The Rise of Morningstar: Darius' Ascendancy in the North

Hello, considering this is my first book, and I have no experience in writing novels, I might skip some parts and focus on events related to the series and book "Game of Thrones." It could be a mix of both. Maybe later, when the story progresses and I'm satisfied with it, I'll write a side story about events 150 years before the Blackfyre Rebellion. I'd appreciate your feedback and help with your thoughts.

…....

214 AC - Westeros

From east to west, from north to south, the news of the new Lord Darius Morningstar acquiring the Bolton lands spread like wildfire. The Targaryen family's connection to him was well-known, with his family having played a significant role in the defeat of Blackfyre a decade ago. The Targaryens owed a great debt to Darius, as evidenced by the transfer of the Bolton lands to him. This alliance promised to be mutually beneficial, with the Targaryens gaining a wealthy and powerful ally while Darius secured a place of influence and power.

The Reach and the Westerlands felt threatened by this new alliance, wary of the rising power of the North. However, they had to tread cautiously in their dealings with Braavos, knowing that any misstep could have severe consequences. Darius, under the guidance of House Stark, had become a formidable leader, a force to be reckoned with. The Targaryens saw this as an opportunity to diminish Stark's power in the North and bolster their own influence.

But amidst the political calculations and maneuverings, the voice of opposition in the North was surprisingly muted. The Bolton lands were highly coveted, being one of the largest and most fertile territories, with access to the sea and free cities. The nobles of the North were greedy for this land, but Darius's offered conditions were too tempting and favorable to be ignored.

...

The North - Winterfell

Inside the council chamber, Lord Cergan Stark and Darius Morningstar faced each other, both assessing the other with sharp eyes. Cergan, an old warrior with a lifetime of experience, had a keen instinct for battle. Though he felt a sense of danger emanating from Darius, he knew that showing weakness was not an option when dealing with a stranger who would soon be his subordinate.

Darius noticed Cergan's typical Stark features—ash-gray eyes and black hair—and admired his composed demeanor. While he sensed tension in Cergan's body language, it was not unexpected when facing someone with Darius's reputation. Yet, Cergan's calmness and self-control impressed Darius, earning him some admiration.

Cergan broke the silence, asking about the timing of the wedding. Darius responded that marrying Lady Serina as soon as possible wouldn't be a problem, as she was already seventeen years old.

"It's good to see you haven't lost your way. I expected something else from an Essosi," Cergan remarked, amused.

"A northerner, my lord, since I set foot in the North, I became a northerner and a follower of the old gods," Darius replied, emphasizing his assimilation into the Northern culture.

This response brought a genuine laugh from Cergan, who then suggested holding the wedding in a month's time, in the presence of all the nobles of the North.

"I have no problem," Darius agreed.

The conversation shifted to the conditions of their agreement. Darius reiterated his promises: helping build glass houses in all noble castles in the North, gifting twenty thousand gold coins to each noble house, supporting House Stark with one hundred thousand gold coins, and supplying one-third of the North's food through his connections in Essos at half the South's price.

Cergan expressed his hope that Darius would honor his commitments, to which Darius assured him, "Don't worry, I will make sure that all agreements will be fulfilled by the end of this year... I wanted to tell you about another issue."

Cergan listened, and Darius pointed to Virgo, who spread a map of the North on the table. Darius explained his desire to build a harbor in the direction of the weeping city.

Concerned about potential conflict with the Lord of White Harbor, Cergan expressed his reservations. Darius, however, remained composed and smiled, "Oh... It's like we became a family sooner than I thought."

Cergan snorted, but Darius continued, "Leave this problem to me."

With a stern gaze, Cergan said, "You two better come to an agreement quietly, I don't want to deal with new problems for the rest of my life."

Darius nodded in approval, understanding the gravity of the situation. The negotiations continued, with both men seeking the best possible terms for their agreement.

...

In the days that followed, Darius and Cergan engaged in detailed negotiations, each protecting the interests of their respective houses. The council chamber became a battleground of words and ideas as they debated the finer points of the agreement.

Cergan was known for his shrewdness and cunning, and he put his skills to use during the negotiations. He sought to secure the best possible terms for the North, ensuring that the region would benefit greatly from this newfound alliance. With each proposal put forward by Darius, Cergan carefully analyzed its implications, weighing the advantages and disadvantages for House Stark.

Meanwhile, Darius displayed a mastery of diplomacy and persuasion. He skillfully presented his vision for the future, how the North and Essos could mutually prosper and grow stronger together. He highlighted the potential economic benefits, promising the construction of trade routes that would boost the North's commerce and open up new markets for its goods.

Throughout the negotiations, Lady Serina watched with keen interest, her admiration for her father's diplomatic skills deepening. She also observed Darius, noting how he held his ground firmly, yet remained respectful and courteous in his dealings with her father. Lady Serina couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation about her impending marriage to this enigmatic man.

As the days wore on, compromises were made, concessions given, and agreements reached. The terms of the alliance were gradually refined, with both parties satisfied with the final outcome. Darius agreed to provide additional aid in fortifying Winterfell and the other Northern castles against potential threats, while Cergan offered support in Darius's endeavors to build the harbor.

The negotiations concluded with a sense of mutual respect and understanding. Cergan extended his hand to Darius, sealing the agreement with a firm handshake. "May this alliance bring prosperity to the North and strengthen the bonds between our houses," Cergan said with a genuine smile.

Darius returned the smile, "Indeed, may this alliance be a beacon of hope and progress for both the North and Essos."

The agreement was ratified, and preparations for the grand wedding of Lady Serina and Darius Morningstar began in earnest. Winterfell buzzed with excitement and anticipation, as lords and ladies from all over the North gathered to celebrate the union of two influential houses. The future of the North was about to be reshaped, and the world held its breath, waiting to see the impact of this powerful alliance.

…

The news of Lady Serina's marriage spread like wildfire throughout the North. Lords and merchants from all corners made their way to Winterfell, eager to attend the grand wedding and befriend the new Lord of the Bolton Lands, now known as Morningstar. The anticipation and excitement filled the air as Winterfell prepared to witness the union of two influential houses, a marriage that had the potential to shape the future of the North.