game of thrones fanfic
You have decided to hinge your bets on an alliance with the unpredictable Lord Balon. You know that his Iron Fleet will make all the difference in your war against Tywin Lannister. You now have a crucial decision to make, in regards to sending an envoy.
Should you send your closest friend and battle companion Theon Greyjoy, who you have a sense of kinship with? Your mother is deeply concerned with this choice as she doesn't completely trust Theon, and relinquishing him as a hostage would give Balon a chance to turncoat. On the other hand, Theon's history with you is as solid as the walls of Winterfell, it would show your commitment to forging a real alliance and who better to treat with the father, than the son?
You could also send Patrek Mallister, son of your commander, Jason Mallister. This would be an unprecedented provocation to the Lord of Pyke as Jason killed one of Balon's sons at Seaguard years ago. While this could enrage Balon and scuttle any hopes for an alliance, he may also respect your show of strength by keeping Theon at your side and instead making an unexpected move. If something happens to Patrek, Lord Jason may hold your responsible.
Additionally, you could send Greatjon Umber. He is one of your best commanders and you'd hate to lose him in the field, but sending him as an envoy might work in your favor since Lord Umber has no unpleasant history with Balon and he could negotiate from a position of dominance. Unfortunately, the Greatjon is a poor diplomat and who knows what might happen if you send him to Pyke?
What will you do?
Should you send your closest friend and battle companion Theon Greyjoy, who you have a sense of kinship with? Your mother is deeply concerned with this choice as she doesn't completely trust Theon, and relinquishing him as a hostage would give Balon a chance to turncoat. On the other hand, Theon's history with you is as solid as the walls of Winterfell, it would show your commitment to forging a real alliance and who better to treat with the father, than the son?
You could also send Patrek Mallister, son of your commander, Jason Mallister. This would be an unprecedented provocation to the Lord of Pyke as Jason killed one of Balon's sons at Seaguard years ago. While this could enrage Balon and scuttle any hopes for an alliance, he may also respect your show of strength by keeping Theon at your side and instead making an unexpected move. If something happens to Patrek, Lord Jason may hold your responsible.
Additionally, you could send Greatjon Umber. He is one of your best commanders and you'd hate to lose him in the field, but sending him as an envoy might work in your favor since Lord Umber has no unpleasant history with Balon and he could negotiate from a position of dominance. Unfortunately, the Greatjon is a poor diplomat and who knows what might happen if you send him to Pyke?
What will you do?