I do not own the 'World of Ice and Fire'
High Valyrian: Italic
Low Valyrian: Bold
Bastard Valyrian: Underline
Common tongue: Normal
Vaella and Draeden were really tired after what they had gone through today. They had flown on Dragon Back for hours, after they had landed they had to deal with a minor rebellion. Besides that, her nephew-son, Draeden had called a council meeting right after they had killed the rebel father and son to assert his dominance.
Vaella felt really tired after everything. 'But all is well though'. Vaella thought to herself.
Because they are now retiring back to the castle of Bloodstone.
Vaella and Draeden, accompanied by two dozen of the Professional Soldiers of The Stepstones are currently making their way through the Busy and crowded streets of The City Of Bloodstone. The vanguard of the party shooed and told everyone in their path to make way.
They didn't really need to do it however as the crowd of people parted like a hot knife cutting through butter.
Vaella looked towards the parted crowds at each side of the wide street to try and figure out why they had parted willingly for them. Vaella could see their wide and awed eyes staring at them.
Vaella wondered why, perhaps it is because the rarity of Dragonlords nowadays. Vaella believed that to be the case and continued onward through the streets of Bloodstones.
Vaella can see the extremely well-designed lay outs of the city that can benefit everyone living here. The buildings have spaces between each other when they are built to give more space to the buildings. It also lowers the chance of any diseases spreading .
Beneath the buildings are a well built sewage system to process the human wastes produdced by the large population of the city.
And the streets are well designed for a reason. The streets leading towards the market and trading areas in the city are all wide, simple and easy to navigate. This is built so that traders and buyers can buy and increase the trade in Bloodstone.
But the streets leading towards important and strategic buildings are much narrower and much more complicated to manoeuvre if an attack on the city had occurred. The favours will lean significantly towards the defenders.
This layout of the City Of Bloodstone is designed similarly to the now ruined city of Valyria.
As Vaella and the party approached the Castle of Bloodstone, the streets that led to the castle gets even more narrower. There are more corners to turn and more potential chokepoints that benefits the defenders.
And soon enough, they are now standing in front of the Large Barbican that serves as the first defence of the Castle. The barbican is extremely large as it is almost the size of a normal castle.
Surrounding and protecting the well fortified Valyrian Barbicane is a wet and slippery moat filled with rusted steel pikes.
To cross the moat over to the barbicane they will have to cross a draw bridge that can be raised in case of an attack.
Vaella walked over the bridge and continued to inspect the defences.
After they had crossed the draw bridge, they enter the first main gate of the barbicane. Above the entrance and the passage after entering the entrance are murder holes and intricate designed traps that needs to be activated by the defenders to 'welcome' any unwanted intruders.
Vaella, Draeden and the party then continued to make their way through the large Valyrian designed barbicane. They walked through the gloomy passage that connects the outer and also the first main gate of the barbicane to the inner and second main gate of the barbicane.
Soon, they walked through the inner gate of the Barbicane into a large open space surrounded by four high walls with archers on top.
The large open space was designed for the archers to rain hell upon the attackers if they had reached the open square.
On the opposite side of the inner gate sits the gate to the bridge that connected the barbicane to the Castle itself. The Castle of Bloodstone was built on into a small island just off the coast of Bloodstone, that is why a bridge must be built to cross the waters that seperate the island castle and Bloodstone.
The guards of the bridge gate open the gates to allow Vaella, Draeden and their escorts to the bridge.
The bridge is made of Black stone and dragon stone to ensure it's integrity. The bridge is just wide enough for a cart or carriage to manouvre to better defend the Castle.
As Vaella walked across the bridge, she can see the Four defensive Valyrian Towers that was built into the sea. The towers were built to guard and defend the bridge if an assault arises. Ballista's and catapults are placed ontop of the Valyrian towers. Two towers are built on the left while the other two on the right. Bridges were built to connect the towers to the outer walls of the castle.
Speaking of the walls of the castle, The first of the three layers of the castle walls, the first layer wall is connected to the four towers with smaller bridges. The first wall is 10 meters high above the bridge, the rest of the length of the wall beneath the bridge extends down beneath the base of the island. Six intimidating Valyrian defensive towers lined the walls that faced the side of the bridge. Each towers had trebuchets and ballistas mounted on them.
The battlements contain many narrow arrow slits to rain hell upon any attackers. The gates of the first layer wall was protected by a large gatehouse. The gatehouse has another drawbridge that connects the bridge that leads to the castle. The drawbridge can be raised should an attack happen. The large gatehouse has a portcullis as well to stop any unwanted trepassers. The portcullis is Valyrian steel made, it protects the large ironwood made doors of the gatehouse.
When the party approached the gatehouse, the guards lowered the drawbridge and lifted the portcullis to give them entry. The Valyrian gatehouse is already a small castle itself with four Valyrian defensive towers that flanks the drawbridge.
The large ironwood gate that was reinforced by Valyrian steel opened and the party continued their way. The passage in the gate house was covered by murder holes above that will rain hot tar, arrows and rocks should an assault happen. If not for the torchlight on the walls, the passage would be dark after the gates have closed.
The party soon reached the second ironwood gate of the gatehouse that leads to the second layer wall of the castle. The gates opened to reveal the space between the first layer of wall and the second layer of wall.
The space between the two walls were clear of any objects to allow the archers and defenders above to have a clear vision and line for attack.
The second layer of the wall is taller than the first layer as it stood 20 meters tall. Eight Valyrian towers were placed along the section of the second wall that faced Vaella and their party. Smooth, polished, round boulders were placed at the base of the second wall so that ladders can't be placed properly under the wall.
The gatehouse of the second layer wall was built on the east instead directly opposite of the first wall's gatehouse to confuse any attackers.
Vaella and her party walked towards the second wall's gate house that was similarly defended like the first wall's gatehouse but without a drawbridge.
The guards on the second wall opened the gates for Vaella and the party to enter. The passage of the second gatehouse was similar to the first wall's.
As they exited the gatehouse, they entered the space between the second wall and the third and last wall. The third wall is 30 meters tall, and more fortifications made.
10 Valyrian towers faced the party's side of the wall. The wall is surrounded by a wet moat filled with rusted spikes. The gatehouse of the third wall was located at the west. The third gatehouse has a portcullis and a small barbicane to protect the portcullis.
Vaella watched as the portcullis is lowered to allow their entry. After they had entered the barbicane and crossed the bridge, the gates of the third wall opened and revealed the passgae. The passage of the third wall has more murder holes and has traps similar to the Castles' bridge barbicane.
They soon walked into the outer bailey of the Castle that held the stables, granaries, barracks, blacksmiths and living quarters of the servants. The people in the outer bailey immediately stopped what they were doing and looked when Vaella and Draeden entered the area.
Vaella looked to Draeden as he nodded his head to signal them to continue their duties. After that, without looking back Vaella and Draeden continued their way towards the second outer bailey.
The second outer bailey housed the large training grounds that is surrounded by four walls. The training grounds has all the faicilities to train a master warrior. There are two paths that lead to two different places of the castle. The first will take them to the inner bailey of the castle, while the second will take them to the castle's harbour. But They need to make their way to the inner bailey.
Vaella stopped for a moment to take in the training grounds before continuing their way towards the main inner bailey that kept the main keep.
The entrance towards the inner bailey had intricate Dragon carvings that were carved out of Dragon stone. Each teeth, claw, wing and scale were carved with extreme detail. The carvings were an intimidating statue, eight dragons were carved into the entrance to remind any visitors that they are in the presence of dragons. Now that Draeden and Vaella have come, dragons ARE present.
Vaella and the party walked through the entrance and were welcomed by the three large and tall Valyrian towers although they are shorter than the fourteen tower. All three of the towers had different sizes, The largest served as the main keep, the second largest served as the quarters for guests and the third largest served as a command tower. The tower's layout was a pattern of a triangle, each tower was connected with bridges.
To the right of the entrance sat the main hall, a beautifully and regally built building with dragon statues and flame carvings, but the large main hall was also intimidating at the same time to pressure any visitors. The main hall is connected to the main keep through a series of corridors, but the building also had an entrance from the courtyard.
Speaking of the courtyard, Vaella looked at the beautifully decorated place. Despite being a part of a mighty stronghold fortress, the courtyard has a beautiful garden. Flowers of red, blue, white, yellow and various colours litter the garden areas. Ponds filled with blue and green waters swam colourful fishes that were imported from Yi Ti called Koi fish.
Vaella's attention was soon taken by the group gathered in the middle of the courtyard. There were two people that looked like people in charge standing in front of the group, one a man in a suit of plate armour and the other, a woman in a yellow gown.
Vaella, alongside Draeden walked towards the group. The man in armour and the woman in the gown kneeled when Draeden was in front of them.
Draeden nodded and bid them to rise. The man and woman did as he bid and straightened themselves. After they had stood up, The man in armour introduced himself in a heavily accented High Valyrian. "My liege and lord, I welcome you to your seat and castle of Bloodstone. My name is Ser Eustace, a knight from Westeros, My Lord. I am the Master at arms for the castle. I pray that I will serve you well."
Ser Eustace then kneel once more to swear his oath of fealty to Draeden while still kneeling. "I, Ser Eustace hereby swear my undying loyalty to my liege lord, Draeden of The House Draeterys and his family! Long may they live"!!!
People around and in the group who heard that all echoed "Long May they live"!!!!
Draeden nodded satisfyingly at Ser Eustace and went to help the Westerosi Knight up while telling him. "I am grateful for your service and oath, good knight from Westeros. I pray that I will one day prove to be worthy of your liege."
Ser Eustace barked out a laugh and replied. "There is plenty of chance, My Lord".
Draeden gave the master at arms a genuine smile.
Even though the culture of having knights is a culture of the Andals who worshipped the Seven Gods, The Valyrian Religion that Draeden followed highly tolerated other religions and cultures.
So Draeden had no problem in having a Westerosi in his service. Besides, being a fellow warrior only gave Draeden some respect towards Ser Eustace.
But Draeden did wonder how they've got his name that fast. 'Of course, words are winds' thought Draeden.
After Eustace was done it was the woman in the yellow gown's turn to introduce herself.
She gave a deep, elegant bow and spoke in High Valyrian. "My Liege Lord, welcome home. I am most glad to finally have a rightful lord for me to serve. "
After she had said those words, she kneeled and continued. "I, Ermesande. The Seneschal of the Castle Of Bloodstone, declares my undying devotion and loyalty to Lord Draeden of the House Draeterys and his family. Long May they reign!!"
All the people in the welcome party echoed her words. "Long May They Reign"!!! Draeden went ahead to help Ermesande up from her kneeling position.
After he had helped her up, Draeden then told Ermesande. "I thank you for your work and devotion, My lady Ermesande. I hope that I will be deserving of your services."
Lady Ermesande clasped her hand together and replied to Draeden. "Oh please my Lord Draeden, it is my duty to serve you and your family. Having a handsome lord is definitely a benefit." Ermesande gave Draeden a mirthful wink while the other maids blushed and giggled. The others all laughed at the jest made by Ermesande.
Draeden smiled, and once the laughter had died down Draeden spoke in a loud voice so that everyone could hear what he was about to say. "I appreciate all of your service and loyalty, and know that these acts will be rewarded. While treachery and disloyalty will be returned with PUNISHMENT".
Ser Eustace nodded in agreement. While Ermesande smiled genuinely and bowed in agreement. After that was said, Ermesande noticed how dirty and tired Draeden and Vaella were.
So Ermesande clapped her hands two times and told the maids. "Now, now, Lord Draeden and Lady Vaella are both very tired. Prepare the hot baths and some supper to ease their weary bodies."
Draeden was quite impressed with how quickly the maids and servants recovered from their chuckles and giggles and immediately set about their duties. Most of them rushed inside to prepare what was needed for their baths and supper.
While the rest that left behind to tend to Draeden and Vaella.
Draeden although enjoyed the bath he was in, had to step out of the wooden tub as the water was now already lukewarm. Draeden sighed and stood up from the tub.
As he stood, the water fell from his body and returned to the tub. Draeden stepped out of the tub and sighed. 'If only there is a tub that won't cool down.' thought Draeden.
After stepping out of the tub, Draeden dried himself up with a towel. He then made his way to the canopy bed where the maids had placed his temporary clothing. All of Draeden's clothes except for his armour were still back in Valyria, in ashes. As they didn't bring those down to the vault.
Draeden put on the black tunic and breeches alongside with his own black riding boots he had managed to bring with him from Valyria.
After he was done dressing, Draeden looked around his chambers to observe it. The chamber he is now living in is the lord's chamber, located in the main keep. The chamber has two hearths, one on each side of the large square walled chamber. The canopy bed Draeden is standing beside has velvet bed sheets of red and gold. The posters were made from red wood and carved with Valyrian methods into Dragons.
There are two comfortable and luxurious cushioned high back chairs in front of one of the hearths with a small table between the chairs.
The desk and chair in the room was made with weirwood, a kind of wood from a sacred tree of the Old Gods religion. The desk was carved into the shape of a flame and supported by six Valyrian Steel Carved Dragons.
The Weirwood made desk chair was cushioned on the seat and the back. The weirwood was intricately carved to form beautiful patterns. On the two sides of the large desk were shelves filled with books. The Weirwood desk corner in the Lord's chamber is not where matters of governance and business are conducted by the lord, no, the corner was made as a reading corner or when there are urgent businesses and the lord is in the chamber.
After Draeden was done observing, he stepped out of the door and made his way to the main dining hall where he and Vaella will have supper.
Vaella was the first to arrive in the grand dining hall of the castle. 'The hall can host a thousand people' Vaella thought as she looked around. But tonight it is just her and her nephew-son. Even though she thought it to be a waste of resources, it was necessary to showcase their power and dominion by dining in the main hall that can fit a thousand people.
Vaella was sat on the head table of the hall, on top of the raised dais of the hall. The entire hall was lit with scented candles tonight just for Draeden and Vaella. The marble floor was scrubbed shiny and clean just for Draeden and Vaella. The black stone walls are covered with new tapestries just for Draeden and Vaella.
Because they are now the ruling family.
Vaella's attention was taken to the main entrance of the halls as the large Bronze and gold door opened. The large and heavy doors opened to reveal Vaella's most cherished nephew-son, Draeden.
Vaella is extremely hopeful of what Draeden is going to achieve as her liege lord. She knows that Draeden has no target or objective for now, even then, Vaella is confident that Draeden will make the best of every situation. Besides, Vaella believes Draeden will learn how to DREAM one day.
Draeden's steel soled riding boots thumped against the marble floors to make his way towards the raised dais on the other end of the large dining hall.
'This isn't even the main hall' thought Draeden. No, the main hall where the lord's seat is situated is larger than this.
Draeden wondered how on earth his ancestors even managed to build this fortress. He knew his family was rich, but this... This fortress had gone beyond what Draeden thought gold could do.
As Draeden ascended the steps that led to the grand dining hall's raised dais. Draeden can see his aunt-mother already there sitting on the main table.
Vaella smiled at her most precious nephew-son as he sat down in the lord's seat. Vaella herself sat at Draeden's right hand side.
Draeden returned Vaella's smile and added a nod to her. Even though Draeden is smiling with confidence, Vaella notices the uncertainty in Draeden's eyes.
That is why Vaella decided to raise her concerns after Draeden has settled in his seat. "Drae, is there something that is bothering you"?
Draeden gave his best assuring smile and posture and replied "Well, I'm just tired after such a long day. Perhaps a sleep will cure it".
Even though she had trained Draeden extremely well to not show his emotions, a student can never hide from the teacher. Not only that, the maternal side of Vaella has given her something akin to cognitive abilities to sense her nephew-son's troubles.
Besides, Vaella knew exactly what Draeden's problem was.
So she decided to say nothing but instead crossed her arms together and gave Draeden a 'Is it truly now'? look.
Draeden tried to hold Vaella's prying gaze. In the end the guilty son can never cheat the worried mother. Draeden averted his eyes while lowering his head to the side and clenched his jaws to signal his defeat.
Vaella then leaned forward and grabbed Draeden's hand to comfort the young dragonlord. She then asked Draeden softly. "You're worried aren't you"?
Draeden wanted to deny his aunt-mother that he was worried. But he realised Vaella had already known what was troubling him. As no child's thoughts can escape an attentive parent.
So Draeden admitted and nodded his head.
Vaella tightened her comforting grip on Draeden's hand while her face was soft to comfort him as she asked "You are feeling uncertain about the future. Aren't you?"
Draeden looked sheepish for a second and answered. "Forgive me, Mama Vae. I am...worried. I know as a leader I can't be uncertain... but I feel so lost. Forgive me if I disappoint you".
Vaella reached for Draeden's cheek and lifted his head with both her hands so that their eyes meet. She gave him a kind smile and spoke. "Oh, my sweet boy. All will be well. Do not fuss over what will or will not happen".
But Draeden once again averted his eyes and replied. "But ALL is not well! How can I not fuss? I once had a goal when we still had family! And now that goal has been cast into the fires alongside our family! And now... I am a lord with thousands of lives on my shoulders, can it be more uncertain"!?
Vaella once again tilted Draeden's head so that they are again looking each other in the eye. And Vaella then said. "Nothing in life is ever certain Draeden. It has been proven time and time again. Yes! you have great responsibilities, and yes, We have lost many of our family. But no matter what has happened, we must keep on moving FORWARD no matter what. If not for us then for the fallen loved ones. Besides Draeden, we still have each other."
Draeden understood his aunt-mother's philosophy, but he didn't know what to do next other than try to make good of every opportunity he has. But he is glad to know that he is not alone.
Draeden then replied to Vaella "I will but... I just don't know how".
Vaella stood up and hugged Draeden as she reassured him. "You will know what to do when the time comes. You are trained for this. Sometimes fate will come knocking on your door, instead of the other way around".
Draeden was skeptical, but he trusted his aunt-mother. He returned her hug in his seat and said "I just hope that I won't disappoint you or father or mother".
Vaella pulled out of the hug and instead cupped Draeden's cheek while looking him straight in the eye as she replied confidently. "We are already proud of you, Draeden."
Draeden nodded while looking straight into Vaella's eyes.
Vaella kissed Draeden's forehead and said "My son, the day when you find your purpose, dream or goal, is when you become unstoppable ".
Draeden nodded to Vaella when they finally separated from their embrace. As if on cue the servants entered the dining hall holding trays of food for Draeden and Vaella's supper.
It was a whirlwind of clanking cutleries and plates as the servant's footsteps echoed in the great hall. Soon enough the 10 meter long and 2 meter wide main table was entirely covered with food that can feed an entire street.
Garlic roasted chicken, honey glazed sausages and pork, roasted mutton covered in exotic spices to enhance its flavours, beef pan fried with spiced butter, and of course a traditional Valyrian noodle dish drenched in a sauce made with eggs, hard cheese, cured pork and black pepper. There is also one of Draeden's favourite Valyrian dishes, a round, flat pastry that is topped with tomato sauce, cheese, anchovies and ham.
And these are just the foods they can reach out to. There are many other dishes that are out of their reach. Draeden thought that this is really a waste of food. "Perhaps we can deliver the leftovers to the poor in the city, because we can't possibly finish this". Draeden suggested to Vaella as he gestured towards the large table of food.
Vaella nodded as she took some of the chicken and noodles. After settling the food in her plate she replied, "That is a sound suggestion. The people will love you more for it".
Draeden returned the nod and took some chopped mutton and the round-flat pastry. As he was about to dig in, he realised that there is something he needed to discuss with Vaella. So he spoke "And ah, mama Vae, about my titles..."
Vaella looked up from her plate as she also realised about the title problem. So she put down her fork and knife and gave her advice to Draeden "Well, it's clear that they are addressing you as a feudal lord."
Draeden nodded his head and replied. "Yes, the governing system used by Westeros".
Vaella returned her nod and said "Perhaps the influence of the west is heavy."
Draeden then suggested "We will need to know why, The Stepstones are in the middle of both of the continents, we must figure out why the scale leans toward the west".
Vaella agreed and suggested "We should ask the council about it then".
Draeden nodded his head and said. "We can then decide what kind of system we will utilize".
Vaella bowed in her seat and said genuinely and seriously "As you say, My Lord".
Draeden nodded but inside he is cringing.
As Draeden's mother figure, Vaella knows what Draeden is thinking and asks mirthfully "Still not used to being called my lord"?
Draeden smiled and replied "I am, but I WILL get used to it".
Vaella smiled and said with utmost certainty "I know you will, Drae, you were born to lead".
Draeden smiled back and said "Thank you for your confidence in me, mama Vae. We should probably go back to eating and rest after. We will have a great journey ahead of us".
Vaella smiled and tucked into her meal.
Little did Vaella know that the cogs in Draeden's mind were turning to figure out how to further improve the already rich Stepstones.
The next day, Draeden woke up from his four postered bed as the sun was just starting to rise. His nude form slips from under the covers to make his way to the wardrobe. Draeden has always had a habit of sleeping naked, well... except during a war camp.
Draeden changed into a borrowed leather surcoat to get ready for his morning routine. He made his way down the large spiralling stairways of the main keep to the entrance of the main keep.
After he was out of the entrance, Draeden made his way through the beautiful courtyard to the training grounds to spar.
Many of the castle guards who aren't on duty were already there to train. The guardsmen were well trained and disciplined, Draeden noticed.
He was brought out of his thoughts by Ser Eustace who bowed to Draeden. Seeing their liege lord is here, the guards bowed as well.
After Ser Eustace stood straight he asked Draeden in High Valyrian " Are you here to train My Lord"?
Draeden nodded and replied "Indeed Ser Eustace. I do not wish to have my sword arms spoiled."
Ser Eustace raised an eyebrow at the word 'Sword arms' He wondered if his liege lord had mispronounced or did he really know how to dual wield.
Ser Eustace wisely didn't raise his question. Instead, he said "Very well my lord, I shall arrange a sparring companion then".
Draeden nodded and watched as Ser Eustace picked a random guard out of the line of guards.
Draeden knew what Ser Eustace was doing, he wanted to test where Draeden's skills were to not hurt him, or even maybe find out where to teach him.
Draeden made his way to the blunted steel weapon rack and took a blunted falchion and a blunted longsword in each hand.
Draeden twirled his weapons in his hands to test the weapon's weight as he stalked towards the guard that is armed with a shield and longsword.
Ser Eustace watched as Lord Draeden approached the Guard. Lord Draeden crouched and moved slowly towards his adversary while twirling his swords in both his hands.
The twirls are a hypnotic movement, as if trying to draw people into the movements... The guard Draeden was fighting certainly had his eyes fixed on the twirling swords.
That is when Ser Eustace had figured out what his Lord was doing. Lord Draeden moved slow and low, to lower his opponent's guard. His hypnotizing sword twirls to further distract his opponent.
Ser Eustace then noticed that the guard was already in Lord Draeden's striking range.
The guard barely had enough time to block the first attack delivered by Lord Draeden's longsword. The guard wasn't as lucky at Lord Draeden's next swift attack as the guard's left side of his shoulder was slashed by Lord Draeden's falchion that the dragonlord wielded in his right hand.
The guard is extremely sure that if Lord Draeden used live steel, the dragonlord would've hacked straight from his shoulders into his own heart as Lord Draeden's attack was not only swift, it was also powerful at the same time.
Ser Eustace did not expect Lord Draeden to dispatch a man so quickly. He immediately sent another guard to face Lord Draeden as to give the young dragonlord some challenge.
But said Dragonlord had dispatched the second guard quickly, like it wasn't even a match for him.
So Ser Eustace sent more guards, one after the other to give Lord Draeden some sort of challenge. But apparently there was none. As Lord Draeden had defeated all the well-trained guards Ser Eustace had sent.
Ser Eustace had decided to test Lord Draeden's skill himself. He took an ironwood shield and a blunted spear that can give him an advantage of range.
Ser Eustace crouched and slowly stepped closer to Lord Draeden.
Draeden crouched down as well and twirled his blunted swords to distract Ser Eustace.
But Ser Eustace was not one to fall for these tricks as he had seen how the previous guards were defeated.
Seeing his trick will not work on Ser Eustace, Draeden decided to use another trick to try and approach Ser Eustace.
Eustace knows that he can't let Lord Draeden and his dual blades get into the shorter striking range or else he with the spear that has a longer striking range will be in trouble.
So Eustace decided to be on the defence and behind his spear's distance to keep his lord's dual sword at bay. He decided that he will only strike when necessary .
Draeden knew what Ser Eustace was up to. So he decided to enact his plan.
Ser Eustace thought he was prepared, he was crouched, shield covered his body, blunted spear pointing at his opponent but he definitely did not expect that Lord Draeden would throw his blunted falchion at him.
The falchion spun in the air as it sailed towards Ser Eustace with speed.
Ser Eustace blocked the flying falchion with his shield, causing his focus on his opponent to shift.
When Eustace was busy blocking the strike, Draeden charged forward to deliver his attack with his blunted longsword.
Ser Eustace had barely deflected the longsword's thrust with his spear's pole as Draeden's attack was swift
Eustace soon realised that he is endangered as he can't use his spear well in such a short range against Lord Draeden's shorter Longsword.
The battle was now in Draeden's favour as he swiftly delivered his thrusts and slashes with his longsword in an advantageous position.
Eustace was using all the skills in his book to defend himself with his shield and spear's ironwood pole.
Eustace knew that he was already at a disadvantage when he had stepped into the ground. Even though Ser Eustace was tall, he is not as tall as Lord Draeden. Nor was he bigger, wider or stronger.
No, upon testing his liege lord's skill, Ser Eustace found out that Lord Draeden is as swift as lightning and as powerful as a booming thunder.
Now that he was also unable to utilize his weapon to its full potential, Eustace knew that he would likely lose this sparring match.
And he was right. Lord Draeden had fully utilized his height and strength and speed to overpower Eustace.
Draeden deflected Ser Eustace's spear and crashed his body against Ser Eustace's shield. Ser Eustace fell onto the ground upon the shattering impact and lost his shield in the process.
Before Eustace can even react, Lord Draeden already had the blunted tip of his longsword held against his throat.
Lord Draeden then demanded "Yield".
Ser Eustace nodded his head and replied "I yield".
Draeden smiled and pulled Eustace up to his feet.
Vaella entered the training grounds at that moment and immediately captured the eyes of the male occupants in the training ground.
Vaella wore a black leather surcoat that is similar to Draeden's. The outfit clung tightly to her body, revealing her voluptuos and welltoned curves.
Vaella walked towards Draeden and Ser Eustace who had just stood up. Ser Eustace was immediately struck by Vaella's beauty as did other men in that training ground.
She stood beside Draeden, and asked Draeden. "You have trained"?
Draeden nodded his head and answered. "I have, but you are here later than usual".
Vaella waved her hand and said. "I need a good rest, we have an important day ahead of us after all".
Draeden nodded and said "And said important day starts with a spar I presume".
Vaella nodded and went to grab a blunted longsword on the rack.
The hours passed with Vaella and Draeden knocking every single one of their training partners to the ground.
Every man on the training ground was astonished at how skilled and swift Vaella actually was. Despite being a woman she had taken down even larger opponents with her speed and agility.
After their routine training, Vaella and Draeden went to one of the smaller dining halls instead of the main hall they had used last night to break their fast.
Servants and maids brought eggs, bacon and milk bread into the dining hall as their first meal of the day.
Vaella can see the maids blushing at the sight of a sweaty Draeden that looked extremely 'appealing'.
She can also hear them giggling after they have left the dining hall.
Vaella paid them no mind and instead asked Draeden "The council meeting today, have you planned for it"?
Draeden looked up from his meal and answered. "I have, mama Vae".
Vaella nodded and didn't pry any further.
After they had finished their food, they went to change their outfit and headed to the council chambers where the meeting will be held.
Draeden and Vaella were the first to arrive at the council chambers as they not only wanted to give a good impression but to also assert dominance at the same time.
Draeden observed the coucil chamber, it might as well be called a hall as it was large and spacious.
Four Large Dragon stone columns are located on each side of the large chamber. All eight of the large and black dragon stone columns were covered with intimidating dragon carvings.
The floor of the hall is made with rare marble infused with gold and dragon stone. The infusion process was made happen with Valyrian arcane.
The council hall's source of light didn't only come from the torches and windows of the hall. There are also sunroofs above them. The glass of the sunroofs were hardened with Valyrian magic and constructed to coordinate the brightness of the hall.
Finally, Draeden moved his gaze to the large council table that sits in the middle of the hall. The rectangular table is exactly the same table Draeden had remembered the last time he had been here with his family .
The four legs of the table are made with Valyrian Steel and carved into the shape of dragon limbs. The table itself that the legs are holding is made of Weirwood while its edges along the side of the rectangular Weirwood are made of dragon stone.
The chairs around the table are also made with Weirwood and Ebony wood. But the lord's chair at the head seat of the table is made of Dragonbone. The large dragonbone chair is charred black by the magical flames of the Fourteen Flames. Gold detailing is decorated on the chair to signify power and dominance.
There are only three Fourteen Flames' Blessed Dragonbone seats left in the known world. One in this council hall, one in the lord's private study and the third is still waiting to be used in the vaults beneath the castle.
Speaking about the treasures, Draeden finally remembered the treasures they had brought from The Fourteen Towers. Draeden's heart dropped for a second until he remembered that the treasures are guarded by the dragons as the items are placed on their back.
But they still have to place them in the Family blood vault beneath the Castle to ensure the treasure's safety.
So Draeden told Vaella. "We will have to place the Dragon Eggs and the scrolls in the blood vault, Mama Vae. I forgot about it".
Vaella, who had already planned everything out wasn't worried. She then replied to Draeden "The Treasures are on dragon back and guarded by them, they are in safe hands until we have time to place them properly".
Draeden nodded in relief. As he would've thrown himself to his own blade if he lost what his parents had entrusted him.
He will also need to find a good quality urn to place his parent's ashes.
Draeden and Vaella waited in the council chamber for some time until the council members started to arrive.
The Keeper of Knowledge, Colliff is the first to enter the council hall, Keeper Colliff is dressed in a robe of purple that symbolizes his status of High Keeper, the head of the knowledge Keepers.
Zanda, the Head of Healers entered next, she wore traditional white robes of healers. The healers have no other colours to show their status as the healers are an extremely humble bunch
Taelan Rexagon, the Grand Commander of the Stepstone's standing army is the third to enter the hall. He is dressed in a black and red tunic and breeches.
The Steward of the Stepstones, Tobas Hill entered the halls last. Draeden can see that the steward is panting hard. Tobas' hands were sunk by a large pile of books.
Draeden bid them all to sit at the council table so that they can proceed with the meeting.
The council chairs scraped against the floors as they moved the chairs to sit.
Draeden waited until everyone was settled down before speaking.
After Tobas Hill's breath has recovered a little, Draeden spoke in High Valyrian "First order of my rule, I want information".
The members in the council chamber except for Vaella and Draeden looked at each other with a puzzled expression.
But before they can ask, Draeden added. "I want information, numbers to be exact, I want to know how many inhabitants, coins, soldiers, merchants, fishermen there are in the Stepstones. I want a census of the Stepstones to be done."
The High Keeper, Colliff nodded his head and answered "Of course, it will be done, my lord. I will send the Keepers of Knowledge to collect the information. But, if one wishes to know the land, one must stand on it instead of reading numbers".
The other council members nodded their heads as well as Draeden.
Draeden then replied "You speak true high keeper, that is why I wish to tour the islands of the Stepstones after important businesses are settled".
The councillors nodded their heads once more.
Draeden continued "And, I want the records of the traitor Woodwell's coffers. I want to know how much he has taken".
Tobas replied to Draeden that "It will not be easy, My Lord. Even after we have found out how much they have taken, we still need to track where the coins have been located."
Draeden sighed and answered. "I want to know the whereabouts of the coins after I have returned from my tour then".
Taelan Rexagon then spoke "My Lord, there is the matter of the Volantenes".
Draeden wondered what the Volantenes are up to. They had been a part of the Valyrian Freehold before the DOOM. Draeden wonders what had happened after that.
Draeden nodded his head and let Taelan continue. "My Lord, the Volantenes have become bolder and bolder each year. We believe that one day, the Volantenes will set their eyes on The Stepstones after they have taken Tyrosh and Pentos".
Draeden widened his eyes at that. He has a LOT of questions in his mind at that moment.
So he decided to raise his questions. "The Volantenes? Why would they attack Tyrosh or us"?
The council members looked at each other with confusion. But The Head of The Healers, Zanda still replied "Do you not know? My Lord, Volantis claims to be New Valyria after the DOOM".
Draeden has confusion written on his face. New Valyria?? He knew Valyria was dead, but NEW Valyria!?
High Keeper Colliff saw Draeden's confusion and explained. "Volantis claims to be the legacy of Old Valyria and rightful rulers of the world. They have taken Myr and Lys during this century after the DOOM of Valyria. The Maesters and the Keepers have called this century the Century of BLOOD".
Draeden is even more confused now. Both in his mind and emotionally.
This time Vaella asked. "The Century Of Blood"?
Tobas explained this time. "For the past 90 years after the DOOM of Valyria, Volantis laid claim to the three daughters and waged war, the Dothraki rode out from the east, raping and pillaging as they went. Several realms were destroyed in the process and there is more, My Lord".
Draeden gritted his teeth at the term 'Dothraki'. The Freehold had been defending against those horse-riding rapist pillagers for years. Now that the Freehold has fallen, those savages have decided to raid on their whims.
And about the Volantenes...
Draeden then said with his eyebrows tight"The Stepstones are also a legacy of Valyria, they lay CLAIM to MY lands then".
The Council slowly nodded their heads.
Draeden then demanded. "I want the census done. I want the armies to start to train in more rigorous drills. I want maintenance and improvement on the defences and fortifications to be done. AND, I want to know EVERYTHING that has happened this past 90 years. "
Taelan and Tobas immediately answered at the intensity of their lord. "It will be done, my Lord".
The High Keeper Colliff then said "The Maintenance will be done My Lord. And I will hand out the book that recorded all the happenings that had happened in the Century of Blood to you as soon as possible."
Draeden nodded and raised another of his questions. "And my title. I suppose you all refer me as a feudal Lord. The tiltles of the west".
Zanda nodded her head and answered. "Indeed my lord, and we have a good reason. The systems and titles used after the DOOM in Essos are... weak. Even the feudal lords have more power. So we decided to name you, the PROPHESIED one a feudal lord, as they wield more influence and power".
Draeden nodded his head in understanding and said. "The discussion about the governing system will be discussed in depth in the future the. Now, I have another question".
Draeden and Vaella had another important question to be answered, so Vaella asked "What is this prophecy?"
The councillors looked at each other before Taelan answered. "A day before the news of the DOOM arrived, the ships that carried the Draeterys riches also brought forth a prophecy. It says that one day, the rightful ruler of the Stepstones accompanied by his aunt that has Draeterys blood in their veins will reclaim the Stepstones and bring us to greatness. And now, he has returned."
All the council members looked at Draeden with hopeful eyes, they seem to believe that he will deliver them to glory.
Draeden is not so sure but said nothing and continued the meeting.
The meeting continued on for another few hours before it was adjourned for the day.
Draeden and Vaella then made their way towards the harbour of the castle after the meeting had been concluded.
The harbour is big, three dozen war galleys can fit inside the Valyrian dragon-stone walls of the harbour. The walls have dozens of Valyrian towers that have trebuchets and other engines to defend the harbour. The entrance towards the harbour is narrow. Only one large war galley can fit through the entrance at a time.
The entrance is flanked by two Valyrian Towers made by Dragon-stone as well. A large, thick and strong Valyrian steel made chain hung between the Valyrian towers that are built into the waters. The chain is there to keep unfriendly ships out of the harbour.
Deep inside the harbour is the military cothon of the castle. The large cothon is circular, a dozen war galleys can fit inside the cothon. The waters inside the cothon can be drained through holes built in the Dragon stone made cothon walls.
There is a raised circular structure inside the cothon to observe the surrounding waters. A Valyrian Steel Chain protects the entrance of the cothon. Half a dozen Valyrian Drum towers with defensive engines protect the cothon walls, making it impenetrable.
Draeden and Vaella stood on the large harbour instead of the cothon. They will need a large space to do what they need to do next.
Vaella and Draeden mentally summoned their dragons to the harbour, they will now move the treasures into the blood vaults of Bloodstone today.
The sky is already pink and purple with dusk by the time the large dragons arrive. Everyone in the harbour except for Draeden and Vaella ducked at the impact of the large dragons.
The ground shook with large thuds as the five dragons landed on the harbour grounds.
Vaella and Draeden went forward and patted their large dragons. The dragons enjoy their rider's touch with closed eyes.
Draeden and Vaella then summoned some servants to carry the treasures after they had unloaded them from their dragon's back.
But before the servants start carrying the scrolls and dragon eggs, Draeden and Vaella ask the two dozen servants to line up.
Draeden and Vaella then bit their own fingers until blood was seen.
The servants are all confused about what their lord and lady are doing.
Draeden and Vaella then cited "By right of blood, may these servants stay true. Or let their hands suffer"! in High Valyrian before smearing their blood on the servant's hands one by one.
Little did the servants know that this is a Valyrian Blood Ritual that prevents the servants from stealing from their masters.
If the servants even have the thought of stealing things from their masters, their hands will start to throb with excruciating pain.
But for now, no servant seems to have the thought to steal from some well-covered chests.
The servants followed Draeden and Vaella deep into the bowels of the castle where the blood vault of Bloodstone is situated.
The way down is dim, only lit by their torches. After some time, they reached the doors of the vault. The vault door is big, but not as big as the Fourteen Tower's vault doors.
Draeden and Vaella ask the servants to leave the chests in front of the door instead of taking them in because Draeden and Vaella fear that the servants will have the thought of greed when they are in the vault.
Draeden pressed his bloodied fingers on the vault doors as the Valyrian steel doors only opened to the blood of House Draeterys.
The vault doors let out a series of clicks and crunches before it opened to reveal its contents.
Draeden and Vaella let out a large sigh of relief to see the treasures of House Draeterys that was shipped here by Marion and Aella to still be there.
Bars of gold and rubies the size of a ball littered the vault. Emeralds and diamonds mined from the fourteen flames cover the pile of gold and platinum.
But these aren't the most precious items in the vault.
Valyrian steel armour and weapons of their ancestors were also in the vault. Full Valyrian steel plate armours to Valyrian steel swords. Magical gems mined from the fourteen flames were all there.
And there are also the 10 remaining Valyrian steel Dragon ARMOUR that were worn by the dragons during the Ghiscari wars when they had to fight harpies.
One of three remaining black Dragonbone chairs were in the vault as well. But this is a magnificent throne. The seat for the head of house Draeterys. But currently, it is covered by a cloth of red.
Draeden and Vaella moved the scrolls and dragon eggs into the vault together.
After they were done, Draeden and Vaella went back up to the castle for their supper.
Draeden and Vaella are having supper in a smaller dining hall for tonight.
They are having smoked duck, honeyed pork and braised leek for supper.
Like yesterday, Draeden sat on the main seat while Vaella sat on his right.
After they had finished, Vaella questioned. "What do you plan to do after reading the census"?
Draeden sat back in his high back chair and replied. "I am now Lord of the Stepstones, I must know my land and waters. Besides, I must make improvements on the Stepstones based on the census after I have read it".
Vaella nodded her head in approval as this is what she had taught Draeden when he was younger.
Draeden then continued "The census is not enough, mama Vae. I need to get to know the lands, MY LANDS by myself. So I must tour this land."
Vaella nodded in agreement and asked "On dragon back"?
Draeden nodded his head with a knowing smile.
Vaella chuckled and said "Ah yes, our dragons, the greatest show of force to the mayors of the other islands."
Draeden returned the chuckle while pouring a Lyseni sweet red wine to Vaella and said "And I need you to rule in my stead when I'm gone touring".
Vaella nodded and replied "Of course My Lord, I will do my best".
Draeden chuckled and said "I know, mama Vae, you are always at your best, but please call me like you always do when we're in private".
Vaella smiled and replied "Of course, my son".
Draeden stood up from his chair and went to stand by the roaring hearth. The flames are alive, its tendrils devouring the firewood in the fireplace.
Draeden stared into the flames for a while.
Draeden then turned around and stared Vaella in the eye while saying "Well then, shall we begin".
I am really sorry about publishing this late. Short semesters are assholes ya know. And shit has been going down. So I once again apologize for the delay.
I really need some name recommendations on the army and the city watch, please don't give them names that are too modern.
:Perhaps in the future I will write a fic about the freehold.
:Thanks for the compliment, it took me a lot of time to think of the name. I'm sorry if I didn't clarify it in the story, Aella cast a age and body freezing spell on the Vault Draeden and Vaella were in. So their bodies won't age or be affected. Their bodies have waited 90 years but Draeden and Vaella didn't notice because of the freezing spell they were in. They had only known that 90 years have passed when they were in Volantis to purchase supplies.
: Knowledge of building with dragon stone and forging Valyrian blades are quite common in Valyria, but knowledge about deeper magic is rare. So that makes house Draeterys one of the most powerful. And about Aenar, it was all a misunderstanding because Aenar would've handed the dragonhorn back before they headed for Dragonstone....
:I know it's kinda sad about Marion and Aaella. And as for Alaynna... I can't spoil anything about the future. Thank you for the compliment man. I really wanted to make it to look like a disaster movie.
:Again, I can't answer all your questions without spoiling the story. Vaella will have an important role in the future, that's for sure. And as for Aegon's conquest... well, IF it will happen (no spoilers). And about conquering the Stepstones... It's almost impossible to take a single island, the reasons I will explain later. And as for Dorne... You will see.
:Nah, I think the standing army's and the city watch's name to be a bit too modern. Any more suggestions anyone?
:No the towers of the Fourteen Towers aren't connected because as I've said in the previous chapters l, the main family and their facilities are in the main tower. The other branch families live in the other towers. The halls and meeting grounds are not in the towers. The towers are living spaces for the large Draeterys family. Don't worry about Naelia's contribution. That's all I can say without spoiling the story.
:And as for polygamy, in this fic the reason it is uncommon because wives and husbands are expensive (both in body and money) to be honest. (lol). And the Valyrians have to consider the fact that the children born by different mothers or fathers may fight each other for power. Vaella, Aella and Marion's situation is special because they trust and love each other very much. REMEMBER, this is a political fic, not a harem porn. Only the horny and stupid ones will marry more than one considering the harms. (except for the unique ones like Marion, Aella and Vaella)
:I know I know, I'm not exactly a professional writer ya know. I'm still learning, and I apologize if you guys can't understand my writing. If you guys can point out my problems then it will be great.
:I can't spoil anything. Sowy
I really want to thank all of your compliments and support, it means a lot to this amateur writer. I really hope the story won't disappoint you later.