Chapter 419: The Iron Bank Returns

With Samwell now at the frontlines, the plan to attack King's Landing had officially entered its final countdown.

At Bronze Gate City, the atmosphere had grown tense and charged with determination. Soldiers hurried about, completing their final preparations for the upcoming battle.

From early morning onward, a steady stream of nobles and knights sought an audience with Samwell. Some came to pledge their loyalty, others to passionately request to join the fight. A few offered strategies and advice, while several Reach nobles subtly voiced concerns about the Ironborn, hinting at one consistent request—

To withdraw part of the army to defend against the Ironborn.

But at this critical juncture, there was no way Samwell would agree to such a request. He resolutely rejected their pleas.

At the same time, he assured them that if the Ironborn truly looted their lands, he would compensate all their losses in the future.

The nobles, seeing the Storm King's unwavering determination and reassured by his promises, set aside their objections and focused on preparing for the assault.

Just as Samwell believed he had unified the army's resolve and could proceed with the campaign, an unexpected visitor arrived, bringing new complications.

---

"Honorable Storm King, thank you for taking the time to see me despite your busy schedule," said Nahor Demetis, a representative of the Iron Bank, bowing respectfully.

Samwell smiled and gestured for him to sit.

"I greatly appreciate the Iron Bank's support for House Caesar. As you can see, my army is ready. Soon, they will march into King's Landing and remove the pretender from the Iron Throne, finally repaying the debts owed to your institution."

Nahor smiled faintly, though he did not appear particularly excited. Instead, he began to caution the young king.

"Your Grace, with winter approaching, is now truly the best time to launch such a campaign?"

Samwell's smile faded, his gaze sharpening as he studied the emissary.

"I have enough confidence in my victory to proceed. The Iron Bank need not worry about that. The sooner I take King's Landing, the sooner I can repay the loans. Isn't that what you want?"

"I suggest you reconsider," Nahor said, persisting with his argument. "Your proposal for an artificial canal to increase arable land and food production is far more critical—especially with winter upon us. That plan could ensure your people survive the coming hardships.

Launching a risky war at this moment—while a victory would be fortunate—if you were to lose..." Nahor hesitated before continuing. "I do not doubt your military acumen, but outcomes in war are often unpredictable.

You already have a safer path. Why risk everything on this gamble?"

Samwell's eyes narrowed, his tone cooling.

"Nahor, while the Iron Bank has lent me a great deal of money, the agreement never gave you the right to interfere in my decisions."

"That was not my intention. I merely wished to offer a suggestion—"

"I reject your suggestion."

The atmosphere in the room grew palpably awkward.

After a moment of silence, Nahor sighed and said, "Your Grace, you are young and bold, but the path to kingship is fraught with danger and traps. As a friend, I offered this advice out of goodwill. Since you are determined, however, the Iron Bank must take action and reclaim its loans."

Samwell didn't grow angry but instead studied the emissary before laughing softly.

"The Lannisters have paid off the Iron Throne's debts, haven't they?"

Nahor didn't appear surprised by the king's deduction. He nodded calmly.

"Yes, the Lannisters have proven as wealthy and generous as their reputation suggests."

Samwell's laughter grew louder.

"So, the Iron Bank has switched its support to the Lannisters? I see that contracts, trust, and dignity mean little to you—only gold matters."

Nahor remained unfazed by the jab.

"Your Grace, the Iron Bank has its principles. Once the Iron Throne's debts were settled, our previous agreement was nullified. However, since this decision was not due to any fault of your own, we are willing to waive the interest. You need only repay the principal."

"Should I thank you for your generosity?" Samwell's smile turned sharper, and a cold, murderous glint flickered in his eyes.

Nahor sensed the change in the room's atmosphere and felt a growing unease. Yet, he pressed on.

"Please do not misunderstand. We have no intention of aiding the Lannisters or involving ourselves in Westeros' political struggles. Whoever sits on the Iron Throne is of no consequence to us. We only wish to recover our funds."

"And if I refuse?"

"In that case, we would have no choice but to act," Nahor admitted. "Your Grace, the supplies and equipment you purchased in the Free Cities with Iron Bank loans—many of which have not yet been delivered to Westeros—may be withheld to offset the losses."

"So, this is the Iron Bank's idea of credibility?" Samwell sneered. "Today, I've truly seen it firsthand."

"We do not wish for things to come to that," Nahor said, his tone placating. "That is why I advise you to postpone your campaign. We can use the remaining military resources to partially settle the debt. For the balance, we're willing to grant you more time."

Samwell scoffed.

"I imagine Tywin Lannister didn't just settle the Iron Throne's debt. How much gold did you haul out of Casterly Rock?" He paused, his voice turning icy. "And I've also heard rumors that the Sealord of Braavos once witnessed the betrothal of Viserys Targaryen and Arianne Martell. It seems the Iron Bank isn't as neutral in Westerosi affairs as it claims."

"The Sealord's actions are independent of the Iron Bank," Nahor protested weakly.

Samwell waved dismissively.

"This conversation is over. Nahor Demetis, the Iron Bank has no right to dictate my actions. The Sealord has no say in Westeros' affairs. I will decide when to march on King's Landing.

And as for the loans, since you broke faith first, I won't repay a single coin."

"Your Grace, I understand your anger, but please don't act rashly."

"I am not acting rashly," Samwell said, his voice firm. "And let me make this clear—both the Iron Bank and the Sealord will pay for today's betrayal."

Nahor sighed. "Your Grace, you are making a powerful enemy."

"My enemies have never been few," Samwell replied coldly. "Now, leave before I change my mind about sparing your life."

Nahor bowed and hurried out.

Left alone in the hall, Samwell stood silently for a long time, his gaze fixed on the map before him. His eyes lingered on the spot marked Braavos, growing colder with each passing moment.

"The Iron Bank and the Sealord... Tywin, your new allies may not save you this time."

(End of Chapter)