Chapter 41: The Seat of Power and the Completed County
The conquest of Dilora Town was swift and brutally efficient, a testament to the raw power Maegor now commanded. The remnants of Commander Balio's forces were either cut down or scattered into the wind, their will broken by the sight of Blackfyre and the unstoppable charge of the Blood Wyrms. The sun had barely set when Maegor, still mounted on his Sand Steed, rode through the main gates of Dilora Town, his armor stained with the dust and blood of battle, Balerion soaring majestically overhead.
Dilora Town, though larger and more prosperous than Myrosh, did not possess a traditional castle. Instead, it was dominated by the opulent Magister's Estate and Mansion, a sprawling complex of gilded palaces and manicured gardens that served as the local seat of power for Myr's absent ruler. Maegor made directly for it.
"This," Maegor declared, dismounting before the elaborate gates, "is our new seat." He strode inside, his Royal Guards and the Blood Wyrms fanning out, securing the perimeter. The remaining town guards, seeing the terrifying force that had crushed their protectors, offered no resistance. They simply dropped their weapons and knelt.
The town itself submitted with barely a whimper. The fear of the Dothraki, coupled with the awe inspired by Maegor, his dragon, and his elite Valyrian forces, left no room for defiance. By dawn, Dilora Town was firmly under the Dragon's banner.
Maegor immediately appointed a temporary Town Master from among the local, respected merchants – a man named Varkos, who quickly pledged his loyalty, eager to see stability restored. Varkos was tasked with overseeing the day-to-day activities, ensuring order, and preparing a full census.
As the sun rose higher, Maegor received the comprehensive report of the conquest, delivered by Ser Kaeto.
"My King," Kaeto began, unfurling a scroll, "the conquest of Dilora Barony is complete. The casualties on our side were negligible, a testament to the efficiency of the Blood Wyrms and the Dothraki. The enemy's main force under Commander Balio was utterly destroyed. Several hundred prisoners were taken, those who threw down their arms and surrendered. The rest were cut down by the Dothraki in the rout."
He then detailed the captured population and resources:
Dilora Town: The capital. Its population is estimated at 8,000 residents. It is a hub for fine crafts, textiles, and gem-cutting, being a prosperous trade center. It can provide approximately 600 men-at-arms for garrison duty or light infantry.5 Villages: Surrounding Dilora Town. Their combined population is roughly 2,000 residents, with about 150 men-at-arms available. They are primarily agricultural.1 Small Town: North of Dilora. Population around 1,000 residents, providing 80 men-at-arms. Known for its local market and small-scale mining.
"In total, my King," Kaeto summarized, "the Dilora Barony adds approximately 11,000 residents and 830 men-at-arms to your direct control."
Maegor absorbed the numbers, a grim satisfaction settling over him. He had completed his objective.
His direct civilian population now swelled considerably:
Myrosh Barony: 5,000 residents (Myrosh Town + 4 villages).Vyrodos Barony: 4,500 residents (3 villages + 1 large village).Paenerion Barony: 3,000 residents (2 villages + 1 big village).Dilora Barony: 11,000 residents (Dilora Town + 5 villages + 1 small town).Total Settled Civilian Population (under direct Myrosh administration):23,500 residents.
Added to this were the 60,000 Dothraki encamped around Myrosh, bringing his total de facto population under his command to 83,500 souls. It was no longer a nascent kingdom; it was a burgeoning power.
The System chimed, announcing the completion of his ambitious quest.
[ Mission Complete: County Control: Ergos ]
Objectives Fulfilled:
Bring the remaining baronies within Ergos County (Vyrodos, Paenerion, and Dilora) under direct Targaryen control. (✓)Integrate their resources and populations into the Myrosh administration. (✓)Eliminate any significant resistance from Magister Erando Drahar's remaining forces in the county. (✓)
Reward Granted:
5 Rare Game of Chance Cards (4% increased chance for higher rarity)An intelligence report about a specific dragonseed householdSystem Rank - CountA Hero Class will be summoned for you (same chance like the game of chance)
Maegor felt an immense surge of power. His System Rank now officially registered as Count. He now ruled an entire county. Five Rare Cards. An intelligence report on a dragonseed household – a promising lead for his deeper agenda. And the ultimate prize: a Hero Class unit. This was a monumental achievement, solidifying his control over a critical region of Essos.
The System, ever efficient, immediately presented him with his next challenge.
[ New Quest: ]
Objective: Establish County Governance
Formalize administration across Ergos County, appointing permanent governors for each barony (Vyrodos, Paenerion, Dilora).Integrate Dilora Town into the Myrosh administration, leveraging its unique resources and industries.Recruit and integrate new local forces (Myrosh Light Cavalry/Infantry) from the conquered baronies, expanding your standing army.
Reward:
Ability Upgrade: Royal Authority (Uncommon) - Enhanced ability to enforce laws, collect taxes, and maintain order across larger territories.Special Unit Access: Myrish Spearmen (Minor Unit - Requires Recruitment)Reputation Gain: +500 (The Unyielding Count)1 Legendary Game of Chance Card (plus 8% chance to get non-common items)
Maegor's eyes glittered. Royal Authority, Myrish Spearmen, and another Legendary Card. The momentum was building. He had established his County. Now, he would govern it with an iron fist, shaping it to his will. The Free City of Myr, and Magister Erando Drahar, would soon learn the true cost of their former dominion.