Although Erlad felt there was some truth to Rayder's words, this notion went against his ingrained beliefs.
He couldn't accept such a viewpoint and could only change the subject:
"Rayder, the development of your territory is inseparable from the expansion of your network. You need more friends and supporters to make your territory more prosperous."
Just then, Rayder noticed someone walking towards them.
He unhurriedly said to Erlad, "With three dragons, I don't need to curry favor with anyone.
I just need to wait for people to curry favor with me, just like this person approaching now."
Hearing this, Erlad turned his head and saw the Prince of Dorne walking over with a wine glass.
Many thoughts flashed through his mind instantly, and he couldn't help but feel a surge of emotions.
He knew that although Rayder's words were arrogant, they were not without reason.
With three dragons, he indeed possessed unique capital and confidence.
But could such an approach truly last? Erlad's heart was filled with doubts and worries.
Rayder sat in a corner of the hall, his gaze piercing through the crowd, noticing the old man slowly approaching him.
The old man's face was resolute, and his eyes revealed an unyielding light, which perfectly complemented the House Martell's motto, "Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken," as Rayder understood it.
His robes were embroidered with the family crest of the spear piercing the sun, a symbol of House Martell of Dorne, a family that managed to maintain its independence and dignity even under the rule of the Targaryen Family.
Rayder's thoughts drifted, recalling relevant plot points, and he remembered the history of this family.
Without dragons, House Martell used Dorne's rocky, mountainous, and arid terrain to fight four wars against the Targaryen Family, and it was the only family to retain the title of Prince.
Their motto, "Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken," was fully embodied by them; they were, one could say, absolutely hard-headed.
Just then, as the old man approached, Erlad, Rayder's loyal friend and advisor, spoke first:
"Your Highness, you shouldn't be here. Your actions will only arouse the King's suspicion."
Erlad's words were filled with worry; he knew that Rayder's contact with the Prince of Dorne could lead to unnecessary trouble.
However, the old man paid no attention to Erlad's advice; instead, he offered a polite smile and introduced himself, saying:
"I am the head of House Martell. May I inquire if we could speak aside?"
His voice was calm yet powerful, revealing an unquestionable authority.
Rayder smiled, a hint of mockery in his expression, and said, "Since a decision has already been made, why be so secretive? Just say it directly here."
Rayder's personality was straightforward; he disliked beating around the bush and wanted to understand the Prince of Dorne's intentions directly.
The Prince of Dorne had anticipated Rayder's reaction; after all, he had made thorough preparations before approaching Rayder.
He already had some understanding of Rayder's difficult personality; after all, even the Targaryen Family had suffered setbacks with him, so he didn't mind this small friction.
He directly extended an invitation, saying, "After the war with the Others ends, would you be willing to visit me in Dorne?"
Rayder felt a surge of speechlessness upon hearing this.
He knew that the only thing a Prince would scheme for from him now was probably his dragons.
He still had that much self-awareness.
He hinted, "If I go, will I be able to return?"
His words were filled with distrust towards the Prince of Dorne; he didn't want to be someone else's pawn, not even in name, he didn't want to be involved.
The Prince of Dorne immediately guaranteed, "I will prepare salt and bread, upholding guest right."
His words were full of sincerity, but Rayder remained skeptical. He knew very well that so-called human nature, in the face of power and interest, would hardly stand the test.
After all, the Red Wedding in the original plot was the biggest lesson, knowing that in the face of immense power temptation, the so-called guest right would be completely and ruthlessly trampled upon.
Moreover, Rayder didn't want to gamble on things like human nature and character, nor did he want to go to a harsh environment like Dorne.
He directly said, "Just state your purpose; there's no need for a visit."
Seeing Rayder refuse, the Prince of Dorne spoke frankly, "With three dragons, you should have a broader sky and wider territory."
His words contained implicit suggestions, perhaps because there were many people around, so he expressed himself subtly.
But anyone who wasn't a fool could understand the meaning behind his words; he was practically saying, 'Let's conspire together. You have dragons, I have an army—it's the perfect combination.'
Erlad knew that the Prince of Dorne approaching Rayder would lead to no good, but he didn't expect such a big move right away. At such a critical moment, such a thing could not be allowed to happen.
He slammed his wine glass on the table and sternly warned:
"Your Highness, watch your words. The Others are still lurking beyond The Great Wall, and you're saying such things here. Do you know what you're doing?"
Erlad's words were filled with anger and worry; he feared that Rayder would be used by the Prince of Dorne.
The Prince of Dorne did not answer Erlad's question; he took a sip of red wine before saying:
"I've heard about what happened here earlier, so coming to Dorne afterward is the best choice for you."
His words were filled with confidence; he believed his plan was perfect. After speaking, he looked at Rayder, awaiting his reply.
Rayder understood the implied invitation, a hint that they could cooperate, offering Rayder protection and establishing a basis for their partnership.
But Rayder felt that given his current situation, he didn't need the help of House Martell at all.
He had his own plans and goals and didn't need to rely on anyone.
He said, "I appreciate the kind offer, but it's not needed." His words were filled with determination and confidence; he would not be easily swayed by others.
Upon hearing this, the Prince of Dorne's eyes flashed with a hint of disappointment, but he quickly regained his composure.
He knew that Rayder was a strong person and would not easily change his mind.
He finished the red wine in his glass, stood up, and said, "In that case, I won't disturb you any further."
With that, he turned and left, leaving Rayder and Erlad in the hall.
Rayder watched the Prince of Dorne's retreating back, feeling no regret.
This world was filled with struggles for power and interests; everyone was striving for their own goals.
As long as he held onto his beliefs, he would surely forge his own path.
He looked at Erlad, a cold glint in his eyes.
In this world, how fortunate it was to have a loyal friend and advisor.
Ãdvåñçé çhàptêr àvàilàble óñ pàtreøn (Gk31)