To Aegon's mild surprise, the guards at the entrance, standing ramrod straight with expressionless faces and vacant eyes, were Unsullied.
These eunuch warriors from Astapor in Slaver's Bay were renowned for their absolute loyalty, brutal discipline, and fearless fighting style. They were extraordinarily expensive slave soldiers.
Using Unsullied to guard a pleasure house said much about the wealth and taste of the owner behind the Perfumed Garden-or rather, their twisted taste.
After handing the attendant at the entrance a few silver coins as an admission fee, Aegon and his companions entered without trouble.
The Unsullied inside did not even spare their weapons a second glance. As long as they caused no trouble, the rules here seemed quite relaxed.
The moment they stepped into the garden, an even richer, cloyingly sweet blend of floral scents washed over them, mingled with wine, food, and a subtler hint of decadence.
The courtyard was exquisite, its galleries winding and its streams murmuring, with fine sculptures and comfortable couches everywhere.
Beautiful serving girls and youths in light, graceful clothing flitted about like butterflies or sat beside guests, smiling sweetly.
Soft music and suggestive laughter drifted through the air.
Aegon's striking looks and conspicuous silver hair, together with the guards following behind him, immediately drew plenty of attention.
The women of the Perfumed Garden brightened at the sight of him and boldly cast him seductive glances.
Some noblewomen taking their leisure also paused their conversations. Half hiding their faces behind fans, they studied him with burning eyes and murmured their appraisals.
One beautiful, mature woman in particularly revealing clothes even approached him directly, swaying gracefully as she walked.
"What a handsome gentleman. I don't believe I've seen you before. Is this your first visit?" Her voice was soft and seductive. She nearly pressed herself against Aegon,