Behind Conqueror's Holdfast lay a vast woodland clearing.
Sunlight filtered through the branches and leaves of towering ancient trees, scattering dappled spots of light.
Exquisite Myrish carpets had been spread over the grass, with low tables set upon them bearing fruit, preserves, and fragrant tea.
Several beautiful girls sat together, chatting quietly, their silvery laughter echoing through the woods.
When Liu Qian appeared, holding the hand of an uneasy Daenerys, every gaze instantly turned toward them before settling on her.
Jelena and Janice Belerys, the Valyria Sisters, regarded her with the warmth and curiosity of a shared bloodline. The sight of Daenerys's pure Valyrian features brought an especially vivid sparkle to their eyes.
Liu Qian looked around at the women. "This is Princess Daenerys Targaryen. From now on, she will be living with you all in Conqueror's Holdfast."
The women's cheeks grew hot as they instantly understood what "living together" meant.
Liu Qian's gaze settled on the visibly uneasy Myrcella, and he smiled gently. "Myrcella, the feud between the Targaryens and the Baratheons belongs to the previous generation. You are both innocent. I hope you can get along."
Blond-haired, green-eyed Myrcella had inherited her mother's beauty. When she saw Daenerys's distinctive silver hair and purple eyes, then heard Dany's surname, she grew terribly nervous.
Though young, she already had some vague knowledge of the blood feud between their families.
But after Liu Qian's reassurances, the fear and turmoil in her heart seemed to ease somewhat.
Myrcella looked into Liu Qian's deep eyes, then smiled and gave Daenerys a gentle nod. "Hello, Princess Daenerys."
Jelena and Janice could no longer contain themselves. With silver hair and purple eyes much like Daenerys's, they eagerly stepped forward and took her hands, one on either side.
"Heavens, you really do have the blood of