold. I learned to use a Seeming to focus magic. However, just a few days ago in Ivarstead I didn't use a Seeming. I called upon Talos when I was healing an injured boy. The magic came more easily and healed more powerfully than ever before. I haven't had the opportunity to practice healing since then, and it feels wrong to call upon Talos without legitimate need." She shrugged. "The gods have guided me, but calling on Talos that is new to me. I hope to talk to a priest about it while I'm in Riften."

"You should talk to Nura Snow-Shod. She's the only priest of Talos left in Riften. I'm sure she would be glad to help the Dragonborn." His tone was off, his reply sounded forced.

"I'll be sure to speak with her." Not only did she want to talk to a priest, but Clan Snow-Shod had been mentioned as one of the more important noble families of Riften. That would be a good excuse to talk with them. She studied Harrald. "Is there a particular reason you are asking?"

"Yes, but…" Harrald Law-Giver glanced over at Sofija. "I'm not sure I should say."

"Sofija is not just my housecarl. She is Sofija, Ēlī Vokēdrie, which means First Faithful in Valyrian. She is so named because she was the very first to pledge herself to my service, and she has never wavered or disappointed me. I spoke of her bravery when I talked about the battle with Mir-Mul-Nir. She is the one who climbed upon him and plunged her swords into his back. Because of her bravery in that fight, she is also called Sofija Dragonslayer. Anything you wish to say to me, you may say to her as well."

Harrald looked over to Sofija and bowed at the waist. "I am sorry Sofija Eli Vokedree. I should have realized you were the warrior maid in the story. I did not mean to disparage your honor. It is still a long way to Riften. Perhaps, I might hear your story before we arrive."

"Perhaps," agreed Sofija.

Harrald gave her another nod and then turned back to Daenerys. "It's my mother," he blurted out. "We try to keep it quiet, but she's very sick. We've tried a few healers, discretely of course, but they have never been able to give her more than a short respite. Her illness always returns, but you have blessed by the gods. I believe that you can cure her where all others have failed."

An illness that was cured with magic but kept coming back? That sounded strange, but she didn't know much about curing disease. Curing disease was the domain of priests, not mages, and she hadn't trained in it. "I will certainly try. What illness does she have?"

"We don't know. I'm afraid it may be a malady of the mind. She is often lethargic and melancholy, sometimes to the point of not even wanting to leave her bed, but she also complains of aches and pains." He shook his head. "And, I would be very happy if I never had to hear about her bowels again."

Daenerys reached out and laid a hand on Harrald's shoulder. "I promise that I will do everything in my power to heal your mother." She would do it anyway, but if she did succeed in healing the jarl it would certainly improve her standing in Riften.

"Thank you, Dragonborn. I mean, Lady Targaryen." He was smiling that wide smile at her again, although this time it seemed more of gratitude than flirting.

"If it is just the two of us, you may call me Daenerys." It was meant as a gesture of kindness, but from his reaction he thought she was flirting – again.

Barbas made the hacking bark sound he did when he laughed.

.oOo.

Goldenglow was a beautiful country estate. The low islands were covered in flowers and a cool breeze blew off the lake took the bite out of summer's heat. The estate sprawled across several islands connected by bridges. Some of the outbuildings appeared to be servants' quarters, but the estate included a stable, a greenhouse, and some storage buildings. Two fishing boats and a small yacht were moored at the docks on the east side of the island. Daenerys had seen larger and more opulent estates, but Goldenglow had a special charm about it.

She was also intrigued by the diversity she saw in Aringoth's workers. In all the places she'd been in Skyrim the vast majority of the inhabitants were Nords with some Bretons and Imperials in the mix and a scattering of other races. The College of Winterhold had been a bit more diverse, but at Goldenglow less than half were Nords. With Imperials and Bretons added in the mix, there were still more men than mer, but there were large numbers of Altmer and Bosmer workers and even a few Dunmer. She didn't see any Khajiit, but she saw some Argonians diving in and out of the lake. They seemed to be gathering some kind of underwater plants. What was more remarkable is there didn't appear to be any tension among the races. Aringoth's people worked together instead of dividing themselves by race as she had seen elsewhere in Skyrim.

Daenerys was a little surprised to be met by Lord Aringoth's daughter, Desthia, rather than by Aringoth himself. Desthia was a Bosmer with chestnut hair and a pretty smile. She was very polite and showed Daenerys to a suite of rooms set aside for her use. Best of all someone had readied a hot bath and it was waiting for her. The tub was huge and gloriously decadent. Daenerys lingered in it bathing until she felt truly clean. There was even a dress provided for her to wear. The maid informed her that armor was frowned upon at Goldenglow. The dress was of linen, but well-made and decorated with embroidery. It didn't quite fit, but one of Aringoth's servants quickly altered the dress. Daenerys was quite pleased with the result. It was apparently an Altmer style, and little too modest for her tastes, but still quite flattering.

Lord Aringoth was a white-haired Altmer old enough to have a few wrinkles which meant he was probably two-hundred years or older. He was surprisingly laid back for an Altmer, especially one who was noble, albeit a minor and country noble. He refused to let anyone use his title. Even his servants just called him sir. In honor of the Dragonguard's visit, he threw them all a feast. Her followers ate with his servants on the green outside, while she dined with her officers at his table. Hannar Law-Giver and Hemming Black-Briar were also present at his invitation, but Gonnar Law-Giver had chosen to stay with the Riften guards. Aringoth had politely declined to host the Riften guard as he simply hadn't been prepared to feed a hundred men.

Dinner conversation was mostly polite and casual. Daenerys was particularly pleased that Aringoth was unfailingly polite to Faralda. She was still sensitive about her looks, but Aringoth never mentioned them once. Instead, he asked about her tenure at the College of Winterhold and her areas of interest. Faralda and Aringoth turned out to have much in common. Like Faralda, his parents had come to Skyrim to get as far as possible from the Aldmeri Dominion. Aringoth's father had been a Bosmer, and Aringoth had married a Bosmer in turn, so neither Aringoth nor his children would have met the Thalmor's standards for racial purity.

Dinner was mostly over when Camilla and Aringoth started a staged conversation that had been arranged in the letters Daenerys had exchanged with Aringoth. Camilla did beautifully, asking questions about the business of the estate. Aringoth mentioned fish and flowers before working around to honey. Camilla asked about the prices and commented that honey was cheaper in the Rift than Whiterun. Aringoth lamented that under the current laws he was not allowed to sell outside the Rift which gave him little choice but to sell to the Black-Briar Meadery.

Camilla glanced over to Hemming Black-Briar. "If you're making more honey than you can sell, then perhaps you should look into brewing your own mead then?"

Hemming Black-Briar laughed. "Aringoth tried, about ten years back. Golden Label Mead. He had trouble with his people drinking it before they could sell it. Then he made a bad batch and made a lot of people sick. I don't think anyone will ever forget that. When he stops trying to gouge us, we'll buy more. What your merchant didn't say is that he doesn't have to ship his honey all the way to Whiterun. Aringoth just has to get take them to Riften."

Daenerys was certain that Maven Black-Briar's connections with the Thieves' Guild had a lot to do with Aringoth's previous failed attempt to produce his own label. With his mercenaries and the support of the Dragonguard, he might succeed if he tried again. Although whether he did or not was irrelevant. What was important was that even the possibility was a threat against the Black-Briar's main source of wealth. The seed of doubt was planted, now to cover it up so it could grow.

She directed a stern gaze to Hemmet. "Black-Briar, Camilla is my quartermaster and a valued advisor. If I ever settle and have my own estates, I expect that I will make her my steward." She glanced over to Camilla and softened her tone a little. "Camilla dear, while I do appreciate your talent for making me coin perhaps this is not the time or the place to have this conversation. You can discuss business opportunities with Aringoth later."

Camilla dipped her head. "Of course, Lady Targaryen. My apologies."

Daenerys so wanted to wink at Camilla, but there were too many witnesses. She would just have to compliment her later for playing her part perfectly. "Lord Aringoth? Maybe we should lighten the mood? I believe you had some entertainment planned?"

"Now, now, just Aringoth will do, but that's a splendid idea. Desthia, would you play for us?"

"Of course, father." Desthia brought out an intricately carved lute and started singing. Not surprisingly her first song was The Dragonborn Comes.

Daenerys listened distractedly. Desthia had a lovely voice, and she even sung the Dovahzul portions of the song correctly, but Daenerys had heard that song way too many times. Instead she found herself studying Desthia. She had heard the phrase 'mother's blood will tell' many times, but she still found the concept as strange as regular seasons. However, as Paar-Thur-Nax had said, different kalpa, different laws. Other than being a little bit taller than the average Bosmer, Desthia showed no sign of being her father's daughter. Which made Daenerys wonder why the Thalmor were obsessed with racial purity. Unlike dogs or horses, it seemed that different breeds of man and mer bred true.

After Desthia sang a few songs Jon Battle-Born took a turn singing as well. While Desthia was a decent singer, Jon outshined her in every way, even if he did start by playing The Dragonborn Comes. Although she really had no cause to complain. She could see how everyone in the room sneaked glances at her while Jon sang. This song did a lot to improve her reputation and that of the Dragonguard. He followed that up with other popular songs like Ragnar the Red and Tale of the Tongues.

Jon put down his lute. "Now I have a tale to tell you all. Wise men say that the world is round like a ball and that if you go far enough, then east meets west. If you were to somehow go that far, you would find the land of Essos, east beyond east, the home of dragons and of Lady Daenerys Targaryen. You would also find Westeros, west beyond west. It is in the land of Westeros that our story unfolds."

Daenerys had asked Jon to perform for Aringoth, but she was not expecting this. When he had sought her out to learn more about the story of the Night King, she had expected him to write a song, or at least an epic poem. Instead he was simply telling the story. Although there was nothing simple about the way he told it. Even without verse or music, Jon held the room spellbound as he told the tale. He started with the White Walkers and built up to the Night King. He only briefly described the lands, but he waxed poetic about the heroes: Jorah the Bear, Bran the Seer, Theon the Broken, Jamie Lannister the Kingslayer, Sandor Clegane, Lady Mormont the child jarl, Melisandre the Priestess, Grey Worm the commander of the Unsullied, the Knights of the Vale, the Dothraki Horde, and Arya Stark the last daughter of the kings of the North. Of course, he also included her and her dragons. Jon Snow was notably absent, but that was likely because she simply hadn't spoken of him much, so it wasn't surprising that he had been edited out.

Jon didn't try to tell the story in chronological order. He told about the battle of Winterfell through the heroes sometimes jumping back and forth in time as he switched characters. He started with Bran the Broken and the terrible future he foresaw to set the stage, then moved on to the others. Mostly he told their stories true, but sometimes he made alterations. Likely he did so to make them more understandable. Melisandre changed the most. He changed her into a Priestess of Merida, but that made surprisingly little difference. She was still under a sentence of death for practicing human sacrifice. She had still come to fight, and still been reluctantly accepted as an ally. He also changed the manner of her death. Instead of being at the end of the battle, she had spent her own life in her last effort to set light to the wet wooden barricade that surrounded Winterfell.

As the story continued, she appreciated the deft way that Jon wove Arya Stark in the story. When the other heroes all had memorable introductions, Jon had barely mentioned Arya. However, as his story jumped from hero to hero, he made little mentions of Arya. None of them very big. She might have missed them if she hadn't been aware of Arya's role. However, the effect was to make it as if Arya had been everywhere taking part in every part of the battle.

Story by story he described the battle. The charge of the Dothraki. The battle of the women and children hiding in the crypts. The tale of Lady Mormont moved everyone to tears. Daenerys even found herself dabbing at her own eyes.

When Jon came to her part of the story, of her fighting to kill her only child, or three dragons battling in the dark overcast sky, Daenerys felt every eye in the room drawn to her. They were all wide with awe. However, she found herself lost in Jon's words. She fought back tears again at the deaths of Viserion and Jorah Mormont, but Jon was just building up to the climax of the tale. Winterfell overrun, the dead victorious over the living, the battle lost. Then came Arya, last daughter of Winterfell. There were audible gasps when the Night King caught her blow and held her helpless aloft gloating.

"The Night King stared into the eyes of Arya Stark with his cold dead eyes of icy blue. Then she dropped her dagger from her right hand, caught it with left, and with one smooth stroke drove it into his frozen heart. The Night King shattered and died. One by one, the White Walkers shattered and died. The Dead fell were they stood and moved no more."

"Now you have heard the story of the Night King. Whenever this story is told, remember the girl who slew him. Remember the girl who saved Westeros. Her name was Arya Stark. May she never be forgotten."

Lydia rose first. Not surprising as she had been there when Daenerys first told the story to the Companions. She held out her goblet. "To Arya Stark. May she never be forgotten."

Around the room both nobles and commoners rose and repeated their refrain and held the drinks extended. Daenerys waited until it was just her and Aringoth and started to rise, but the old elf laid a hand on her shoulder and rose himself and made the toast.

According to Paar-Thur-Nax Westeros and Essos weren't on the other side of the world. That world was dead and gone, but it pleased her that this little bit was remembered. She stood and raised her glass. Maybe the bards were right. In the end it was the stories that mattered. "To Arya Stark. May she never be forgotten."