Chapter 35: A Meeting of Kings
Emperor Kaelen Silvanor stood on the deck of his ship. It was not like the Velaryon ships, made of wood and sail. This vessel, like all Silvanar ships, seemed to be alive, its hull glowing faintly. Its sails, woven from light, caught the sun as they moved swiftly across the Narrow Sea. Beside him stood his five trusted Dukes, their faces calm and steady. They were on their way to Westeros, to King's Landing. The purpose of their journey was clear: to discuss the engagement between his son, Aerion, and Princess Viserra.
During their smooth journey, a swift Velaryon ship met them. A small boat came over, carrying a message from Lord Corlys Velaryon. Kaelen received a formal invitation. It was an invitation to the wedding of Lord Corlys himself to Princess Rhaenys Targaryen. The wedding was planned for the next year, 90 AC. Kaelen offered a polite nod. It was good to see that the ties between their two worlds were already growing stronger. Corlys was moving quickly, not just with trade, but with his own life.
Soon, the great city of King's Landing appeared on the horizon. It was a city of stone and hills, very different from the living beauty of Ael'tharion. The royal fleet, led by a large Targaryen warship, met them outside the harbor. They escorted Kaelen's ship into the Red Keep's busy port.
Upon docking, a line of royal guards stood at attention, their armor gleaming. Banners with the three-headed dragon of House Targaryen waved proudly in the breeze. Kaelen and his five Dukes stepped onto the stone docks, their flowing green and gold robes a striking sight against the grey of the castle. Aerion Silvanor walked beside his father, his calm eyes taking everything in, his true age hidden beneath a seemingly youthful face.
They were led through the castle's grand halls, up winding stairs, and finally, to the massive, carved doors of the Throne Room. A hush fell over the assembled lords and ladies, who stood waiting. The air was thick with the weight of this important moment, a mix of awe and curiosity.
Then, a clear voice, strong and deep, filled the hall. It was a formal Westerosi announcement, echoing with a powerful boom that seemed to shake the very stones of the Red Keep.
"Hear ye! Hear ye! By the grace of the Seven, let all present witness the grand arrival of His Imperial Majesty, Kaelen Silvanor, Emperor of Ael'tharion, Lord of the Living Forests! Accompanying him are his five noble Dukes: Duke Maelor Balearys, Duke Aerion Caelenor, Duke Valerius Ithilien, Duke Sylvani Lumiel, and Duke Faelar Ambaron! May they be welcomed with all honors to the Red Keep, by the grace of King Jaehaerys I Targaryen!"
The great doors swung open with a slow, heavy creak. Light from the hall streamed in, revealing the impressive sight of the Iron Throne. King Jaehaerys I Targaryen sat upon it, a figure of strength and wisdom. Beside him stood Queen Alysanne, her silver hair shining. Behind them, among their children, stood Princess Viserra, her purple eyes wide with a mix of nervousness and excitement.
Jaehaerys watched Kaelen enter. The Emperor moved with a quiet grace, his eyes holding an ancient depth. He looked peaceful, yet carried an unspoken power. His skin was pale, and his long, silver hair fell around his shoulders. He was everything the stories said, and more. Jaehaerys felt a sense of awe, even for a king like himself. Kaelen brought with him a feeling of great age and power, different from anything in Westeros. Aerion Silvanor, walking beside his father, seemed to possess a similar calm and wisdom, though he carried the appearance of a younger man. Jaehaerys recalled Aerion Silvanor's studies in the Citadel, his clear mind and steady nature. He was glad to see him again.
Kaelen walked forward slowly, his gaze meeting Jaehaerys's. He didn't bow as deeply as a Westerosi lord would, but instead placed a hand over his heart, a sign of deep respect in his own culture. Jaehaerys, understanding the gesture, offered a slight, formal nod.
"Your Imperial Majesty, Kaelen Silvanor," Jaehaerys's voice boomed, steady and strong. "Welcome to King's Landing. It is an honor to receive you within these walls."
Kaelen's voice, when he spoke, was soft, yet it carried clearly through the large hall, like music woven with the rustle of leaves. "Your Grace, King Jaehaerys Targaryen. The honor is ours. This meeting, long awaited, marks the coming together of our realms in a profound way."
Jaehaerys nodded, a small smile touching his lips. "Indeed. We have much to discuss. Matters of great importance. But first, let us ensure your comfort after your long journey." He then gestured to Queen Alysanne. "My Queen, Alysanne, greets you. And my daughter, Princess Viserra."
Alysanne stepped forward, offering a warm smile. "Welcome, Emperor Kaelen. We are delighted to finally meet you."
Kaelen turned to Viserra, his gaze gentle and knowing. Viserra curtsied deeply, her heart fluttering. Aerion Silvanor stepped slightly forward, a small, knowing smile touching his lips as his eyes met Viserra's. It was a brief, silent moment of connection between the two, noticed by their families.
The formal introductions continued, setting the tone for the important talks ahead. The air in the Throne Room was thick with expectation. The stage was set for an alliance that would change the course of history for both worlds.