Half a year had passed and I continued to have those dreams. It felt as if I was living another life. All I could think of was Visenya Targaryen. The Queen. Wielder of Dark Sister. I could see it as if I had the sword in front of my eyes. The Valerian Steel was unmatched. Intricately magnificent.
I could feel this council meeting was going to be different. When arriving, Nyra and myself wore matching white gowns with gold trim. Hers was more modest as mine had two slits over my thighs. It was a hot day and I needed something for the winds to whisper through. Only months ago did my father announce that I would now stand next to him instead of filling cups. As I did not have an official title I did not earn a seat or marble ball but needed to strictly listen. Nyra and myself shared sad glances before she looked away grabbing the pitcher of wine. I had not spoken much to her and I knew I needed to.
They discussed topics of finding a new knight for the Kingsguard which I found completely uninteresting. Ser Harrold spoke of inviting five fine candidates to choose from making me contain a hefty eye roll and I only hoped that father would not make me responsible for the choosing. I was the first to see the doors slam open and Lord Corlys stomping through.
"Four ships have now been lost. The last one was flying my banner." He tapped his fingers on the table. "The stepstones have now grown into a conflagration, yet you sit here and dither about court business."
Well this got interesting.
"If you've something to discuss, Lord Corlys-"
"I want to know what is to be done about my ships and my men."
"The Crown will compensate you for your ship and crew, and make an offering to the men's families." Otto informed him. My head jerked slightly back at the harshness of his words. It was clear he did not care for the knights that died for a cause that protects us.
"I don't want compensation. I want to seize the Stepstones by force and burn out this Crabfeeder." Anyone could see the anger building in his eyes.
"I am not prepared to start a war with the Free Cities." Viserys admitted.
"These pirates are not the Free Cities."
"Who do you think provides them with their ships and tender?"
"In all of its history, my lord, the seven Kingdoms have never entered open war with the Free Cities. Were that to happen, the losses would be incalculable." Lord Beesbury tried to reason but Lord Corlys took intimidating steps towards the man.
"What reason does the Crabfeeder have to fear us?" His voice was eerily low. "The King's own brother has been allowed to seize Dragonstone and fortify it with an army of his gold cloaks." I flashed a quick smile. "Daemon has squatted there for over half a year without even a protest from The Crown."
"I'll caution you, Lord Corlys, a seat at the King's table does not make you his equal." The Hightower man practically threatened. To me it was quite ironic.
"I have acted, Corlys. I've sent envoys to Pentos and Volantis to see if we might find common cause. Ships and men are at the ready. The Stepstones will be settled in time."
I understood my fathers need for peace. I had to admit that Lord Corlys was right. The King was expected to act in these situations or else others may do worse expecting to get by. I could not listen any longer.
"You have dragonriders, father." All sets of eyes then focused on me. Looking around I could see the mixed expressions twisting in annoyance or curiosity.
"I agree." My sister gave a nod and straightened her posture. "You should send us."
"It is not that simple."
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Valyria Targaryen (Daemon Targaryen ff)
FanfictionThe eldest daughter of King Viserys and Queen Aemma was an intriguing woman the minute she was born. She had many accomplishments from her age yet she felt so different. She felt as if her life was meant for something greater. Throughout the years t...
