(281 AC - King's Landing)
According to what little information Anakin has received about his father, he was a man shrouded in mystery.
Many people held the belief that Prince Rhaegar Targaryen possessed all the requisite qualities to be an exceptional king, succeeding his father's throne. Nevertheless, this perception shifted as King Aerys II delved into madness, resulting in Rhaegar becoming reclusive and melancholic. He closed himself off from others, including his wife and Anakin's mother, Elia Martell.
The ultimate decisive element revolved around Rhaegar allegedly taking Lyanna Stark against her will and the subsequent vanishing of both individuals.
Also referred to as the War of the Usurper by Targaryen loyalists, the culmination of events became known as 'Robert's Rebellion'.
The rebellion was a major civil war in the history of the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros, it marked the end of the Targaryen monarchy's 280-year reign.
Lyanna's older brother, Brandon Stark, and their father, Rickard Stark, acted on impulse and rode to King's Landing. However, instead of finding justice, they were both arrested and barbarically executed by King Aerys II. They were both burned alive in the middle of the throne room, as 'The Mad King' Aerys laughed at their demise.
Due to the king's murder of the Starks, the new Lord of Winterfell, Eddard (Ned) Stark, raises the banners of the North against 'The Mad King'.
Robert Baratheon, Lord of Storm's End and betrothed to Lyanna, joins the rebellion, raising the banners of the Stormlands. Lord Jon Arryn, a mentor to both Robert and Ned, does the same in the Vale.
The Stark, Tully, and Arryn armies begin gathering north of the Trident, but Robert's forces are cut off far to the south. Leaving his brother Stannis to hold Storm's End, Robert marches his army northwest through enemy territory.
Robert is defeated at the Battle of Ashford by Tyrell forces loyal to the king, but later joins up with the Northern and Vale armies at the Battle of the Bells. The combined rebel armies cross the north side of the Trident and both sides consolidate for a major showdown.
Lord Hoster Tully of Riverrun, who had planned to marry his daughter (Catelyn Tully) to Brandon Stark, instead agrees to marry her to Ned in exchange for his support in war. In addition, Hoster marries his second daughter Lysa Tully to Jon Arryn to shore up the alliance. All four are wed in a double marriage ceremony at Riverrun before the rebel armies depart once again.
Anakin's father, Prince Rhaegar, leads a royalist army to directly engage the rebels, but is defeated at the climactic Battle of the Trident, in which he is killed in personal combat by Robert Baratheon himself.
As the rebel forces close in on victory, King Aerys II makes the decision to send his last surviving son Viserys and his pregnant wife Queen Rhaella to seek refuge on the ancestral Targaryen stronghold, Dragonstone.
In an effort to preserve his bloodline, King Aerys II also commands them to take Elia Martell's one-year-old son, Anakin Targaryen, who is the firstborn son of Crown-Prince Rhaegar Targaryen, and true heir to the 'Iron Throne'. This leaves behind his mother and three-year-old sister, Rhaenys Targaryen, as pawns to secure the loyalty of House Martell.
With Rhaegar dead, lords who had been undecided about which side to join now abandon 'The Mad King'.
Lord Tywin Lannister's army arrives from Casterly Rock to King's Landing, allegedly to defend the city, however, once the gates are opened the Lannisters brutally sack the city.
Amidst the battle King Aerys II is killed by Jaime Lannister, Tywin's son and one of his own Kingsguard, for which Jaime is dubbed 'The Kingslayer'.
In the aftermath Robert Baratheon, due to a blood relationship with House Targaryen, is proclaimed the new King of the Seven Kingdoms. With Lyanna Stark dead, Robert instead marries Cersei Lannister to shore up the alliance that brought down the Targaryens.
On Dragonstone, Queen Rhaella dies giving birth to her daughter, Daenerys Targaryen. During her birth a great storm wrecks what is left of the Targaryen fleet anchored at Dragonstone, for which she is named 'Daenerys Stormborn'.
Realizing the rebels will arrive soon, Targaryen loyalists smuggle the remaining heirs: Viserys, Daenerys and Anakin, to safety in the Free Cities across the Narrow Sea on the continent of Essos, where they will remain in exile.
(287 AC - Free City of Braavos)
Following the death of Queen Rhaella, it was Ser Willem Darry, a knight of House Darry who remained loyal to House Targaryen during Robert's Rebellion, who secretly transported them to Essos.
Ser Willem and the Targaryen children settled in Braavos, living in a house that Anakin could only recall as having a red door.
Braavos is one of the Free Cities located to the east of Westeros. This city is the furthest north, the wealthiest, and possibly the mightiest of all the Free Cities.
Described as a city of seafarers and master swordsmen, Braavos is made up of numerous small islands connected by stone bridges. Its main landmarks include: the Titan of Braavos, the House of Black and White and the city's famed Iron Bank.
While in Braavos, Ser Willem is visited by Prince Oberyn Martell from the desert kingdom of Dorne, and together, with the Sealord of Braavos as witness, they signed a pact promising that Anakin Targaryen would one day wed Princess Arianne Martell in return for the support of Dorne in winning Anakin the Iron Throne.
Unfortunately, not long thereafter, Ser Willem became afflicted with a debilitating disease, leaving the Targaryen heirs without any protectors.
At a young age and with little comprehension, Anakin managed to inherit all the wisdom of Ser Willem before his death and looked up to him as a fatherly figure. Given his weakened state, Ser Willem had a limited amount of physical training to impart onto Anakin, however, he was the one to first teach him about the art of swordsmanship.
Willem's most notable observation was that despite his young age, Anakin possessed a remarkable intelligence that far surpassed what one would expect. This was evident in his exceptional proficiency in picking up different languages in a surprisingly short amount of time.
Anakin's linguistic capabilities impressed everyone who knew him, especially Daenerys, who expressed a strong desire to learn High Valyrian from him one day. It was her aspiration to master the ancient language rooted in the realm of Old Valyria.
Ser Willem expresses concern over the fact that Anakin's intelligence and skill in swordsmanship may lead him into perilous circumstances.
Anakin has a tendency to act hastily and his insatiable curiosity often puts him in harm's way. At just seven years old, Anakin outshines his own uncle Viserys, who is six years his senior, in terms of mental acuity.
After Ser Willem passed away, the household servants took advantage of the situation by stealing their money and belongings, leaving the family with no choice but to live as beggars on the streets. Upon realizing that they could no longer gain anything from the family, the servants callously threw them out onto the harsh and unforgiving streets.
One day, while Anakin was panhandling on the streets, he caught sight of a peculiar vessel touching down in the distance. This craft was unlike any he had encountered previously. As he drew nearer, he observed a gang of ominous pirates disembarking from the ship. Unable to resist his inquisitive nature, Anakin impulsively crept closer to investigate, distancing himself from Daenerys and Viserys.
In sheer terror, he watched as the group of men apprehended unsuspecting civilians and bound them with chains. A surge of dread coursed through him as he recognized them as slavers, notorious for abducting innocent individuals and trafficking them as slaves. His panic peaked as one of the slavers snatched him and forced him into shackles as well.
Filled with fear, he had no idea what fate awaited him as he was tossed into the dark confines of the lower deck while the ship sailed through the vast ocean. Anakin's mind was consumed with apprehension about his Uncle and Aunt, unable to rid himself of their memories.
Despite Viserys' tendency to be bothersome, they had formed a strong bond as they were all they had in the world. On the other hand, Daenerys swiftly became his confidant and with their similar ages, their conversations flowed effortlessly. He couldn't stop thinking if they were searching for him and if they were concerned for his well-being.
Following what felt like an eternity, enduring the cramped and unsanitary atmosphere aboard the ship, they at last arrived at the coastline of a sandy beach. Anakin detested sand, but luckily, they were directed towards the more verdant, less sandy regions closer to the harbors.
As Anakin followed his captors, they brought him to a sprawling marketplace filled with other enslaved individuals - men, women, and children alike. His spirits plummeted as he came to the realization that he was nothing more than a commodity to be sold.
The continent of Essos, situated across the Narrow Sea, presents a stark contrast to Westeros with its widespread practice of slavery. This insidious form of large-scale chattel slavery has been deeply ingrained in Essos for centuries, dating back to the very beginnings of recorded civilization. The few pockets in Essos where slavery is not prevalent are outnumbered by the countless regions where it reigns supreme. So deeply rooted is this abhorrent institution that slaves are often treated as a means of exchange rather than human beings. In fact, the slave trade is one of the cornerstones of Essos' economy.
Anakin was taken captive by a group of slavers, commanded by a man called Malko. They later sold him to a rich youth named Hizdahr zo Loraq.
In this area, Anakin's distinct looks, including his white hair and purple eyes, immediately caught attention. Hizdahr was impressed by his rare features and opted to purchase him as a household servant for his mother, Zahrina zo Loraq.
Hizdahr hails from Meereen, a city situated on the shores of Slaver's Bay, and is known as a trader of human slaves. He is also a member of the House of Loraq, a lineage of long-standing and esteemed slavers.
(294 AC - Meereen)
Meereen is the northernmost and greatest of the three great city-states of Slaver's Bay, north of Yunkai and Astapor. It is located at the mouth of the Skahazadhan River, which flows from its origins in Lhazar through the mountains separating Meereen and the rest of Slaver's Bay from the Red Waste. The Dothraki Sea lies to the north, beyond the river.
The walls of Meereen are superior in height compared to both Yunkai and Astapor. They are also built thicker than Astapor's walls and are more meticulously maintained than those of Yunkai. These mighty walls are adorned with bastions and fortified with impressive defensive towers at every corner.
The northern boundary of the city follows the course of the Skahazadhan river, while the western edge is nestled against the bay's shoreline.
Notably, the river wall stands a few feet taller than the rest. Adorning the walls are rows of bronze harpy heads, with menacing open mouths, poised to pour down boiling oil onto any hapless invaders below.
The city of Meereen is under the control of the Great Masters, who are part of the historic slaver families and live in opulent pyramid palaces. These wealthy and influential families consist of the Dhazak, Galare, Ghazeen, Hazkar, Kandaq, Loraq, Merreq, Naqqan, Pahl, Quazzar, Reznak, Rhazdar, Uhlez, Yherizan, and Zhak households. The wealthiest individual in Meereen is a member of House Pahl, and another Pahl member leads the city's guard.
At the center of Meereen's central plaza stands the Great Pyramid, towering at a staggering height of eight-hundred feet. It is without a doubt the grandest of all the pyramids in the city. Other pyramids pale in comparison, with scores of them scattered throughout the city, none of them coming close to the Great Pyramid in size or magnificence. The Great Pyramid stands tall with a magnificent bronze harpy perched atop its apex.
Each pyramid reflects the colors of the noble house residing within; the pink-and-white Pahl pyramid, the green-and-black Naqqan pyramid, the yellow-and-green Rhazdar pyramid and so on. Among these majestic structures, the most modest is said to be the pyramid of Kandaq.
The poorer districts of the city are positioned between the pyramids, while the city's waste is carried away through large brick sewers into the Skahazadhan. These sewers are secured with iron gates, though some have fallen victim to rust over time. Unsurprisingly, the Meereenese do not drink from the river, but instead rely on water from wells.
Within the city, one can find a maze of narrow and winding alleys, as well as broad brick streets. The landscape is adorned with temples, granaries, hovels, palaces, brothels, baths, gardens, fountains, and fighting pits, each adding to the unique character of Meereen.
In the beginning, Lady Zahrina zo Loraq developed a fondness for Anakin. She often called him 'the pretty one', rarely bothering to address him by name. His wavy, neck-length white hair parted on the right and his stunning violet eyes captured her attention, as she was enchanted by his angelic appearance.
Due to this, Anakin has dedicated the following seven years to laboring alongside fellow slaves, caring for livestock, tidying up, and fulfilling duties within the masters' abodes.
He displayed a knack for designing, constructing, and creating contraptions, producing a variety of objects ranging from delicate ornaments to elaborate stone depictions. Despite his ingenuity, his resourcefulness was often hampered by the limited supplies granted to him by the masters.
From the moment he arrived, Anakin had fantasized about breaking free from his life of enslavement and being reunited with his loved ones, but the thought of it felt like an unachievable fantasy.
As Anakin aged, he yearned to flee from the pyramid palace that acted as the dwelling for House Loraq.
He had been unsuccessful in forming any connections with his fellow slaves, as they resented his favored standing among the masters. Anakin did not hold a grudge against them, as he had personally witnessed the mistreatment and even torture they endured. He sympathized with their agony and detested the repugnant practice of slavery.
The constant ordering around and objectification by the aristocrats had become unbearable for him. It was exacerbated by the constant sight of other slaves being abused, and at times, he even experienced it himself. The majority of abuse he endured was inflicted by Faiz zo Loraq (father of Hizdahr).
Anakin devised a scheme to flee from his master and leave behind the city which had been his residence for what felt like the majority of his existence.
Gathering his meager possessions, he patiently waited until the cover of night. When the opportune moment arrived, he stealthily snuck out of the cramped slave lodgings and proceeded towards the harbor. The young boy knew he had to exercise caution to avoid detection by the city's authorities.
As he navigated through the dimly lit streets, Anakin couldn't help but feel a surge of exhilaration and optimism. He was finally taking control of his own fate. Despite being unsure of his destination or future plans, anything was preferable to remaining in bondage.
Suddenly, he heard a loud commotion behind him. Swiveling around, Anakin saw a band of guards, led by Faiz zo Loraq, in hot pursuit. In that moment, his heart heavy with disappointment, he comprehended that his escape had been uncovered. Sprinting as fast as he could, he frantically attempted to flee the city before being captured. However, the guards were quicker and managed to apprehend him.
Anakin felt his heart quicken as he braced himself for the repercussions of his failed escape.
However, thanks to Hizdahr's convincing, his life was spared and he dodged certain death. Hizdahr's compassionate nature set him apart from most slave masters Anakin has encountered, as he always avoided unnecessary acts of brutality, making him a rare find in Meereen. His father was not as benevolent.
At 14 name-days, Anakin is eligible to be tried in the fighting pits. However, this notion was opposed by Faiz, who feared that the young and inexperienced Anakin would bring dishonor to their family by dying quickly in battle.
Despite this, Hizdahr implores his father to change his mind, suggesting that Anakin could be used as a slave in the smaller arenas. It was clear that Hizdahr had grown fond of Anakin and was resolute in ensuring his continued existence.
Anakin himself wasn't very optimistic, having only heard tales of the brutal fighting pits of Meereen, none of which instilled him with much hope.
There are numerous fighting pits scattered throughout the city of Meereen, including Daznak's Pit, the Pit of Ghrazz, and the Golden Pit. The largest among them is Daznak's Pit, located to the west of the Great Pyramid.
On the same side of the pyramid lies the Temple of the Graces, which serves as the residence of the priestesses of Meereen. Dominating the skyline with its glittering golden domes, the temple is an impressive sight to behold.
In the Plaza of Purification, a grand bronze harpy stands tall as a symbol of the city's power and authority. Meereen boasts a variety of markets, such as the spice market where the popular Purple Lotus can be found, near the pyramid of Rhazdar.
Another notable location in Meereen is Mazdhan's Maze, a labyrinthine structure that is sure to challenge even the most skilled navigators.
At the city's western gate, there is a bustling market square, where one can find the ancient Slave Exchange, the merchant's arcade, and the striking bronze statue of the Chainmaker. Nearby, the Great Masters have erected a grim monument known as the Spire of Skulls, a reminder of their brutal rule over the city.
During his imprisonment, Hizdahr zo Loraq informs Anakin that he must join their ranks and engage in combat at the notorious Pit of Ghrazz, one of three arenas in Meereen. If he refuses, he will face execution for his failed attempt at escape.
The fighting pits of Meereen are a deeply religious arena, where combat serves as a means of honoring the gods of Ghis.
Amongst the spectators, bravery, expertise, and physical prowess are highly esteemed and celebrated. The victorious warriors are praised and rewarded, while those who fall in battle are memorialized and their names etched on the Gates of Fate alongside other revered heroes.
In addition to being a place of glory, the pits also serve as a form of punishment for criminals who may face death as a result of their actions. For them, the pits offer a final opportunity to prove their innocence through trial by combat.
The night before his first battle in the pits, Anakin remained wide awake in his cell, unable to succumb to slumber. As he eventually drifted off, he was abruptly overtaken by a vision - or rather, a horrific nightmare. In this harrowing dream, he was engulfed in blazing flames and tortured by intense agony.
As he regained consciousness, he realized he was standing in a desolate hallway.
The sudden lack of confinement surprised him, but he didn't give it much thought as he cautiously navigated the dim passageway. At one juncture, a radiant beam of blue light caught his attention, emanating from the direction he was heading.
When he enters the room, a bathhouse-like atmosphere surrounds him. However, what he sees makes him quiver in fear. A transparent apparition, radiating a hue reminiscent of pristine sea water, appears before his eyes.
Without thinking, he contemplates running away in fear. However, an inexplicable force holds him in place, mesmerized. The figure resembles an aged man with a beard on his face.
"Anakin, it has been quite some time. I must say, you appear strikingly altered with your white locks and violet eyes. Quite a transformation," remarked the spirit in a composed tone.
"Who are you? How do you know my name?" Anakin asks the ghost.
"I go by the name of Obi-Wan Kenobi, but you may address me as Ben if you please. It's much simpler that way, don't you agree?" He answers as Anakin nears. He lifts his arm in an effort to reach the apparition, but his hand simply goes right through it.
"Are you finished?" asked Obi-Wan, a touch of amusement present in his tone.
"What are you?" Anakin asked, still captivated by the specter.
Obi-wan responds with a small laugh, stating that while the Force may operate mysteriously, his old friend remains as curious as ever.
"You know who I am?" inquired Anakin, as his terror towards the apparition began to fade away.
Upon further inspection, Obi-Wan takes on the task of elucidating the fundamental characteristics encompassing his existence. A spectral entity imbued with the powers of the force: the incorporeal manifestation of a departed individual attuned to the force, retaining the ability to engage with the living.
"What's the force?" curiosity sparked within Anakin as he pondered why this particular word caught his attention among the rest.
"The Force is what gives a Jedi his power. It's an energy field created by all living things. It surrounds us and penetrates us. It binds the galaxy together, connecting all living beings and objects. It is within us and around us, giving us life and connecting us all to each other. Through the force, we can sense the world around us and understand the connections between all living things," Obi-Wan explains to an awestruck Anakin who is taking this all in as best he can.
"However, with this understanding comes great power and control. Those who are strong in the force can tap into this energy and use it to enhance their physical and mental abilities. But the force is not just about control and power. It also teaches us about balance and harmony. The force is made up of two sides, the light and the dark. The light represents peace, knowledge, and selflessness, while the dark represents fear, anger, and aggression. Are you prepared for what you may have to do?" his curiosity piqued as he sought to uncover whether Anakin aligned more closely with the light or dark side of the force.
"I don't want to kill anyone. But I don't want to die. I hate the masters for making me do this," Anakin admits with sincerity.
"Hate is a strong emotion. It is important to find balance within ourselves and within the force. We must learn to control our emotions and not let them control us. This is the key to becoming a powerful force user. As you continue to grow, you will improve in the ways of the force, you will learn to channel and harness its power. But always remember, the force is a tool, and it is up to you to use it for good or for ill. In the end, it is not the power of the force that matters, but rather how we choose to use it. May the force be with you, my friend. Use it wisely, for your fate may depend on it".
Right as he was on the verge of searching for more clarification, the ghost gradually disappeared. Its final words to Anakin were, "We shall meet again".
Anakin's thoughts are flooded with numerous unanswered inquiries, as this verbose explanation left many things still unanswered.
"I must be going mad," Anakin mutters as he stands alone in an empty room, his words falling on deaf ears. His thoughts seem to be deceiving him, making him doubt his own sanity.
Before Anakin has the chance to ponder his precise location, he suddenly hears a conspicuous, labored sound of inhaling and exhaling originating from the doorway he initially entered from.
The atmosphere is cloaked in obscurity, and his intuition implores him to avoid it, yet he is inexplicably compelled towards the noise, as if it is summoning him. As he approaches the origin, the labored breath suddenly stops, and he becomes aware of two glowing lights in shades of green and red.
Without warning, the rushed breathing returns, more agitated than before, and a shape materializes from the darkness. The individual is shrouded in an all-black ensemble, donning a menacing cape, a chilling black mask, and the sparkling green and red lights radiating from their torso.
Upon seeing the man activate his brilliant crimson red sword, Anakin stumbles backwards. The fiery blade strikes him with such force that he is left speechless and unable to utter a single word before being defeated by the blazing weapon.
Suddenly, Anakin is jolted awake and realizes he is still imprisoned in his cell alone.
Coming to the realization that it had merely been a figment of his imagination, he collects his thoughts and attempts to make sense of why the dream had seemed so vivid and authentic.
Upon arriving at the pits the next morning, he suddenly realized that his nerves had been justified. With no delay, he was immediately restrained and marched alongside other combat-slaves to a chamber for holding.
Adorned in humble attire fit for a slave, Anakin is clad in basic garments. A rugged jacket or tunic secured by a cinched belt, paired with trousers and sand shoes, completes his outfit. However, the one item he detests is his obligatory slave collar.
Taking note of his lack of armor, he can't help but wonder if the other slaves have encountered this situation before or were ready for it in advance.
Even though he was not among the initial ones to be summoned for battle, the moment he catches the sound of swords clashing, the shouts of soldiers, and the applause of the audience, he stands up from his spot to get a better view of the intense clashes happening in the arena.
Anakin looks on and witnesses men ruthlessly slaughtering other men purely for the amusement of the ruling elite.
As blood splatters out of men and onto the sandy ground, Anakin feels lightheaded and his legs grow weak. 'Well, this is just perfect,' Anakin sarcastically muses to himself. Living most of his life in sandy surroundings, it is ironic that he despises the feeling of sand.
Anakin, who lacks experience in taking lives and possesses only a rudimentary understanding of sword fighting taught by Ser Willem, nears the exhibit of weaponry designated for slaves before their entry into the pits.
He shuts his eyes tightly and reaches out towards the variety of weapons before him, channeling his energy into a steady stream of controlled breaths. As he continues to take in and expel air, he feels a subtle tug, as though his inner instinct is directing him towards a particular weapon.
Gently, he wraps his fingers around the object and slowly opens his eyes, revealing a traditional castle-forged steel sword in his hand. Its handle is coated in an elegant matte black finish, completing its appearance with a smooth round pommel and a modest crossguard.
While grasping the sword, which is both lightweight and lengthy, he experiences a heightened level of perception and becomes more attuned to his environment. Mentally, he begins to prepare himself for the events that lie ahead.
The moment of truth arrives and Anakin receives his summons and stands among seven other fighters. They are then paraded before a cheering crowd sitting in the stands above, the smell of blood permeating the air around them.
Before the battle begins, a giant horn is sounded and the slaves are obliged to kneel and show their 'respect' to the nobles at the center of the stands.
As the horn resounds, Anakin takes in his surroundings and notices that all seven other participants have immersed themselves in their own personal battles. Upon this realization, he redirects his attention to his left and notices a middle-age man with a rough beard and donning lightweight armor, approaching him with an ax.
Despite his desire to run, he finds himself rooted to the spot, captivated by the man who to his eyes appears to be advancing towards him in slow-motion.
Anakin's gut instinct prompts him to deflect the incoming strike with his blade, causing the man to stumble. With his sword still raised, Anakin watches as the man regains his footing and turns his attention back to him, clearly taken aback by his ability to defend himself. The man repeatedly swings his weapon, only for Anakin to dodge and proceed to engage in a blade-lock with the ax-wielding man.
As if it were muscle memory, he effortlessly spins his blade with a flick of his wrist, cutting off the man's hand and causing him to fall onto his behind.
"Please! Wait! Wait!" The man pleads as Anakin stands over him menacingly. Anakin halts his actions to listen, yet quickly grasps that the man is merely buying time to retrieve a tiny blade from his pocket, using his remaining hand.
Almost instinctively, he responds and wields his sword in a swift arc, slicing the man's face in half with precision.
As Anakin confronts yet another adversary – this time a male armed with a shield and spear, clad in light armor and approaching him in a menacing manner – he is unable to pause and contemplate his first encounter with the act of killing.
The man holding a spear thrusts it towards Anakin. In a similar fashion to before, Anakin swiftly deflects the attack to the side.
His opponent, however, stays unfazed and immediately redirects his focus to Anakin. He manages to keep a safe distance between them with the spear.
Despite his efforts, Anakin is unable to close the gap between them due to the spear acting as a barrier. However, when a chance presents itself, Anakin takes hold of the spear and engages in a struggle with his opponent. Anakin's superior strength easily overpowers the man, causing him to lose his grip and witness his spear being hurled away.
With newfound determination, Anakin steadily moves forward, closing the gap between himself and the man who brandishes his raised shield as a makeshift weapon.
Anakin held his breath as he drove his sword into the man's vulnerable chest. The man collapsed, dragging Anakin down with him to the ground. In his final moments, Anakin was compelled to meet his opponent's gaze as the light faded from their eyes.
Anakin attempts to contemplate his recent actions, his mind consumed with storm and confusion. But just as he begins to grapple with it all, he becomes aware of the solitary enemy remaining, who is gaining encouragement from the spectators.
It dawned on him that numerous adversaries he has faced have been coerced into battle, but this individual appeared to have accepted his role all too willingly. And yet, despite the reluctance in his heart, Anakin understands that in order to ensure his own survival, he must eliminate this man, who has no say in the situation just as he himself does.
As the darkness consumes him, he readies himself to confront his final adversary, a lightly clad foe wielding twin swords. Thoughts of intense anger towards his oppressors dominate his mind.
Anakin and his opponent engage in a fierce battle, with Anakin taking on a mostly defensive role as he deftly deflects the strikes coming his way.
Eventually, he successfully disarms his opponent and then swiftly delivers a diagonal cut from the opponent's shoulder down to their rib, effectively splitting them into two pieces.
In awe of the lone survivor, the audience falls into a hushed silence. The sight of a mere young boy emerging victorious caught them off guard.
Despite the surprise, they erupt into cheers for Anakin as he stands tall, while his eyes meet those of Hizdahr and his father, who seem even more astonished by his success than he himself is.
Without a doubt, Faiz zo Loraq was content with his own display, displaying no hesitation to cheer for the boy. On the other hand, Hizdahr was thoroughly surprised by Anakin's mastery of the sword, recognizing that he was much more skilled than previously believed.
Faiz notifies Anakin that consistent success in the fighting pits will result in exclusive privileges, surpassing those of any other slave. Anakin feels compelled to comply with Faiz's demands, seeing no alternative.
His innermost desires lead him to consider using the same weapon he used to eliminate the previous men on Faiz. His anger verges on hatred, if it has not already consumed him.
Despite tempting offers of wine, prostitutes, improved bedding and meals, Anakin chooses to resist indulging in these vices. Although he enjoyed the lavish beds and delicious food, he couldn't get his mind off overthrowing the Great Masters of Meereen and ending slavery. He had discovered a newfound strength within himself and was determined to use it to fight for his beliefs.
Ever since he had that dream, his visions have become increasingly powerful, almost bordering on premonitions. He could foresee the battles he would partake in and the people he would eventually meet. Above all, he has become more attuned to the living force that surrounds him.
Ever since Anakin learned about his strong connection to the force, he has been strategizing a scheme to ignite a rebellion that would free the subjugated inhabitants of Meereen.
Nevertheless, he encounters difficulties while considering the other cities of Astapor and Yunkai where slavery also thrives. Anakin is cognizant that if a revolt were to erupt in the area, these two neighboring cities would be the first ones to seize the opportunity and exploit it for their own benefit.
Anakin's goal can only be achieved through rallying a following, which he knows how to do in only one way.
Within just six months, he has earned a formidable reputation in the fighting pits, solidifying himself as the leading contender in Meereen.
This remarkable achievement has not gone unnoticed, as it has garnered the attention not only of numerous prominent masters, but also of slaves throughout the entire city.
(295 AC - Meereen)
It has been several months since Anakin was first exposed to the brutal fighting arenas, but today marks a turning point.
Standing before the Great Masters, he prepares to pay his 'respects' alongside seven other participants.
Anakin knows that the decision he is about to make could lead to his demise or earn him the admiration he needs. But to him, either result is preferable to the wretched existence he currently endures.
Today Anakin was fighting in the Daznak's Pit, the largest of all the arenas, located west from the Great Pyramid.
As the blaring horn resonates, signifying the commencement of the skirmish, Anakin leaps into action.
The arena echoes with exultant onlookers as the contest unfolds in the customary fashion, individuals embroiled in their own distinct clashes, yet Anakin devises a strategy to disperse them all.
His opponent prepares to attack as he stays completely motionless, shutting his eyes and bringing his hands near his chest. Holding his breath, he prepares for what comes next. With a sudden release, he finally unveils his eyes, a tremendous force erupts from within him, propelling his foes far from his reach.
As the powerful assault from Anakin rages on, the onlookers in the stands, which includes his masters Faiz zo Loraq and his son Hizdahr, cannot escape the impact. The swirling clouds of sand in the arena serve as evidence of the forceful attack.
Fully immersed in the intense action, Anakin viciously beheads the first man within his reach, leaving the onlookers in shock. But the melee does not cease there; with deadly precision, he slices through the abdomen of his next adversary, eliciting a gruesome display of entrails. Without a moment's pause, he charges towards the third challenger, thrusting his blade into the man's torso after a brief sword fight.
In mere seconds, Anakin has vanquished three of the eight competitors, leaving the spectators speechless and anticipating his next move.
Anakin's determination to vanquish all his adversaries alone is evident to both the slaves and onlookers in the arena. As a result, the remaining four fighters unite and encircle him.
As he stares out at the stands, Anakin notices that most of the spectators are on their feet, even the servant-slaves who seem confused by his show of power.
Encircled by four figures brandishing swords and shields while clad in light armor, Anakin faces no hesitation as they advance towards him. However, his swift movements allow him to leap over their heads with ease. Landing behind one of his adversaries, he deftly impales them with his sword, the sharp blade piercing through their back and emerging from their chest, causing the death of one more foe.
Anakin ultimately confronts the remaining three individuals, throwing one into the other and quickly engaging the third. He skillfully defends against their attacks and brings his sword down in a vertical strike on their heads.
As there were only two left, Anakin used the force to bring one closer and swiftly decapitates him.
The onlookers are aghast by the apparent sorcery being executed by this slave. In the meantime, Anakin is on edge, and the entire crowd is left dumbfounded by his abilities.
The solitary combatant who stands alone on the war-torn battleground is overcome with fear and collapses onto his knees, pleading for mercy in a dialect of Low Valyrian. Anakin comprehends his message, as his mastery of countless languages has greatly aided him in enduring years of servitude as a slave.
As he looks up at the high-ranking individuals placed at the center of the stands, he notices that their reaction is very much alike to that of the rest of the audience.
Despite his desire to show mercy, he still impales the man in front of him with his sword, ultimately bringing about his death.
Anakin could feel the darkside consuming him more and more with each passing moment. The desire to use the force to choke the nobles in his presence was overwhelming, but he managed to control himself.
He humbly bowed before them, demonstrating his unwavering loyalty.
Following a brief period of quiet, the solitary applause of a servant-slave in the midst of the onlookers sparks a surge of enthusiastic cries from the crowd, causing the aristocracy to summon their guards and have them escort Anakin back to the chambers where he will be held for the foreseeable future.
Anakin makes his way through the chambers, the rest of the battle-slaves parting ways to let him through. He calmly makes his way to a seat, seemingly undisturbed by all the chaos happening around him.
The commotion of the crowd can still be heard from the holding chambers when a guard enters and calls for the next group of eight to enter the arena.
Looking at things from Anakin's perspective, everything is going exactly as he intended. His ultimate goal is to have news of his feats today spread, especially among the other slaves.
Anakin spends the next few days without any issues, albeit, he is still imprisoned in a cell following his recent battle in the pits. 'That has to count for something,' he ponders to himself as he reflects on the fact that he is still alive.
Nevertheless, his suspicions begin to arise as he becomes aware of the fact that he has not received any nourishment in the last four days. This would not be out of the ordinary if the other captives in adjacent cells were also not being provided with food, but that is not the case.
It can be inferred that a high-ranking noble has explicitly requested for Anakin to go without nourishment. If this is indeed true, it implies that a significant period of time has elapsed since his fight in the pits and the nobility has something planned for him.
At dusk, Anakin finds himself lying on a straw mattress in the dim and moist confines of a jail cell. Suddenly, Hizdahr pays him a visit. Hizdahr cautions him that his alleged use of magic has sparked chaos and disorder in the city, leading to his father's decision to surrender him for public execution.
"Tomorrow in the central plaza, you will be executed," Hizdahr informs Anakin, who is lying on a straw-bed and gazing at the ceiling.
As Anakin rises from his bed, he makes his way to the cell bars and inquires, "Do you want me to escape? Why are you telling me this?" His curiosity piqued, he wondered why Hizdahr would choose to confide in him at this particular time.
Hizdahr reveals to Anakin, "Because I know who you are, Targaryen," prompting Anakin to narrow his eyes at him in surprise. He is left to wonder how long Hizdahr has been concealing this information from him.
"I've known ever since your first battle in the arenas. I've been wondering who you were, how you moved with such grace, the way you used a sword," Hizdahr discloses as if he knew what Anakin was thinking.
"It all prompted me to do some investigating. After reading some books on bloodline history. I discovered the truth. Anakin Targaryen, your bloodline can be traced back to Old Valyria. The powerful House Targaryen, the house that conquered all of the Westernlands with 'Fire And Blood'…and dragons. If you believe in such things. I did not believe…until I laid eyes on you," Hizdahr reveals, acknowledging that Anakin has managed to convince many people in Meereen of his abilities.
"Have you heard of other Targaryens in Essos, besides myself?" Anakin's yearning for any trace of his bloodline compels him to inquire. His determination to break free from enslavement stemmed from his burning desire to be reunited with his kin.
Hizdahr shakes his head, causing Anakin to drop his gaze as he questions, "Got anything else to tell me?".
Once he stands up from the stool he had been sitting on, Hizdahr presents a set of keys to Anakin. Anakin respectfully turns down the offer, but Hizdahr surreptitiously hands him the keys anyway. This unexpected act of freedom elicits a new feeling in Anakin towards a slave trader - gratefulness, rather than his usual anger. Although he knows it is unnecessary, Anakin is grateful for the kind gesture.
"Thank you," he courteously expresses to Hizdahr as he departs the dungeons.
Once Hizdahr departs, Anakin hears a voice from the neighboring cell calling out to him. The man, dressed in rags and with a shaved head, is wearing a collar.
The man inquires, "Are you the one?" to Anakin.
"The one what?" he responded.
"The chosen one. That's what they're calling you. The other slaves" the young man clarifies.
"I'm a person and my name is Anakin," he curtly replies with venom.
"I thought I was a person once…now" the man shares with a slight chuckle as he gestures to his collar. "Now I don't even know what I am…my name is Mossador," the young man introduces himself.
As Anakin approaches the bars dividing their prison cells, he scrupulously takes in the dejected and melancholy expression of the young man, evidently revealing that slavery had wreaked more havoc than the man was willing to reveal.
"You've got half of Meereen singing your praises. They say you're blessed by the gods. So, are you?" Mossador asks Anakin.
"If I was, what would you have me do?" he responds, causing Mossador to halt and contemplate his inquiry.
Mossador responds by saying, "If you were, I would ask what you would have 'me' do".
Longing to hear these exact words, Anakin has waited patiently for the admiration of the citizens. His desire was not driven by selfish ambition, but rather as a means of inspiring oppressed slaves to unite and fight for their freedom.
As Anakin stands up from his bed and leans against the cell bars, he thinks to himself, 'The time is now'. He then shouts out to the guards at the other end of the corridor, "Hey, you ugly bastards over there! Come here!".
As the guards approach the cell, Anakin takes a step back. Without giving them a chance to ask, he harnesses the force to yank them towards the bars, causing them to lose consciousness.
With eyes wide in amazement, Mossador and his fellow captives in the dungeon observe as Anakin casually harnesses the power of the force to break apart the bars in front of him and forcefully separate them, freeing himself from captivity.
Shifting his position, he advances towards the cell housing Mossador, currently held captive and securely sealed. Without hesitation, he tosses the key to unlock the cells towards him.
"You asked me what I would have you do. I would have you free" Anakin clarifies to the confined youth, pondering the potential benefits of being revered as 'The Chosen One'.
Once he had successfully subdued the guards, he employed the force to forcefully remove the cell bars imprisoning the remaining slaves.
As he positions himself at the exit, the slaves emerge and congregate before him.
Mossador is the first one to kneel in front of him, and he vows his fealty and devotion to Anakin. The rest of the slaves also bend the knee and give the same pledge.
"Arise! Strike for your lives! Now is the day and now is the hour! Let every slave throughout the land do this, and the days of slavery are numbered. You cannot be more oppressed than you have been, you cannot suffer greater cruelties than you have already. Rather die freemen than live to be slaves. Remember that you are more!".
As Anakin speaks, he receives thunderous applause from the entire group of slaves and they break into a fervent chant of "Kraz! Kraz! Kraz!" This phrase holds meaning in an ancient Ghiscari dialect, meaning strong and powerful.
Their united effort involved storming the dungeons, liberating all captives and looting the arsenal.
Just before dawn breaks, Anakin assumes control and leads his comrades to follow him towards the Pit of Ghrazz. Memories of his first encounter in the arena flood his mind, though they are not pleasant, they remain vivid.
He possesses unwavering belief that this is the perfect spot to find sanctuary, as it is highly unlikely for anyone to look for a former combatant slave in this barren location during this time of day.
Rather than engaging in a direct and potentially devastating conflict with the Meereen forces, Anakin devises a plan for him and his group of men, led by Mossador, to infiltrate the city disguised as slaves. Given that they were all previously enslaved, returning to their former roles should be a relatively easy task.
Over the following year they establish their headquarters in the underground sewage system and visit a slave enclosure, where a group of captives are debating the possibility of rebelling against the Great Masters.
Mossador is already attempting to persuade the other enslaved men to revolt, but the more experienced slaves argue that their past rebellions have been swiftly crushed by the powerful slavers.
"You are a fool. The masters are too strong. I want to live. You saw what they did to those children. What do you think they'll do to us?" an elder Meereen slave speaks in Valyrian. The reason for his concern was valid, as everyone bore witness to the actions of the Great Masters following the acts of rebellion and destruction.
In an attempt to intimidate Anakin, they mercilessly crucified 163 innocent children who were slaves. This was an especially difficult day for Anakin as he felt the power of the dark side growing inside him. If he hadn't hated the masters before, he certainly did now.
"The Chosen One will protect us. He has proven his strength by defeating the masters' champion, never having lost a battle, and we already have so much support," Mossador tries to convince his fellow slaves.
The slaves exchanged looks before turning their eyes towards Anakin, who was lost in his own thoughts while reflecting on the atrocities the masters had inflicted on 163 innocent children. Anakin's apparent use of sorcery was known and sometimes witnessed by all the slaves in Meereen.
"We have a great army. You want to live the rest of your days in chains?" Mossador is adamant, the opportunity to overthrow the masters may never arise.
"I've been through two slave revolts, boy. They always end the same way: the Masters in power and the slaves dead," the elder Meereenese slave sadly acknowledged. The old man served as a tragic illustration of the devastating effects of slavery on a person's spirit.
"All men must die. But I promise you, a single day of freedom is worth more than a lifetime in chains" Anakin's words in Valyrian break the silence, captivating the attention of the slaves from the so-called 'Chosen One' who emanates a menacing aura of darkness.
"I can also promise you this, if we do lose. And we all die. We will be the ones spared from the aftermath. But we won't lose," Anakin implies that even if they suffer defeat and perish, they will be exempt from the consequences of the master's cruelty.
"I didn't believe in you when I first heard. But then I witnessed you and your men plundering the grain fields, just outside the city. You are blessed, of that I have no doubt? You know how to fight. We are not soldiers and we are not blessed," the senior Meereenese slave admitted, exposing his concerns about involving his fellow slaves in combat.
"We have no training, weapons," a younger slave protests.
After the slaves express their worries about lacking the skills and weapons of their oppressors, Anakin directs Mossador and his men to reveal what they have brought.
Mossador and his fellow liberated slaves release the bundles from their burdened shoulders. The clash of weapons echoes as they make contact with the earth. A crowd of slaves congregates, with some cautiously grasping the swords.
"There are three slaves in this city for every Master. No one can give you your freedom, brothers. If you want it, you must take it!" Anakin reminds them that the number of slaves in the city surpasses the masters by a significant margin, compensating for their lack of training.
He delivers a powerful and concise address, motivating them to take action and seize their own freedom. He emphasizes that it is within their own hands and they must be willing to fight for it.
(296 AC - Meereen)
After almost a full year of garnering support from the enslaved population, he finally incites a revolt.
The methods of rebellions exhibit vast diversity, yet the majority of rebellions commence with a highly influential individual who possesses the ability to mobilize the public to resist their oppressor. In this particular scenario, that individual is Anakin Targaryen.
Various forms of resistance were utilized by slaves to express their disconnection from their masters, including breaking tools, pretending to be sick, deliberately slowing down work, and engaging in acts of arson and sabotage. This message was made evident when red graffiti slogans such as 'kill the masters' were found scattered throughout the city.
The Siege of Meereen had officially begun when an enormous black flag bearing the three-headed red dragon of House Targaryen was placed over the harpy atop the Great Pyramid of Meereen.
Before long, slaves from every corner of Meereen parade through the streets, targeting and eliminating any Great Masters in their path. The majority of the City-Guard opts to give up rather than protect the masters when they see the overwhelming numbers of the slaves.
The ranks of the revolt grow rapidly, determined to move forward. All the freed slaves who are able to do so are following Anakin's example, while the city's troops and guards prove powerless to halt their progress.
Despite lacking warfare experience, the sight of Anakin expertly cutting through swarms of foes and utilizing the force to accomplish incredible deeds is enough to spur them on to fiercely confront the enemy, especially since they outnumber their oppressors three to one.
Breaking through the barriers, they ravage the opulent pyramid palaces'.
A twisted sense of satisfaction consumes Anakin as he permits the slaves to seek retribution against their past oppressors, including his former master Faiz zo Loraq, reveling in their demise.
He counts himself fortunate that Hizdahr and his mother are absent, as he doubts he would have been able to prevent the slaves from ending their life if they had found them.
Selfishness and possessiveness are the driving forces of the dark side, intertwined with a fear of losing what one holds dear, leading to feelings of anger and hate.
In front of a defiant group of enslaved individuals, he flaunts his powers in the force, causing the towering harpy sculptures on top of the magnificent pyramids to crumble, offering a hopeful prophecy for brighter times ahead.
The entire city looks upon him with admiration, convinced that he is 'The Chosen One' and devoted to serving him until the bitter end.
Amidst the jubilant slaves who have rip their slave-collars off, Anakin walks down the steps of the Great Pyramid with children and his guards by his side, their voices cheering in unison to chant, "Kraz! Kraz! Kraz!".
At this very moment, Anakin is experiencing the intensity of the dark-side like never before. Undoubtedly, the deaths of the people he hated is the reason for this.
"Remind me, Mossador, how many children did the Great Masters crucify" inquired Anakin, who now sees Mossador as his most loyal and dependable commander.
"163" he responds in a straightforward manner.
"Yes, that was it" Anakin remarks, as he turns to look at him. Mossador then signals to his men, who obey with a nod and make their way to a different location. Mossador was almost certain that he witnessed Anakin's eyes briefly turn yellow.
As it turned out, submerging a city in a state of siege is a significantly less demanding undertaking compared to the later tasks of leadership and governance, a role that Anakin did not desire.
Following the purging of the majority of the city's nobility and ruling class, a void of power emerged that only Anakin possessed the capability to fill.
He was the catalyst for the rebellion, and his supporters firmly believed that he had a greater mission in mind that extended beyond freeing the enslaved.
Yet, Anakin possessed no understanding in practical governance. Consequently, chaos consumed the city, with widespread crime and even incidents of sexual assault. His reaction was to adopt a moniker that could only be characterized as regal, assuming the role of King over Meereen.
Anakin donned a deep v-neck, dark gray outer vest surcoat with flared leg openings and a rear slit. He paired it with a burgundy knee-length undertunic and matching pants, along with mismatched gloves for his left and right hands.
To hold his newly acquired castle-forged steel sword, he used a brown belt. The sword featured a golden grip, a small diamond-shaped pommel, and no crossguard.
He also wore gray chest armor with matching shoulder plates, featuring a custom emblem that he painted himself. Unsure of what to call it, the emblem depicted a radiant six-pointed star enclosed by stylized wings, inscribed into a circular ring. He had previously encountered this symbol in his dreams, along with multiple others.
It was Hizdahr who brought to Anakin's attention his worth as a ruler. As turmoil engulfed the city, Hizdahr emerged from secrecy and approached Anakin. The power vacuum, which Anakin had created, was posing a danger to the entire region. Hizdahr suggested he assume command to put an end to the turmoil.
Anakin is consumed by the influence of the dark side, a certain aspect of his being becomes driven to rid himself of Hizdahr, both because of who he is and the actions of his family. Nevertheless, he ultimately chooses to forego this urge and instead heeds Hizdahr's counsel, even going as far as naming him an advisor, recognizing his vast understanding of the political dynamics in Slaver's Bay.
Meereen welcomed Anakin with open arms, hailing him as a hero and savior among the freedmen.
It was he who issued the command to pardon the city guards and soldiers who surrendered during the overthrow of the city. He has given them the opportunity to serve under his leadership.
Now more than one-hundred Great Masters have been captured and are being guarded by the new city guards, awaiting Anakin's judgment.
"Your Grace, may I have a word? The city is yours. All these people, they're your subjects now. Sometimes it is better to answer injustice with mercy," Hizdahr begged him to respond with leniency.
Even though the Great Masters were now under his rule, Anakin is determined to impose punishment for the cruel act of crucifying slave children, which was meant to scare him during the early days of his uprising.
"I will answer injustice with justice" Anakin's unwavering response leaves no room for dispute.
As the Meereenese slave masters wail in agony, Anakin's troops impale them on crosses. They arrange a path along the mountainside, impaling each slave master's hand to a post and using it as a guide. From atop the Great Pyramid, Anakin observes with a sense of authority, his eyes fixed on the Targaryen banner billowing in the wind. The piercing cries of the crucified reverberate through the city, causing the citizens to watch on in terror.
A total of 163 Great Masters were crucified, one for each of the slave children they had mercilessly crucified.
Hizdahr was fortunate that his father was not one of the crucified ones, as he was unsure if he could fully support Anakin if it wasn't the case. Though he comprehended the reasons behind Anakin's decision to let the slaves execute his father, it was a difficult truth to accept as his own flesh and blood.
Following Anakin's pillaging of Meereen, wealthy slaver families were spared, with the exception of the 163 they had provided for crucifixion. However, the humble families were subjected to massacres, rapes, and the destruction of their homes during the city's sacking.
Many suffered in poverty as brothels became prevalent and famine struck. Some even resorted to voluntarily returning to slavery in order to have access to food. Meanwhile, the former slaver families kept their former slaves as 'servants' but provided minimal pay and left the weakest members (such as the disabled and elderly) to fend for themselves on the streets.
After his arrival at the Great Pyramid, Anakin establishes himself as its new inhabitant.
As he begins to govern, Mossador approaches him with a report of the successful capture of Meereen's navy, consisting of a staggering 93 ships.
However, his joy is quickly dampened by disturbing information brought to him by Hizdahr regarding the current state of Meereen.
As per Hizdahr's information, a mysterious benefactor has been providing financial backing to the Sons of the Harpy, a covert rebel faction that opposes Anakin Targaryen's reign in Meereen.
This group is made up of individuals from the slaver caste and takes its name from the harpy - the iconic emblem of the slave-owners in the Ghiscari cities of Slaver's Bay and the former Ghiscari Empire.
To hide their true identities, they donned ornate masks featuring horned visages resembling harpies.
Hizdahr and Mossador are now essential members of his small council, providing invaluable assistance in governing the city. The council convenes in the Great Pyramid, situated at the highest point and offering a prime vantage point over the city.
Hizdahr implores Anakin to negotiate a truce with the Wise Masters of Yunkai by resuming the arena battles and reviving a less severe form of slavery. Nonetheless, Anakin harbors an alternate strategy. There will be no evidence of slavery allowed in any part of Slaver's Bay, as per his command.
"What do we know about the Good Masters of Astapor and their slaves?" Anakin asked as a servant-girl entered the room with goblets and wine.
"They sell the Unsullied. Eunuch slave soldiers, trained from a young age in Astapor to unquestioning obedience and martial prowess. Sold by the century or the thousand, they are used as soldier all across the Free Cities. They make excellent guards, do not loot, and will never rape," Hizdahr informs Anakin.
The mention of Astapor causes the young servant-girl to abruptly stop pouring a drink, as if struck by a sudden realization. Anakin notices her reaction and asks, "What's your name?".
"Dalila…your grace" the woman humbly responds as she finishes pouring the wine and sets the tray down.
"And what do you know of 'The Good Masters' in Astapor, Dalila?" asked Anakin.
"I…how?" Dalila, stuttering, starts to question how he was aware she originated from Astapor.
"Just speak the truth. Nothing will happen to you," Anakin comforts the woman, prompting her to stand tall and meet his gaze.
"Kraznys mo Nakloz is a slave-trader in the city, he is one of the Good Masters. He trains and sells Unsullied warriors," answers Dalila.
"And do you believe that this Kraznys would be open to selling his Unsullied?" Anakin inquires as he strategizes in his thoughts.
Hizdahr promptly rebuts that notion, stating, "But we've slavery is outlawed. They would never believe we wish to purchase the Unsullied".
"They don't know that. Our gold reserves exceed that of both Astapor and Yunkai combined. If we present an irresistible offer, will they be open to selling?" Anakin reiterates, brushing off Hizdahr's worries.
Despite his distaste for the son of his former enslaver, he acknowledges the young man's aid in the progress of Meereen. His insight into the complex societal and political climate has deemed him worthy of a spot on the inner-council.
"He is…greedy" Dalila's response gives Anakin a sense of this individual's character as being avaricious.
As the small council deliberates, they carefully consider the gravity of the situation. Finally, Anakin voices his thoughts, "We need to get on top of this before they have time to confirm our outlawing of slavery. We'll go there and buy their Unsullied".
"But, your grace, a purchase of that size would cripple us financially" Hizdahr protested.
"I know what I'm doing! Hizdahr, prepare an envoy, 1,000 men. We march there on the morrow. Mossador, I want you to remain in the city, get rid of as many Sons of the Harpy as you can. You'll be in charge in my absence," Anakin orders. Although aware of the potential risks, he still placed the task of managing the city in his absence on Mossador, as his plan was entirely dependent on his physical presence in Astapor.
"Yes your grace" they respond as Anakin dismisses the room and gets ready the gold they require.
Anakin is entrusting Mossador to manage the predicament with the Sons of the Harpy, yet he couldn't rid himself of doubt regarding Mossador's competence to make astute choices involving political affairs. Nevertheless, Anakin was not planning on being absent for an extended duration.
He is unable to tolerate the idea that the recently liberated slaves of Meereen might once again be subjected to enslavement if the city is overtaken by the Yunkai or any rebellious faction.
Despite this, he is aware that directly confronting Yunkai would be a grave error.
Anakin plans to secure the assistance of the Unsullied army by using the wealth of Meereen to bribe the masters of Astapor. He is certain that their greed will dissuade them from rejecting his proposal.
This will undoubtedly be the most challenging mission he has undertaken as the King. He never quite grew accustomed to this designation. It seemed as though most individuals tip-toed around him and addressed him as 'your grace,' yet another title he could do without. Nonetheless, the people needed a leader who can make tough judgments.
(296 AC - King's Landing)
The rare council meeting of the small council in King's Landing has begun, with King Robert Baratheon in attendance, which is a rarity in the past two decades.
In the small council are: The Hand of the King: Lord Jon Arryn, Defender of the Vale and Warden of the East. Appointed to the position when Robert ascended to the throne, and retained it for Robert's subsequent reign. Grand Maester: Pycelle. Master of Coin: Lord Petyr Baelish, known as 'Littlefinger'. Master of Whisperers: Varys, known as 'the Spider'. Master of Laws: Lord Renly Baratheon, Lord of Storm's End and Lord Paramount of the Stormlands and Master of Ships: Lord Stannis Baratheon, Lord of Dragonstone.
"Dammit all! I warned you Jon! We should've killed those bastards while they were still teething from the tits of some wet-nurse!" roared the King in a furious outburst towards his Hand. His loathing for anything Targaryen has only grown since he dethroned the 'Mad King'.
"Are we certain of these rumors?" Jon Arryn inquires with the Master of Whispers, seeking assurance on the validity of what Varys claims.
"I'm afraid so, my lord-hand. This Anakin Targaryen is no doubt the last remaining son of the late Prince Rhaegar and Elia Martell, he fits the description of a typical Targaryen, he fits the age range, he bares their sigil and now he rules over the largest city in Slaver's Bay" confirms Varys.
"But he's just a boy, how could a boy conquer such a place?" Renly questions, refusing to accept the idea that a youth could overthrow a powerful system that has been in place for centuries.
"He was underestimated, no doubt left to grow in power right under the noses of his enemies and now he commands roughly 20,000 men and 150 ships," Stannis, the more dominant and war-minded sibling, immediately dismisses his little brother Renly and his naivety.
"Lord Varys, what do we know of the goals of this boy, wha-" but before Jon Arryn can continue his questioning, Robert bellows, cutting him off and exclaiming, "The hell does it matter what his goals are! He's a Targaryen, the last remaining heir to that dynasty's claim to the throne and you want to know what his goals are! I want him dead!" Robert declares.
"Regrettably, our spy, Ser Jorah Mormont, has been tasked with locating the remaining Targaryen heirs, Viserys and Daenerys, in the vicinity of Pentos, rendering him currently unreachable. It may be a while before we are able to deploy any assassins to Meereen," reports Lord Varys.
"There's a possibility that we won't need to dispatch assassins," adds Littlefinger. "I have received information from a trustworthy source that the economy of Slaver's Bay is facing a dire predicament. There are talks that this Targaryen has prohibited slavery in Meereen.While this information is still unconfirmed, it is known that he did brutally execute a majority of the noble leaders in the city to seize control," Littlefinger further reveals.
"What's your point Littlefinger!" Robert snaps, impatient to cut to the chase.
"My point is that the region will not be pleased with his rule. No doubt his armies will soon be under siege" Littlefinger asserts that the area will not be content with Anakin's rule, and he has no doubt that his military forces will be under attack shortly.
"Regardless, I want him dealt with! Lord Varys, get on it!" Robert barks, as he snatches his goblet of wine, gulps it down, and strides out of the chamber.
'Events are unfolding, sooner than expected' Lord Varys silently mused to himself.