CHAPTER 178

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CHAPTER 178

293 AC

POV THIRD PERSON

Aermir had uncovered another source of income in the form of two valuable mines—one rich in copper and the other in iron. As he continued to advance in his elemental talents, his abilities grew stronger. With the knowledge of how to summon medium elementals, he had discovered a unique way to sense the elements buried deep beneath the Earth's surface. By summoning an earth elemental, he could extend his senses to a distance of 100 meters underground.

Utilizing this newfound skill, he diligently searched his lands, eventually locating the copper and iron mines hidden beneath the soil. Recognizing that selling the raw materials would yield only a modest profit, Aermir opted for a different approach. He decided to establish an expansive forging district around his castle, complete with an array of blacksmiths and skilled metalworkers. Among these craftsmen, those who would be working on weapons and armor, he made sure to ensure their loyalty by having them swear oaths of allegiance. However, he soon came to a realization.

The weight on Aermir's mana heart became palpable, and it was the result of the numerous oaths he had entered into. He had linked himself with approximately 1000 individuals through these oaths, encompassing servants in the castle, officers in his army, and the craftsmen he had hired for his expanding enterprises. It was a realization that hit him with a sense of constraint—his capacity for forming new oaths was far from limitless, and he could make at most 200 more.

With this revelation, Aermir resolved to exercise restraint when it came to binding others with oaths, reserving the practice only for situations of true necessity. Meanwhile, he continued to utilize the copper found in his own territory, primarily for the creation of irrigation pipes as he lacked access to PVC alternatives. His latest ambitious undertaking involved the establishment of two agricultural villages, a project he dubbed the "Permaculture Pond Irrigation Systems."

Harnessing the synergy of his druidic abilities and his knowledge of sustainable farming techniques, Aermir established a sophisticated system that harmonized with the natural landscape and harnessed the flow of water. This ingenious setup not only provided fertile ground for agriculture but also offered the additional benefits of fish and duck farming—a rich array of produce from a single farm.

However, this innovative system was not without its challenges. During the harsh winter months, most of the ponds would freeze over completely, jeopardizing the plant life and aquatic creatures within. To mitigate this threat, Aermir took it upon himself to educate his people on the art of food preservation.

...

Reflecting on his knowledge from Earth, where his father had learned the production of charcoal for both personal use and sale, he recognized the economic wisdom of minimizing expenditures on the farm. Aermir used this knowledge learned from his father and established a designated charcoal production area adjacent to Flint Forest. To safeguard this valuable resource, he enclosed it with sturdy wooden walls and placed 20 skilled workers under his oath to oversee the operation and put around 50 soldiers from Moat Cailin's guards for security.

The intricate process of charcoal production involved a meticulous arrangement of wood pieces within a mound, standing at an impressive height of approximately 3 to 4 meters. Careful consideration was given to maintain adequate spacing between the wood pieces, allowing the crucial passage of air. A layer of straw was thoughtfully incorporated to facilitate ignition. Once this mound was meticulously assembled, it was concealed beneath a cover of soil.

A small opening was then created at the base of the mound, and a controlled ignition was initiated. As the flames steadily rose, a tiny hole at the top was opened, allowing the fire to blaze until it reached its pinnacle. At this pivotal juncture, the opening was sealed, creating a low-oxygen environment. By repeating this method two or three times and ensuring the seal remained intact, the valuable commodity of charcoal was successfully derived.

This sustainable practice not only lessened the castle's dependence on finite resources but also positioned itself as a sought-after export, drawing merchants from far-flung lands. However, the primary focus remained on amassing sufficient supplies to endure the harsh demands of the looming winters to come.

...

The dimly lit chamber within the heart of Casterly Rock provided an austere backdrop for the gathering. Tywin Lannister, regally adorned in his attire, occupied the commanding presence at a substantial oak table. Around him congregated his most trusted confidants: spies, advisers, and his brother Tygett. An air of vexation hung heavily, mirroring the frustration borne by the scarcity of information regarding the enigmatic Druid. With a simmering anger, the old lion of House Lannister roared his discontent while slamming his hand to the table.

"More than two years have elapsed since The Greyjoy Rebellion, and still, our knowledge of this Druid remains woefully inadequate. His dominion and sway appear to deepen with each passing day, yet we find ourselves shrouded in ignorance concerning his true identity and intentions."

The Spymaster of Lannisters, somber and attentive, replied, "My Lord, we have deployed our most skilled spies to infiltrate the North. However, their reports attest to the Druid's elusive nature and formidable protection. It is as though he possesses eyes and ears that span every corner of the realm. We can infiltrate every other house, but there are three places we can't infiltrate: the temple, Moat Cailin, and Manor of Moondrift Port."

One of Tywin's advisors contributed to the discussion, "Indeed, my Lord. He has meticulously woven a shroud of secrecy around himself, and those who have dared to unravel this shroud have either failed or vanished."

Tywin's jaw tightened, reflecting the weight of his contemplation. He recognized that the Druid represented a potential threat to his dominion and aspirations. Underestimating this enigmatic figure was a luxury he could ill afford.

"We must ascertain a means of establishing a connection with him," Tywin asserted, his tone firm and resolute. "The Temple of the Old Gods, established by the Starks, may hold the key. If he has taken refuge within its confines, we must dispatch an envoy possessing charm and tact to earn his trust."

The advisor voiced his concerns with a trembling undertone, "My Lord, wouldn't Lord Gerion fit the description perfectly? He is renowned for his gift of forging amicable relationships."

...

Upon Tywin's order, Gerion was summoned to the chamber, his demeanor marked by an aura of self-assuredness and inquisitiveness. With an ever-present smile, Gerion inquired, "You called for me, Brother?"

Tywin, with a measured gravity, responded, "Indeed, Gerion. There is a matter of the utmost importance that demands your diplomatic finesse. We have been striving to gather intelligence about the elusive Druid residing in the North. While we are aware of the construction of a Temple, the extent of our knowledge is limited to his infrequent visits to the said Temple."

With an attentive expression, Gerion inquired, "And what precisely do you wish for me to do, Brother?"

Tywin met Gerion's gaze squarely and responded with clear instructions, "Do what you excel at, Gerion: make friends with him. I want you to embark on a journey to the North, visit the Temple, establish a diplomatic connection with this Druid, earn his trust, and endeavor to unveil his true intentions. Your talent for building relationships is unparalleled, Gerion. I have complete confidence in your ability to handle this delicate task."

Gerion hesitated momentarily, recalling his aspirations, and then reluctantly broached the subject, "But, Brother, you pledged that I could proceed with my expedition."

Tywin's voice bore the weight of authority as he reiterated his stance, "This mission takes precedence, Gerion. Must I reiterate myself?" The look in Tywin's cold and calculated eyes caused Gerion to flinch for a second. Acknowledging his momentary lapse in addressing his elder brother, Gerion lowered his head and replied, "No, Brother. I shall undertake it."

Tywin leaned forward, his tone softening slightly, "If you accomplish this mission to my satisfaction, Gerion, I shall grant you a request within my power, and I will allocate additional resources and personnel to support your expedition."

Upon hearing this, Gerion's grin stretched from ear to ear. "I will do my utmost, Brother. I've always been captivated by the new mysteries of the North. This mission promises to be quite fascinating."

Tywin leaned forward, his eyes locked on Gerion. "While you're engaged in this task, establish connections with Aermir Drasil as well."

Tygett sneered, his voice dripping with contempt. "The upstart?"

Tywin's anger flared, and he slammed his fist on the table, fixing his brother with an intense glare. "Brother, only a fool underestimates his adversaries. The man you dismiss as an upstart became the North's hero, transforming what was once a forsaken wasteland into a thriving region. Moreover, he quelled banditry throughout the North and commanded an army of 3000 men. He achieved all of this before his 20th name-day."

Tygett persisted in his argument. "Brother, you cannot be serious. We have the means to muster between 40 to 60 thousand men. What threat do his 3 thousand pose in comparison? He is not on our level." Some of the advisors thought this was a moment for buttering up to the greatness of House Lannister, and they agreed with Tygrett's opinion with flowery words.

A fleeting, contemptuous smile crossed Tywin's face, catching Tygett's keen attention. Tywin was taken aback by his brother's lack of vision and the incompetence of his advisors. The strained relationship between the two stemmed from Tygett always feeling overshadowed by his brother's accomplishments, and that smile only deepened his bitterness. Tywin shook his head in a mixture of contempt and disappointment. 

  "Why do incompetence and mediocrity surround me while that mediocre Stark manages to gather all the talented retainers? Can any one of you achieve even half of what Lord Drasil has accomplished in less than three years? Can any one of you bring House Lannister even a fraction of the honor he has brought to the North? Am I the sole person capable of recognizing the power and authority that this young lord will wield in the North within the next 2 to 5 years? If you wait until then, extending your hand will be a futile gesture."

With simmering anger, the Old Lion hurled his goblet at his advisors, his roar of frustration reverberating through the chamber. "Get out of my sight, you incompetent fools, all of you!"