Game of Thrones: The Red Dragon Lord

As Gavin summoned his only intermediate Blood Dragon Guard, he poured an energy point into the figure. Almost instantly, the Blood Dragon Guard emitted a powerful and mysterious aura, its transformation both awe-inspiring and intimidating.

The guard's body swelled like an overinflated balloon, growing larger by the second. Muscles that had once been formidable now seemed like sculpted iron, bursting with raw power. The transformation wasn't limited to muscle—his height surged upward until he stood at an imposing two meters. The towering figure exuded an unshakable presence, like a living fortress radiating an aura of pure menace.

Gavin observed with growing anticipation.

"Let's see what you've become," he muttered, his voice laced with curiosity and a flicker of excitement.

The Blood Dragon Guard, now a mountain of strength, stood silent but imposing. Gavin quickly opened his panel to study the new abilities of his upgraded soldier.

Panel: Blood Dragon Guard – Advanced

Abilities:

Violent Power – Enter a berserk state to instantly double strength.Dragon Blood Healing – Rapidly recover from wounds by activating latent dragon blood.Combat Proficiency – Inherits 70% of the master's combat skills.Hardened Skin – Temporarily hardens skin to steel-like durability, greatly enhancing defense.Magic Resistance – Extremely high resistance to magic attacks, mitigating both damage and effects.

Gavin raised an eyebrow as he noticed a detail on the panel.

"So, the upgrade required two energy points instead of one," he murmured. He paused for a moment, his gaze shifting to the formidable figure before him. A smile curled on his lips.

"But looking at the results, it's worth every point."

He stepped back, eager to test the Blood Dragon Guard's new capabilities. The guard's performance exceeded his expectations. When activating Violent Power and Hardened Skin, it resembled an unstoppable battering ram—its every movement radiated unmatched ferocity. Gavin's flame-based magic, though intense, barely seemed to faze the guard. Even when engulfed in searing heat, it recovered in seconds, the wounds knitting together with uncanny speed.

"This… is what a true weapon looks like," Gavin said softly, the words carrying equal parts admiration and ambition.

Satisfied, he turned his attention to another Blood Dragon Guard. Using the remaining energy points, he initiated a second upgrade. Watching the transformation again, Gavin felt an almost childlike exhilaration. By the time the process was complete, he couldn't help but marvel at the two upgraded guards standing like sentinels before him.

Updated Panel:

Host: Gavin Belleris

Age: 15

Bloodline:

Blood and Fire Dragonborn (Development: 51%)Dragon riding and flame control fully awakened.

Command:

33/5131 Primary Blood Dragon Guards (Upgradable twice)2 Advanced Blood Dragon Guards (Fully upgraded)

Skills:

Flame Control: MasterSwordsmanship: MasterFlame Blade: MasterArchery: MasterLance: Master

Energy Points: 0

The remaining energy depleted, Gavin decided to act on his next goal. He strode purposefully toward the dungeon beneath the city lord's mansion. Among the pirates he had detained during his reorganization, he had carefully selected those with potential—or those who wouldn't be missed.

Hours later, exhausted but satisfied, Gavin emerged from the depths with two more freshly made Blood Dragon Guards. His energy reserves were empty, and his body felt drained, but the progress was undeniable.

When Gavin returned to the city lord's mansion, a guard approached with urgency.

"Lord Gavin, Deputy Director Boris has been waiting for some time," the guard informed him.

"Boris?" Gavin frowned slightly, curious. "Send him to the reception room. I'll meet him shortly."

A few moments later, Gavin entered to find Boris pacing anxiously. The man's excitement was palpable, his steps hurried and nervous.

"Boris," Gavin said, his tone inquisitive. "What news has you so restless?"

Boris turned, his face lighting up. He bowed respectfully before speaking.

"Sir, the paper… we've succeeded in making it! Just as you described!" His voice carried a note of triumph.

Gavin's expression shifted to one of pleasant surprise.

"Excellent. Increase the workforce immediately and ramp up production. We'll expand the operation and prepare for distribution. Timing will be crucial."

"Yes, my lord!" Boris said eagerly. "I'll see to it at once." With another bow, he exited in haste, leaving Gavin to his thoughts.

As Gavin watched Boris disappear down the hall, he allowed himself a rare moment of satisfaction. From his vantage point, he could see the fruits of his efforts taking root.

"The future of Bloodstone Island begins now," he murmured, his gaze distant yet determined.

With the revival of the trade routes well underway, merchants were returning to the familiar waters of the Stepstones. Gavin's innovative industries—soap, perfume, paper, and the soon-to-be-launched wine—were already reshaping the island's economy. These ventures not only brought unprecedented wealth but also strengthened his grip on the region.

By establishing local workshops and purchasing their output, Gavin had created a system that benefited both the islanders and his coffers. The profits from soap and perfume alone had already surpassed the tolls collected from passing ships. With a steady stream of revenue, Gavin's vision for a fleet powerful enough to dominate the Narrow Sea seemed closer than ever.

When envoys from Tyrosh, Myr, and Reese arrived, Gavin held a grand reception in the city lord's palace. The hall gleamed with opulence: polished floors, ornate chandeliers, and an array of delicacies prepared for the occasion.

The envoy from Tyrosh arrived first, his attire as extravagant as his demeanor.

"Lord Gavin," he began with a cordial bow, "it is an honor to be here. I hope we can forge a stable path for the future of the trade routes."

Gavin inclined his head slightly, his voice calm but authoritative.

"Stability benefits us all. I trust Tyrosh values prosperity as much as I do."

The envoys from Myr and Reese arrived soon after. The Myrish representative, with his ruddy face and affable manner, was quick to pledge support.

"A united effort will ensure prosperity for everyone," he declared warmly.

The Reese envoy, however, was more cautious, his sharp eyes appraising Gavin.

"Sir Gavin, word has it that you've yet to secure full control of the Stepstones. The Thorn fleet still looms as a threat. Are you certain of your position?"

Gavin's smile was unshaken, though his tone sharpened.

"Control is not given, it is taken. The Black Shark thought himself untouchable, and yet here I stand. The Thorn fleet will find themselves no different."

The Reese envoy hesitated but nodded, his skepticism tempered by Gavin's confidence.