Dragons gathered at King's Landing

Dragons Gather at the King's Landing

The cobblestone streets of the Red Keep were warm from the midday sun. The sea breeze, carrying a salty and damp scent, blew in from the distant Blackwater Bay, passing through the branches of the Kingswood, skimming the banks of the Blackwater, and brushing against the castle's battlements.

When the Glutton's enormous dragon shadow appeared above the Red Keep, the entire King's Landing fell into a brief silence, followed by deafening cheers. Crowds surged into the streets, looking up at the legendary "King of the Wild Dragons" and the renowned Prince Blackfyre on its back.

The Glutton's dragon wings flapped slowly, creating gusts of air that stirred up petals and dust from the ground before it landed steadily on a wide training ground outside the Red Keep.

The jet-black dragon scales gleamed with a dark gold in the light. When the dragon claws landed, the ground trembled slightly. Grey Ghost flew out from Daemon's arms, affectionately nuzzled his palm, and let out a soft dragon roar.

Dreamfyre descended as well, its pale blue dragon wings folded, and it lay obediently beside the Glutton, drawing gasps of amazement from the onlookers.

Daemon leaped off the dragon saddle, his Blackfyre slung across his waist, his cloak fluttering in the wind.

He had just steadied himself when he saw the gates of the Red Keep slowly open, and a group of familiar figures strode in.

Leading the group was none other than "the Conciliator Jaehaerys," dressed in a black royal robe. The three-headed dragon emblem on his chest shone brightly in the light. His silver-white beard and hair were neatly combed. Although he was old, he still stood upright, with sharp yet loving eyes.

"My child, you're finally back." Jaehaerys strode forward, reached out and tightly grasped Daemon's arm, the warmth of his palm carrying the weight of years.

He looked Daemon up and down, his eyes full of satisfaction. "I've heard about the Dragon's Roost Port you built in your fiefdom. You've done a great job, even better than I expected."

"Grandfather." Daemon bowed, his voice filled with the warmth of a reunion.

He had never experienced such pure kinship in his previous life, and now Jaehaerys's loving kindness warmed his heart.

Queen Alysanne followed behind Jaehaerys, wearing a pale purple robe with tiny dragon patterns embroidered on the hem, a gentle smile on her face.

She walked up to Daemon, brushed the dust off his cloak, and said affectionately, "You must be tired from your journey. Where's Gael? Is she arriving with the fleet soon?"

"Grandmother, Gael's fleet will meet the Peninsula's fleet at Blackwater Bay, and then they will come to Red Keep." Daemon nodded. "She is doing well; Alys Rivers has been taking care of her."

"That's good." Alysanne breathed a sigh of relief, her eyes filled with tenderness. "This child is frail; you must take good care of her."

The salt-tolerant rye seeds you sent last time, I had the gardener plant them in the Imperial Garden. They're growing exceptionally well in that small field. Once the harvest is plentiful, I'll have the kitchen make rye cakes for you."

Crown Prince Baelon, dressed in silver armor, clearly having just finished training, strode in, followed by Viserys and Aemma.

A husband and wife family.

He patted Daemon's shoulder firmly, his touch steady. "Well done, Little Daemon. The battle at the Summer Isles thoroughly intimidated the Ironborn and made the Seven Kingdoms see your strength."

Viserys, dressed in a deep purple silk robe with a gentle smile, handed the still-sleeping Rhaenyra to Aemma beside him, then stepped forward to embrace Daemon: "Welcome back, my little brother. Before Big Daemon left, he was waiting for you with me and Father. The nobles of King's Landing are all talking about you, saying you are ' the the Conqueror Reborn'."

"Brother, you flatter me." After returning the hug, Daemon immediately inquired about Daemon Targaryen's condition, "Has Big Daemon arrived in the Riverlands by now?"

"Don't worry, he's been much more composed lately, spurred on by your 'great achievements' in your fiefdoms," Viserys chuckled. "Even before he set off this time, he vowed to make a name for himself on the front lines before officially declaring war on the Iron Islands."

Aemma, watching the harmonious scene between the two cousins, silently showed Daemon the sleeping Rhaenyra in her arms, indicating that she had also emerged from the shadow of her previous difficult childbirth.

Rhaenys, dressed in a navy blue robe of the House Velaryon, the three-headed dragon emblem on her chest echoing the House Velaryon's seahorse crest, immediately lost her dignified smile upon seeing Viserys approaching with Laena and Laenor. She "snatched" Daemon back from Viserys: "Little Daemon, let your big sister give you a hug. Have you gotten a tan at sea lately? Laena and Laenor have been talking about you every day..."

I was just asking you to show me the spoils you brought back from the Summer Isles.

Laena, dressed in a light green robe, skipped and hopped up to Daemon, her eyes full of curiosity. This little girl, perhaps influenced by her father's nine voyages, was brimming with curiosity about things like overseas adventures. "Uncle Little Daemon, are the Talking Tree of the Summer Isles really covered in carvings? Can I see your sketches?"

Laenor nodded in agreement, looking at Daemon, who had grown even taller and more handsome, clutching a small wooden sword in his hand. "Uncle Little Daemon, I heard you killed a lot of Ironborn in the Summer Isles. Could you teach me swordsmanship?"

"Of course." Daemon smiled and ruffled the children's hair. "The sketches are in my attendant's bag; I'll show them to you later. As for swordsmanship, I'll teach you myself when you're a bit older."

The words had barely left his mouth when Daemon seemed to remember something else. He quickly turned to Laenor, who was looking at him with a gaze reminiscent of Bethany Hightower's private glances, and changed the subject, "But, during your time in King's King's Landing, didn't your Uncle Big Daemon teach you anything, Little Laenor?"

Fortunately Jocelyn Baratheon stepped in front of Daemon at that moment, which saved Daemon from disaster. Jocelyn looked at Daemon, who had already recognized her as her mother, with eyes full of maternal love.

She was wearing a light yellow dress today. She gently stroked Daemon's cheek and said in a soft voice, "It's good that you're back, it's good that you're back. I asked the kitchen to make your favorite meat soup. Come to my place for a bowl later."

Daemon felt a warmth in his heart; this woman he had taken in had always treated him like her own son. "Thank you, Mother, for all your trouble."

"Don't be so polite with me." Jocelyn smiled at the polite Daemon in front of her, "Your uncle Boremund gave me..."

The letter said that you had established a medical point in Dragon's Roost Port, a port in your territory.

I also heard that you have taken in and treated many refugees within your territory; this is all thanks to the blessings of the gods. In my reply to your uncle, I also told him to send some more herbs from our Stormlands; they should have arrived by now.

As Daemon entered the Red Keep, the entourage and guards along the way bowed and saluted, their eyes filled with awe.

The corridors of the Red Keep remained spacious, with portraits of Targaryen family members hanging on the stone walls. Sunlight streamed through the stained glass windows, casting dappled shadows on the floor. The familiar atmosphere made Daemon feel right at home.

Upon arriving at the side hall next to the council chamber, the servants had already served ale and snacks.

Jaehaerys sat in the main seat, looking at Daemon, and said solemnly, "Little Daemon, your uncle Baelon is the commander-in-chief for this expedition against the Iron Islands, and the Joint Fleet will be coordinated by him and Corlys."

However, after we formally discuss our strategy against the enemy in a few days and officially declare war on the Iron Islands, you will also lead a large army, and your uncle will assist you in coordinating the forces of the various lords.

Moreover, Viserys is now in charge of logistics, and Big Daemon has already gone ahead to the Riverlands to await the arrival of the elite forces of the Central Plains Royal Fleet of the Joint Fleet, to rendezvous with the vanguard fleet of the feudal lords.

"Grandfather, rest assured, I have already formulated a plan within the territory." Daemon nodded. "Crahas Hal is familiar with naval warfare and will assist me in commanding the fleet."

Lyonel Corbray and Rupert Crabb were in charge of the amphibious landing operation;

Jarman Waters and Larys Strong were in charge of intelligence, ensuring that the Ironborn's movements were fully monitored.

"Very good. With your pre-battle planning, I feel reassured." Jaehaerys nodded in satisfaction. "Gorne Greyjoy of the Iron Islands has openly condoned his people's slave trading and plundering, which has already aroused public outrage. This campaign will not only destroy their fleet but also completely dismantle their power, so that the Ironborn will never dare to covet the coastlines of the Seven Kingdoms again."

Alysanne picked up a glass of warm ale from the side and handed it to Daemon: "Have some to soothe your throat. Don't be like your grandfather, who never stopped talking about politics."

The new policies you implemented on the Crab Claw Peninsula have allowed your subjects to live and work in peace and contentment, which is an excellent achievement.

Your grandfather and Uncle Baelon have recently been mentioning you frequently in Small Council and when meeting with the princes.

"This wouldn't have been possible without the support of my men," Daemon said, taking the beer. "Moreover, the lords of Crab Claw Peninsula were very cooperative. Earl Crabb and Earl Berna Count Bren helped me secure my rear, allowing me to launch my campaign without any worries."

Just then, a servant entered and reported to Jaehaerys, "Your Majesty, Princess Gael's fleet has docked and is now en route to the Red Keep in the convoy arranged by Her Majesty the Queen."

A look of delight flashed in Daemon's eyes, and he quickly stood up, gesturing to the others, "I'll go get her."

Outside the Red Keep, Gael's carriage had just stopped. Today she had changed into a light purple robe with a Dreamfyre pattern embroidered on the hem. She stepped down from the carriage with the help of Mysaria and Johanna Swann.

Seeing her little nephew-husband, her Little Daemon, approaching, her eyes lit up instantly. She rushed forward and threw herself into his arms. "Little Daemon!"

"I'm here." Daemon hugged her, feeling her warm body, and felt a sense of reassurance. "Was the journey alright? Did you feel unwell?"

"It's good, I just miss you a little." Gael looked up at him, her cheeks slightly flushed. "Alys said this morning that my health is getting better and better, and in another year, we'll definitely be able to have a baby."

"Yes, we're not in a rush. We'll wait until you're fully recovered." Daemon lowered his head and gently kissed her forehead, then took her hand and led her towards the Red Keep.

When Alysanne saw Gael, she rushed forward and took her hand. "My dear child, I'm so glad to see you. Let me see, you look much better than last time."

"Mother," Gael called out obediently, her face full of shy smiles.

Jaehaerys stepped forward, looking at his young daughter embracing his wife, and said gently, "Gael, my daughter, thank you for your hard work."

Little Daemon has been busy out there, and it's all thanks to you managing his territory for him. Now it seems that the Child of Winter, is a qualified princess."

"Father, you flatter me. I was just doing my duty." Gael bowed, using politeness to conceal the upturned corners of her mouth and her smug expression. "Dragon's Roost Port's prosperity today is all thanks to Little Daemon and everyone else."

Looking at his younger sister Gael and his nephew, his beloved Little Daemon, Baelon's eyes were filled with pride. "You two are of one mind; it is the gods who are protecting our Targaryen Lineage."

A flicker of joy crossed Gael's eyes once more. Realizing that her behavior in front of her family was "unbecoming of a mature princess consort," she quickly thanked him, saying, "Thank you for your concern, brother."

The group escorted Gael into the Red Keep, chatting and laughing all the way, the warm atmosphere infecting everyone in the group.

Back in the side hall, Daemon had the gifts he had brought from Dragon's Roost Port brought out:

Jaehaerys was given a scepter made of Goldenheart and inlaid with emeralds from the Summer Isles;

Alysanne received a colorful and exquisitely crafted cloak made of parrot feathers.

Baelon was given a model of an improved ballista, the original of which was crafted by a craftsman from Myr and was extremely powerful.

Viserys was given a jar of aged Arbor wine, an agricultural manual from the Reach, and of course, plenty of Summer Isles gems, rare woods, and stones for Viserys to practice making small items.

What was left for Big Daemon, who had already set out on his campaign, was a shark-tooth dagger, incredibly sharp:

The Rhaenys family received toys made of Goldenheart and jeweled ornaments;

What was given to Jocelyn was a necklace made of pearls from the Summer Isles:

Of course, Aemma, who was already resting with Princess Rhaenyra, also received toys and jewelry.

"These are all local specialties of Dragon's Roost Port, as well as rare treasures from the Summer Isles. I hope you all like them," Daemon smiled.

The author states.

"Thank you for your thoughtfulness, child." Jaehaerys held the Goldenheart scepter, his eyes filled with delight. "This scepter is gentler than my previous one made of Bittersteel, yet it exudes power. I like it very much."

Alysanne stroked the feather cloak, smiling broadly. "It's beautiful, even more vibrant than the flowers in the Royal Garden. I'll definitely wear it to the next banquet."

Viserys first helped accept the gifts from his wife and daughter, then glanced at the agricultural manual, fearing that his grandfather and father would say he was neglecting his duties.

Then, he immediately began to admire the pile of Summer Isles gems, rare woods, and stones in front of him, which would soon become his sculpted collection, and nodded seriously, saying, "Perfect timing! I've actually been researching cultivation techniques for Reach crops lately, and your book, Little Daemon, has come at just the right time."

Seeing her daughter Laena and son Laenor admiring the Goldenheart toys, Rhaenys smiled and said to Daemon, "Thank you, Little Daemon. It seems your niece and nephew really like them."

Jocelyn stroked the pearl necklace, her eyes filled with emotion. "It's so beautiful, thank you, Daemon."

As the afternoon sun began to gradually slant westward, servants reported that the fleet had arrived at Blackwater Bay docks, Gael's maids and Daemon's attendants were arranging accommodations.

Daemon sent Rayford Rosby to King's Landing Bartimos Celtigar, who had previously served as his Minister of Intelligence in King's Landing, to settle his followers and wait until the supplies for the Dragon's Roost Port Fleet were stored away before returning to the Red Keep to go to the banquet hall with his family.

The banquet hall was brightly lit, and the long tables were laden with a sumptuous feast: roasted wild boar, smoked salmon, sweet cherry tarts, Arbor wine, coconut wine from the Summer Isles, and salt-tolerant rye bread, a specialty of the Crab Claw Peninsula this year.

Jaehaerys sat in the main seat, with Alysanne beside him. Baelon, the Viserys family, the Rhaenys family, Jocelyn, Gael took their seats in turn, while servants moved among them, pouring wine for everyone.

"A toast to Dai Xiaomeng's safe return, and to a successful conquest of the Iron Islands!" Jaehaerys raised his glass, his voice booming.

"Cheers!" everyone responded in unison, the clinking of glasses producing a crisp and pleasant sound.

During the meal, Jaehaerys inquired about the construction progress of Dragon's Roost Port, Daemon gave a detailed report, "The docks of Dragon's Roost Port can now accommodate twenty ocean-going merchant ships, and the terraced fields have yielded 30,000 shi of salt-tolerant rye, enough to supply the rations of everyone in the port for half a year;

The naval base has already built fifty warships, Crahas Hal is currently modifying the ship designs to enhance combat capabilities.

"Well done." Jaehaerys nodded. "Your fiefdom is the shield of the Iron Throne and our Targaryen Lineage, and also an important stronghold for future conquests. You must defend it well."

Jaehaerys had originally intended to continue his long- Daemon discussion with Baelon and Viserys, but he was interrupted by Alysanne, who frowned, gesturing to Jocelyn beside her.

Seeing the gaze of her deceased father's mother and half-sister, Jocelyn turned to Daemon and Gael, changing the subject, "You two should have a child soon. Jaehaerys and Alysanne are really looking forward to having a great-grandchild."

Gael's cheeks flushed instantly. She gently tugged at Daemon's sleeve, and Daemon took her hand, smiling as he said, "Once this campaign against the Iron Islands is over, we'll begin preparations. Miss Alys Rivers said that if Gael's body is properly cared for for another year, she'll be able to safely conceive."

"That's good." Alysanne nodded with satisfaction, seeing the conversation had successfully shifted away from politics. "Children, we are the future of Targaryen, and we all hope you will have a healthy baby."

The dinner was warm and lively, with family members chatting and laughing, sharing their recent updates and reminiscing about the past.

Looking at his family, Daemon felt a deep sense of peace. This warmth strengthened his resolve to achieve his goals. He not only wanted to realize his ambitions and build a powerful empire, but also to protect this hard-won family bond, ensuring the Targaryen Dragonfire burned forever and his family remained safe and sound.

As night deepened, the dinner party ended. Daemon Gael back to her old room at the Red Keep. Along the way, Gael quietly leaned against him and whispered, "It's so wonderful to be reunited with family like this today. I never imagined that so many of us would be eating together in the future."

"We'll always be able to reunite like this from now on." Daemon squeezed her hand. "Once this campaign against the Iron Islands is over, we'll return to Dragon's Roost Port, finish building the castle within the Peninsula Crownlands, and then our families can all come and visit."

"Okay." Gael nodded, her eyes full of anticipation.

Back in Gael's room, Daemon watched Gael asleep, leaving Little Mei and Hannah to take care of her. But instead of returning to his own room, he went alone to the terrace of the Red Keep.

The Glutton, its Grey Ghost looming over the hills it once Glutton, let out a low, mournful roar that gradually mingled with the sound of the waves in Blackwater Bay.

He gripped the hilt of the Blackfyre at his waist, a resolute glint in his eyes.

Family ties and ambition are no longer contradictory, but rather the two wings that support him as he moves forward.

He will carry the expectations of his family, conquer the Iron Islands, eliminate the threat from the Seven Kingdoms, and then realize his ambitions step by step, building his own legend.

The winds of King's Landing carry the scent of power, and he is ready to face the impending Storm.

The lights of the Red Keep lit up one after another, illuminating this center of power and the path Daemon would take.

His era has arrived; the glory of the Targaryen will shine even brighter in his hands.