Chapter 72: The Rhoynish Subjugation and the Waters of Aenoris
The silence in the courtyard of the Freyna Estate was absolute, broken only by the gentle lapping of water from a nearby fountain. Magister Peyos Freyna, caught between the terrifying reality of two living dragons and the cold, unyielding will of Maegor Targaryen, understood his position. He was a diplomat, a scholar, a man who navigated the treacherous currents of politics, but he was no fool. Resistance meant the utter annihilation of his people, their towns reduced to ash, their lives forfeit.
He took a deep, shuddering breath, then bowed low, his silk robes rustling against the stone. "My King," Peyos stammered, his voice still trembling, but imbued with a new, profound solemnity, "your words are sharp, but they also bring truth. The rule of Myr has been… a heavy burden. We, the Rhoynish of Aenoris, have long yearned for a just and honorable protector."
He dropped fully to his knees, his head bowed in absolute submission. "I, Peyos Freyna, and all of Aenoris County, submit wholly to you, Maegor Targaryen, King and Duke of Qehes. We swear fealty. Our lives, our lands, our resources, our people – all are yours. Do not bring the Dragon's fire upon Aenoris, and we shall serve you with unwavering loyalty."
Maegor allowed a cold, satisfied smile. This was precisely the outcome he had sought. A bloodless victory, secured through intimidation and a shrewd understanding of local grievances, exactly as Aerion Lightstep's report had suggested.
"Rise, Count Peyos," Maegor commanded, his voice now devoid of threat, filled instead with the resonant authority of a king. "You have made the wisest choice. Your fealty is accepted. Aenoris will prosper under the Dragon's protection. Your position as Count will be hereditary, a new noble line under my crown."
Peyos Freyna rose, his face pale but a flicker of relief and a dawning, calculating hope in his eyes. He had lost his nominal independence, but gained security and an elevated, hereditary title under a king who wielded power beyond imagination.
"Now, Count Peyos," Maegor continued, getting straight to business, "provide me with a full census of Aenoris County. Your population, your men-at-arms, your resources, your specialties. I require every detail to integrate Aenoris into my Duchy."
Peyos, eager to prove his newfound loyalty and competence, immediately began to report, his scholarly mind already categorizing the data:
"My King," Peyos began, "Aenoris County, including Faeniros Town and its surrounding baronies (Omoris, Anerassar, Helanah, Eranerah), boasts a total population of approximately 22,000 souls. We are a peaceful people, but resilient."
"Of those," Peyos continued, "our men-at-arms number roughly 1,500. They are not heavily armored warriors like the Myrish or the Dothraki, My King. They are primarily light infantry, skilled with spears, javelins, and bows, accustomed to skirmishing in our river valleys and forested regions. They are loyal to their local lords and their Rhoynish heritage."
Regarding their resources and specialties, Peyos elaborated: "Aenoris is blessed with fertile river valleys, yielding abundant grains, fruits, and vegetables. We are also renowned for our river fisheries, providing a rich source of food. Our craftsmen are skilled in pottery and weaving, producing fine textiles and ceramics that are highly sought after in the Free Cities. We have limited mineral resources, but our forests provide ample timber."
"Our true strength, however, My King, lies not just in our resources," Peyos said, a touch of pride in his voice. "The Rhoynish people of Aenoris are historically a people of scholars, navigators, and diplomats. Many of our educated class possess extensive knowledge of ancient texts, riverine trade routes, and the intricate art of negotiation. Our traditions emphasize wisdom over brute force. We have a network of knowledgeable River Guides who know every current and every hidden path along the Rhoyne's tributaries."
Maegor listened intently, his Valyrian Insight (Tier 3) confirming the accuracy of Peyos's claims and sensing the deeper currents of talent. The "River Guides" and their navigational knowledge would be invaluable for future movements. The scholarly and diplomatic talents, combined with their resistance to Myrish rule, made them a strong asset for Maegor's broader plans beyond military conquest.
"Your report is noted, Count Peyos," Maegor concluded. "Your talents, and the talents of your people, will be put to good use in my Duchy. Your river guides will aid our movements. Your scholars will advise. And your fighting men, though light, will be integrated into our Southern Qehes Army under Lord-Commander Blackwood, where their unique skills in skirmishing and terrain familiarity will be valued."
Maegor then issued his immediate commands for Aenoris. "You will immediately begin the process of integrating Aenoris County into the Duchy of Qehes. Hand Aegon Duskryn will send his administrators to assist you. You will raise my banner over every town and village. Your people will provide tribute, but they will also receive the protection of the Dragon. There will be no more Myrish oppression. Your future is secure under my rule."
With Aenoris peacefully secured, a crucial flank of the Duchy of Daarno was now his. The formidable force that Maegor had prepared, intended to conquer the whole Duchy, could now focus its full, terrifying might on Magister Ghazaro and the Myrish-controlled counties of Qapys and Sweetpale. The stage was set for a swift, overwhelming strike.