Bound by Blood and Oaths

Chapter 34: Trying To Be Helpful

Meereen ~ Small Council meeting

"A Stark bastard came to us. She claims Eddard Stark is dead. War rages across Westeros. Five kings clash with each other. Why haven't we heard anything about this?" Jaehaerys asks with a stern strict voice.

His gaze goes over his advisors, mainly those of Westerosi origin. He expected them to hear something about Westeros. Weren't they the ones with inside knowledge and contacts? Jaehaerys is disappointed in them. Still, he needs them. At the very least he wants to hear the reason.

"Information about Westeros is not easy to come by. Reliable information at the very least," Barristan says with a sigh.

"I agree with Ser Barristan. I have my ears and eyes open, but we are no spymasters, Your Grace. We're knights to fight in battles, not someone who hears whispers and rumors," Jorah says in agreement, his gaze and head lower like a constant expression of submission. He held a similar body language ever since Jaehaerys knew of his past. It was worse in the beginning, but still, it is quite visible when you look for it.

"A war is not a rumor, Ser Jorah. An entire continent is at war with each other and you did not hear of it?" Daenerys asked with a raised eyebrow, "Forgive me, but that I find hard to believe."

"It depends, Your Grace. War is a tricky and strange thing. Some wars spread like wildfire while others don't. There are countless wars happening all across the world where people stab other people. Why would one war suddenly be so special? If I was in Meereen I would worry more about the wars around me than far away," Missandei adds to the conversation, her hands clasped together as she sat at the table.

"We now know what's happening there. I do expect better results next time. Well, a war among five kings. And one of them is reaching out to us. Robb Stark. Jeyne said he wants the independence of the North. In turn for our help, he'll help us in taking the throne," Jaehaerys says to the council.

His voice held an uncertainty to it. He was split between what to choose. The help of Robb Stark could be a boost he needs to take the throne, but leaving Slaver's Bay now and wasting all the effort they put into freeing the slaves? He doesn't want that and neither does Daenerys.

"This is a good time to invade," Ser Barristan says, "They fight a war of destruction most likely. Tywin is ruthless in his approach and will not back down. Many would welcome you if you present yourself in the right way."

"They will not flock to him just because he lands on the shore. Each house will flock to whatever side will gain them the most. Like they have done for centuries," Jorah chimes in as his voice was slightly raised.

"Enough, there's no need for this discussion. We won't invade Westeros," Daenerys says, her voice strong and authoritative. Each man round the table looked at her with some level of surprise at the sudden declaration. Perhaps because did not expect it from her.

"Forgive me, princess, but only the King may decide such matters," Barristan points out, his voice even a bit hesitant to say it.

"She holds as much power as me, Ser Barristan," Jaehaerys says with a stern, almost angry voice. He never liked anyone slighting the respect or power Daenerys holds. "Daenerys is not yet married to me because we wish to marry in Westeros. However, she is still the queen. We won't go to Westeros at this time. There is much to do here in Slaver's Bay. I won't leave my campaign to free the people because Westeros is ripe for the taking."

Barristan lowers his head, "Forgive me, I meant no disrespect, Your Grace. I will remember from this day onward."

"Good. This meeting is over. Sers, make sure to learn as much as you can about Westeros. I want to know what's happening there. Understood?" Both men nod as they gave a bow before heading out of the council room.