The morning sun filtered through stained glass windows of the Volantis council chamber, casting fractured rainbows upon the polished stone floor. Kaerys stood at the head of the table, her crimson cloak trailing like a river of flame.
Around her, envoys from the Free Cities and noble houses took their seats—faces carefully composed, eyes sharp with calculation.
"This council is called to decide the future of Valyria's legacy," Kaerys began, voice resonant with authority. "The dragon's awakening signals a new dawn, but it also stirs old rivalries. We must unite—or be consumed by the flames of discord."
System Update — Master of Diplomacy
Level: 44 — Queen of Flame and Shadows
Experience: +4000 (Forged fragile alliances, negotiated treaties)
New Skill Unlocked:Silver Tongue — Enhances persuasion and manipulates emotions during negotiations.
Dragon Bond Level: 20/20 (Dragon's presence strengthens diplomacy)
Inventory Update:
Scroll of Binding Oaths (Magically enforces agreements)
Seal of the Dragonlord (Symbol of authority, commands respect)
A Web of Words
The debates were fierce. House Velaryon demanded greater shares of power, while the Merchant's Guild pressed for control of trade routes.
Kaerys listened carefully, her mind weaving threads of influence.
"Lady Mirana," Kaerys said, turning to her closest advisor, "prepare to present our terms. Let them understand the strength behind the dragon's flame."
As Mirana spoke with eloquence and subtle threats, Kaerys noted the flicker of hesitation in the eyes of the Merchant's Guild envoy.
A Whispered Warning
In the shadows beyond the chamber, Kaerys's spy network worked tirelessly. A sudden message arrived—an assassination plot targeting her closest allies during the council's conclusion.
Kaerys's eyes narrowed. "The game is far from over."
The Night Before War
That evening, as the city celebrated a tentative peace, Kaerys met privately with her dragon, Serenthis, atop the city's highest tower.
"The road ahead is treacherous," she murmured, feeling the dragon's heat seep into her bones. "But with you, no enemy can stand."
Serenthis rumbled low, wings casting vast shadows over the city below.
The fate of Valyria's heirs rested on the fragile balance of power, words, and flame.
End of Chapter 69