So over the past few days, he had also sent Blackflame out to hunt magical creatures such as fire lizards to supplement the Hatchling Dragons' diet.
Viserys had noticed that the Hatchling Dragons grew even faster after eating these magical creatures. The growth rate of the five that had hatched later offered a clear clue. After a period of study, he confirmed his suspicion: the flesh and blood of magical creatures could accelerate dragons' growth.
Viserys therefore decided that once the Hatchling Dragons reached the size of horses, he would send them to live in the volcano and let them forage for themselves. This would not only develop their survival skills but also give them more experience in combat.
While Valyria's Hatchling Dragons flourished, the outside world continued to react to the rising empire.
In a secret chamber in the Sealord's Palace in Braavos, representatives of the nine Free Cities sat around a round table, their faces grave.
Sealord Ferrego Antaryon sat at the head of the table, lightly tapping his fingers on a map of Essos spread before him. Red markings indicated the territories controlled by the Valyrian Freehold.
"I believe we have all gathered here for the same reason," the Sealord began. "In less than a year, this New Valyrian Empire has taken control of all of Slaver's Bay and subdued the Dothraki khalasars. More frightening still, they have dragons. I believe we should decide as soon as possible how to respond."
The representative of Volantis's Tiger Party spoke heatedly. "Respond? We destroy it, of course. If he can seize Slaver's Bay and establish New Valyria today, tomorrow he can turn his weapons on Volantis, on Qohor, on every city that once belonged to Valyria. We should unite all our forces, advance by land and sea, and crush