Game of Thrones: The Red Dragon Lord

As night fell quietly, the stars twinkled in the dark sky like scattered diamonds. Gavin stood at the edge of the town, gazing at the strange and blood-soaked place he now called his domain. The town of Bloodstone loomed before him, a grim reminder that this was merely the start of a long and arduous journey.

The Stepstones, a chain of islands in the Narrow Sea stretching from eastern Dorne to the disputed lands of Essos, were infamous for their bloody history. Bloodstone Island, the largest and most significant of these isles, had witnessed countless wars over the centuries. Its blood-stained soil and turbulent history earned it its foreboding name.

The island itself resembled a cursed gem, set amidst the relentless waves of the Narrow Sea. Its jagged cliffs and strange rock formations towered over the shore, as if sculpted by an ancient, malevolent force. The sea roared as waves crashed against the reefs, sending white foam spraying into the air.

Bloodstone Town reflected the island's harsh nature. Its architecture was rugged, with stone houses designed to withstand the ceaseless sea winds and potential invasions. Narrow, winding streets meandered through the town, lined with weathered buildings. Moss and vines crept over the aged walls, giving the town an air of quiet desolation.

Gavin's Rise to Power

In the months since his arrival, Gavin had firmly consolidated his control. Employing strategy and guile, he swiftly neutralized the remaining forces loyal to the infamous Black Shark "Earl," whose death had left the pirates of Bloodstone disorganized. Capturing nearly a thousand men in one decisive stroke, Gavin avoided prolonged sea battles, ensuring he inherited the pirate lord's extensive fleet—seventy ships strong, though he had manpower for less than half.

Within weeks, the entire Stepstones archipelago fell under Gavin's dominion. Recognizing the opportunity before him, he initiated sweeping changes. Roads were built, farmlands expanded, and production of neglected goods was revived under the leadership of Boris, a trusted lieutenant. Gavin declared an end to pirate attacks on merchant ships and cracked down on rogue bands operating nearby, sending a clear signal of his intent to restore order.

To cement his rule, Gavin dispatched emissaries to Dorne and the Free Cities, proposing to reopen trade routes in exchange for traditional tolls. He also sought legitimacy for his claim by sending Hassan, his most loyal confidant, to Highgarden with a letter addressed to the Tyrells.

Hassan's Mission

Hassan arrived at Highgarden after days of grueling travel. His clothes were dust-streaked, his face haggard, but his eyes remained determined. Standing under the towering castle gates, he cast a long shadow in the golden morning sun.

As Gavin had predicted, his messenger was promptly admitted. Less than an hour later, Hassan found himself in a fragrant garden pavilion. Flowers bloomed in vibrant hues, green trees swayed gently in the breeze, and the air carried the faint scent of blossoms.

Three figures awaited him. The first was a young noblewoman of striking beauty, clad in an elegant gown embroidered with intricate patterns. Her blue eyes shimmered with curiosity, and her long brown hair cascaded over her shoulders like a sunlit waterfall. Hassan immediately recognized her: Margaery Tyrell.

Beside her sat a serious-looking man in a wheelchair. His simple yet finely tailored attire hinted at his status. His grip on the armrests was firm, his knuckles pale with the tension of thought. Hassan assumed this must be Willas Tyrell.

The third figure was an elderly woman wearing a turban. Her face bore the lines of time, her silver hair peeking out beneath the fabric. Despite her frailty, her sharp eyes exuded wisdom and authority. This was Lady Olenna Tyrell, the Queen of Thorns.

Hassan stepped forward and bowed deeply. "Lady Margaery, I bring greetings from my master, Gavin Belleris, Lord of the Stepstones. He has entrusted me with a message for the Tyrells." He presented the sealed letter to a waiting servant, who delivered it to Margaery.

Reactions in the Pavilion

Margaery broke the seal and began reading, her delicate brow furrowing in surprise. When she finished, she handed the letter to Lady Olenna without a word. Olenna's sharp eyes scanned the contents, her expression revealing nothing as Margaery leaned over, only to be gently pushed back by the elder's hand. When Olenna passed the letter to Willas, the air grew heavy with unspoken thoughts.

Hassan stood quietly, his heart racing as he observed their expressions. The silence was broken only by the distant chirping of birds, but to Hassan, every second of waiting felt like an eternity.

Willas opened his mouth to speak, but Olenna's steely gaze silenced him. She turned to Hassan and said in her deliberate tone, "You must be exhausted after your journey. Go and rest. Food will be provided. We will send our reply when we've reached a decision."

Though anxious, Hassan bowed again. "Thank you, Lady Olenna. Your hospitality is most kind." Under the guidance of a servant, he left the pavilion, his mind still plagued by uncertainties.