Just after Viserys set out, a troop of cavalry broke away from the Dothraki Khalasar and rode ahead of the main force toward Meereen.
The next day, the Dothraki riders arrived outside Meereen. Their leader raised a tribal banner and shouted for someone to come out and speak with them. Among the Dothraki, this already counted as a rare act of "civility."
When Duke Arthur heard, he rode out with dozens of guards to see what they wanted.
The two sides faced each other outside the city. The Dothraki leader was a powerfully built man with a scar across his face. His braid reached his waist, suggesting he was a formidable warrior.
He shouted in broken Ghiscari, "Ogo Khal will soon be here. You should open your gates and offer gifts, women, and fine wine. We have brought many slaves, and you must give us more gold in exchange."
Arthur sat straight in his saddle, his Valyrian Armor gleaming coldly in the sunlight. "Meereen no longer trades in slaves. Go back where you came from. As for gifts..." His voice abruptly turned cold. "The New Valyrian Empire offers tribute to no raider."
When the interpreter repeated his words to the Dothraki without changing a single one, the man's expression immediately darkened.
"What did you say? Do you know who you're speaking to? I am Robb, Bloodrider to Ogo Khal. We will trample any place that refuses to cooperate and make drinking cups from the skulls of those who resist."
"Then you should turn around and leave now." Arthur rested his hand on his sword hilt. "Tell your Khal that Meereen is now under the protection of the Valyrian Dragonlord. Anyone who challenges us will find only death."
Robb spat viciously, drew a Dothraki Arakh, and tightened his reins. Brandishing his