295 AC - In Astapor:
Astapor, the Red City, resides in Slaver's Bay's southernmost point. Known for its elite force of Unsullied, eunuch slave soldiers, Astapor sprawls along the Worm, a meandering stream flowing eastward from the Ghiscari hills. To the south lie the ruins of Old Ghis. Atop a westward reach of hills hides the Isle of Cedars, home to Ghozai and Velos, facing the Gulf of Grief. Yunkai, to the north, is distant by a hundred leagues, while Meereen lies an additional fifty leagues beyond. A swift ride could carry travelers from Astapor to Yunkai within 6 days, traversing the ancient Ghiscari coastal road.
A raven was dispatched in advance, and Anakin's ship reaches the city of Astapor through Slaver's Bay, having departed from Meereen. The journey spanned 4 days and covered a distance of approximately 500 miles across Slaver's Bay.
Arriving at midday in the ports of Astapor, Anakin is accompanied inside the city by Lucas, Hizdahr, and a handful of guards while the rest of his 500 men remain with the ships and explore the city. His ships and men carry with them the old banners of Meereen, the harpy, which does its intended purpose, immediately catching the attention of the Good Masters in Astapor.
Before they were about to depart the harbors in search of them, they were intercepted by a slave-woman named Missandei. She greeted them on behalf of the Good Masters, extending him their welcome.
Missandei's striking appearance radiates with a luminous complexion that complements her smooth, dark skin. Her eyes, reminiscent of molten gold, convey a profound depth of emotion and reflect her keen intellect and compassionate nature. Her hair is sculpted into elaborate curls. Her face exudes elegance, its well-defined features harmoniously blending to create a captivating portrait of beauty. With a graceful stature standing at 5 foot 7, Missandei's slender physique exudes an air of fitness and poise. (Nathalie Emmanuel)
She hesitantly addresses, "On behalf of the Good Masters, I welcome you to Astapor. Your… Grace?" unsure of the proper title Anakin used in Meereen.
After receiving a nod from Anakin, Missandei reveals that she has been assigned to escort him to meet with the Good Master, Kraznys mo Nakloz. She politely asks him to follow her to their destination. Leading the way, she takes Anakin, Lucas, Hizdahr, and their handful of guards towards the castle of the Good Masters.
They walk along a sea wall known as the 'Walk of Punishment.' Here, any slave who showed insubordination of any type is strapped to a cross and left to die out in public, as a warning to all other slaves.
Anakin has to conceal his anger at the sight of slavery so prevalent in this city as they approach an impressive round castle-like structure at the end of the wall. It has a huge, golden winged statue crouched atop it, as well as armed guards patrolling the rooftops.
They enter the throne room, which resembles a scaled-down fighting arena adorned with banners and iron bars. Three chairs are perched on a raised platform, serving as thrones, seated by Kraznys mo Nakloz, Greizhen mo Ullhor, and Hazdahn Mo Rhaohl, known as 'The Good Masters.'
Kraznys, speaking only in Low Valyrian, relies on Missandei to translate as he is not familiar with the Common Tongue of Westeros. He asks if Anakin is the self-proclaimed 'King of Meereen,' to which Anakin responds in a sarcastic and monotonous tone, "I rule over Meereen, yes."
Kraznys then inquires about Anakin's reason for sailing his army to Astapor. Missandei relays the question and Anakin, always straightforward, states that he only has 500 men compared to the formidable Unsullied army.
He explains that he has come to discuss the acquisition of the Unsullied warriors, praising their strength and flattering the masters.
Missandei then presents Kraznys's response, who is skeptical as he believed that Anakin had abolished slavery in Meereen. He asks him why he desires to possess a slave army.
Anakin counters this by mentioning his advisor, Hizdahr zo Loraq, a prominent slave-trader, and using the status of his house to back up his claim that slavery is still prevalent in Meereen.
"Zo Loraq? I am familiar with your father. Our last meeting ended with him providing me with exceptional bed-slaves," Kraznys said. He becomes more at ease upon recognizing Hizdahr and his family name.
Hizdahr, feeling uncomfortable with Anakin using his family's name like this, reveals that his father met a tragic end during Meereen's revolt.
"Your father was murdered during the rebellion of your new king, and yet you serve him?" Kraznys inquires, curious about Hizdahr's loyalty to Anakin.
Hizdahr makes his declaration, "Under King Anakin Targaryen's rule, Meereen has achieved a level of stability beyond what I had imagined possible. The people believe in him. Admittedly, there was… a… period of adjustment, but I am confident that the future will be even brighter than the past."
While making a subtle jab at Anakin, whom he has been trying to persuade to gradually decrease slavery instead of abruptly ending it, Hizdahr makes his statement.
Anakin, attempting to portray himself as a typical power-hungry ruler, puts on a charming façade. "During my ascent, Meereen lost a large number of its fighting force. The city became somewhat… lawless. Unfortunately there are those seeking to take advantage, insurgents and neighboring states alike. With utmost humility, I beseech your invaluable assistance in strengthening my forces with your renowned warriors."
"Why should we help you? Why not just wait and pick up what's left in the end?" Kraznys questioned.
Anakin responds, "Because what is left won't be what I am offering you. I will pay you double for each and every Unsullied warrior you have."
As Missandei relays their words, the Good Masters are taken aback. "All? Did this one's ears mishear, Your Grace?" She is forced to clarify, as the Good Masters struggle to believe the offer.
Even Lucas, who had been steadfast in his desire to acquire the Unsullied, was taken aback by Anakin's bold offer.
"Yes. Eight-thousand. And the ones still in training as well," he affirms.
"Master Greizhen says they cannot sell half-trained boys. If they fail on the battlefield, they will bring shame upon all of Astapor," Missandei speaks for one of the Good Masters.
"I will have them all or take none. Many will fall in battle. I'll need the boys to pick up the swords they drop," Anakin callously comments.
The Good Masters engage in a conversation about this proposal from the self-proclaimed 'king', who seems to have recently acquired a vast amount of wealth and is seeking an army. It is not uncommon for wealthy princes to buy armies from Astapor, as they struggle to gather their own followers. Judging by the meager number of troops Anakin has brought with him, the masters assume this to be the case.
Missandei speaks on behalf of the masters and clarifies the terms. In light of Meereen's reputation as the richest city in Slaver's Bay, the overconfident Kraznys insists on a price three times the worth of each Unsullied.
Unwavering, Anakin consents to the cost, prompting Kraznys to chuckle, relishing in a transaction that evidently leans heavily in his favor.
The Good Masters stand and offer their hands, signaling their acceptance of the deal. "Done," Anakin affirmed, prompting Kraznys to echo, "Done," as they sealed the deal with a handshake and shared a cup of wine.
As they drank, Anakin's gaze wandered toward Missandei, who stood nearby, her hands clasped at her waist and her head bowed. Her dejected expression reminded him of the slaves he had seen so often in Meereen.
Glancing around the room, his eyes met those of several enslaved children watching from the open-air rooftop. Their curious glances evoked memories of Qezza's initial fascination with him due to his Valyrian features. A pang of sadness washed over him as he couldn't do for them what he did in Meereen.
With a charismatic grin and a resolute tone, Anakin addressed Missandei. "I'll take you as well. Now," he declared. "You'll be Master Kraznys's gift to me. A token of a bargain well struck." he said as he finished his wine.
Missandei conveyed his words to the Good Masters. "He asks that you give me to him, as a present," she informed them. "He asks that you do this now."
Little was known about this new king in Meereen. It has been a thousand years since Meereen last had a king. In the words of the Good Masters, they had always viewed the Great Masters of Meereen as: "old men with withered cocks and crones whose puckered cunts were dry as dust. They sat atop their pyramids sipping apricot wine and talking of the glories of the Old Empire whilst the centuries slipped by and the very bricks of the city crumbled all around them. Custom and caution had an iron grip upon them, but now a new time has come, and new things are possible with this king."
The Good Masters are pleasantly surprised by what they can surmise of Anakin, or at least by what Anakin wanted them to surmise.
Finally, as they agreed to give him Missandei, an agreement is also reached to meet in the Plaza of Pride near the city gates to finalize the transaction.
Hizdahr and Lucas struggled to keep up as Anakin strode determinedly beyond the sea walls.
"Your Grace, such an expense is reckless. I must implore you to reconsider," Hizdahr expressed his doubts about Anakin's capabilities as a negotiator.
Little did he know, Anakin had hidden intentions. This uncertainty left him anxious and concerned about his true motives, especially since he had used Hizdahr's family name.
"Don't worry, I know what I'm doing," Anakin reassured him, but his words only elicited a puzzled look.
As Anakin walked away, he joined Missandei, who was walking closer to the security personnel. He politely asked them for a moment alone with her, before turning his attention to the woman now under his 'ownership'.
"So… Missandei, do you have a family? A mother and a father you'd return to if you had the choice?" inquires Anakin.
"No, Your Grace. No family living," she responded.
"You belong to me now. It is your duty to tell me the truth," he probes, seeking greater understanding of her perspective.
"Yes, Your Grace. Lying is a great offense. Many of those on the 'Walk of Punishment' were taken there for less," Missandei answered, still avoiding his gaze.
"So I've seen," Anakin confirms. "Is it true what Master Kraznys told me about the Unsullied? About their obedience?" he continued.
"All questions have been taken from them. They obey, that is all. Once they are yours, they are yours. They will fall on their swords if you command it," she confirms.
En route back to their ships, Hizdahr continues to urge Anakin not to purchase the Unsullied, arguing that the soldiers of Meereen are more than committed to his cause.
Amidst the distraction of a playful child trailing Anakin and Missandei, they arrive at the docks.
The blonde girl presents Anakin with a wooden ball as a gift, but as he reaches for it, he hears the dragon's whispers in his mind once more. The girl motions for him to open the ball, but he hesitates, his mind filled with suspicion. Instead of engaging with the playful child, Anakin throws the wooden ball into the nearby waters, his eyes never leaving the girl. The little girl, now angry, runs away.
Missandei observes the scene with a mix of amusement and compassion, witnessing the girl's seemingly innocent play. Missandei, concerned about her new master's character, questions what kind of man she has been sold to, though she remains certain that it couldn't be worse than her servitude under Kraznys.
Anakin proceeded to direct Hizdahr to manage the gold distribution while Lucas assembled a detachment of men for their imminent venture.
With Missandei in tow, he boarded the ship and retreated to the secluded captain's cabin. Once inside, Anakin removed his gloves and chest armor, unburdened, he collapsed onto a chair as Missandei stood awkwardly by the door.
"Do you know why I chose to purchase you, Missandei?" inquired Anakin as he tilted his head.
"No, Your Grace," she responds.
"Why do you think?" he asked as his eyes scanned her body.
She looks around at the empty room, her eyes wary and expectant. In her eyes, Anakin could see the assumption forming - a familiar, painful assumption that he had seen all too often.
She surveyed her surroundings once more before making her way over to Anakin. The young woman's demeanor shifted, anticipation mixed with apprehension. "What will it be, Your Grace?" she ventured, her voice laced with resignation.
As they stood face to face, she inched closer, her nerves evident as she fumbled to loosen the clasps of her dress, kept fastened by her slave-collar. When she exposed her bare chest, Anakin abruptly rose and hastily redressed her, halting her from undressing further.
"Okay. That's enough. That tells me enough," he says, before gently resting his hand on her shoulder. His expression softened, and he spoke firmly yet gently. "I didn't buy you for that," he said, catching her off guard. "That's not what I'm here for."
Confusion clouded her features briefly before her curiosity ignited. "Then why?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper.
Anakin's uncertainty about the Good Master's belief in who he portrayed himself to be was put to rest, with Missandei all but confirming it for him, providing much-needed relief. As a result, he can confidently move forward with his plan.
After a few hours, Anakin and his companions gather to meet with Kraznys, near the Plaza of Pride.
As they approach the vast field, they are greeted by a formidable sight – thousands of Unsullied standing in perfect formation. Out of the 10,000 soldiers, 8,000 are seasoned fighters while the remaining 2,000 are in the midst of training.
The Unsullied are clad in black leather armor, secured by metal rivets and adorned with intricate metal studs arranged in a diamond pattern on the chest. They wield simple spears and shields, their faces hidden behind menacing black helmets, save for their eyes.
Accompanied by two other Good Masters and a small group of guards, Kraznys emerges from the towering wall as grand doors swing open. The bustling courtyard is filled with both guards, nobles, and commoners alike.
Anakin and Missandei are escorted by the masters through the courtyard to inspect the Unsullied, with Hizdahr and Lucas following closely. The Unsullied part way, breaking formation to create a path for them.
Finally, they reach their destination and the Unsullied immediately get back into formation, resuming their motionless stance. The group of five then ascends to a stage at the far end of the courtyard, overlooking the troops.
"How are they trained?" Anakin inquires, with Missandei acting as his translator now.
"They begin their training at five. Every day they drill from dawn to dusk until they have mastered the shortsword, the shield, and the three spears. Only one boy in four survives this rigorous training. Their discipline and loyalty are absolute. They fear nothing," she spoke for Kraznys.
"Not even death?" questions Anakin.
"Death means nothing to them. He implores you to watch," Missandei declared as Kraznys descended to the field of Unsullied.
Kraznys strides towards the men as a single Unsullied is summoned and instructed to step forward. With a forceful gesture, he knocks aside the soldier's shield and spear, snatches his knife, and proceeds to remove a portion of the soldier's chest armor. Seizing hold of the man's exposed nipple, He crudely slices it off, tossing it carelessly onto the ground. Despite the intense pain, the soldier remains stoic and unmoving. Kraznys then turns to face Anakin, while the obedient soldier returns to his position among the formation.
Anakin was disgusted by the sight, but his horror only increased when Missandei revealed that to earn their shield, the Unsullied had to kill a newborn baby in front of its mother.
Kraznys proudly stated that they had 10,000 Unsullied available to sell (2,000 still in training), while Anakin struggled to contain his anger and frustration.
"The master says they are untested. He says you would be wise to blood them early. There are many small cities between here and there, cities ripe for sacking. Should you take captives, the masters will buy the healthy ones and for a good price," Misandei translates Kraznys' words as thousands of Unsullied stand at attention. "And who knows? In ten years, some of the boys you send them may be Unsullied in their turn. Thus all shall prosper."
Anakin remained emotionless until Kraznys finally asked, "So, do we have a deal?"
Anakin grins widely, giving commands to his guards as they transport heavy crates bursting with gold through the square. Kraznys eagerly hands over the golden whip, a symbol of control over the Unsullied and admires the riches.
"Is it done, then? They belong to me?" he questions, inspecting the extravagant whip in his hand.
"It is done. You hold the whip. You have your army," Missandei speaks for Kraznys, unaware of Anakin's true intentions.
Anakin pivots slowly and makes his way towards the Unsullied, who immediately snap to attention upon his commanding voice in Valyrian: "Forward march!" The soldiers obediently move forward.
Anakin then commands them to halt and they abruptly do so. Both Missandei and Kraznys are surprised by his fluency in Valyrian.
He pivots again and faces the three Good Masters, stretching out his hand to levitate them in mid-air with an unseen power. The onlookers, from the townspeople to the Unsullied, are stunned into silent murmurs.
Conversely, Lucas had been eagerly awaiting this moment since their arrival in Astapor. Having battled for the emancipation of slaves alongside his king, stepping into a city that evoked memories of their former shackles ignited feelings of fury within him. He pondered if Anakin had experienced the same emotions, and indeed, he had.
Hizdahr, on the other hand, was not thrilled with the direction this was heading. He had been apprehensive ever since Anakin informed him of his plans, fearing that this could be the outcome. Hizdahr had long acknowledged Anakin's peculiar sorcery and respected his self-control in employing it, as most people would not be as disciplined as he was. Despite this, Hizdahr knew Anakin to be a passionate individual. Having observed him for over a month now, he was well-acquainted with the things that provoked or brought him joy, and more significantly, he understood how these factors would influence his reactions.
Standing before the army of Unsullied, Anakin raises his hand with the golden whip in it and issues orders in their mother tongue, "I am Anakin Targaryen, of the blood of Old Valyria! Unsullied! Slay the masters, slay the soldiers, slay every man who holds a whip! Harm no child. Strike the chains off every slave you see!"
In response, an Unsullied warrior swiftly impales a slave holder, instilling fear in the locals and the Good Masters' personal guards.
As directed, the Unsullied launch a powerful attack on the city, overthrowing the oppressors and liberating the enslaved populace, reminiscent of their previous victory in Meereen.
Using his powers in the force, Anakin drags Kraznys closer to him, causing the latter to gasp for air as he slowly suffocates.
"You… you… you said," Kraznys attempts to express his shock and betrayal at being attacked by a supernatural force, but Anakin interrupts and coldly confesses, "I lied."
He effortlessly snaps the necks of the three Good Masters, their lifeless bodies collapsing to the ground as he releases his hold over them.
Anakin continues his mission to free the slaves in Slaver's Bay, launching an attack on the city of Astapor. The swift onslaught overwhelms the city's weak defenses. With 10,000 Unsullied soldiers under his control, Anakin orders them to switch sides and fight against the slavers in Astapor.
His plan is not to conquer the city, as he did with Meereen, but to catch the slavers off guard and gain control of their army before they realized his intention to abolish slavery in the entire region.
Anakin is fully aware that the other cities in Slaver's Bay would have launched an attack on Meereen once they had discovered his actions, potentially overpowering his own forces. However, by liberating the formidable Unsullied army, he has now eliminated his biggest threat in Astapor. Other than this city, he strongly suspects Yunkai of responding in a similar manner and plans to deal with them sooner rather than later.
After the Siege of Astapor, the courtyard is filled with smoke and the debris of burnt corpses.
Anakin commanded for the bodies to be set on fire, not out of malice, in fact, he rather despised fire due to vivid nightmares from his childhood. He ensured that all who had died, including his own soldiers, were cremated in order to rapidly resolve the situation in Astapor.
Lucas, Hizdahr, and Missandei stand in the midst of rubble, observing their surroundings. They walk towards Anakin, who confidently strides through rows of heavily armored Unsullied warriors.
Thousands of soldiers stand before him, perfectly arranged in formation. As he prepares to present his proposal, he carefully examines the men who have remained loyal to him.
He climbs onto his stunning pure white mare, a strong connection between him and the animal evident against the backdrop of the crimson sunset. Their white hair shines, creating a beautiful contrast.
He navigates through the soldiers and begins speaking to them in the language of Valyria, "Unsullied! You have been slaves all your life. Today you are free. Any man who wishes to leave may leave, and no one will harm him. I give you my word. Will you fight for me? As free men?"
One Unsullied starts tapping his spear on the sand in a rhythmic pattern, soon joined by his fellow soldiers until their unified sound becomes deafening. As they unilaterally pledge their loyalty to Anakin and choose him as their leader, Missandei and Lucas look on with great reverence.
Accompanied by his original group of 500 warriors, Anakin, Missandei, Hizdahr, Lucas, and the newly acquired 10,000 Unsullied, set out through the main gate of the vast courtyard.
With a determination to end the ruthless practice of slavery, he casts the golden whip, gifted to him by the masters, into the midst of burning corpses, a symbolic gesture.
With the Unsullied as his loyal allies, Anakin commanded Lucas to return the ships and original 500 troops to Meereen. Determined to eliminate immediate threats, he set his sights on Yunkai.
Recognizing his lack of ships to ferry his newly acquired 10,000 Unsullied, Anakin devised a bold plan, marching them directly to Yunkai, a journey spanning approximately 6 days.
Along his voyage to Yunkai, Anakin was tormented by a deep sense of remorse for his perceived failure to aid the oppressed slaves in Astapor.
He worried that his actions may have made things worse for them. Despite this, he recognized that destroying the city and acquiring the Unsullied was a necessary step in his mission to end slavery in the region.
Throughout his journey, two things captivated his attention and made a profound impression on him.
The first were the Unsullied warriors. Their combat prowess surpassed any military force he had encountered, even though he had only ever seen two other armies, their unparalleled skill and unwavering dedication set them apart from the rest. He did not view their strict upbringing and lack of autonomy as a flaw, as they would meticulously follow any order he issued. He was impressed by their devotion, despite their status as slaves.
The second noteworthy element of his journey was Missandei. Initially, Anakin offered the Naathi woman gold, freedom, and a chance to stay in Astapor, but she chose to pledge her allegiance to him instead. He believes that her decision was influenced by her fascination with his powers or her support for his cause against slavery. Regardless of the reason, Missandei proved to be an interesting addition. He quickly grew intrigued with her character, her sharp intellect immediately catching his attention.
Five days along their march to Yunkai, they settled into their camp for the night. Huddled around a crackling fire, Missandei enraptured Anakin with the tale of her enslavement.
She and her siblings had once lived contentedly on the tropical island of Naath before being violently captured by raiders from the Basilisk Isles and forced into servitude in Astapor. While three of her brothers were trained and transformed into fierce Unsullied soldiers, unfortunately one perished during the rigorous process. Now only Marselen and Mossador remained, carrying the weight of their traumatic past.
"Your brother Mossador has the same name as a friend of mine. Or at least I think he's a friend," Anakin shared with her.
"Yes, I remember Mossador teaching me to climb trees. Though, my real gift was in learning languages. The Good Masters chose to train me as a scribe and translator. I speak nineteen languages," she recalls with fond memories.
"Impressive… most impressive. That's eight more than I speak," remarks Anakin.
As they gazed at the flickering fire, Missandei dared to ask the pressing question that had been consuming her thoughts since they embarked on their journey to Meereen. "How did you kill them... the Good Masters?"
Anakin was taken aback by her inquiry, as he was not accustomed to discussing his powers. The people of Meereen were much more accommodating, bestowing upon him the title of 'The Chosen One' and viewing him as divinely favored. He neither accepted nor denied their beliefs, understanding the importance of building alliances in his current circumstances.
So, he explains, "Imagine a magical energy that surrounds everything, like the unseen wind. Let's call it the Force. This Force can be harnessed to move… things… people, create light, protect you… or even kill you."
"I never believed in magic," Missandei responds, while Anakin rises from his seat.
"Everything has an explanation, even magic," he said as he reached into the fire with his bare hand and pulled out a log. "We should get some sleep. We have an early morning tomorrow," he added before heading to his tent, leaving the vicinity of the fire.
The next day began just like the previous five had, with their group preparing to leave and Hizdahr expressing his annoyance with waking up early.
The group, including the Unsullied, advances across the terrain. Anakin sits atop his white steed, accompanied by Missandei and Hizdahr, who are mounted on their respective horses in close proximity.
They stop by a river further ahead where Anakin seeks out Missandei's help in locating leader's amongst the Unsullied.
A score of Unsullied men march forward and come to a stop in their presence. "Are these the ones?" Anakin asked Missandei, gesturing towards the soldiers standing before them.
"Yes, your grace. The officers," she confirms, introducing the assembled group of men.
As a group of Unsullied officers are presented to him, Anakin addresses them in Valyrian, "You did not choose this life. But you are free men now. And free men make their own choices. Have you selected a leader from amongst your ranks?"
The segment of soldiers part ways to unveil their elected leader, who goes by the name of Grey-Worm.
At approximately 5 foot 8, Grey Worm's height aligns with the typical stature of the Unsullied. His lean yet muscular physique is characteristic of a highly trained soldier. Agile and proficient in combat, Grey Worm embodies the discipline and rigor of his fellow Unsullied. His shaved head mirrors the uniform appearance of the Unsullied, who undergo intensive training and conformity. His dark, intense eyes convey his focused and disciplined nature. Grey Worm's smooth, dark complexion is often concealed beneath the distinctive armor and uniform of the Unsullied. (Jacob Anderson)
Head lowered, he takes off his helmet and strides towards Anakin, only to lift his gaze upon reaching him.
Anakin inquires, "What's your name?" to which the man replies, "Grey-Worm." The unfamiliar name perplexes Anakin, he assumed these names were strictly for military use, not their true identities.
"Is this the name given to you as a slave?" he asked as Grey-Worm nodded in agreement.
Missandei elaborated to Anakin, "All Unsullied boys are given new names when they are cut - Grey Worm, Red Flea, Black Rat. Names that remind them what they are - vermin."
Anakin proceeds to direct his words towards Grey-Worm and the rest of the Unsullied officers, "From this day forward you will choose your own names. You will tell your fellow soldiers to do the same. Throw away your slave name. Choose the name your parents gave you, or any other. A name that gives you pride."
Following a brief period of introspection, Grey-Worm comprehends the details imparted by Anakin and gives his response. "Grey-Worm gives me pride. It is a very lucky name. The name this one was born with was cursed. That was the name he had when he was taken as a slave. But Grey-Worm is the name this one had the day Anakin Targaryen set him free."
Anakin displays his respect for the Unsullied commander's decision and proceeds to update him on his plans for the city of Yunkai.
295 AC - In Yunkai:
On the eastern coast of Slaver's Bay in central Essos, Yunkai, also known as the Yellow City, is one of the Slaver Cities. It is situated 100 leagues south of Astapor, following the ancient Ghiscari coastal road, and approximately 50 leagues, or 163 miles, north of Meereen. To the southwest of Yunkai lies the island of Yaros. South of the city, a birchwood forest can be found near a slanted sandstone ridge, three leagues away.
Yunkai's architecture is characterized by its yellow bricks, crumbling walls, towers, and tall, stepped pyramids, such as the golden pyramid of Qaggaz. Above the city's gates stands a great harpy, symbolizing the Yunkish emblem, which is a variation of the harpy of Old Ghis. This emblem features a woman's torso, bat-like wings, eagle legs, a scorpion's tail, and holds a whip and an iron collar in its talons.
The Yunkai'i people converse in a dialect of High Valyrian, distinct from Astapor's, yet still closely related. Yunkai is ruled by slavers called the Wise Masters, who are considered to be cunning and corrupted.
The city's primary export is bed-slaves, who undergo extensive training in the art of the seven sighs and the sixteen seats of pleasure. Dancers are trained to dance since they are old enough to walk, and are an expert in all the erotic arts as well. In Yunkai, as in Meereen, eunuchs are created by removing only the testicles.
The city is infamous for its disreputable reputation. It is also known as the queen of cities, a title it shares with Qarth. The Yunkai'i people utilize horses and camels for transportation. The city's defenses consist of crossbowmen and slingers.
The highborn warriors of Yunkai don deep yellow linen skirts and tunics, adorned with copper disk-sewn cloaks. They meticulously oil and style their hair into towering shapes, further accentuated by tall helmets. The nobility wear fringed tokars, a symbol of power, as do their counterparts in Astapor and Meereen.
Yunkai can muster an army of approximately 20,000 soldiers, with at least half of them being slaves. In Yunkai, slave swordsmen are more affordable than the swords they wield.
The city's currency includes the golden marks, which are brightly polished coins featuring a stepped pyramid on one side and the harpy of Ghis on the other.
As they rode through the rough and arid terrain, the magnificent city came into view, nestled in the mountains ahead. "Yunkai. The Yellow City" announces Hizdahr.
Anakin, radiating unshakable confidence, declares, "The Yunkish train bed-slaves, not soldiers. We can defeat them." He has full faith in the abilities of his soldiers, believing that they can surpass even the most elite warriors.
However, Grey-Worm offers a differing viewpoint. "On the field, with ease. But they won't meet us on the field. They have provisions, patience, and strong walls. If they are wise, they will hide behind those walls and chip away at us, man by man."
"I don't want to siege the city just yet. I just want to see who and what we're dealing with… and if anything happens between then… we can defeat them," Anakin declares.
"Your Grace, there is no need for us to take Yunkai. It will have no impact on Meereen," Hizdahr protests, much to Anakin's annoyance.
Initially, Anakin firmly believed that his growing irritability and impatience were caused by the negative influence of the dark side he had been struggling with since taking over Meereen. However, when Hizdahr proposed reopening the notorious fighting pits in the city, it triggered an angry response from Anakin. Despite the Great Masters' promise that the fighters would be voluntary free men, he vehemently rejected the idea, much to Hizdahr's disappointment. Anakin's justification was that he was a king, not a politician, which only further frustrated Hizdahr.
"Remind me, how many slaves are there in Yunkai?" Anakin asked.
When Hizdahr, a former slave trader, was unable to provide an answer about the number of slaves in Yunkai, Missandei, who stood amongst the three men, revealed, "Two-hundred thousand if not more."
"Then we have two-hundred-thousand reasons to take the city," declares Anakin, his hatred for slavery strengthening his connection to the dark side. "Send a man to the city gates. Tell the slavers I will receive them here, and negotiate terms. Otherwise, Yunkai's masters will suffer the same fate as Astapor," he ordered Grey-Worm, who acknowledges the order and swiftly departs to deliver the message.
Anakin and his troops then set up camp along the road to Yunkai, positioned some distance outside the city's walls.
After some time, the arrival of the Wise Masters of Yunkai was announced by the sound of drums, and the Unsullied stood guard.
Led by guards and on a colorful palanquin, Wise Master Razdal mo Eraz and his entourage of slaves made their way through the camp, with Razdal keeping a watchful eye on the unflinching warriors.
The enslaved men continued their laborious journey, their chains clanging and their backs bending under the weight of Razdal's palanquin, while other slaves obediently carried extravagant chests.
When Razdal reached the encampment where Anakin was stationed with his advisors Missandei, Grey-Worm, and Hizdahr, the slaves carefully set down the palanquin and Razdal gracefully stepped out.
Missandei greeted him, introducing him as Razdal mo Eraz, master of men and speaker to savages. Nervously, Razdal and another slave-trader, Yezzan zo Qaggaz made their way to Anakin's tent where they saw him seated on a makeshift throne. Missandei proudly presented Anakin as the 'Breaker of Chains' and 'The Chosen One.'
Anakin offered them seats and as they sat down. Recently, Hizdahr has been instructing him in the so-called 'art' of negotiating and he knew that even the slightest gestures could have a powerful impact. So, he signaled to Missandei to serve them drinks. She graciously poured a cup of wine for Razdal, who sipped it while keeping his eyes fixed on the Targaryen.
"Ancient and glorious is Yunkai. Our empire was old before dragons stirred in Old Valyria. Many an army has broken against our walls. You shall find no easy conquest here, Your Grace," Razdal tried to intimidate Anakin, but he remained unfazed and got straight to the point.
"Let's make this simple, shall we? Tell me what you want. Surely you must already know what 'I' want, yes?" he said.
As the conversation continued, Anakin remained unimpressed by Razdal's attempts to discourage him from attacking Yunkai. With two sharp claps, Razdal summons his slaves who dutifully appear with two heavy chests in tow.
"The wise masters of Yunkai have sent a gift for the silver king," Razdal proclaims, gesturing to the attendants who reverently unveil the chests before Anakin. Each one overflows with glittering gold bars, a tribute from the powerful city-state. "There is far more than this awaiting you if you agree to leave us to conduct our affairs in peace."
Anakin is taken aback by their wealth, but responds with a hint of anger. "What use have I for your gold?" he questions. "My previous actions in Astapor should make it abundantly clear what I truly want," Anakin states firmly, his stance on slavery being well-known by now.
Razdal counters, his voice dripping with honeyed words, "If blood is your desire, blood shall flow. But why? 'Tis true you have committed savageries in Astapor. The Yunkai are a forgiving and generous people. All we ask is that you leave us to conduct our affairs in peace."
Anakin's gaze shifts to Yezzan zo Qaggaz, a nagging feeling creeping over him that he has crossed paths with this man before. With a flat, commanding tone, Anakin retorts, "Well, since you've been so generous, I have a gift for you as well. Your life."
The words hang heavily in the air, causing Razdal to falter. "My… life?" he repeats, his mind struggling to understand Anakin's implication.
"And the lives of your Wise Masters," Anakin adds, his voice laced with coercion. "But I also want something in return. You will release every slave in Yunkai. Every man, woman, and child shall be given as much food, clothing, and property as they can carry as payment for their years of servitude. Reject this gift, and I shall show you no mercy," Anakin's ultimatum leaves no room for negotiation, his determination unwavering.
"You are mad. We are not Meereen or Astapor. We are Yunkai and we have powerful friends. Friends who would take great pleasure in destroying you. Those who survive, we shall enslave once more. Perhaps we'll make a slave of you as-" suddenly, Razdal's tirade is abruptly silenced by a mysterious force that constricts his airway.
To everyone's shock, Razdal is lifted off the ground while Yezzan and the Yunkish slaves fall back in terror.
Anakin approaches the suspended Razdal and loosens his grip, allowing him to catch his breath. "You swore me safe conduct," Razdal gasps, bewildered by the invisible power that is holding him in place.
"Yes. I did," Anakin confirms, before releasing Razdal and allowing him to stumble to the ground.
Bothered by the consequences of his actions in Astapor, Anakin strived to present a more compassionate image of himself. However, the memory of Qezza's words echoed in his mind: "Opinions will always be torn in opposite directions."
"Take the gold," Razdal commands the slaves, and they cautiously approach the revealed chests, only to have Anakin use the force to draw the treasure towards his side. The unbridled demonstration of sorcery causes terror to grip the slaves, making them hastily back away.
To Anakin's dismay, the Wise Master before him conveyed fear, as did the slaves in his company. Hizdahr's previous words also rang in his ears: "Restraint with power is your greatest strength, for it unveils a flicker of divine grace."
"My gold. You gave it to me, remember? And I shall put it to good use. You'd be wise to do the same with my gift to you. Now get out," Anakin orders with a wicked smile.
Razdal and Yezzan let out a string of curses in Valyrian as they quickly departed with their entourage of slaves in tow.
"The Yunkish are a proud people. They will not bend," says Hizdahr.
"He said he had powerful friends. Who was he talking about?" asked Anakin.
"I don't know," Hizdahr replies.
"Find out," Anakin commanded, and Hizdahr hurried off to gather information.
Meanwhile, Grey-Worm and Missandei confront Anakin about his actions, to which he responds by engaging in a conversation with them.
Grey-Worm voiced his concern, "I thought we weren't attacking Yunkai yet?" He knew that this matter would inevitably lead to war.
"I remember saying I wanted to see who we're dealing with. And now that I have…" Anakin paused, reflecting on the true nature of the Wise Masters.
Missandei was intrigued by Anakin's perspective after coming face to face with them. "Now that you have, what?" she asked.
"Their actions reek of cowardice; they do not deserve our respect. Their meager offer of gold and threats of powerful friends only exposes their lack of faith in their own army. I'm confident that we can face them head on at this moment, even more than I was before. However, before we take any further action, we will wait for Hizdahr's news regarding the identity of these 'powerful friends'," Anakin revealed his plan to attack the city, declaring his intention to use their current forces for the assault.
After a couple of days, Anakin's army was still stationed near Yunkai, though they had moved further away from the gate while awaiting news from Hizdahr about the mercenaries that the Wise Masters were planning to hire.
Hiding in the shadow of a rugged cliff, Anakin, Grey-Worm, and Hizdahr watched in silence as soldiers on horseback rode through the barren landscape surrounding Yunkai. Dressed in plain clothes to endure the scorching desert heat, the trio witnessed the scene unfolding before them.
"Men who fight for gold have neither honor nor loyalty. They cannot be trusted. Are these the 'friends' they were talking about," Anakin gestured towards the sellswords approaching Yunkai in the distance.
"They can be trusted to kill you if they're well paid. The Yunkish are paying them well," Grey-Worm remarked.
"You know these men?" inquired Anakin, curious about the identity of their potential adversaries.
Grey-Worm informs them that the company known as the Second Sons is easily recognized by the broken swords adorning their banners. The group is led by a dangerous man from Braavos called 'The Titan's Bastard,' named Mero.
Anakin seeks to gain more knowledge about the enemy and inquires about their numbers. He turns to Grey-Worm for his opinion, according to him there are two-thousand soldiers, all armored and mounted.
"It's hard to collect wages from a corpse. I'm sure the sellswords prefer to fight for the winning side," Anakin mentions, his thoughts already racing to devise a strategy.
Anakin confidently declares that he wants to speak with The Titan's Bastard about joining forces, but Hizdahr doubts that Mero would agree to a meeting.
"He will. Any mercenary would want to know who they're killing," Anakin says undeterred.
The next day, Anakin meets with the leaders of the Second Sons in his camp outside Yunkai, with Grey-Worm and his advisors by his side.
Entering the tent Mero interrupts Missandei's introduction to confidently approach Anakin, accompanied by two other captains named Daario and Prendahl. Mero takes a seat on the sofa-throne, next to Anakin, demanding wine from Missandei, who he addresses as a slave.
"We have no slaves here," Anakin is already speaking up due to the mercenary's unsettling behavior.
"You'll all be slaves after the battle unless I save you. Take your clothes off and come and sit on Mero's lap and I may give you my Second Sons," the mercenary's lecherous words were met with a hesitant glance from Missandei towards Anakin, she was unsure of how to respond to this.
He, however, remained composed and turned to Grey-Worm, questioning, "Grey-Worm, how many men fight for the Second Sons?"
"Under two-thousand, Your Grace," he replied.
"We have more, don't we?" Anakin sought confirmation.
"10,000 Unsullied," Grey-Worm confirmed.
Mero raises his wine cup in a toast to Anakin, while Missandei serves Daario and Prendahl their drinks.
Anakin then spoke confidently, "Now, why would Yunkai hire sellswords if they already outnumber us? A lack of skill perhaps? Surely mercenaries such as yourselves are familiar with the reputation of the Unsullied."
He then fixed his gaze on Daario, who seemed to be the youngest of the captains. "You're very young to be a captain," Anakin remarked.
Daario Naharis, with his chiseled facial features, has high cheekbones and a square jaw that accentuate his rugged determination. Azure eyes, expressive and intense, draw gazes in, while well-defined eyebrows shape his commanding stare. Medium-brown hair, styled in a tousled, carefree manner, frames his handsome countenance, adding to his rugged appeal. Its slight wave adds a touch of intrigue. A neatly trimmed beard complements his rugged maturity, matching his hair color for a cohesive appearance. Darrio's sun-kissed complexion, devoid of blemishes, speaks to his heritage. His tall, athletic physique, standing at 6 foot 1, completes his magnetic presence, exuding both strength and agility. (Michiel Huisman)
"He's not a captain. He's a lieutenant" Prendahl interjected.
"And you're quite young to be a king. I have heard stories about you… tales from those I trust," Daario confessed, acknowledging Anakin's reputation.
Born into poverty, Daario Naharis's early life was marked by hardship. His mother, a prostitute struggling with alcoholism and dwindling earnings, sold him into slavery at the tender age of 12. A Tolosi slave master saw potential in Daario's aggression and fighting spirit, training him for the brutal world of pit fighting. By 16, Daario was already a seasoned gladiator, his victories bringing his master immense wealth. Upon his master's death, Daario's prowess earned him not only his freedom but also a reputation as a formidable warrior. He chose to utilize his skills as a sellsword, eventually finding his way into the ranks of the Second Sons.
Possessing a firsthand understanding of gladiatorial combat, Daario Naharis maintained a keen interest in the happenings within the fighting pits of Meereen. Through these channels, he learned of the remarkable ascent of Anakin Targaryen, a former combatant who had now ascended to King of Meereen. Daario found himself subconsciously drawn to the man, recognizing the strength of character it took to rise from such humble beginnings to the position he is in now.
"You should believe them. Even with the support of Yunkai's forces, your reputation pales in comparison to that of the Unsullied," Anakin asserted, causing the three captains to exchange looks. They had also heard the rumors of supposed sorcery from the King of Meereen.
"The Second Sons have faced worse odds and won," Mero argued.
"The Second Sons have faced worse odds and run," Anakin confidently challenges the Second Sons, reminding them of their past failures and the reputation they carry.
The mercenary company had been one of many hired to defend Qohor against a massive Dothraki horde, but in the face of overwhelming odds, they abandoned their contract and fled. The following day, the Unsullied, a mere 3,000 soldiers, surprisingly emerged victorious against the Dothraki, the very army they are now being hired to fight.
Sensing the difficult position they are in, Mero and his fellow captains request more wine from Missandei. They reveal that they have already accepted a contract from Yunkai, but Anakin attempts to persuade them with a better offer. However, Prendahl reminds him that their contract is their bond and breaking it would damage their reputation even further.
Out of the blue, Mero becomes aggressive and inappropriate towards Missandei, provoking Anakin to use the force to send Mero flying out of his seat and across the room.
As Anakin stands confidently, he offers the Second Sons a better deal, promising them riches and power beyond their current contract.
Mero's anger at being physically overpowered by Anakin is evident, and the other individuals present, Daario and Prendahl, witness the display of sorcery with awe.
Daario rushes over and positions himself as a barrier between Anakin and Mero. The validity of the information he has received about Anakin is evident, and it appears that he could easily take their lives if he so desired.
Following Prendahl's lead, Mero was signaled to step back. "Like I said, our contract is our bond," Prendahl reiterated, conveying the decision of their group and urging them to leave.
"Good. The Titan's Bastard does not drink alone. In the Second Sons, we share everything. After the battle, maybe we'll all share her. I'll come looking for you when this is over," Mero's gaze lingered on Missandei before he left the tent.
As Anakin and Daario shared a final look, Anakin couldn't help but feel that this mercenary's role in the upcoming events would be more crucial than he yet knew.
"Well. That went well," Anakin jokes, acknowledging his tendency towards impulsiveness and impatience when it came to war.
Back at their own camp, Daario, Mero, and Prendahl discussed their predicament. After much deliberation, Mero and Prendahl came to a unanimous decision to eliminate Anakin.
Mero called for a female slave to distribute coins from Braavos, Volantis, and Meereen. Daario drew the Braavosi coin, marking him as the chosen one for the assassination. He simply replied, "valar morghulis - all men must die."
As the night drags on, Anakin finds himself in the secluded study of his tent, joined by Missandei. She is guiding him through the language of Qarth, which differs from the Valyrian Freehold and is notoriously difficult for outsiders to master.
To simplify communication, the Qartheen often resort to speaking the Common Tongue when trading or hosting guests from Westeros.
"Why does his grace wish to speak in Qartheen?" Missandei inquires, already recognizing Anakin's ability in various tongues.
He joked, "I'm not sure. Perhaps I'm jealous of you," while she returns the books to their proper place on the shelf.
"Your High Valyrian is very good, your grace. It is the only proper language for poetry," she remarks, amused by his competitive spirit.
"I suppose," replied Anakin, turning away to gaze at the moon peeking in through the tent's window.
Memories of his past flood his mind, from his days as a slave to his current reign as king. Pondering what has become of Viserys and Daenerys, he wonders if they are aware of his deeds in Meereen. Will they come searching for him? Or perhaps they did not survive. Ser Willem Darry's words echo in his head, warning him against facing the world alone, for the king of Westeros harbors a deep resentment towards his family.
In an instant, Missandei lets out a shocked gasp as the books slip from her grasp and tumble from the shelf. Anakin's gaze shifts and he sees her being held hostage, her mouth forced shut and a sharp blade dangerously close to her throat. Daario, disguised as an Unsullied, stands menacingly behind her, the culprit of this treacherous act.
As he slowly approaches Anakin, Daario firmly warns them not to scream or else Missandei would meet her demise.
Anakin couldn't help but feel uneasy as he watched Missandei being led closer with a knife dangerously near her neck. He was surprised that he couldn't sense the impending danger, as he usually could with the Force.
In a swift motion, Daario removed the knife and took off the Unsullied helmet, revealing a cheeky grin. Missandei quickly moved to Anakin's side while the sellsword nonchalantly explained that he had been sent to kill him.
Anakin couldn't help but ask about Daario's intentions, to which he simply shrugged and admitted he didn't really want to go through with it.
When Anakin asked about his captains' opinions, Daario suggested he ask them himself as he emptied out his satchel, revealing the severed heads of Mero and Prendahl.
Anakin's curiosity was piqued and he couldn't help but ask why Daario would betray his comrades. Daario admitted that they had different views, particularly about Anakin and the deeper meaning of his abilities.
"You're a strange man," Anakin said.
"I'm the simplest man you'll ever meet. I only do what I want to do," Daario confesses.
"And this is supposed to convince me?" he interrogates, trying to discern if the mercenary intends to join forces with him.
Daario boldly claimed, "Yes," but Anakin wasn't easily swayed and questioned why he should trust a man who would kill his own comrades.
"They ordered me to murder you. I told them I preferred not to. They told me I had no choice. I told them I am Daario Naharis. I always have a choice. They drew their swords and I drew mine," he recounts the events that led to his betrayal of his comrades.
As Anakin approaches him, Daario takes a step back, wary of the Targaryen's scrutinizing gaze. Missandei, standing behind Anakin, keeps a safe distance.
"You'd fight for me?" he asks, and Daario responds by nodding and assuming a position of readiness. Not satisfied, Anakin demands that Daario swear his loyalty.
Without hesitation, Daario draws his sword and kneels before Anakin, placing his weapon on his folded leg. "The Second Sons are yours and so is Daario Naharis. My sword, my life, and my loyalty is yours," Daario humbly declares, bowing his head.
The following night, in the desolate terrain outside Yunkai's walls, Anakin's army of Unsullied stands guard over his camp. Meanwhile, inside his tent, Anakin consults with his advisors - Hizdahr, Missandei, Grey-Worm, and the newest addition, Daario Naharis - as they strategize for the upcoming battle.
As they pore over a map of the city, Daario points out a hidden back gate. "There. It's a back gate. My men use it when they visit Yunkai's bed-slaves. This is where we enter the city. Very few guards, they know me. They let me inside."
"We're not gonna sneak an army through a back gate," says Anakin, wondering what else the mercenary had planned.
"I kill the guards. I take your two best men and lead them through the back streets, which I know well, and open the front gates. Then comes the army. Once the walls are breached, the city will fall in hours," Daario reveals, outlining his plan for their combined forces to conquer the city and launch a united assault.
"Or perhaps you'll lead Grey-Worm and me to the slaughter, cutting the head off our army. The masters of Yunkai will pay you your fee and you won't have to split it three ways cause you've already slaughtered your partners," Anakin remains cautious of Daario's loyalty, not used to people's allegiances shifting so easily. The presence of the dark side and the impending war only fuel his growing paranoia.
"You have a very suspicious mind. In my experience, only dishonest people think this way," Daario's words slice through the tense air, causing Anakin to release a heavy sigh and turn to Grey-Worm for his opinion.
The Unsullied commander is focused, studying the strategic map before them. "You command the Unsullied. What do you think?" Anakin asked him in Valyrian.
"I trust him," Grey-Worm flatly responds.
Pleased with the plan Anakin concludes, "Me and you. We leave tonight."
Grey-Worm confirms, "Very good. I will prepare."
As the group begins to disperse from the tent, Daario's face breaks into a broad smile as he looks at Anakin. He turns to the mercenary and inquires, "What do you want?"
"Just excited to see you in action is all," Daario expresses his eagerness to see Anakin's powers before leaving to make final preparations for the upcoming Battle in Yunkai.
Under the cover of darkness, Anakin, Daario, and Grey-Worm stealthily approach the back gate of Yunkai's walls, determined to infiltrate the city.
"When you hear a songbird's whistle, you come. I'm a great whistler, the greatest in the land," Daario boasts with confidence.
As he approaches the gate, a guard shouts at him in Valyrian. "Daario Naharis," he announces his identity to the guard.
Anakin and Grey-Worm, taking cover behind a rock at a distance, watch as the guard permits Daario's entry. After a while, Daario gives the signal, and they silently slip through the back gate.
As they move forward with caution, they come across the dead bodies of two guards. Daario nonchalantly cleans his arakh, a weapon of the Dothraki people, and remarks on how quickly he took down the guards.
"There are others," Anakin informs Daario, sensing a larger number of people further ahead.
"I doubt it. The Yunkish prefer to let their slaves do their fighting for them," said Daario.
Suddenly, they are swarmed by Yunkai soldiers and a fight breaks out. Daario throws a dagger to take down a sneaky guard who had crept up on Grey-Worm. The three of them defeat the first wave of guards, but are then faced with another group attacking from all sides.
"You were saying?!" Anakin's tone turns sharp as he questions Daario's earlier statement about there being no more guards.
With seconds to spare, Anakin raised his hand in a swift, commanding gesture. "Get down!" he shouted, his voice cutting through the chaos. Grey-Worm and Daario instinctively dropped to the ground.
Anakin summoned the Force, feeling its power surge through him, and unleashed a devastating push. The air vibrated with energy as the guards surrounding them were hurled backwards, crashing into each other and their own weapons. The cacophony of clashing armor and anguished cries filled the alleyway.
A clear path opened before them. Anakin's eyes narrowed, his sword stained with blood. He advanced with lethal precision, dispatching the three men blocking their way with fluid, powerful strikes. Each swing hacking off limbs in a blend of grace and fury, and in mere moments, their path to the back streets lay unobstructed.
Grey-Worm and Daario were swift to rise and engage the remaining guards. Their combat prowess was undeniable; Grey-Worm's spear thrusts were relentless, and Daario's twin arakhs danced through the air with deadly elegance. They made quick work of their foes, then sprinted to rejoin Anakin, who was already approaching the city's gate.
As they neared the gate, the few guards stationed atop the wall attempted a futile defense. However, Anakin's focus was unyielding and with a surge of the Force, he raised the portcullis effortlessly, the massive iron grate groaning as it ascended. The path was open.
The breach of the gate unleashed a flood of warriors. The Unsullied, with their unbreakable discipline, and the mercenary Second Sons poured into the city. The initial wave of chaos was palpable as they clashed with the Yunkish soldiers, who were unprepared for the ferocity of the assault.
Anakin stood atop the wall, his gaze sweeping over the ensuing turmoil. His troops flooded the streets, their disciplined advance overwhelming the defenders. Yunkish soldiers fell in droves, their formations breaking under the relentless assault. Some surrendered in fear, while others fled, casting aside their weapons in desperation.
Watching the scene unfold, Anakin felt a strange sense of detachment. His presence in the battle was unnecessary; his forces were more than capable of seizing the city without further intervention. He took a deep breath, the cool night air filling his lungs, and observed the systematic dismantling of Yunkai's defenses.
He had long since known that Yunkai was renowned for its bed-slaves rather than its imposing military, and the Unsullied's prowess alone demonstrated more than enough strength. The Second Sons' alliance only solidified the city's inevitable downfall.
From his vantage point, he saw the once-mighty city crumble. The chaos below was a testament to the might of the armies he commanded. As the city fell into disarray, Anakin knew that this victory, like many before it, was assured. His role in this conquest was complete.
Recognizing he is not needed on the battlefield, Anakin navigates through the fray to the camp outskirts, bearing news of their success to Hizdahr and Missandei, and when they will depart the city.
Despite his reluctance to leave Yunkai in disarray, Anakin acknowledged his obligation to Meereen before this city.
"I can not stay here," he asserted within their tent. "I'm King of Meereen. Not Yunkai."
"If you do nothing. You will never truly free the people," Missandei countered. Aside from Lucas, Anakin's hatred of slavery was only ever matched by the Naathi woman. "Tell me, do you know what's happening in Astapor right now?" Anakin stood in silence as she continued. "No doubt conflict has broken out there. Slavers bidding for the power of the former Good Masters. Using slaves to fight their battles and kill each other, all to see them back in chains again," her words resonated with him.
Hizdahr interjected, expressing his own concerns. "To expand your rule into Yunkai would be to declare war on Slaver's Bay. However, with all that you've already done, war may already be on the horizon."
Deep in contemplation, Anakin's silence cast a heavy veil over his advisors, as he turned his back to them. The weight of his actions settled upon him like a crushing revelation. His actions extended beyond Slaver's Bay, striking at the very heart of slavery itself. With every fiber of his being, he sensed the backlash that would inevitably follow - those who had profited from this vile institution would stop at nothing to reclaim their dominion.
The gravity of this realization gnawed at his soul, amplified by the nagging whispers of a metaphorical dragon that haunted his mind. This insidious voice sowed seeds of doubt and mockery, reducing him to a child who lacked the maturity to lead.
This dragon had haunted him since he shed blood in the Meereenese fighting pits. Anakin had hoped that resolving himself to kill would silence his inner demon, but its grip had only tightened. He pondered if this was the fate of his grandfather, driven to madness by an incessant inner voice.
After an awkward silence, and Anakin still having his back turned to his advisors, Hizdahr was about to ask if everything was okay, when suddenly, just then, Daario and Grey-Worm, their bodies weary and blood-stained from the battlefield, joined them in the dimly lit tent.
"It was just as he said. They did not believe it until it was too late. Their slave-soldiers threw down their spears and surrendered," Grey-Worm reports.
Darrio proceeds to stride closer to Anakin from behind Grey-Worm, with a Yunkai flag hanging from his shoulder and his face splattered with blood. He approaches Anakin and kneels before him, placing the flag over his knee.
"The city is yours, My King," Daario proclaims as he raises his head, presenting Anakin with a banner from the defeated temple and laying it at his feet.
The next day, Anakin, Missandei, Grey-Worm, Hizdahr, and Daario Naharis gather on the rough terrain outside the walls of Yunkai. They are surrounded by his formidable armies of skilled warriors.
"They will come, Your Grace. When they're ready," Missandei informs Anakin. The people of Yunkai will arrive, but only when they are prepared.
"Perhaps they didn't want to be conquered," Anakin muses, understanding that things can be worse after a siege before they can get better.
"You didn't conquer them. You liberated them," Missandei asserts, revealing her strong disdain for slavery, a feeling she and Anakin seem to share.
"People learn to love their chains," acknowledges Anakin, reflecting on his own experiences and observations of the devastating effects of slavery.
As the gates of the city swung open, a diverse mass of individuals flooded out. Among them were commoners and slaves, the latter easily identified by the collars around their necks.
The Unsullied, stoic and unflinching, assumed a defensive stance as they approached Anakin. Their spears poised towards the crowd, ready to strike if necessary.
Yet, Anakin confidently strode ahead, paying no mind to his retinue of guards. Missandei trailed behind him, speaking in Valyrian as she announced, "This is Anakin Targaryen, Breaker of Chains, and The Chosen One. It is he you owe your freedom to."
Anakin's voice cut through the commotion, driven by a strong conviction. "You do not owe me your freedom," he declared, silencing the crowd. "I cannot give it to you. Your freedom is not mine to give. It belongs to you and you alone. If you want it back, you must take it for yourselves. Each and every one of you," he spoke directly to the vast crowd before him, his words ringing out with purpose.
A hush fell over the crowd until a man raised his daughter in the air, shouting, "Kraz!" The little girl echoed the call, and soon the entire crowd joined in, their voices growing louder with each repetition.
The Unsullied, positioned behind Anakin, stood firm and imposing in an attempt to deter the crowd. But the people's determination was unwavering.
Anakin changed direction, his gaze shifting to Missandei. Silently, he gestured for the Unsullied to stand down as he approached the gathering. A memory surfaced in his mind - the battle-slaves of Meereen had called him 'Kraz' the first time he liberated them. In the Old Ghiscari language, the word meant 'strong and powerful.'
"It's all right," Anakin commanded his soldiers, his voice calm and authoritative. "These people won't hurt me." And with that, he boldly strode towards the uproarious crowd, still fervently chanting.
As he steps into the midst of the bustling crowd, gentle hands reach out to greet him. The people's excitement fills the air, their chants praising him as he makes his way through the throng of bodies.
Despite the bleak and despairing world around him, the embrace of former slaves offers a glimmer of hope for Anakin. Surrounded by the eager crowd, he gazes out at the sea of faces and feels a sense of warmth and joy. As the people begin to sway and form a circle around him, he can't help but grin in response to their adoration. In the background, the disciplined Unsullied stand tall and unaffected by the frenzied atmosphere.
Anakin has never been one for being worshiped, but in this moment, he can't help but feel proud of the genuine happiness his actions have brought to the people of Yunkai.