Chapter 66: The Unseen Gem and the Northern March
The months of relentless preparation had taken their toll on Maegor, yet also honed him to a sharper edge. The administrative work with Hand Aegon Duskryn was ceaseless, the military drills under Lord-Commanders Blackwood and Mormont unforgiving. But even a king driven by ambition and ancient prophecy needed respite. And for Maegor, that often came in the quiet intimacy of Malora Celtigar's chambers. She was fierce, intelligent, and her body a comforting warmth against the cold ambition that burned within him. Her presence was a reminder of the future he was building, a new bloodline for his enduring dynasty.
One night, after an intense session with Malora, Maegor lay resting in his chambers, the soft lamplight painting shadows on the walls. His mind, though physically sated, was already drifting back to the chessboard of his duchy. His thoughts turned to the 500 men in training in Noronos, whom Lord-Commander Jorah Mormont was molding. These men, raw recruits from Mogho County, were to be the backbone of the Northern Qehes Army. They were destined for more than just common infantry. He had access to Qehesese Heavy Infantry – a Major Unit.
He recalled his visit to the slave markets in Naeros, months ago, where his Valyrian Insight (Tier 3) had subtly guided him to certain individuals. Among them was a man named Kaelan. Kaelan, a man in his late twenties, had carried himself with a quiet dignity even in chains. His broad shoulders and stoic gaze spoke of a past life of discipline, perhaps a former sworn shield from the Disputed Lands, captured in one of its endless, petty wars. Maegor had sensed an innate understanding of formation, a stubborn endurance, and a deep, unshakeable loyalty that would blossom under the right command. He had bought Kaelan, among others, and sent him to Myrosh, to be trained among his new subjects.
It was time to give Kaelan his due.
Maegor sent a messenger to summon Jorah Mormont to his solar immediately. When Jorah arrived, Maegor wasted no time. "Lord-Commander Jorah. The 500 men you are currently training here in Noronos. They will no longer be mere spearmen. They will be transformed into Qehesese Heavy Spear and Shield Infantry. They will be our elite infantry, heavier, more disciplined, and capable of holding any line against any foe."
Jorah's eyes gleamed with professional appreciation. A major unit. This was a significant upgrade.
"And they will have a commander worthy of them," Maegor continued. "A man I personally selected from the slave markets in Drasaho. His name is Kaelan. He is to be given immediate command of these 500 men. I expect you to integrate him fully, Lord-Commander. He will prove invaluable."
Jorah, though surprised by the unconventional appointment, simply bowed. "As you command, my King. If you chose him, he will be worthy. The Qehesese Heavy Infantry will be forged."
Maegor allowed himself a moment of quiet satisfaction. Another piece in place. His armies were not just growing in number, but in quality and specialization.
Just as this thought settled, a new, powerful chime resonated in his mind, followed by the System's familiar, authoritative voice.
[ New Quest: ]
Objective: Conquer the Duchy of Daarno
Lead the Northern Qehes Army to conquer the Duchy of Daarno (Qapys, Sweetpale, Aenoris Counties).Neutralize Magister Ghazaro and Magister Peyos Freyna.Integrate Daarno into your growing kingdom.
Reward:
Ability Upgrade: Martial Prowess (Uncommon) - Enhanced personal combat effectiveness, particularly with heavy weapons and and in close-quarters fighting.System Rank: Dual Seat Duke4 Rare Game of Chance Cards (plus 4% chance to get non-common items)1 Legendary Game of Chance Card! (plus 8% chance to get non-common items)Reputation Gain: +1500 (The Conqueror of the North Myr) - Total Reputation: 5600
Maegor's eyes glittered. Daarno. The next expansion. Six months of preparation had been granted, and now, the quest to take it. He had known it was coming, but the formal quest notification, with its promise of Martial Prowess (Uncommon) – enhancing his own combat effectiveness – and the terrifying rank of Dual Seat Duke, ignited a fierce anticipation within him. Four Rare Cards and a Legendary Card. And a colossal boost to his Reputation as "The Conqueror of the North Myr."
He was rested. His armies were being forged. His commanders were in place. Balerion was a living mountain. Blackfyre hummed at his hip. The Duchy of Daarno was about to learn the true meaning of the Dragon's wrath.