The Moat was abuzz with activity as word spread quickly of Arianne's labour. The grand castle, usually a fortress of calm and silence, became alive with the hurried footsteps of servants and guards.
Making my way through the castle's winding corridors, I encountered Marwyn, his usually composed demeanour slightly ruffled. "Lord Palestars," he greeted me, his voice tinged with concern. "Lady Arianne is in the birthing chambers.
"Very well," I replied, quickening my pace.
We reached the birthing chamber, and the heavy wooden door creaked open to reveal a scene of controlled chaos. Arianne lay on a large bed, her face flushed with pain and exertion. A few midwives worked diligently, their hands moving with practised precision.
Arianne's eyes met mine as I entered, and she managed a weak smile despite the apparent agony she was enduring. "Antares," she whispered, her voice strained.
"I'm here," I said, moving to her side. "You're doing well, Arianne. Just a little longer."
"I am scared; it hurts so much, w-what if I don't make it?" Her voice trembled, revealing a vulnerability that she seldom showed. We live in a time when childbirth could easily be as deathly as a battlefield, especially for someone birthing two children.
I took her hand in mine, squeezing it gently. "The Stranger himself could come through those doors, my love, and he would leave this chamber empty-handed." My words seemed to give her a semblance of strength, and her grip tightened around my hand.
I give her hand a kiss and move to the corner of the room where a bowl with hot water is located. I start to wash my hands. I am the most capable doctor here; it will be a cold day in hell if I do not help in the birth of my own children.
Marwyn moved to my side, his gaze serious. "She's strong, Antares. But the children...it may be a difficult birth."
"Aye, but between our expertise in the healing arts and my magic, the chance of death drops to almost nothing," I reassured him, though my own heart pounded with worry. I have all this... this power at my hands, and I know more about healing than most; she won't die. She can't die.
Marwyn nodded, his eyes flicking over to Arianne with a mixture of concern and determination. "We'll need to be prepared for anything," he murmured,
The midwives worked tirelessly, offering encouragement and instructions to Arianne as they monitored her progress.
The room was filled with the scent of lavender and rosemary, intended to soothe and comfort.
Arianne's cries of pain echoed through the chamber. The midwives, experienced and calm, continued their efforts to guide her through the ordeal. Sweat beaded on Arianne's forehead; her breathing laboured as she pushed with all her strength.
I approached the bed once more, my hands now clean and ready to assist. The flickering candlelight cast long shadows on the walls, adding to the grim atmosphere.
Fuck that; I cast Dancing Lights, bathing the room in a soft golden glow, not too intense to not bother Arianne.
"How is she progressing?" I asked one of the midwives, a stern woman with silver-streaked hair and a no-nonsense demeanour.
"The first child is in position, but it's going to be a fight," she replied, her eyes never leaving Arianne. "We'll need to be careful to avoid complications."
I nodded, my mind racing through the various techniques and spells I could use to ensure a safe delivery. I knew some methods, though only a few. As for spells, I had only Mass Cure Wounds and Spare the Dying; when it came to dealing with pain, I found my magic sorely lacking.
"Arianne, you're doing wonderfully," I said, my voice steady. "Just a bit more, my love."
Every time it seemed that the pain was too much, I cast Cure Wounds. It did not do much, but it provided a slight relief from the pain for her.
Arianne's cries grew louder, her strength wavering as the hours dragged on.
"She's nearly there," one of the midwives announced, her voice a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil.
I positioned myself at the end of the bed, ready to assist with the delivery. Arianne's efforts brought the child closer to the world with each contraction.
"Push, Arianne," I urged gently, my hands ready to catch our child. "You're almost there."
With a final, agonised scream, Arianne gave one last push. The first child's head showed, and I guided the tiny, fragile form into my hands. A moment later, the baby let out a wail, a sound that seemed to echo through the chamber.
"A girl," I announced, my voice choked with emotion. "Arianne, we have a daughter."
Arianne's exhausted face lit up with a mixture of relief and joy. "Our daughter," she whispered, tears streaming down her cheeks.
I handed the baby to one of the midwives, who quickly cleaned and wrapped him in a warm blanket. However, there was no time to rest as the second child was still to be born.
Arianne's strength was waning, her body trembling with exhaustion. I cast Cure Wounds again, hoping to give her the energy she needed for the final effort. "You can do it, Arianne," I murmured, pressing a kiss to her damp forehead. "Just a little more."
With a nod, she gathered what strength she had left, her determination shining through her pain. The second child's birth was even more complex than the first, the minutes stretching into an eternity.
Finally, after what felt like an endless struggle, the second child emerged into the world. Another girl, her cry weaker than her sister's but just as vital. "A girl," I said, my heart swelling with pride and love. "Arianne, we have a pair of girls!"
The midwives quickly attended to the newborn, ensuring she was healthy and warm. I turned back to Arianne, who lay back against the pillows, utterly spent.
"We did it," she whispered, her eyes closing as sleep claimed her.
I watched her for a moment, and I chuckled.
"No, my love," I said softly. "You did it; I just told you to push."
She rolled her tired eyes and gave a weak smile.
As the midwives cleaned up the aftermath of the birth, Marwyn approached me, his expression one of cautious optimism. "They both seem healthy," he said.
I nodded, relief washing over me. "Thank you, Marwyn,"
With the birth successfully behind us, a sense of weary triumph settled over the room. The midwives bustled about, attending to Arianne and the newborns with practised efficiency.
Marwyn and I stood silently by Arianne's bedside, watching over her as she slept, her face serene in the soft glow of candlelight. The weight of the past hours seemed to lift from her shoulders, leaving behind only the quiet calm of exhaustion.
"She's strong," Marwyn remarked quietly, "She's been through much, yet she endures."
"I brought her here knowing I didn't love her. Considering she was carrying my children, it felt more like a duty than anything else. Marrying her didn't really matter to me - it's just something every noble has to do, and she had her advantages. Marrying a princess of Dorne would benefit me. Lust also played a part in it. But, unexpectedly, I think I might be developing feelings for her. Isn't that strange?"
Marwyn nodded, his gaze thoughtful. "Love can often catch us by surprise, Lord Palestars. It isn't a science. Sometimes, it takes facing challenges to fully understand the depth of our emotions, and after all, she is the mother of your children."
I glanced down at Arianne, her face relaxed in sleep and felt a surge of protectiveness wash over me. "Perhaps you're right," I murmured. "Regardless of how it came to be, I cannot imagine raising my children without her by my side."
Speaking of the children, two midwives came to me with small bundles of blankets. The first to be born had a little bit of red hair, pale skin like mine, and bright green eyes. She's still fussing and trashing around. The second had black hair, a darker shade of skin, and my bright green eyes as well. This little one was quieter, grabbing at my fingers with all the strength a baby can have.
I take the oldest, my heir, into my arms. "Andromeda, that is her name, the name of a leader." I give her a soft kiss on her forehead.
I also take my second daughter into my arms: "Bellatrix, a strong name, a warrior name." I kiss her as well.
I am a man with a decent amount of pride, not too much, but enough, but nothing I have ever done compares to the amount of pride and love I feel looking at these tiny humans in my arms. Gods damn, fatherhood is making me sappy.
... A day later...
Seems like some of the servants blabbed about the birth because now there's a big celebration happening in town. People are going all out, toasting the sorcerer's heirs with their drinks and hanging banners and flags with the white owl everywhere you look. It's like every home has got a pole with at least a small flag. I can't help but wonder where all this cloth came from.
"The party has been going on for a day now. People have been drinking and dancing in the streets. It kind of reminds me of Carnaval from my homeland but without the public urination, robberies, and fights. Actually, forget about it.
Children ran through the cobblestone streets, their laughter echoing in the night air. Lanterns hung from every doorway, casting a warm glow over the bustling scene. Songs filled the streets as well.
What a weird feeling and situation! People being so joyful and happy about the birth of my children is weird. It is different. I was a man of the modern world. I would never imagine an entire city celebrating with such intensity anything I ever did, let alone the birth of my children. It feels nice, I guess.
Haella joined me as I observed the city from the balcony at some distance, her expression unreadable in the dim light. "It's quite the spectacle," she remarked.
"Aye," I agreed, taking in the scene below. "It's... unexpected."
We stood together in silence for a moment, taking in the sight of the city. The lanterns cast a warm glow over the scene, illuminating the faces of the people as they danced and sang.
"You will be there for me as well, right?" she put a hand over her pregnant belly.
"I am insulted that this was a serious question, Haella. Of course, I will be."
She smiled softly, her eyes reflecting the flickering light of the lanterns below. "Thank you, Antares. That means more to me than you know."
"Come, let's go to bed," I said, offering her my arm. Together, we retreated from the balcony, leaving behind the lively celebration of the city below as we made our way through the quiet halls of the castle.
Haella and I made our way back to our chambers. Inside, we found Arianne resting in the bed. The relationship between Arianne and Haella grew while I was in Essos, not only stronger but more intimate as well. After all, they had the bed and each other to warm it when I was not around. It is quite the show they can put on.
The sight of Arianne resting peacefully brought a sense of tranquillity to the room. She stirred slightly as we entered, her eyes fluttering open.
"Welcome back, you two," she murmured, her voice soft with exhaustion. She gave us both a peck on the lips while we lay on the bed, and she lay between us.
Arianne snuggled closer as we settled in beside her, seeking warmth and comfort. Haella draped an arm over her, pulling her close, and I wrapped my arms around them both,
Arianne smiled sleepily, her eyes fluttering closed. "I love you both," she whispered, her words barely audible.
"We love you too," Haella whispered back, her voice filled with warmth and affection.
Haella then turned to me and asked.
"So, are you going to explain what happened to your eyes and your hand? I liked that hand... And why is there a snake around your neck?"
...
"I apologise, my Lord. Do you want orphans?" Marwyn stopped writing down what I was saying.
"Yes, we also need more raw metal or just straight metal and animals. Rabbits are ideal since they are a problem for our crops, a lot of them. We will also be building a new compound for the production of Greek fire, we will need more oil, and we will need more men. I have a special unit in mind. We will be training them here in the castle."
"I understand... if the raw metal is what you need... maybe the Iron Islands, since the war, they have needed some way to make coin. Thought their ability to provide anything at the moment is questionable since you took away their thralls."
"I don't need the Iron born, just their mines. We do have a friend in the islands, don't we, Lady Tanley? Is she still alive?"
Marwyn paused, his quill hovering over the parchment. "Lady Tanley is indeed alive, though her position has grown more precarious. Her control over the island, which she is now solely noble of, is tenuous at best, given the chaos that reigns in the Iron Islands since your intervention."
I leaned back in my chair, considering our options. "We need to secure those mines. Send word to Lady Tanley. Offer her a mutually beneficial arrangement: protection given by my Navy and army and support in exchange for exclusive rights to the mines on her island and anywhere else she can offer."
"Understood, my lord," Marwyn replied, dipping his quill into the inkwell and making a note. "And the orphans?"
"Yes, the orphans," I said, my mind drifting to the many children that will live there thanks to the future wars.
"We need to establish orphanages. These children will learn, and contribute. Begin the construction immediately and allocate resources for their care and education, I will give you full control of the construction of the orphanages."
Marwyn nodded, his expression thoughtful. "orphanages... it will require substantial resources, but it can be done. The Greek fire compound will also need to be well-secured. The production is volatile; we cannot afford any accidents."
I agreed, knowing the risks involved with it: "The compound will be the same as the first, high walls, and no one is allowed inside under the penalty of death."
"About the oil, there is not much to be done besides ask house Martell to intensify their trade with us." I nod, that is why we need a hold in Essos there I might find more oil, and stop being dependent on Doran to produce Greek fire.
"Now, my lord, about your marriage." Marwyn started.
"What about it?"
"Well, the news of your children is now in the wind, and you are not a married man, so technically speaking, they are bastards in the eyes of the lords of the realm."
As Marwyn's words settled in the room, I felt a surge of frustration. However, he is right. My daughters are considered illegitimate until I marry Arianne. I could simply disregard it and proceed with the marriage on my own terms. Yet, this indifference would expose my children and Arianne to mockery and disdain.
"Send word to any lord that matters in all the 7 kingdoms that I will be marrying Princess Arianne Martell in two moons. Send the invitation to House Martell first, specifically to Oberyn and his family." I smile. That should be fun.
I know that Doran will come anyway; after all, he is the bride's father. But not asking his permission or inviting him specifically will be a nice slap in the face and will make clear what I think about his actions concerning my children.
Marwyn nodded, his quill scratching quickly over the parchment to record my instructions. "Very well, my Lord. I will see to it immediately if I may suggest the Harvest feast to announce the northern nobles."
"Huh, when is it?"
"In three weeks, I assume you will be attending."
"Aye, I will,"
"I shall marry Haella in the future as well, a smaller cerimony, more intimate." I say as an afterthought.
Marwyn frowned a bit."You can't have two wives, my Lord."
"Says who?" I raised an eyebrow at him. He better not mention the Seven that are one to me.
He pauses for a moment to carefully consider his words. "I might have not expressed myself as I intended. I do not recommend having two wives, as it could potentially impact your prestige and standing, particularly within the northern nobles."
"Pff, right. Marwyn, after this harvest feast, I will have the northern nobles literally eating from my hand; forget the Riverlands and the Reach; their grain will come from the Moat. When we take our holds in Essos, I shall also have luxuries like spices and ink, sugar, silks and more, and I shall produce and sell them as I see fit." I point at the disputed lands on the map of Essos on the wall.
"The resilient and resolute nobles of the North display a simple and practical way of life, driven by circumstance rather than preference, look at the Manderly's." I look at him with a smile on my face.
"Soon, they will all have access to the same comforts as any Southern lord, but at a more economical cost."
"As they gather around their tables, savouring the finest cuisine and utilising the most exquisite spices, safeguarded by the northern steel at their sides and clothed in the comforting warmth of wool made in Essos, with their peasants fed and happy singing my songs to our gods, all courtesy of MY provision, At that point, their opinions will matter not, and it won't take long for that to happen. None of my children will ever be labeled as a bastard," I confidently declare.
Marwyn bows his head. "Just so, my lord, I shall take care of the messages now." He gets up and leaves.
I rose from my chair, moving to the window to gaze out over the bustling courtyard below. The castle was still alive with the energy of the recent births and the ongoing celebrations in the town. Banners fluttered in the breeze, and the distant sounds of music and laughter reached my ears. In 3 weeks, I will be in a festival with most of the northern nobility; in 2 months, I will be married. In 4, I will have another child, and by the end of this year, I will have a war to fight and another marriage perhaps... How exciting.
...
"Hear me, hear me, people of the Moat! Your Lord has news for you!" A town crier's voice echoed through the bustling marketplace, drawing the attention of the townsfolk. He held a parchment aloft, the sun casting a golden glow on the ink.
The crowd gathered quickly, curious about the announcements from their Lord. Faces young and old turned toward the crier, their conversations hushed in anticipation.
"By order of Lord Antares Palestars, master of the Moat, I bring joyous tidings! Lady Arianne has given birth to two healthy daughters for our Lord! Andromeda Palestars and Bellatrix Palestars, rejoice, people of the Moat, your future ladies are here!"
A cheer erupted from the crowd, and the news of the births was met with enthusiastic applause and joyous shouts. The names of the newborns were repeated, weaving their way through the assembled townspeople. Some questions about the mother: Lord Palestar was not married, and Arianne was not the name of a northern lady.
"And there is more!" The crier's voice rose above the clamour. "In two moons' time, a grand wedding shall take place. Lord Antares Palestars will wed Princess Arianne Martell of Dorne, solidifying their union and the future of the Moat!"
The crowd was abuzz with excitement at the prospect of a magnificent wedding and celebration, sparking animated discussions and plans. Some jests were made about Lord Palestars being too hasty, stabbing his enemies in their castles before they were prepared for battle and "stabbing" his wife in his castle before she became his wife.
Some frowned and showed disapproval of having children before marriage. Others had a problem with the Lord, being a foreigner, marrying another foreigner. It would surely be best if he had a northern wife. They were a minority, of course, since, for the most part, they were all thralls from all parts of Westeros.
"But that is not all, good people!" The crier continued, his voice strong and commanding. "Lord Antares has decreed the establishment of orphanages for the orphans of the Greyjoy rebellion! All children in need shall have a place to learn, grow, and contribute to our great land. Our Lord will allocate resources to ensure their care and education, securing a bright future for all."
The townspeople murmured in approval, nodding at their Lord's wisdom and generosity. The creation of orphanages was seen as benevolent and forward-thinking.
"And finally," the crier paused for dramatic effect, "Lord Antares calls upon able-bodied men to join his household for the trade of war. A good salary awaits those enlisting and joining his elite forces. Opportunities abound for those willing to serve and protect our land."
The announcement was met with a mix of reactions, some eager for the chance to improve their fortunes, others cautious of why their Lord was expanding his already considerable fighting force. Yet, the promise of good pay and a place in the Lord's household was a powerful draw.
As the crier concluded his announcements, the crowd dispersed, animated by the news and the possibilities it brought. The marketplace buzzed with renewed energy, the day's business taking on an undercurrent of excitement.
...
"I'm home!" A little girl in black clothes bursts through the door. "Hey there, little one," her mother says, bending down to give her a kiss on the forehead. "Your pa and brother are out back and wanna talk to you."
The young girl, her black hair in a neat braid, trots through the familiar halls of their humble home.
Her black uniform is as tidy as it should be. She reaches the back door and peeks through the crack, seeing her father and brother hunched over a table in the garden.
"Pa, Roderick," she calls out, pushing the door open. The two men look up from their work, smiles spreading across their faces.
"Ah, there she be," her father, a burly man with a beard that's seen better days, greets warmly. "How was yer day, little crow?"
"It was good, Papa," she replies, skipping over to them. "I heard the town crier. Is it true, 'bout Lord Antares' new daughters and the weddin'?"
Roderick, her older brother, ruffles her hair playfully.
"Aye, it's true. Andromeda and Bellatrix Palestars, the future ladies of the Moat. And a grand weddin' to boot. The whole town's buzzin' 'bout it."
Their pa nods, his expression more serious now. "There's more than just the weddin', though. Lord Antares is callin' for men to join his household, promisin' good pay and a future."
"That's what we need yer help with; we know you've been learnin' yer letters at the Halls," her brother says, handing her a wooden tablet. "Could you read these to us?"
The girl takes the tablet and looks at it.
"err-By order of our Lord Antares Palestars, a new band of soldiers will be formed, an el-eli.-elite force, boasting of arms and training of the highest kind! This new unit will stand as the vanguard of our forces; the Grenadiers shall be a separated entity from cavalry, infantry, and the Navy.
Those interested in becoming part of such a force shall know that their service will be highly valued and rewarded and their skills honed to perfection. Opportunities for ad-mancement and rewards are abundant for those who demonstrate exceptional prowess and loyalty." She looks at her brother and dad.
Roderick nods, and she continues to read the tablet.
"All candidates are to present themselves at the Moat, where they will be tested for their skills and aptitudes. Those selected will receive training in the arts of war, including but not limited to advanced combat techniques, strategy, and leadership. The Grenadiers will be tasked with protecting our Lord's interests and ensuring the safety and security of our lands and people."
The girl looks at the wooden tablet with amazement. "Father, Roderick, this sounds amazing! I want to join the Grenadiers!"
Roderick chuckles and ruffles her hair." Not yet, little crow. But who knows? One day, you might command armies yourself." He winks playfully.
Their father nods. "For now, focus on your learnin'. Your letters matter, especially if you wanna be more than just a soldier—maybe a scholar."
The girl beams with encouragement. "I will, Papa! I'll keep learnin', so I can read everythin' for you."
Her father smiles proudly. "That's my girl. Now, go help your mother with dinner. We'll join you soon."
"So, Grenadiers, huh? What a strange name. Lord Palestars could call 'em knights and be done with it."
"Our lord don't do things easy or hard; he does 'em his way, that's it," the old man says with a shrug, lookin' at his son.
"You plan to join?"
"Soldierin' pays best 'round here at the Moat. Kevir joined the Navy, sailin' all over Essos, killin' pirates and earnin' double what I do."
"I won't tell you how to live. You're a man now, but be cautious."
"I will, father," Roderick nods, squeezin' his father's shoulder. "But this might be our best shot at securin' our family's future, bein' part of the lord's household, and ladies do love a man in armour."
His father shakes his head, smilin'. "Sure thing, your grace. Pass me the hammer, will ya?"
...POV: Daenerys...
I was happy, quite happy, for the first time since I remember I am in my home. Well, not quite my home; that was Dragonstone. But I was in Westeros, and it was incredible! My brother was wrong about the North; it was not a wasteland covered in snow and full of barbarians. No, it was... magical.
I fell in love with the Moat, the peaceful atmosphere, the paintings and statues, the trees, and the people. There was so much beauty and so much fun.
The castle grounds were bustling with activity, the recent festivities still echoing in the air. I marvelled at the intricate paintings and sculptures—some even waved to me!
"Lady Alisa!" A boy dressed in a black doublet approached me. "Lord Palestars wishes to speak with you, and he awaits you in his office."
"Oh, thank you," I nodded to the boy, who gave me a goofy smile and then left.
I made my way through the winding corridors of the castle, my heart light with excitement. Each step echoed softly against the stone floors, the sound mingling with the distant hum of voices and the clatter of servants going about their duties.
I arrive at the front of Antares's office. As usual, his white owl is perched on top of the door. I stretch my hand to knock on the door.
"You may enter," came a deep voice from within, and the door opened by itself. As I stepped forward, the heavy wooden door creaked and closed behind me.
The room was dimly lit, the only light sources being the flickering candles, the light coming from the balcony through the closed curtains and the ethereal ice-blue glow from the ring on Antares' table. There were writings in the ring but in a language, I did not know. The scent of aged paper and ink filled the air, mixed with a faint, metallic smell of blood. "Daenerys," he greeted me with a small smile.
I give him a courtesy. "Thank you for seeing me, Lord Palestars," I replied, my voice tinged with curiosity. "I understand you wished to speak with me."
"Yes, indeed," he said, gesturing for me to sit in the chair opposite him. "I wanted to discuss some matters with you" He looked directly at me with his blind eyes.
Marwyn had told me that magic could be a dangerous and demanding mistress if slighted and that magic had demanded Antares eyes and hand for a deeper understanding of itself. I hoped I wouldn't have to make such a sacrifice as well.
"Well, first, I have a gift for you," he said, nodding toward the glowing ring on his table. Curiosity piqued, I leaned forward to inspect the ring more closely.
The light it emitted was almost hypnotic, and the runes etched into its surface seemed to shift and dance before my eyes. Despite not knowing the language, I could feel the power emanating from it, a thrumming pulse that resonated deep within me. "It's beautiful," I breathed, my fingers itching to touch it. "What does it do?"
"It let you conjure a companion. Just like Starchaser," He says, and the owl flies inside the room and perches in his tall chair, proudly puffing her feathers.
"It summons owls?" He smiled, shaking his head
"It doesn't have to be an owl; Marwyn got himself a raven, Arianne a snake and Haella a cat," Antares replied, his voice a low murmur filled with the weight of ancient knowledge.
"The ring binds a familiar to you, a creature that shares a unique bond with your soul. You may hear and see through the creature's eyes and make it disappear if you want to." Wow, that sounds incredible!
"But be warned, this bond is not without its risks. You can be very vulnerable while in the creature's mind."
I couldn't help but feel a thrill of excitement. "How do I use it?"
He chuckles. "You are still training hard with the glass candle?"
I nod with enthusiasm. "Yes, I can see all the way to the White Knife now!" I say proudly; he looks really impressed!
"Oh, wow. I am proud of you, Daenerys. That is a huge leap." He smiles and rubs my head, and a warm feeling of happiness fills me.
He cleared his throat. "Well, back to the ring. Just like the candle, you need to concentrate and form a connection to it, but different from the candle, the connection is more permanent, so to say."
I took a deep breath, my fingers twitching in anticipation as I reached for the glowing ring. The warmth it emanated was both soothing and exhilarating.
As I lifted it from the table, I could feel its weight, not just physically but also the gravity of its power and its responsibility; I saw how much mother jewels were worth when we had to sell some of them; this is not only gold but magic as well, it must be priceless, for Antares to give me such a gift is... it makes me really happy.
"Thank you, Lord Palestars," I said, my voice trembling slightly and eyes watering a bit. "I will treasure this gift and use it wisely."
Antares nodded, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "I have no doubt you will, Daenerys. Now, remember to focus your mind, just as you do with the glass candle. Let your thoughts merge with the ring."
"May I?" I Point at the couches on the large balcony.
"Feel free to use the space."
A smile spread through my face. "Thank Antares—sorry, Lord Palestars!" I felt heat go to my cheeks.
He chuckled softly. "It's quite alright, my dear. You may call me Antares if you want to. Go ahead."
I walked to the balcony, the cool breeze from outside mingling with the warmth of the ring in my hand; the sun was high in the sky. Sitting down on one of the couches, I held the ring up to the light, watching the runes dance and shimmer.
I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, focusing my thoughts as I had been taught with the glass candle.
The world around me faded, replaced by a swirling vortex of colours and light. I felt a pull, like a thread tugging at my very soul, and I let myself be drawn into it.
I felt the connection with the ring like a part of my on own body; I could visualise the circle now, the circle I needed to call the familiar.
When I opened my eyes, the sun had already set. The sky was painted in hues of deep blue, and the first stars began to twinkle in the vast expanse above.
The ring in my hand continued to glow softly, its runes shimmering with a gentle light that seemed to pulse in time with my heartbeat.
I peek back in the room; this time, Antares was with both Marwyn and Ser Boric.
"Boric, you will be responsible for their training. The grenadiers will receive the best of the best, so I hope you can make them as deadly as possible."
"I understand your intentions, my Lord, but not fully. I still must gaze upon your new weapon to fully grasp your intentions with this new group." Boric, he scratches his beard.
"You will get a demonstration, Borric. Marwyn, How about the production?"
"I already contacted several local pot makers; they will start making the... Granedes? They have been paid as you requested; after the clay pots are done, they will be shipped to the Greek fire compounds and filled."
"I believe that is all for now, Boric. You are dismissed." Boric bows and leaves.
"Daenerys, are you done?" I hear Antares' voice; I blush a bit, getting caught eavesdropping
"I'm sorry, Lord Palestars," I said, stepping back into the room. "I didn't mean to overhear."
Antares waved a hand dismissively. "It's quite alright, Daenerys. I trust you with much more than a simple conversation." He gestured towards a table at the corner. "Come, let us see your progress."
The circle I saw in my vision was already drawn on the table, and there were meats and herbs around.
"Think about the creature you wish to call and then pull it forward to our world,in the parchment are the animals you may summon, make a offering to the creature to entice it to come" Marwyn instructed pointing at the meats and herbs and the parchment, I took a look at the parchment and was just a bit dissapointed that I could not summon a dragon.
"Do you have an animal in mind?" Antares asked.
I smiled and nodded, my heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and nerves. "Yes, I do."
I took a deep breath, focusing my thoughts on the image in my mind. I wanted a white owl, just like Antares' Starchaser. The creature's elegance and beauty resonated with me, and I hoped it would please Antares, too.
The air around the table grew thick with energy, the symbols glowing brighter. A gentle hum filled the room, growing louder as the magic intensified. I kept my focus, pulling the image from my mind into the physical world.
When I opened my eyes, the circle glowed with a brilliant light. In the centre of the circle stood a magnificent white owl.
Its feathers were pristine, almost glowing in the candlelight, and its eyes were a deep, intelligent yellow. It looked at me, tilting its head slightly, and I felt an immediate connection.
The room was silent, the air charged with the aftermath of the summoning. Antares and Marwyn watched, their expressions unreadable for a moment. Then, Antares' lips curled into a smile, and Marwyn nodded approvingly.
"Well done, Daenerys," Antares said, his voice filled with pride. "You have summoned a beautiful familiar, and I can't argue with your taste in your animal companion."
"She is flawless," Marwyn said, his tone gentle. "What will you name her?"
I thought for a moment, feeling the connection between us grow stronger. "Tyraxes," I said finally; the name felt right; I hope she and Balerion will get along well.
...
As I walked through the bustling streets of the Moat, I felt a mix of wonder and nervousness. The Owlguards trailed behind me, watching as hawks everyone; Tyraxes flew overhead, her sharp eyes scanning the crowd below.
The town was alive with activity, the marketplace filled with vibrant colours, exotic scents, and the lively chatter of merchants and townsfolk.
I watched children playing in the square, their laughter mingling with the sounds of vendors calling out their wares.
Approaching a stall that displayed a variety of fresh fruits, I smiled at the elderly woman behind the counter.
"May I have one of those apples, please?" I asked, pointing to a particularly ripe one.
The vendor, her eyes crinkling with warmth, glanced at the Owlguards and then back at me. She smiled and handed me the apple, refusing the coins I offered. "For ye, m'lady, it's a gift."
Blushing, I murmured my thanks and took a bite. The apple was crisp and sweet, the taste bringing a smile to my face.
I continued my exploration of the market, taking in the sights and sounds around me.
As I walked away, I overheard a woman whispering to the elderly vendor. "Who was that little girl?"
The vendor's voice carried a note of pride. "Red hair and a pack of them high 'n mighty Owlguards with her? A white owl following her? Who else but one of the Lord's own kin, o'course!"
I feel my cheeks heating up a little, but don't correct them.