Damian continued, "Do you know how many girls are abducted by the Ironborn on a regular basis? How many wives, daughters, lovers, and sisters are taken against their will by those squids to make them their thralls? They force them, make them bear their children, and work the men in the mine until they die without ever seeing the light. But unlike you two, the brothers, fathers, and husbands of those women have no power to bring them back."
Robert was shaken hearing that. He was likely recalling how he felt when Lyanna was kidnapped. Eddard looked at Damian intently, eager to understand what his brother intended to do by bringing their sister into this.
"You can maybe stop them for a decade or two by taking away their military might, that is, their ships, but they come back at it again, don't they? They always do. I want to put a permanent stop to their way of raiding," Damian said.
"Damian, I get what you are saying, but it's not practical right now. Many have tried to change the Ironborn in their way of living in the past, but none have been successful," Eddard said, probably referring to the Andals trying to convert Ironborn into following the Seven forcefully. But they were unsuccessful in that endeavour.
"Yeah, but you won't truly deter them by allowing Balon or any Ironborn to swear false fealty, Your Grace. They'll rebel and continue raiding the coast at the first opportunity," Damian remarked, adding, "I suggest not openly attempting to convert them to a new religion or alter their ways, as it's a challenging task from a distance. Instead, hire someone, smart and patient, for this job.
"And how would this person make the Ironborn abandon their ways?" Robert inquired.
"The key is demographic change!" Damian asserted, elaborating, "The Iron Isles are predominantly populated by Ironborn and Thralls, with the Thrall population about three times that of the Ironborn. If your initial condition for sparing Ironborn nobles is to free the Thralls and abolish that practice, then I believe at least half, if not most, would reluctantly accept the demand, given their defeated state."
"The second step involves entrusting the leadership of the entire Iron Isles to a capable individual. Have him marry Asha Greyjoy, who is already on the cusp of womanhood, to legitimize his rule over the Islands. As for Theon Greyjoy, send him to the Citadel to train as a Maester."
"The third step is to gradually introduce a mainland population and encourage them to settle on the Iron Isles, further diluting the Ironborn numbers. Fund significant projects on the Iron Isles that require a workforce, using the excuse of bringing in outsiders who will then establish permanent residence on the island. This approach not only initiates a demographic shift but also enhances the Iron Isles' economy, gradually steering people away from their traditional ways of raiding and pillaging. While there may be resistance, with a majority of the population not adhering to the Drowned God, such resistance is likely to be futile." Damian explained.
Certainly, it wasn't as straightforward as it sounded. Damian aimed to persuade Robert to initiate the process early. He wanted to avoid the use of force and minimize unnecessary killing in order to eradicate the worship of the Drowned God.
Damian concluded, "The last and the most important step in changing the future of the Iron Isles is to alter the minds of the young Ironborn children and guide them onto the right path."
"Whatever you decide, it will affect your and your successor's rule," Damian added at the end.
Robert sat there, appearing deep in thought for an extended period, while Eddard was also lost in contemplation. Both were genuinely considering Damian's idea, even though no one seemed entirely convinced at that moment. T
he challenge appeared nearly insurmountable, as challenges to religious beliefs often led to resistance and violence, involving both nobles and commoners.
Additionally, finding a capable person to undertake such a task and bring about cultural changes posed a significant question. Lastly, the cost involved in this ambitious undertaking would be immense.
Nevertheless, Eddard believed that investing in the future of the Westerosi coast was a better use of resources than squandering them on tournaments. Yet, the ultimate decision rested with Robert.
Finally, Robert gazed at his flask and emptied it into his mouth before expressing, "It seems like too much of a bother. I can't decide what to do right now anyway. Let's not concern ourselves with this for the moment. However, our little talk did convince me not to let the squids off too easily for rebelling against me and causing unnecessary destruction and harm to the inhabitants of the West Coast."
Ding!
[Hidden Objective achieved]
[Major Change in the Future of Iron Isle and Westeros]
[Note- There is a small chance that some gods might notice the future changing and they might investigate. You might attract their attention.]
[Choose one from the three Reward options for making a Major change in the fate of Iron Isle and Westeros]
Damian's elation at triggering a hidden objective was quickly overshadowed by the weight of uncertainty. The notification didn't specify if the change he caused was good or bad, and the prospect of divine repercussions loomed over him. The idea that the Gods might come after him for meddling with the future unsettled Damian.
However, King Robert didn't let him alone in his thoughts, as he steered the conversation towards lighter realms—the past. Stories of Robert's youth and his camaraderie with Ned unfolded in the deck. It was a strategic shift in topic, a respite from the weighty discussions about the Iron Isles' fate, providing a momentary escape into shared tales and laughter.
Damian couldn't give his full attention as his mind was, in fact, on the rewards.
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