Game of Thrones: The Red Dragon Lord

Daenerys nodded thoughtfully and said, "I understand. What he said makes sense. My existence might indeed bring you trouble."

Gavin reached out and gently caressed Daenerys's silver hair, his voice soft yet unwavering. "Since I've chosen you, I'm not afraid of the Iron Throne's threats. Besides, even without you, the existence of Syndor is already enough to provoke them into action."

Daenerys tilted her head curiously. "Gavin, what about Commander Hassan? What kind of man is he?"

Gavin smiled faintly, his tone carrying a mix of amusement and seriousness. "Hassan's abilities are mediocre. He doesn't compare to Boris, who excels in political affairs. But Hassan's loyalty is unquestionable, which is why I entrusted him with the fleet."

Daenerys listened attentively and nodded in understanding.

Gavin continued, his voice carrying the weight of his ambition. "We will move to Dragon Flame Bay in the future. Although its trade is not as developed as Bloodstone Island, Dragon Flame Bay has a natural dragon cave—easy to defend and difficult to attack. Our roots are with the dragons, Daenerys. It's better to live closer to them. There are still eleven dragon eggs in the lair. Once we hatch them all, no threat will remain."

A spark of excitement lit Daenerys's violet eyes. She smiled slightly and said with anticipation, "I can't wait to see what the dragon's lair looks like."

Gavin returned her smile and said, "We'll leave tomorrow. I want to see how the construction is progressing."

The Journey to Dragon Flame Bay

The following morning, before the first rays of light broke over Bloodstone Town, Gavin and Daenerys prepared to depart.

Syndor's massive form loomed in the square, its scales reflecting the dim glow of the pre-dawn light. The dragon spread its enormous wings, casting a long shadow over the ground.

Gavin and Daenerys climbed onto Syndor's broad back, their movements smooth and practiced. With a thunderous roar, Syndor launched into the sky, breaking the silence of the morning.

Despite having flown countless times, Daenerys's excitement hadn't dulled. The cold, sharp wind rushed past her, but she felt nothing but exhilaration. The early sunlight bathed her and Gavin in a golden hue as Syndor's wings cut through the sky, their figures merging into the dawn like the arrival of legendary gods.

When they reached Dragon Flame Bay, the breathtaking scenery below unfolded like a painting. Waves crashed against the towering cliffs, their echoes booming like a dragon's roar.

Syndor descended toward the vast, naturally formed dragon cave. Its entrance was wide and imposing, with jagged stone walls etched by time. As the dragon landed, its talons scraped the ground, and the reverberations echoed through the cavern.

Inside, the flickering light of scattered fire crystals illuminated the lair. Deep within, nestled on glowing dragon crystal, lay eleven dragon eggs, their glossy surfaces shimmering faintly.

The Manor at Dragon Flame Bay

After leaving the dragon's lair, Gavin and Daenerys arrived at the newly constructed manor nearby. The towering gates opened as servants rushed to greet them. Daenerys's eyes lit up as she took in the sight before her.

The manor was an impressive structure, built with pure white stone. High walls and towers gave it an air of majesty, while the rounded corners of the defensive walls added a sense of elegance. The gardens, though newly planted, hinted at a lush, vibrant future, with various flowers and trees lining the pathways.

Led by servants, Gavin and Daenerys toured the manor. Daenerys's excitement was palpable as she shared her thoughts with Gavin, who listened attentively, a soft smile gracing his face.

After completing their inspection, they arrived at the door to a secluded study. Gavin stopped and turned to Daenerys. "You should rest now. I have something to discuss with Qyburn."

Daenerys nodded gently. "Alright, Gavin." She gave him a small smile before departing.

A Conversation with Qyburn

Inside the study, Maester Qyburn was waiting, his face aged but his eyes sharp with intelligence. When Gavin entered, Qyburn rose from his chair and bowed deeply.

"Lord Gavin," Qyburn greeted, his voice respectful. "It's been a long time."

Gavin nodded and gestured for him to sit. He wasted no time getting to the point. "Qyburn, the manor's construction is impressive. You've done well. It's been three years since we last saw each other after leaving the Citadel. When I returned to Oldtown to find you, you were already gone."

A flicker of emotion crossed Qyburn's face. The younger man who had once been his peer had now become a lord commanding dragons. The change was jarring, but Qyburn quickly composed himself.

"My lord, I'm honored that you sought me out," Qyburn said carefully. "I will dedicate my knowledge and skills to your service."

Gavin's lips curled into a faint smile. "We've shared years of study and hardship, Qyburn. I know your capabilities. I want you to use your knowledge freely here. But I need to know what happened at the Citadel."

Qyburn's expression darkened with embarrassment. He hesitated before explaining, "The matter is simple. I attempted to create a blood witch puppet using the ideas you once proposed. The first experiment failed, but I couldn't dispose of the body in time. A dying patient arrived unexpectedly, and I hid the remains. Unfortunately, they discovered the body and accused me of desecration and inhumane experimentation. That's why I was stripped of my chain."

As Qyburn finished, his tone shifted to excitement. "But, my lord, I've seen the Blood Dragon Guard in your dragon lair—"

Gavin interrupted him firmly. "The reason I succeeded is that my body possesses innate magic. There are no shortcuts, Qyburn."

He leaned forward, his tone commanding. "You'll have freedom to conduct your research here, but you must follow my rules. All experiments require my approval, and the test subjects must come from the death row prisoners I provide. No exceptions."

Qyburn bowed his head in deference. "Thank you, my lord. I will not fail you."

Gavin's gaze sharpened. "The Citadel refused to send me a maester. As a result, the ravens' communication network is still incomplete. You will establish the crow's nests across the islands and oversee intelligence gathering—especially concerning news beyond the Stepstones."

Qyburn nodded, his mind already racing with plans. "It will be done, my lord. Also, I noticed your three-bow ballista. It has potential for improvement."

Gavin's eyes lit with interest. "If you can enhance it, all the craftsmen at the dock will be at your disposal. Begin immediately."

Qyburn stood, bowed, and said eagerly, "Thank you, my lord. I will begin at once." With that, he hurried out, his mind brimming with new ideas.

As Gavin watched him leave, his expression turned thoughtful. Qyburn's actions might defy convention, but his intellect was unmatched. Gavin resolved to wield his talents carefully, knowing the fine line between brilliance and recklessness.