Chapter 693: The Council of Lys

Early the next morning, a raven flew from Archmaester Marwyn's hand towards the western territories of the Empire.

Myles Toyne, the former commander of the Golden Company, was soon to assume the role of the Empire's fourth Hand of the King.

Elsewhere, the Empire's fleet, which had been dispatched across the Narrow Sea, departed Tyrosh, setting their formation as they sailed to their next destination: Lys.

But news of the Empire's fleet approaching Lys had sent ripples of panic throughout the city. This was primarily due to a rumor that had recently spread like wildfire. The rumor stated that the Iron Throne's envoy, Asha Greyjoy, had narrowly escaped a meticulously planned assassination attempt in Tyrosh. Were it not for her luck, she might have met her end there. The masterminds behind this alleged assassination? The governing council of Lys.

The motive was clear. Lys and Tyrosh were on the brink of war, clashing over territorial disputes. The Lyseni hoped that by eliminating the envoy of the Iron Throne, they could sow discord between the Throne and Tyrosh, thereby securing the disputed lands with the Empire's backing.

However, their plan had backfired. Not only had they failed to assassinate Asha Greyjoy, but the truth of their conspiracy had also been laid bare to the Tyroshi. Now, Tyrosh was mobilizing its forces, stockpiling resources, and forming alliances with mercenary groups. Their warships filled the harbors, hinting at an imminent assault on Lys. War seemed inevitable.

The timing of the Empire's fleet's arrival in Lys raised eyebrows and fueled speculation. After all, the fleet boasted two thousand elite soldiers, veterans of the Conquest Wars. If they chose to attack, even the powerful trading city-state would suffer significant losses.

Lys, one of the nine Free Cities, was located on the southern coast of the Essos continent, southeast of Tyrosh and west of Volantis. Built upon rock, the city was surrounded by stormy seas and spanned multiple islands. A bustling main port city, supplemented by several thriving satellite islands, was the heart of Lys.

Now, within the chambers of the Lys governing council, twelve governors sat around a massive circular table. Their appearances varied - some were stout, others lean, and their ages ranged from young to old. Behind each stood their most loyal slaves. But a common trait among them was their blue eyes, platinum curls, and fair skin. Even in their old age, they appeared youthful and refined.

The Valyrian bloodline ran strong in them, a reminder of the ancient Freehold's influence. The closer one was to that region, the more prominent the Valyrian features became.

"I've received intel that the Iron Throne's fleet intends to support Tyrosh's forces against Lys," remarked a young governor with light golden locks.

"The Iron Throne wouldn't intervene in our dispute with Tyrosh so easily," countered another, an older governor with silvering hair.

"But what if they have 'evidence' to the contrary, Lord Hadd?" the young governor retorted.

"We all know we had no part in it, but Tyrosh sees it differently. They've convinced the Iron Throne's envoy to attack Lys. We must defend ourselves!"

All eyes turned to a younger figure who stood up, drawing the attention of the gathered governors.

"Lord Henvry Hightower," one began, "Do you have a solution?"

Henvry Hightower was the heir to the Hightower family of Oldtown. He was the youngest and only surviving son of Lord Leyton Hightower. Before the Dornish forces captured Oldtown, Henvry had fled by ship to Lys, bringing with him significant wealth from his family's coffers. Using this fortune, he quickly established himself in Lys, consolidating power, acquiring businesses, and becoming one of Lys's youngest trade governors.

Though Henvry had found his footing in Lys, he was still a newcomer in the council. Not every governor held equal sway, with their influence often determined by the powers backing them. Yet, Henvry didn't falter. He had been biding his time, waiting for the right moment.

"Of course, Lord Kolom," Henvry responded confidently, clearly having prepared his argument. "I've been in contact with Salladhor Saan."

"This pirate lord has expressed interest in forming an alliance with Lys to counter the threat from Tyrosh. He only seeks Lys's unwavering support."

Salladhor Saan had recently seized control of Myr by instigating a coup, eliminating the other governors supported by Tyrosh and Volantis. With a formidable fleet and seasoned sailors under his command, Saan would undoubtedly be a valuable ally against Tyrosh.

However, the revelation caused an uproar in the council chamber.

"What? This traitor?"

"He betrayed Lys once, he can do it again!"

"We cannot trust him!"

Yet, Henvry and another portly governor remained unfazed, exchanging subtle glances. They had anticipated this reaction, but both were determined to see their plan through.