Game Of Thrones : Merchant of Two Worlds

When the whole cow and lamb were roasted to perfection, the chefs skillfully sliced the golden-brown, juicy meat. Large plates of the succulent roast beef and lamb were served at each table, the aroma making mouths water.

Jason Liu arrived at the gathering area with Jon, McCann, Bud, Lena, Martha, and the others. The lively chatter and laughter among the soldiers and their families quieted as all eyes turned to their generous lord. Jason, dressed in a fine black silk outfit with a sword at his waist, carried himself with the dignity of a noble.

Children, who had been running around laughing and playing, were quickly pulled aside by their parents. They were told to stay quiet and watch the nobleman on the high wooden platform. These thin, dirty-faced children, dressed in torn clothes, stared wide-eyed at Jason Liu, who climbed to the top of the platform to address the crowd.

Standing above the gathered soldiers and their families, Jason looked out over the group. The expressions in the crowd ranged from excitement and curiosity to respect and a little fear. After taking a moment to gauge the atmosphere, Jason began his speech.

" I, Jason East, declare that all soldiers, servants, workers, and craftsmen loyal to the East family will live under my protection!"

Jason's voice carried across the gathering. He raised his hand to emphasize his point, continuing, "Starting today, all soldiers in my army will receive 10 silver stags every month as their salary!"

The announcement caused a stir. The soldiers' wages had just been raised from 6 silver stags to 10—a generous increase that sparked cheers among the crowd.

"Long live Lord Jason East!" someone shouted, and soon the chant spread.

"Long live the East family!"

The crowd erupted into cheers, their voices filled with gratitude and excitement. In Westeros, shouting "long live" was not reserved solely for kings and emperors. It was a way to show appreciation and celebrate victories, so it wasn't unusual for Jason to receive such praise.

When the cheers finally died down, Jason raised his hand to signal for silence. The soldiers, disciplined from their training, quieted immediately and motioned for their families to do the same.

Once the grounds were still again, Jason continued, "In addition to higher salaries, I promise that any soldier who fights bravely for me and the East family will receive rewards for their achievements. Depending on their merits, they will earn between 10 and 50 silver stags for their service."

The crowd murmured in amazement as Jason spoke. He wasn't finished.

"If a soldier is injured in battle and can no longer fight, they will receive a reward of 50 to 100 silver stags. I will also provide them with work in my businesses, ensuring they are not left to suffer."

This promise silenced the murmurs. Jason's words were unprecedented in a land where disabled soldiers were often discarded by their lords.

"And for those who lose their lives in service to me," Jason said solemnly, "I swear on the honor of the East family that their families will receive a pension of 100 to 200 silver stags. This is to recognize the ultimate sacrifice these soldiers make for me and the East family."

He ended with a resounding call: "In the name of the Old and the New Gods, and the honor of the East family, I swear to keep these promises. Soldiers, fight bravely! Long live the East family!"

The soldiers and their families roared in response, shouting "Long live the East family!" over and over. Their cheers echoed across the field, their enthusiasm undeniable. Jason's promises were unheard of in Westeros. Most lords offered no pay, no guarantees, and no pensions for their soldiers. Fighting for Jason Liu meant hope for a better life, even in the face of war.

However, with such benefits came strict discipline. Jason's military laws were clear: any soldier caught fleeing a battle, looting, or disobeying orders would face execution. These rules were drilled into the soldiers during their training. Jason refused to allow his men to behave like the unruly soldiers of other lords in Westeros.

After the speech, the celebrations began. Long tables were set up in the field, and the soldiers and their families were seated. Tankards of ale were poured, and plates of roasted meat and fresh bread were passed around. The children climbed onto benches, grabbing at the food with their small hands and eating with delight. The women sat together, sharing bread and wine while chatting happily.

Jason sat at a table with Jon, McCann, Bud, dick, and a few others who had performed exceptionally well in training. These men, including Marb, Rubin, and Kent, were being groomed for leadership roles among the soldiers. Jason saw potential in them and was preparing them for greater responsibilities.

Among the Barlow brothers, Bud stood out. His quick thinking and eagerness to learn had earned Jason's favor. Lena and Martha, along with the children, sat at a nearby table. Little Lillian toddled around while Martha's eldest son, Michael, ate hungrily.

As they ate and drank, Jon turned to Jason, his expression thoughtful. "Lord Jason, are you really planning to keep all these promises?" he asked. "With all due respect, it will be a huge expense."

The others at the table fell silent, waiting for Jason's response. They all hoped his promises were genuine, as their futures depended on it.

Jason set down his cup of wine and looked at Jon with a serious expression. "I swore in the name of the Old and New Gods and my family. My word is my bond, and I have the resources to fulfill these promises. Have faith in me."

His firm response reassured the men at the table. They raised their glasses in a toast, grateful for the rare lord who cared for his soldiers and their families. The celebration continued late into the night, a symbol of the brighter future Jason Liu was building for those under his banner.

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