𝐒𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐍 ( 𝐠𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬. )

chapter eight.

( ACT II; the age of the dragon. )
⟵ ◊ ⟶
chapter 8: an unexpected arrival.

A fortuitous situation seemingly fell into Vaegon's lap when he was otherwise cornered with few options. Upon discovering the 'powerful friends' that Yunkai had at their disposal, the king took heed of his advisors and sent a message to the small army known as the Second Sons.

The meeting with the captains of the sellsword army came pretty soon after Vaegon's message was dispatched, with their arrival coming just shy of the setting sun that evening. Within the receiving tent that Vaegon had grown weary of after many introductions to potential allies and enemies, servants laid out an assortment of wines and confectionery for the captains on small tables flanked by chairs that faced the platform.

Vaegon had dressed himself in a simple crimson tunic, his hair brushed back and covered in a paste to keep it in place. To further add to his grand display, Rhaellor and Haelyx perched dutifully at the top of his makeshift throne, where the king waited for the mercenaries to arrive so that they might discuss an alliance. He contemplated just how quickly receiving people would make him weary once he governed an entire realm. It seemed as though he was always in the receiving tent, presenting an often exhausting front.

Daenerys, at his side, hadn't spoken a word to him that day after their conversation the night before. She'd entered the tent quietly, garbed in a dress of emerald, her hair falling over her chest and her eyes lined with kohl. Vaegon had opted to pay no mind to her while they sat side by side, despite the lingering tension eating him alive inside.

The Second Sons began to file into the tent guarded by Unsullied, their gazes wandering as they looked around. Vaegon made sure to make special note of each of the men who took a seat before him, one's gaze seeming to linger at his side for a little longer than usual.

"We thank you for accepting our invitation," Vaegon said, looking at the man sitting before him. It is a pleasure to have you."

One of them, the sellsword, stood, stepping closer to the platform. The man standing before the king was rugged, with a bushy red beard and pale green eyes. A grin seemed permanently fixed on his lips, making Vaegon feel simultaneously weary and annoyed.

He bowed slightly and said, "I am Mero, 'the Titan's Bastard.' And this is Prendahl na Ghezn and his lieutenant, Daario Naaharis."

Vaegon bowed his head in acknowledgment to the other men as Mero turned to take a seat, where he picked up a cup of wine Missandei had just finished pouring. The Braavosi sellsword pulled Missandei into his lap, running his hands along her hip and thigh. A flare of anger rose in the king, but he stifled it.

"I have been informed of your contract with Yunkai," Vaegon stated, trying not to focus on the fact that the sellsword was violating Daenerys's companion. "And that makes things tricky for me as I continue on with my campaign. I want to offer you one with me. Help me liberate the cities of Slaver's Bay, and once I have taken the throne of Westeros, you will be compensated more for your efforts and loyalty to me."