Renaissance: A new age

by Sarah F1992

AU story (Be warned) The once-great Valyria, an empire of dragons and sorcery, was believed to have been lost to the world in the fiery cataclysm of the Doom, four centuries past. But what if the Valyrian might, long thought destroyed and lost to the annals of time, were to suddenly reemerge onto the chessboard of power and politics that is the world of Game of Thrones

3. Chapter 3

Chapter 3: Making plans

Notes:

-This story will have some references to the universe of J.R.R Tolkien (Some names, Probably some mythology as a background in the story)

-In this story, as inspiration for the Valyrian Freehold, i took some elements from the Roman Republic,the Roman Empire, Europe during the industrial revolution (late 18th century, early 19th century) and combined these with magic.

-Torrhen Stark: Original character in this story, twin of Robb

This is a story based on the Game of Thrones books and TV series, but be warned, it's a very AU (Alternate Universe) story. If you're someone who doesn't enjoy a story that deviates a lot from canon, where certain characters may act out of character, or if you're not a fan of romance with a good amount of fluff, and a story that ultimately has a happy ending, then this may not be the right story for you.

Chapter 3

Valyrian Peninsula (A cabin in the countryside) 283 AC

Elaena surveyed the room with wonder, captivated by its nostalgic echoes of a time she had never known. "This room brings to mind those in the Valyrian museum, where they recreate the life of our ancestors as humble shepherds," she exclaimed, her curiosity and amazement apparent. The rustic simplicity surrounding her stood in stark contrast to the opulence of the Targaryen household to which she was accustomed.

As she peered out the window onto the sprawling farm and lush forest, Elaena's surprise deepened. It had been years since she had ventured into the countryside, away from the bustling city of the Freehold. The fresh air and tranquil beauty of nature offered a welcome respite from the political intrigues and responsibilities that had consumed her life.

Baesenarr Valitheos, noticing Elaena's genuine interest, spoke in a pleasant tone, "For thousands of years, some of the most crucial decisions regarding the Freehold have been made in this room, away from the prying eyes of the public. We prefer simplicity and rusticity because it reminds us of our origins and grounds us in our humanity."

Aelora, perceiving Elaena's change in expression from curiosity to concern, quickly reassured her, "My dear friend, there is nothing to worry about. On the contrary, your presence here with us only shows that the high esteem I already had for you and your whole family is now also shared by my colleagues, who represent the other two families of the Triarchy."

Balemond Aekylosh then addressed Elaena, his voice filled with respect, "The dreams and visions of your niece and what we witnessed this morning with you in the Senate have proved to us that members of the Targaryen family are sensitive to receiving divine visions from the gods, a gift that no member of the Triarchy possessed."

Aelora continued, "We want you to participate in these meetings with the three of us from now on. Before each session in the Senate, we gather here to discuss and reach a consensus on the most crucial issues. Your presence and insights will be invaluable in shaping our course of action."

Overwhelmed by the sudden offer, Elaena hesitated for a moment. She was only twenty-three years old, the youngest senator in the Triarchy, and had held the position for less than a year. The weight of her family's legacy and the responsibility of representing the Targaryen name in the Senate had often felt like a heavy burden on her shoulders.

Elaena nervously played with her hair as she spoke, "I... don't know what to say. I am flattered by the invitation, but I don't even remember what happened this morning. I was just sitting and listening to the session when I felt the cold wind, and that was the last thing I remember until tonight when I woke up in this room."

Aelora reassured her, "You don't have to make a decision tonight, Elaena. The meeting scheduled for tomorrow has been postponed for a week. Take your time to think it over. We believe in your potential and the wisdom you bring from the divine. Your participation would be an honor, but we respect your choice."

Elaena considered her options, her mind filled with conflicting thoughts. The weight of responsibility and the desire to contribute to the Freehold's welfare battled against her own doubts and insecurities. Finally, she made up her mind.

"I accept," Elaena said, her voice firm. "If you think my presence is important, then it is my duty and honor as a member of the August 40 to accept your offer. For the future of our Freehold and for the well-being of my family, I am ready to take on this responsibility."

Aelora smiled warmly, her eyes reflecting admiration. "Excellent! I knew we could count on you. Your dedication and bravery are truly commendable," she said, reaching out to embrace Elaena. "You will make a remarkable addition to our Triarchy."

As the room filled with a sense of unity and purpose, Aelora shifted her focus back to the matters at hand. "Now, my esteemed colleagues, let us proceed to the urgent issues that we must address in the Senate," she began, her tone commanding attention.

"The first topic of discussion will be the current state of our military forces. I will yield the floor to Baesenarr Valitheos, the Triarch in charge of the administrative and military aspects of our Freehold," Aelora announced.

Baesenarr nodded respectfully and cleared his throat before addressing the group. "I regret to inform you that we have suffered significant losses in our forces," he said, his voice tinged with sorrow.

The room fell silent, heavy with the weight of the news. Elaena's heart skipped a beat, and she anxiously awaited further details.

Baesenarr continued, "We have lost approximately half of our troops. However, it's important to note that this does not include our dragons. We have only lost five, the ones that were taken to Westeros by your brother."

Relief washed over Elaena as she realized that their powerful dragons remained intact. Still, the loss of soldiers was a significant blow to their military capabilities.

Baesenarr proceeded, "Out of our total of 800,000 troops, roughly half were stationed outside the peninsula. The exact figures will be provided by the commander in the upcoming week."

Aelora, her brows furrowed with concern, asked, "Given the extent of our losses, how long would it take to recruit, train, and have a new army ready to replace the four hundred thousand soldiers we lost?"

Baesenarr took a moment to contemplate before responding, "While I cannot provide an exact timeframe, I estimate it would take approximately 10 to 15 years to rebuild our forces to their former strength."

The room fell into a contemplative silence as everyone absorbed the magnitude of the situation. Elaena's mind raced, considering the implications of such a lengthy rebuilding process.

Balemond Aekylosh broke the silence, his voice filled with determination. "We cannot afford to leave the peninsula vulnerable or launch a reckless military campaign without proper information," he declared.

Elaena nodded in agreement. "Indeed, it would be foolish to embark on a conquest without a thorough understanding of our opponents and the current state of those territories," she added, her voice resolute.

Baesenarr smiled at her, impressed by her wisdom. "You are absolutely right, Elaena. A well-planned military campaign requires up-to-date information and strategic analysis. We must avoid unnecessary risks."

Balemond Aekylosh chimed in, "Unfortunately, our knowledge of those territories is outdated, with the most recent information dating back centuries."

Baesenarr concluded, "For now, our focus should remain on safeguarding the peninsula and gathering intelligence about the outside world. We must not compromise the safety of our troops or the stability of our Freehold."

Aelora, grateful for their insights, addressed the group once more. "Thank you, Baesenarr and Balemond, for your comprehensive reports. It is clear that our military and intelligence efforts require careful consideration and long-term planning."

She paused for a moment, allowing her words to sink in before continuing. "Now, let us turn our attention to the second issue at hand—the spell that saved our lives," Aelora said, shifting the focus of the discussion. "I will now give the floor to Balemond Aekylosh, the triarch in charge of magic."

Balemond stepped forward, his eyes shining with intensity. He unveiled a map of the known world, spreading it across the table for everyone to see. The intricate lines and symbols on the map hinted at the vastness of their realm and the mysteries that lay beyond.

"My esteemed colleagues," Balemond began, his voice carrying a weight of urgency, "if there are still those among us who harbor ambitions of conquest, they must understand the gravity of the threat that now looms over our Freehold. Our focus should not solely be on the spell itself, but on the measures we must take to ensure our survival."

Elaena, Aelora, and Baesenarr leaned in, their attention fixed on Balemond, the triarch overseeing matters of magic, as he delivered his report.

"Your directive to probe the spell's origins has been diligently pursued by our mages in the library," Balemond addressed Aelora directly. "They're knee-deep in scrolls and tomes, turning every page in search of clues."

Aelora nodded, a glint of anticipation in her eyes. "And have they unearthed anything promising?"

Balemond's expression turned thoughtful. "Not yet, but they're tenacious. I'm confident they'll find something before the Senate convenes."

"Dear colleagues," Balemond continued, "Although our mages have yet to uncover specific information about the spell, I can assert with confidence that the enchantment that protected us is undoubtedly a powerful blood magic spell. Crafting such a potent enchantment demanded an immense amount of blood and extensive preparation time, but..."

Basenarr, unable to contain his concern, interrupted, asking, "But what? What is the catch?"

Balemond paused for a moment, collecting his thoughts, and then continued, "This spell made a change in the timeline in the peninsula."

Aelora and Basenarr exchanged worried glances, while Elaena observed their reactions closely. Balemond clarified, "Let me emphasize that while this spell can temporarily change the timeline, it cannot permanently alter it. Only the gods have the power to make permanent changes. In approximately 30 to 50 years, the peninsula will revert to its original timeline."

Elaena, her curiosity piqued, asked, "How do you know the timeline will return to normal within 30 to 50 years?"

Aelora responded, "Access to advanced knowledge in blood magic and fire magic is limited to the Triarchy families. The magic created by mortals that can affect the designs of the gods has only a temporary effect lasting between 30 to 50 years, give or take."

Balemond nodded in agreement with Aelora and added, "Our ancestors created this spell to give us a time frame of 30 to 50 years, which they believed would be enough for their descendants to find a new place to live. If we want to ensure the survival of our people, we must heed their wisdom and make preparations to leave the peninsula in search of a new home for our civilization."

The room fell silent as everyone absorbed the gravity of the situation. Basenarr muttered to himself, "All life on the peninsula will perish, and our cities will be destroyed, reduced to fragmented islands."

Aelora then turned her attention to Elaena, her eyes brimming with determination. "Elaena, do you recall the story of Princess Nymeria and the ten thousand ships?"

Surprised by the question, Elaena nodded and replied, "Yes, she was a warrior princess of Rhoyne who led her people in search of a new home. They couldn't win a war against us and embarked on a journey with ten thousand ships. Her descendants now reside in the principality of Dorne, one of the Sunset Kingdoms."

Aelora's gaze intensified. "That's right. I propose that we follow in the footsteps of Princess Nymeria. We must prepare for a similar journey, seeking a new home for our people."

Hope flickered in Basenarr's eyes as he asked, "Is such a feat possible?"

Aelora nodded with conviction. "I do. If Nymeria did it with mostly women, children, and the elderly, with few warriors, we could do it. We have the technology and magic to build a fleet large enough to transport us, we have the navy that can protect the ships carrying civilians, we have the magicians, and we have the dragons."

Balemond added, "I agree with Aelora. We must act swiftly and decisively. We have 30 to 50 years to prepare, and we cannot waste a single day."

Elaena took a deep breath and tried to steady her nerves. She knew that the journey ahead would be perilous, but she also knew that she couldn't let fear hold her back. "Count me in," she said. "I'll do whatever it takes to ensure the survival of our people."

"We would need an uninhabited place and a large territory, a place where we can reorganize without being disturbed," interrupted Balemond Aekylosh, who was still looking at the map. "Essos is impossible. In these centuries without our presence to control them, the Dothraki could be a greater threat than they were before, and I am worried about the current descendants of Ghis in our former colonies of Astapor, Yunkai, and Meereen."

Seeing that everyone nodded, he continued, "There is a continent 300 miles west of Westeros. We call it Numenor, but the inhabitants of the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros call it the land of the damned."

"I have read about that continent," interrupted Elaena Targaryen. "It is written that it is haunted. There is a rumor that thousands of years ago, an even older civilization than Ghis inhabited that land."

"It is haunted, dear Elaena," commented Aelora Balaerys, surprising Elaena. "Members of the Triarchy explored the island centuries ago. Our interest in the island was purely academic, not political or strategic, as it was far from our center of power."

"What Aelora says is true, Elaena. The interest of the Triarchy in that continent was purely academic, but given the recent events, Numenor could be our salvation. The fact that the continent is haunted can be an advantage for us. By means of blood magic, we can bind and dominate those spirits."

"I propose that we secretly send three of our fastest dragons to that island with members of blood mages belonging to families of the Triarchy. They will inform us through glass candles if Numenor continues to be haunted and uninhabited. Flying on a dragon, we can reach Numenor in a day and a half, and having that information before the Senate session will be of the utmost importance."

"Those in favor, please raise your hands," Aelora prompted.

Upon noticing that all present raised their hands in unison, a smile graced her lips.

"Fantastic," she continued, turning her gaze to Balemond. "Could you take care of the arrangements for the expedition, please?"

"Before we continue with the meeting, I would like to say a few words, words that I hope do not go into the official record of this gathering but come from the depths of my soul," Baesenarr Valitheos said at that moment.

After obtaining approval from Aelora, he expressed, "Given the insights shared by my esteemed colleague, Balemond Aekylosh, I find myself embracing a pragmatic perspective. I acknowledge that in what remains of my life, it is very likely that I will not see Valyria return to its full splendor. Nevertheless, I aspire for my legacy to plant the seeds for a forthcoming era of glory and conquest for our civilization. On behalf of the entire Valitheos family and the Triarchy, I solemnly pledge to undertake whatever measures are necessary for the salvation of our civilization."

"I am glad for your commitment to our motherland, dear colleague," Aelora replied with a smile.

Meanwhile, Balemond Aekylosh, with his gaze fixed on Elaena, placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder and spoke, "Elaena, you possess a uniqueness, much like your niece Daenys."

"How I wish you were alive to hear these words, dear niece," Elaena thought with sadness at that moment, looking appreciatively at Balemond for his kind words.

Turning his gaze to where Aelora was, Balemond continued, "Aelora, before we delve into the final matter slated for discussion in the Senate, I would like to share some reflections on the vision Elaena experienced this morning," stated Balemond.

Aelora nodded, indicating him to continue.

"Firstly, I would like to ask each of you if you know which continent lies between Numenor and Essos," Balemond inquired, a faint smile playing on his face.

Intrigued, Elaena responded, "Westeros."

"Excellent," Balemond remarked, his eyes gleaming. "Now, I would like to ask all three of you if you know how many kingdoms exist on the continent of Westeros or if it is a unified continent under a single kingdom."

Aelora's eyes sparkled with curiosity as she answered, "There are seven kingdoms, each with their own ruling family. The Kingdom of the North is ruled by the Starks, the Principality of Dorne by the Martells, the Kingdom of Mountain and Vale by the Arryns, the Kingdom of the Iron Islands by the Hoares, the Kingdom of the Rock by the Lannisters, the Kingdom of the Reach by the Gardeners, and the Kingdom of the Stormlands by the Durrandons." She then added, "Beyond the Wall to the north of the Kingdom of the North lies a wild land with a poetic name that always fascinated me as a child - the Land of Always Winter."

"Aelora, your detailed description of the Seven Kingdoms is a testament to your expertise in politics and foreign affairs. It's clear why you are the triarch in charge of such matters," replied Balemond earnestly.

"During her visions, Elaena mentioned a few things about Westeros that caught my attention," he paused to look at Elena and continued.

"When the long winter comes, all of Westeros must unite to oppose it. And for the world of men to survive, a Targaryen must sit on the Iron Throne. Whether it be a king or queen, they must be strong enough to unite the kingdom against the cold and darkness," Balemond commented, taking a sip of wine before continuing.

"To the west, in the land of the First Men, there is a dragon who refused the crown, the old bear of the north, and the brave scout wolf. Find them at the Wall and follow the path of the Lord of Light. They hold the key to the destiny of men," Balemond concluded.

"This vision has unknowingly provided us with vital information from the outside world. If we plan on reconquering our territories in Essos in the future, we must consider the current state of Westeros. It seems to be a unified empire, and I suspect that your brother Elaena or one of his descendants had a hand in that unification or conquest," Balemond added.

Balemond's revelation left the room in a profound silence, and the leaders of the Triarchy absorbed the weight of his words. Aelora, Baesenarr, and Elaena exchanged glances, a mixture of awe and admiration evident in their expressions.

"You are truly brilliant, Balemond," Aelora finally spoke, her voice resonating with admiration. "As the triarch of magic, your abilities are unquestionable, but your political acumen is equally impressive. If we could unify Westeros under a Targaryen king, it would significantly aid our efforts to reclaim our former colonies in Essos."

Balemond responded modestly, "I merely do what I can to serve the Triarchy and the Freehold."

Aelora, lost in thought, saw a strategic opportunity in Balemond's revelation—a Targaryen ruler in Westeros could pave the way for their Freehold to regain control of lost colonies in Essos.

"We must exercise caution," she began. "Our priorities should be to create a fleet that can transport us to Numenor and to reorganize our army, focusing on expanding warships. These operations will keep the people's attention for years to come."

"Furthermore," Aelora continued, "we must ensure that a Targaryen rules over Westeros. Only a select few, who we can trust absolutely, must be aware of this operation. I suggest we create a blood contract that binds us to secrecy, which can be joined by other trusted allies as necessary."

Balemond interjected, "I agree with Aelora's proposal. A blood contract is the most reliable way to ensure absolute secrecy."

"I also agree," added Elaena Targaryen.

Baesenarr Valitheos nodded in agreement, and Aelora concurred. "Perfect. Let's make the blood contract tomorrow at the Tower of Blood Magicians when we return to the capital."

Aelora then turned her attention to Elaena. "Elaena, you must receive the same level of preparation and knowledge as the members of the Triarchy. You are the best-suited person to identify and contact your brother's descendants in Westeros, as blood magic is most potent with close blood ties."

Balemond Aekylosh turned to Elaena and spoke with a serious tone, "I concur with Aelora's suggestion. Given your blood ties, you are the most fitting person to journey to Westeros and seek out the descendants of your brothers. However, before you embark on this journey, it is imperative that you equip yourself with the necessary knowledge of advanced Blood and Fire magic."

Elaena responded, "I am ready to begin my training this week if needed."

"Very well, I admire your eagerness. Your training will span five years, during which you will study advanced magic. This time will also allow us to gather more information about Westeros. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to be present with your daughter during her first years of growth," Balemond said, his voice resonating with wisdom.

"The Balaerys family will take care of your daughter, Elaena. She will be a niece to me and a companion to the youngest daughter of one of my brothers, who is also due to be born in a couple of months," Aelora said, her smile radiant with genuine affection.

"Also, Elaena, how skilled are you with the sword? And what about your knowledge of blacksmithing - do you know how to create Dragon Steel?" Baesenarr Valitheos asked with curiosity.

Feeling a bit embarrassed, Elaena replied, "I am familiar with sword fighting, as all members of the 40 dragonrider families are trained in it. However, I cannot claim to be an expert warrior since my only real combat experience was three years ago during a punishment campaign against a Dothraki horde. In that battle, I provided air support with one of my dragons."

Baesenarr Valitheos spoke to Elaena with a serious tone, "Once you have recovered from childbirth, I want you to visit the military headquarters two or three times a week. I will find a trainer who can help improve your sword fighting skills. While you may not become a master swordsman in five years, it is crucial that you learn to defend yourself in a land like Westeros," emphasizing the importance.

Elaena nodded with determination, her eyes shining with resolve. She then continued, "Regarding blacksmithing and Dragon Steel, I do have some knowledge and can even combine it with magic. My brother taught me a few techniques, but I never quite reached the required level of skill to create Dragon Steel. It's a shame that my brother was the only member of our family who possessed that knowledge."

"Dragon Steel can mean the difference between life and death, Elaena," Baesenarr Valitheos interjected. "When you begin your courses in advanced blood and fire magic this week, make sure to let your teachers know that you want to specialize in Dragon Steel blacksmithing as well."

Elaena's eyes widened in fascination as she absorbed the information. "I understand," she said with a mixture of excitement and determination.

Baesenarr smiled briefly, seemingly lost in thought. "My grandfather once shared an anecdote with me from his official visit to the Kingdom of the Rock in Westeros. The son of the King, Prince Joffrey Lannister, attempted to bribe my grandfather with a considerable sum of gold in exchange for the secret of how to create Valyrian Steel, which is what they call Dragon Steel in those lands. Naturally, my grandfather refused. And even if they had the formula, they would not be able to produce Dragon Steel."

"What is the formula?" Elaena inquired, her curiosity piqued.

"The process of creating Dragon Steel is simple in theory, as it is a basic spell in blood magic. However, it requires specific conditions to be met, such as heating the steel with dragon fire and adding a small amount of blood from someone with a mental and spiritual connection to dragons. Only then can the members of the 40 families and the 3 families of the Triarchy create Dragon Steel," Baesenarr explained.

Elaena's eyes widened further as she processed the information. "I see," she replied, her mind buzzing with possibilities.

Baesenarr smiled. "I propose a challenge, Elaena. In five years, I want you to create a full suit of Dragon Steel armor for me."

Excitement sparked in Elaena's eyes as she accepted the challenge without hesitation. "I accept," she said eagerly.

As they continued their conversation, Elaena's mind drifted to the third point on the Senate's agenda—the vision she had experienced that morning and its implications. Aelora Balaerys voiced her concerns, stating that their involvement in the conflict of opposing gods in Westeros was beyond their capabilities in blood and fire magic.

Elaena, determined to contribute her opinion, spoke up. "If I may, I believe our participation in the events in Westeros will be secondary to the conflict of opposing forces," she said after a brief pause to organize her thoughts.

Aelora nodded, allowing Elaena to continue.

Elaena recalled Balemond's earlier words about how mortals could only temporarily alter the timeline, whereas only the gods could change it permanently. "I remember what you said earlier, Balemon," she said. "As mortals, we can only alter the timeline temporarily. This conflict in Westeros was already predetermined in time. There will be a war, and a member of the Targaryen family descended from my brother will rise to become a legendary king or queen who will lead the forces of the god of light."

Balemon acknowledged her with a smile. "You are very attentive, Elaena. We mortals are mere shadows and dust."

Elaena placed her hand on Balemon's shoulder and said firmly, "Our presence here is accidental. The god of light did not expect us to be here. But these visions I have had mean that this god wants us to help this promised king ascend to the throne and lead the forces of light. We can facilitate this outcome."

The three members of the Tiaria looked at Elaena with wonder, and Aelora Balaerys spoke up. "I told them that we needed her in this council. She is as special as her niece, Daenys."

"Elaena," said Aelora in a serious tone. She paused briefly, looking intently at Elaena, as if to emphasize the importance of the situation. "Do you remember the conversation we had yesterday in the Senate about the Wall and its mysteries, and about the request I made on behalf of the Triarchy for you to travel to Westeros to speak with your brother and gather information about the Wall?"

Elaena nodded, her brow furrowed in concentration as she tried to recall their previous discussion. She remained silent, listening intently as Aelora continued.

"What were once suspicions by the Triarchy about whether there was magic involved in the construction of the Wall have now become reality," said Aelora, who looked at everyone present, gesturing that they agreed with her. She paused once more, letting her words sink in before continuing. "It is of the utmost importance that you go to the Wall to meet with the Dragon who refused the crown, the Old Bear of the North, and the brave scout Wolf."

As Aelora spoke, Balemon listened intently, his expression serious. "What Aelora says is true, Elaena," he interrupted, his voice low and measured. "Everything in that vision is related, and I am sure that the information you obtain at the Wall from the dragon, whom I suspect is a descendant of your brother, the bear, and the wolf, will be helpful in finding this promised Targaryen king from the vision." He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "This is of the utmost importance."

"While you meet with them at the Wall, you can also gather information about the magic used in the construction of the Wall and bring that information to us. That would also be beneficial in the long term for the Freehold," said Aelora, who still had her mind full of curiosity about that type of magic unknown in Valyria.

Elaena's expression was one of deep thought as she listened to Aelora and Balemon. She took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before responding. "I understand the urgency of the situation," she said slowly, her eyes meeting Aelora, Balemon, and Baesenarr. "I will do everything in my power to obtain the information we need from the Wall." As Elaena spoke, there was a steely resolve in her voice and a glint of determination in her eyes. It was not just a matter of duty to the Valyrian Freehold, but also a personal mission to protect her own family.

"Excellent! Elaena, although you already know that you must first prepare in your advanced magic studies," Balemon said with a nod of approval.

Balemon then addressed the three present. "Remember what we talked about earlier; this operation must be kept in utmost secrecy," he warned, his gaze fixed on each of them in turn. "We have a life-or-death deadline of 30 to 50 years to migrate from the peninsula and make our way to Numenor. It is imperative that our fellow senators and the Valyrian people as a whole remain focused on this goal and do not pay undue attention to Westeros, at least until we are settled and organized in Numenor."

"I think I know how we could convince them in a more profound way," said Aelora, smirking.

Aelora Balaerys assumed a more formal tone and spoke firmly, "Elaena's recent status as a visionary could prove to be invaluable during the upcoming Senate discussion. Using blood magic, we can create a false vision for Elaena, in which the god of light commands us to search for a new land to consecrate in his name. As a symbol of our devotion, we will erect a temple dedicated to him on this new land."

She paused momentarily before continuing, "This distraction will divert the attention of the warmongering sector of the forty families from our special operation in Westeros. During the discussion, we must emphasize the danger that threatens us if we remain on the peninsula and highlight the need to migrate to Numenor and rebuild our military forces."

Balemon, noticing Elaena's nervousness, reassured her, "Don't worry about the spell, Elaena. It's harmless." He winked at her in an attempt to calm her fears.

"As we conclude this meeting, let's go over the measures the Triarchy will propose to the Senate," Aelora Balaerys declared.

Baesenarr Valitheos suggested a defensive policy of caution and non-intervention in the outside world, focusing on strengthening their armed forces and gathering information about the political situation in their former colonies and Essos.

Aelora Balaerys proposed initiating the construction of the largest fleet ever seen, utilizing new steam technology to transport them to Numenor without relying on winds.

The next proposal was to create potent spells for magically transporting major buildings from their cities to the island of Numenor. When Elaena Targaryen inquired about the possibility of moving an entire city, Balemon Aekylosh confirmed that it was theoretically possible with sufficient time to prepare the spell. However, the magic could only work with inanimate objects and not living beings.

Finally, they proposed constructing temples dedicated to the god of light.

"Those in favor of these measures, please raise your hand," Aelora said, noticing that everyone raised their hand. She smiled and continued, "With that, we conclude this meeting of the Triarchy. Everything has been recorded in the magic book of annotations."

Eight days later,

Baesenarr Valitheos declared, "A toast, dear Elaena!"

"We did it! All the votes were in favor of the measures that should be taken. Even the most resilient senators had to vote in favor when they saw your new vision," commented Balemon Aekylosh, laughing.

Aelora Balaerys added, "The fact that our mages found information on the spell in the library that confirms that we must indeed leave the peninsula also helped."

"Why have we departed from the capital to celebrate in this humble home? I thought this house was only for secret meetings of the Triarchy," asked Elaena, thinking that the celebration would be held in the Tower of the Blood Mages or the Tower of the Fire Mages.

"We are in a secret meeting, only more informal," said Aelora Balaerys, who was ecstatic with joy.

"A few words," said Aelora Balaerys, requesting attention. "We got the approval of the Senate, but not only that, we also received information from our magicians who are on the island of Numenor that the island is effectively uninhabited. There are ruins of an ancient civilization, and they are going to explore it." Aelora could not hide her happiness.

"From this moment on, years of sacrifices begin for each and every inhabitant of this peninsula," Aelora said, her voice filled with emotion.

Raising her glass, she exclaimed, "This is a Renaissance," and tears welled up in her eyes. "A new age for the Valyrian Freehold... Let the world tremble, the Dragons are back!"

After hours of celebration, Elaena stepped outside the house and gazed at the forest surrounding the small farmhouse. She looked up at the starry sky and smiled, feeling the gentle cold breeze caress her hair. Her eyes fixated on a bright white star located in the northwest, and a longing feeling filled her thoughts.

Little did she know that thousands of kilometers away, a young Benjen Stark with tears in his eyes was also gazing at the night sky. He had just received a letter from his older brother Ned informing him about what had happened to his sister, Lyanna. He whispered to the starry night sky, "Sister, I know you are listening to me. I still have your letter."

After a moment of silence, Benjen spoke again, "I never cared for Robert. I knew him well, Lyanna, and I never thought he would be a good husband for you." The Starks were renowned for their honor, and after receiving Ned's letter about the atrocities committed in King's Landing, Benjen was furious. He clenched his fists and said, "I just hope that Ned will finally see Robert for who he really is."

With a broken voice, he whispered, "I miss you, Lyanna. Tragedy has plagued our family for far too long after what happened to our father and Brandon."

Suddenly, his thoughts shifted to something more pleasant, and a smile crept onto his face. "You would have adored your nephews, Lyanna," he said softly. "Robb and Torrhen are so alike in appearance yet so different in personality. Robb, the older one, is more expressive and lively, always moving around in his crib, while Torrhen is quieter but incredibly observant, with his curious eyes constantly scanning his surroundings. Our father, Rickard, would have been overjoyed to see his grandsons."

Benjen fell silent, contemplating the night sky again when a gentle warm breeze coming from the southeast, something rare in that region, began to caress his face. His eyes fixed on a bright red star to the southeast, and for a brief moment, the sadness dissipated, replaced by a feeling of calmness that washed over his soul.

Valyrian Peninsula ONE YEAR LATER, 284 AC

Elaena Targaryen was exhausted as she breastfed her daughter, Alysanne Targaryen. "All this sacrifice is for you, for your future," she murmured dreamily.

Despite a year of advanced studies in Blood and Fire magic, Elaena knew there was still much to learn. The vast oceans of knowledge left her feeling overwhelmed, and while she had improved her swordsmanship skills, she would never achieve mastery as Baesenarr Valitheos had foreseen. "Enough to stay alive," she whispered to herself.

Suddenly, a voice crackled through the new magic mirror installed in her room, reserved for private communication among the Triarchy's members.

"Elaena, it's me, Baesenarr Valitheos. Our surveillance troops on the shores have just sent a message," he said with a slightly agitated voice.

"Is everything all right, Baesenarr?" Elaena asked, sensing his unease.

"You'd better come to the command center. Ten ships that are not from the Freehold are approaching. It's our first contact with the outside world," Baesenarr replied, his voice tense. "They come with banners of a sleeping white sheep."

"That's the Valyrian symbol for coming in peace," Elaena interrupted.

"Yes, five of them bear the Volantis banner, and the other five carry a banner we don't recognize: a cluster of gold skulls hanging from a red spear on a burgundy field. And there are also..." Baesenarr trailed off, leaving Elaena feeling uneasy.

"The ten ships each carry another flag, that of your family, Elaena."