Game of Thrones: The Red Dragon Lord

As Gavin's fleet sailed towards the Stepstone Islands, countless merchant ships passed by.

Countless people saw the golden dragon soaring over the fleet, and they all showed panic and shock.

Gavin saw this and ignored it. He knew in his heart that the existence of Syndor would definitely cause waves among all the forces, especially the Iron Throne and the Third Daughter Kingdom.

The appearance of Syndor truly gave Gavin great confidence. At first, he had merely sought the dragon egg to hatch a baby dragon, but he had never expected to acquire an adult Dragon with immense combat power.

However, he felt that he did not need to dwell on the Iron Throne's opinions. Even if some considered him a threat, he was neither a pawn nor a nameless nobody.

He now commanded a formidable fleet and controlled the entire Stepstone Islands. Even without Syndor, all forces would need to treat him with caution.

Gavin was considering where to place Syndor's home. After much deliberation, he decided on Shipwreck Cove. The enormous cave where he had found the dragon egg suited Syndor's preference for caves perfectly. With only one entryway, Shipwreck Cove would also be easy to defend and difficult to attack, effectively deterring any attempts to target Syndor.

The fleet pressed onward as the sea breeze brushed by. Finally, after over ten days of sailing, Gavin spotted Bloodstone Island. He mounted Blazing Shadow and soared into the sky toward his destination.

Gavin rode Syndor, a golden streak of lightning flashing across the sky.

When the enormous shadow of the dragon fell upon Bloodstone Island, panic erupted among its inhabitants. They gazed skyward, fear and confusion etched on their faces.

As they recognized the rider atop the dragon, their expressions morphed into sheer astonishment. Mouths fell open in disbelief.

When they realized it was their lord, Gavin, atop the dragon's back, a mix of exclamations, murmurs, and animated discussions rippled through the crowd.

Gavin guided Syndor to land in the open space before the City Lord's Mansion. The dragon's landing kicked up a cloud of dust with its massive impact.

Boris and Hassan, already alerted to his arrival, rushed over. They stopped abruptly at the sight of Gavin atop Syndor, their faces frozen in disbelief.

Boris's eyes widened as he muttered, "Silver hair and purple eyes... That's silver hair and purple eyes." His lips trembled, repeating the phrase like a mantra.

Hassan, slack-jawed, took several moments before stammering, "S-sir, this... this is unbelievable!"

Gavin dismounted calmly, his demeanor steady. With a small smile, he said, "Don't be so surprised. This is just the beginning. By the way, my partner's name is Syndor."

Boris finally snapped out of his daze. Taking a few hurried steps forward, he bowed and said, "Lord, your return with such an extraordinary power will bring great honor to Bloodstone Island."

Hassan quickly added, "Yes, my lord! With this mighty dragon, Reach wouldn't dare show any arrogance!"

Gavin called over a soldier, instructing him, "Prepare food for Syndor."

Then, addressing Boris and Hassan, he said, "Come inside. I have matters to discuss with you."

Inside the study of the City Lord's Mansion, Gavin sat at his desk, his expression serious. He began, "I plan to rename Shipwreck Bay to Dragon Flame Bay. I'll have defenses built along Dragon Flame Bay's waterway and construct a manor on the island for Syndor to live in."

Boris furrowed his brow, thinking for a moment before replying, "Lord, this will take time—likely several months."

Gavin dismissed the concern, saying, "That's fine. Take your time. Additionally, our control over the archipelago is too fragmented. The maester assigned to me never arrived due to the disruptions caused by the paper business. We currently lack efficient communication systems. Relying on messengers creates unacceptable delays."

The two nodded in agreement, and Hassan suggested, "My lord, we could invest more funds to acquire maesters. With time, we could learn the techniques for raising ravens."

Gavin turned to Hassan, saying, "Send a team to find my uncle. If they locate Qyburn, have them bring him back. Also, remain vigilant for movements by the royal fleet. Syndor's presence could provoke a strong reaction from the Iron Throne."

Hassan responded immediately, "Yes, Lord Gavin. I understand."

Boris interjected, "Lord, a messenger from the Sea King has arrived on the island. He invites you to visit Braavos."

Hassan added, "Sir, I'm from Braavos. The Sea King often invites nobles, royals, and wealthy merchants. Such invitations are quite routine."

Gavin leaned back in his chair, pondering. "So, you're saying I won't face any danger if I go to Braavos?"

Hassan nodded. "Yes, my lord. Guests invited by the Sea King are always protected under his hospitality—similar to the concept of guest rights in Westeros."

Gavin smiled faintly, saying, "As my most loyal subordinates, I'll share some personal details with you. Aren't you curious why I can ride a dragon?"

Boris and Hassan exchanged glances and replied in unison, "Sir, we're indeed curious, but we'll support you no matter what."

Gavin chuckled, explaining, "The name Belerys belongs to one of the forty Dragonlord families. My mother's ancestors were guests in Braavos during the Doom and survived. However, during the subsequent Bleeding Years, they were forced to flee Braavos, leaving behind the clan sword."

Turning to Boris, he added, "The sword I sent you to negotiate for—it's the ancestral blade of House Belerys."

Boris's eyes widened in realization. "So that's why, my lord. No wonder you've always valued that sword so highly."

Hassan nodded. "It makes sense now. I had assumed you were of Targaryen blood."

Gavin smiled thoughtfully before saying, "Boris, inform the Sea King's messenger that I'll visit Braavos as requested. This visit might bring uncertainties, but it's also an opportunity. I intend to reclaim the clan sword and fulfill my mother's wish."

Boris bowed deeply. "Yes, my lord. I'll see to it at once."

Turning to Hassan, Gavin said, "Hassan, strengthen the island's defenses during my absence. The appearance of Syndor is bound to attract spies."

Hassan nodded solemnly. "Don't worry, my lord. I'll handle it."

With that, the two left to carry out their orders.