Sails on the Summer Sea, an alliance at Lotus Port

After leaving Dragon's Roost Port, the fleet sailed south along the Narrow Sea, passing through the Stepstones several days later.

These islands had once been pirate territory, a lawless region of uncertain standing between Westeros and Essos on opposite shores of the Narrow Sea.

Later, after the Triarchy was formed and drove out the pirates entrenched there, it claimed the islands as its own sphere of influence.

Now, however, they had once again submitted to the Iron Throne of the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros-

Now, after construction carried out by laborers conscripted through the governor's office and pirates persuaded to surrender, soldiers and civilians could fill the newly established customs docks to welcome them.

Craghas Drahar ordered a brief stop here to rest and replenish their fresh water and fruit.

Daemon stood at the stern, gazing at the coastline of the Stepstones, remembering the bloody battles he had fought here against the Triarchy at the beginning of the year.

Back then, never mind the Dragon's Roost Port Fleet, which had not even been conceived of yet-even the Joint Fleet had only just been established and was not yet fully integrated. Now, never mind the Joint Fleet, which could already patrol all the waters of Westeros-even Daemon's own recently established Dragon's Roost Port Fleet of his princely domain was already strong and well equipped, about to embark on an expedition to the Summer Isles.

A thousand thoughts stirred within him. He turned to Crahas and asked, "Tell me, how will the natives of the Summer Isles treat us?"

"The princes of Walano are eager for trade," Crahas said. "We can exchange cloth, ironware, and spices from Westeros for their goldenheart and gemstones, establishing friendly relations.

"The Xho tribe of Jhala has colluded with the Ironborn. We must strike them and teach