Game of Thrones: The Red Dragon Lord

"It's okay, Syndor won't hurt you. Touch it," Gavin's voice came softly from behind, interrupting Daenerys's thoughts.

Encouraged by his calm tone, she tentatively reached out and gently stroked Syndor's warm, golden scales.

The mighty dragon turned its head to glance at the unfamiliar figure of Daenerys before snorting softly and turning away, seemingly uninterested.

Nearby, the servants had efficiently re-laid the overturned tables and swiftly cleared away the remnants of spilled food. Fresh platters of delicacies were being brought in, and within moments, the banquet hall was restored to its original splendor.

The only stark difference was Syndor, the enormous golden dragon, sprawled majestically in the center of the square. Its presence added an imposing gravitas that no decoration could match.

Amidst the bustling crowd, two men stood at the edge of the square, their eyes fixed intently on Viserys and Daenerys.

"The commotion earlier was a perfect chance," one of them muttered, his voice low and gruff.

The other shook his head sharply. "Too risky. The dragon was too close. We would've been roasted alive."

Moments later, the Sea King reappeared, now adorned in fresh robes of royal blue embroidered with silver waves. He approached Gavin with an air of humility.

"Sir Gavin, come. Allow me to show you my menagerie. It would be my honor."

Gavin inclined his head respectfully. "I am grateful for your hospitality, Your Highness. Lead the way."

The Sea King's gaze shifted to Viserys and Daenerys, standing nearby. "Honored Targaryen guests, why not join us? My collection may intrigue you."

Viserys responded swiftly, a faint smile on his lips. "Your Highness, I must decline. My sister can accompany Sir Gavin in my stead."

He turned to Daenerys, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder and murmured, "Be good," before striding towards the now-replenished dining tables.

Gavin moved to Syndor's side, placing a reassuring hand on the dragon's neck. "Stay here, my friend. I'll be back soon."

Syndor gave a low rumble of acknowledgment and settled down, his golden form glowing softly under the lamplight.

Under the Sea King's lead, Gavin and Daenerys began their slow stroll towards the sprawling menagerie behind the palace. A contingent of water dancers and Gavin's blood dragon guards trailed behind, though fewer now than earlier at the banquet.

The two shadowy figures, still watching from a distance, saw Viserys move away from the dragon and approach a table laden with food.

"He's far from the dragon now," one whispered, his excitement barely restrained. "This is our chance. One target is enough. Shall we do it?"

The other nodded grimly, rolling up his sleeve to reveal patches of gray, scaly skin. "The Iron Throne pays well—two thousand gold dragons for his head. That's more than enough for our families."

With determined glances, they moved towards Viserys, their intent clear.

Meanwhile, in the menagerie, the Sea King proudly guided Gavin and Daenerys through his extraordinary collection of exotic creatures.

"Behold, Sir Gavin," he said with pride, gesturing to a pen. "A marvel from the Summer Isles—a tiger that carries its young in a pouch like a kangaroo."

Gavin nodded, impressed but wary. He had already discerned the Sea King's near-obsessive fascination with collecting anything rare.

"Your Highness, your collection is truly impressive," Gavin remarked diplomatically.

The Sea King smiled. "Only the best for Braavos. I hope it pleases you, Sir Gavin."

Daenerys, walking beside them, seemed distracted, her thoughts miles away.

Suddenly, a servant rushed into the menagerie, his face pale and his words stumbling over themselves in his panic.

"Your Highness! Sir Gavin! It's Viserys… He's been attacked. Someone stabbed him at the banquet…"

Daenerys froze, her eyes wide in shock. "What? No… no! That can't be true!"

The servant continued, his voice trembling. "The attackers were burned alive… by Syndor."

Gavin's expression darkened as he turned to Daenerys, who looked as though the world had crumbled beneath her feet. Her body trembled, and her voice was barely a whisper.

"Viserys… He's gone… just like that?"

She swayed as the weight of the news sank in, and Gavin quickly stepped forward, catching her before she fell.

"Daenerys," he said softly but firmly. "Stay with me. We'll get through this."

The Sea King's face was grim as he addressed them. "I offer my deepest apologies. This should never have happened under my roof. I will ensure this crime is avenged and the truth uncovered. You have my word."

Gavin nodded, though his expression was tight. "Thank you, Your Highness. Let's begin by securing the scene and learning who these men were."

The Sea King gestured to his guards, who immediately scattered to carry out his orders. Gavin carefully guided Daenerys to a bench, speaking soothingly.

"You're not alone, Daenerys. Rest now. We'll find answers, and justice will be done."

Tears glistened in her violet eyes, but Daenerys did not let them fall. Her voice was low but filled with pain and quiet resolve.

"They took him from me, Gavin. They wouldn't stop, not even here."

Gavin placed a reassuring hand over hers. "They'll pay for what they've done. You have my word."