Game of Thrones: The Red Dragon Lord

As news of Gavin's complete conquest of the Stepstone Islands spread, merchant ships began arriving more frequently, their decks bustling with goods and whispers of a rising power in the Narrow Sea. Amidst this flurry of activity, an envoy from Dorne arrived. Compared to the cautious hostility of the Three Daughters, the Dornish delegation exuded a surprising warmth.

Gavin quickly understood the reasoning. Dorne's naval strength had been crippled by the infamous Black Shark, "Earl," leaving the principality devoid of a formidable fleet. Dorne's eagerness for stability aligned perfectly with Gavin's own ambitions. Their negotiations proceeded smoothly, culminating in a cooperative agreement beneficial to both parties.

After the envoy's departure, Gavin turned his attention to reorganizing the Stepstone Islands. Hassan was appointed fleet commander, though Gavin privately harbored doubts about his capabilities. However, Hassan's loyalty and experience made him the best option for now. To solidify control, Gavin also promoted soldiers who had proven themselves in recent battles, granting them key positions like captain and first mate. Clear rewards and punishments ensured discipline and loyalty within the ranks.

Boris was named governor of Bloodstone Island. Gavin had observed his meticulousness and fairness in previous dealings, making him an ideal choice for the position. Gray Gallows Island, still unstable after conquest, remained under Gavin's direct supervision.

The acute shortage of skilled administrators gnawed at Gavin. He began contemplating the establishment of a school to train officers and civil servants. However, the idea of reaching out to individuals from the known Westerosi plotline lingered in the back of his mind—an idea for another day.

One afternoon, while discussing plans for the school with Boris, an unexpected guest arrived: Petyr Baelish. The guards informed Gavin that Baelish claimed to be acting on the orders of the Royal Council.

The mention of Littlefinger set Gavin's mind racing. He knew Baelish's reputation as a cunning and dangerous schemer. His involvement in the chaos to come in Westeros was legendary. Gavin straightened in his chair, careful to maintain a composed exterior.

"Bring him to my study," Gavin instructed.

Moments later, Baelish entered the room, dressed in a finely tailored green robe that exuded subtle wealth. His ever-present smile radiated a humble charm, but Gavin's instincts screamed caution.

"Lord Baelish," Gavin greeted him with a measured smile. "Welcome to the Stepstone Islands. Forgive me for not greeting you at the port; I wasn't expecting such an esteemed guest."

Petyr bowed slightly, his smile never faltering. "You flatter me, Lord Gavin. It is I who must apologize for arriving unannounced. My visit is, I assure you, one of necessity."

Gavin gestured toward a decanter and poured them both glasses of wine. "Please, take a seat. I've heard much about your brilliance. Your work as tax collector in Gulltown, increasing revenues tenfold, is legendary."

Petyr accepted the glass with a polite nod. "A modest accomplishment, my lord, especially when compared to your extraordinary conquest of the Stepstones. The trade routes you now control must be the envy of many."

Gavin's smile thinned slightly as he leaned forward. "Indeed, a blessing and a burden. But tell me, Lord Baelish, what brings you to these shores?"

Petyr sipped his wine, his expression unreadable. "I come bearing concerns from the Royal Council. There is interest in formalizing a tax collector system here, much like the arrangements in the five great ports of Westeros."

Gavin's eyes narrowed, though he kept his tone calm. "The five great ports? King's Landing, Oldtown, Lannisport, White Harbor, and Gulltown. They are unique cases, with arrangements established during the reign of Aegon the Conqueror. The Stepstones, as part of the Reach, fall under Lord Mace Tyrell's jurisdiction. Taxes from here are already remitted to Highgarden. What exactly is the Royal Council proposing?"

Baelish's smile widened, but it didn't reach his eyes. "The Iron Throne's finances are strained, Lord Gavin. The Prime Minister, Lord Arryn, believes the wealth flowing through the Stepstones could provide much-needed relief."

Gavin's expression hardened. "Lord Baelish, I must respectfully remind you that any taxation beyond my obligations to Highgarden would be unprecedented and contrary to Westerosi tradition. I hope the Royal Council understands this."

Petyr sighed theatrically, spreading his hands. "A fair point, my lord, and one I raised myself. Alas, Lord Arryn is quite insistent. His sense of duty to the realm's coffers is admirable, though perhaps not always pragmatic."

Gavin studied Petyr carefully. There was no official decree; this was a fishing expedition. The Council was divided, and Baelish had been sent to test the waters.

"You came here to 'discuss' this matter," Gavin said, his voice sharp. "Which means no decision has been made."

Petyr's smile grew faintly conspiratorial. "Astute as ever, my lord. There is indeed room for negotiation. Speaking of which, I understand you've been acquiring dragon bones. An unusual pursuit, if I may say so."

Caught off-guard, Gavin hesitated before replying. "I have a keen interest in dragon lore. The bones are of great historical and cultural value."

"Fascinating," Petyr said smoothly. "In King's Landing, dragon bones gather dust in the Red Keep. Perhaps I could assist in acquiring more for you. Friends in Essos are often eager to part with such relics—for the right price."

Gavin's instincts prickled. Petyr was probing for leverage. "If you can facilitate such trades, I'd be grateful. Of course, I'd expect your assistance in other matters as well, such as persuading the Prime Minister to reconsider imposing a tax officer here."

Baelish chuckled lightly, swirling his wine. "Ah, Lord Gavin, you've a keen understanding of how the world works. I believe we can be of mutual benefit to one another. The Prime Minister, after all, values practical solutions."

Gavin stood, signaling the end of their conversation. "Then we are agreed—for now. I will arrange for the purchase of dragon bones, and you, Lord Baelish, will use your influence to delay any changes in taxation."

Petyr stood as well, bowing slightly. "A pleasure, as always, to work with such an insightful lord. I trust this will be the beginning of a productive partnership."

As Baelish left the room, Gavin remained by the window, watching the sea. The waves crashed relentlessly against the rocky shores, much like the forces that would soon vie for control of Westeros. He tightened his grip on his wine glass, knowing full well that alliances with men like Petyr Baelish came with a steep price.