We Bleed Silver(GOT/ASOIAF Fanfic)

Chapter 28: Chapter 28: Negotiations



The fleet of the Vaelarys family sailed majestically past Lys, causing the city to sound alarm bells in fear. However, the fleet paid no attention to the city of indulgence, swiftly eliminating a pirate fleet that was still lingering near the port before turning northward, heading toward Pentos along the coastline.

The fastest five ships in the fleet, three-hundred-oar warships, were the first to depart. They carried 300 Silver Blood soldiers equipped with polearms, chain flails, and chainmail, along with 50 striped warhorses. Also aboard were Aslan Rondell, Hoffa, and Lynn Valtaken. These three close confidants of Draezell were accompanying him.

The negotiations were set to take place on a rugged coastline south of Pentos.

"Roar."

The sharp cry of a dragon echoed across the coast as the serpent-like Caraxes slowly crawled up the cliffs. Its massive dragon head gently nuzzled its master.

Nearby, the Red Queen lay in a feigned nap, enjoying Rhaenys ministrations as the old princess carefully cleaned the dragon's scales.

They had arrived ahead of time at the negotiation site.

"Daemon, what exactly are you thinking?" Rhaenys couldn't hold it in any longer and approached Daemon. "I looked at the terms Viserys gave — the honorary title of prince, the title of Governor of the Borderlands, land, and a marriage contract that might not be fulfilled for years. Perhaps they will accept it now, but what about later?"

Rhaenys looked into Daemon's eyes. "I don't believe you haven't thought about the future — whether Princess Rhaenyra can ascend the throne smoothly, whether the Targaryen heirs can suppress the Vaelarys heirs. They are also dragonlords. Silverwing will lay dragon eggs. We cannot completely prevent the Vaelarys heirs from acquiring dragons."

Daemon comforted her. "This is something for the next generation to consider. Rhaenys, while my brother still sits on the Iron Throne, my wife's right to inheritance is unquestioned. But once my brother is gone, and if Rhaenyra and I are not in King's Landing, I can't guarantee people will still support her crown as they do now. I need to prepare for that."

"I'm glad you've finally realized this," Rhaenys smiled. "The views of the world are shaped by worldly eyes. While the lords have all sworn fealty to Princess Rhaenyra, once things change, I fear that only Lady Jeyne of the Vale, who remains steadfast, and the Northern men who honor their oaths, will stand by the princess. But have you figured out how to win them over?"

"The princess's children are all good children," Daemon sighed. "I will persuade the families of the borderlands to accept them. Meanwhile, Prince Joffrey and Prince Lucerys will serve as their attendants until they come of age."

"Have they agreed?"

"This was young Joffrey's suggestion," Daemon looked toward the horizon.

Two dragons soared through the clouds, approaching swiftly. In the distance, the sails of ships were visible on the horizon.

"Was Vermithor that large before?" Rhaenys expression became serious. Daemon's face also tightened.

As if sensing the change in her master's mood, the Red Queen suddenly lifted her spiked head from the ground and let out a furious roar toward the sky.

Caraxes also extended its neck, roaring back in defiance.

In response, Vermithor let out a long, deep dragon's cry.

"Vermithor, land," Draezell commanded. He donned the "Dragonknight" armor but refrained from wearing the flashy helmet, his silver-blooded sword hanging at his waist, and his cloak bearing the Vaelarys family crest of the "Silver Dragon and Laurel Leaves."

The massive bronze dragon slowly descended onto the open ground, followed closely by Silverwing.

"Vermithor is definitely larger now than it was back on Dragonstone," Daemon remarked, recognizing the wild dragons that often appeared on Dragonstone. He immediately noticed the change. "Its bronze scales are shining much brighter, and its horns have thickened. Silverwing has also grown a lot." He also saw the two young boys dismounting from their dragon saddles, their armor and swords at their sides.

Even Prince Daemon was momentarily stunned before quickly regaining his composure.

"Welcome, cousins," Rhaenys said, opening her arms to greet them.

Draezell and Valar exchanged a glance, both bowing slightly.

"Draezell, it's been a long time," Daemon said, patting Dark Sister.

"Many years apart, cousin Daemon. You still look as handsome as ever," Draezell replied with a smile.

"We bring the proposal of the Iron Throne," Daemon said. "After learning of your decision to return to Westeros, King Viserys has some terms for you."

"I'm all ears," Draezell said with a smile, standing before Daemon. "I've brought back over a thousand ships, countless gold and silver, silks, spices, treasures, tens of thousands of able-bodied men and craftsmen, and 6,000 soldiers. I'll be responsible for feeding them all."

"Understood," Daemon nodded. "The Iron Throne will recognize the Vaelarys family's royal status, as Princess Saera is still a member of the royal family. They will formally grant you the title of 'Royal Prince,' and Valar and Rey will be given the titles of Prince or Lord.

Draezell remained silent, watching Daemon. Valar, noticing his brother's silence, also stayed quiet.

"The Iron Throne seeks a marriage alliance with the Vaelarys family. The two last dragonlord families should unite through blood," Daemon continued.

Draezell crossed his arms and nodded. This was the most straightforward way Westeros could accept their family.

"But as I understand it, there should be no daughters of marrying age in the Targaryen family," Draezell remarked.

"So, we are establishing a marriage pact for the next generation," Daemon added. "A daughter of House Targaryen will marry your descendants, or Prince Rey."

Draezell nodded. "I can understand the royal family's dilemma, but you still haven't answered my question."

"The royal family is sincere," Daemon said, opening his arms.

Rhaenys unfurled the map. "The royal family offers you the following lands: the royal domain 'Summerfield,' located on a fertile plateau at the northern foot of the Red Mountains, with a mild climate. The royal family has negotiated with the noble families of Dondarrio and Swann, and the Dondarrio family is willing to surrender the village of High Helm Hill and its lands to you, hoping that you will offer protection to them and defend against the attacks of House Wyl from Dorne. Additionally, the lands, populations, and resources of Balance Valley, Decision Frontier, Risk Borders, and Expansion Peak will also be granted to you as part of your domain."

Draezell stared at the map for a long time without speaking.

"To the south of the Red Mountains lies the stubborn lords of Dorne. The Iron Throne promises that all territories acquired by the Vaelarys family in Dorne will belong to you. Furthermore, the royal family will grant you the title of 'Governor of the Frontier,' and the lords of the frontier must accept your orders during wartime."

Draezell looked at Daemon, seemingly waiting to see what else he would say.

"To show sincerity, my stepson, Prince Jacaerys, volunteers to serve as your squire if you are willing to accept the Faith of the Seven," Daemon offered bluntly.

"Daemon cousin, the Dragonlords have never worshiped the gods, even if they truly exist," Draezell replied. "But if necessary, we will show respect to any deity."

Daemon nodded. "My stepson, Prince Lucerys, will soon complete his studies in Highgarden and serve as Prince Valar's squire. My son, Prince Aegon, will also serve as Prince Rey's squire when he turns eight."

He smiled. "The royal family welcomes the return of allies and kin."

Draezell narrowed his eyes.

Valar, on the other hand, looked completely confused.


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