Chapter 14: Speaking of loyalty

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"Marvin, I need to get to Vaes Dothrak faster," I say to the leader of the caravan. I am currently in Marvin's tent trying to convince him to bring me to Vaes Dothrak faster. He is not budging much. "And I agreed to bring you there, but we need to make money. Which is earned by selling goods and that can only be done in cities," he explained. "I know, maybe one of the people in your group can ride with me. Please, I am begging you!" I said with my most pleading voice. He sighed "Look, the road is dangerous and that is why you go in caravans or in large groups. I cannot send my people alone without an escort. If you really want to go I can sell you a horse and you can go your own way," he said.

"I will buy the horse, but I need a guide. I have no idea which way to go," I say. "I can pay for the guide if that is what you want." He looked at me intently "You are stubborn you know that," he says. "Alright, I will ask my people but if they refuse then you're out of luck. I will not force them." I couldn't help but smile. A small victory after all. "Thank you, Marvin! That is all I ask of you."

We walk together to the center of the camp. Most of the people were eating breakfast near the campfire. Stories and laughter can be heard from a distance. "Alright people listen up," Marvin began speaking to them. "Visenya needs to get to Vaes Dothrak faster. Since this is a dangerous trip, especially with only two people, I won't force any of you to go. She said she will pay but only if any of you want to take her there." While Marvin was speaking I looked around the people and most did not fancy the idea. "So, are there any willing to go with her?"

It was quiet, nobody spoke. I was about to give up when a man approached us. I believe his name was Darvos. "Can you ride for hours a day without stopping? Only sleep for a few hours a day? Be in pain and still keep moving?" He asked.

"I-" I was cut off before I could answer him. "If you can do that I will go with you. But remember this; if it means my survival I will leave you behind. Are you sure you can do it?" I swallow hard. I am not sure if I can do what he says, but when I think about what might happen to Daenerys I am willing to try. "I can," I say with determination. He nods. "We leave in an hour. Better get everything ready by then."

Marvin looks at me and then to Darvos "Take whatever you might need Darvos. And Viseny you still need to pay for the horse, and when you arrive you can pay Darvos for his services." I nod and walk with him to pay for the horse and afterward to my tent to pack everything.

The journey is hard. If I am honest much harder than I expected. We hardly stay in one place long and kept moving while only sleeping for a few hours. We either walk next to the horse when it is relatively safe or ride the horse in the unsafe areas. Even so, we make a lot of progress and the journey will only take a few days.

During the first night of the journey, I informed Daenerys of my coming arrival. She said she will inform Khal Drogo and Viserys. Although she sounded hesitant about informing her brother. I cannot help but wonder why their relationship is so strained. I guess I will find out when I arrive.

On the third night, I was again dreaming about Daenerys. The last few times when we saw each other we were talking about my arrival and what I should do when I do, but this time it felt like something that had already happened.

Daenerys was walking through a camp, undoubtedly in Vaes Dothrak, you could see the huge horse statues that mark the entrance. She passed many hide and leather tents. When she reached the one she was looking for she stood in front of the entrance for a few seconds. Taking a deep breath before she entered and I follow. I am curious about what she is doing.

The tent was your standard Dothraki design. Made of hide and leather. Inside you can find a bath, bed, a chest to store belongings, a table, and multiple cushions. In the tent are two persons talking; Ser Jorah and Viserys. When they see Daenerys enter they stop and look at her.

"Ah, look who it is. My sister finally graces us with her presence. To what do we owe the honor?" Viserys says mockingly. Daenerys looks calmer and less afraid, especially compared to the last few times I saw her speaking to her brother. Still, if you look closely she shifts ever so slightly in an uncomfortable manner.

"I have learned of someone who wishes to join us. To serve and fight for us, like Ser Jorah. She will be joining us in a few days," Daenerys announces in a calm manner. "Who might this person be Khaleesi? And how can you be sure that this person can be trusted?" Jorah asked. 'A simple question with a difficult answer,' I thought to myself.

"I... have been in regular contact with her. She is family, albeit a very distant family member. She can be trusted," she said. 'At least one vote of confidence...' I thought. "Family?! We're all that is left! Your child is not a real Targaryen, so who are you speaking off?!" Viserys spat at her. "A Blackfyre," she said. Both men were completely silent. As if they heard something absurd.

"Blackfyre? Those filthy traitors are still around? What do they want? Kill us?" Viserys asked. "She wants justice for the murder of her father and I put my trust in her. Have a good night, brother. Ser Jorah," she said with irritation. "To you as well Khaleesi, and I hope you're right," Jorah said. "I am," she said sternly and left the tent.

When she left I felt myself waking up. Darvos was shaking me awake so we could continue. While I was preparing my horse I couldn't help but feel proud. I gained the trust of Daenerys, and that felt good.

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