Chapter 37:"Curse Magic"

[note:

Elves population: approx 1 million (less due to their longer life span, less reproduction capability.)(old and young combined)

dwarves population: 2.3 million(mortal life just like human.)

former slaves population: 30000

new slaves brought total: 1.2 million

Men under Vahaemorys including his army: 600000

huge number of population due to Dwarves and Elves are ancient civilization with their own KINGDOM.

Forgive me for being bad with numbers, i hope this count can satisfy you all

]

Vahaemorys had decided to host a grand banquet for all 40 of his vassal houses to celebrate the completion of the new port and reinforce his position as their Lord. It was a significant event, and within a month, the heads of these vassal houses and their families, including their lady, had gathered for the occasion.

However, unbeknownst to his guests, Vahaemorys had more sinister plans in the background. He intended to use this banquet to cast a curse upon his less trustworthy vassals, a dark magic hidden within the wine. His goal wasn't to kill them, as the Freys had infamously done in the future, but rather to subject them to a fate worse than death: enslavement. Vahaemorys believed that by offering them a choice between life as his slaves or facing death, he could justify his actions without completely violating the sacred guest right.

The day of the grand banquet had finally arrived, and people from all around had started gathering in the opulent hall constructed near the newly established port. The hall was a dazzling spectacle, adorned with vibrant colors, fragrant flowers, and an array of delectable seafood. Eldians had crafted exquisite dishes, and exotic fruits from every corner of Essos adorned the banquet tables.

As the evening descended, Vahaemorys extended a warm welcome to the heads of each vassal house with open arms and a seemingly friendly smile. However, there was an air of suspicion that lingered beneath the festivities, a sense that something was amiss, although no one could quite put their finger on it. The beauty of the banquet, with its lavish decorations and sumptuous offerings, masked the hidden agenda that Vahaemorys had in store for his less trustworthy guests.

Children giggled and played, their laughter filling the hall, while adults from different families engaged in pleasant conversations. The atmosphere was alive with joy and celebration.

Then, like a graceful shadow, Vahaemorys entered the main seat, commanding the attention of everyone present. His presence alone brought a hush to the room. He raised a wine glass, and all eyes turned towards him. The Eldians and other servants silently exited the hall.

With a calm and regal demeanor, Vahaemorys began his speech. "My esteemed vassals,

Tonight, we gather not only to celebrate the completion of a magnificent port but also to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. Your unwavering support and tireless efforts have made this endeavor a reality, and I am profoundly thankful."

As Vahaemorys's words filled the hall, a sense of purpose washed over the crowd. They raised their wine glasses in unison, toasting to their achievements.

"Let us cherish this moment and the bonds that have brought us here. May this port stand as a symbol of our enduring partnership and a beacon of hope for generations to come."

The room erupted in cheers and clinking glasses.

However, amidst the joyous atmosphere, one lady stood out. She refused to partake in the wine and, with a raised voice, questioned Vahaemorys's intentions.

"What is the meaning of this, Lord Vahaemorys?" she demanded, her tone sharp and confrontational. Her actions had caught the attention of the entire gathering, and many were stunned by her words.

Vahaemorys, however, remained calm and composed. He recognized the lady; she was none other than one of the grand mages of Valyria. She had come to Athens to evaluate the Eldians and determine if they were worth studying or even abducting for their unique qualities.

Unbeknownst to her, Vahaemorys had been aware of her presence in Athens even though he hadn't invited her for the banquet. She had arrived by coincidence at the invitation of a vassal house of House Narnareon, with whom she had crossed paths in the port.

As a grand mage, her senses were finely tuned to the presence of magical forces. She detected a potent curse magic in the wine, a magic stronger than any she had encountered before.