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While Baelon let out an excited exclamation, King Jaehaerys's mind was already racing several steps ahead.
The performance of Dragonsteel—second only to true Valyrian steel—would be a fatal temptation for every knight in the realm.
A knight's power came not only from his skill and strength, but also from unbreakable armor and blades that could cut through anything.
The pursuit of superior equipment was endless.
On the deadly battlefield, fine armor and weapons gave a knight more than just safety; they increased his chances of survival and victory dramatically.
By controlling Dragonsteel production, House Targaryen would not only possess superior arms, but would also become far more attractive to every knight in Westeros.
Wealth and talent would flow toward the family like a river. Over time, the foundations of Targaryen rule would grow deeper and stronger.
All of this was what Dragonsteel could bring them. If used wisely, it would become the family's second dragon.
The living dragons had given House Targaryen dominion over Westeros through destruction and fear. Dragonsteel, however, could provide a far more stable foundation for their rule.
The dragons were the spear, destroying all enemies. Dragonsteel would be the shield, securing their reign.
After considering all this, Jaehaerys's expression grew tense. His voice carried a note of urgency as he turned to Gaemon.
"Who else knows the process for forging Dragonsteel besides the two of you?"
Gaemon and Baelon exchanged a glance, then shook their heads in unison. Gaemon answered firmly, "No one, Father. You can rest easy. We conducted every experiment ourselves. No one else was involved. Even if someone watched us work, they would be wasting their time. The most difficult part to replicate is the flame and precise temperature control. Those cannot be understood simply by observing the process."
Jaehaerys let out a visible breath of relief. When he spoke again, his voice had regained its usual steady authority.
"From now on, all Dragonsteel forging will take place only on Dragonstone. The smiths must also be selected exclusively from Dragonstone. Even if we are short on personnel, no outsiders are allowed to participate. The selection and training of these smiths will follow the same strict standards as choosing Dragonkeepers. There must be no leaks."
When Jaehaerys placed the Dragonsteel smiths on the same level of importance as the Dragonkeepers, both Aemon and Baelon couldn't hide their surprise. Their father clearly valued this new discovery far more than they had realized.
Jaehaerys continued in a grave tone, addressing all three sons:
"Aemon, return to Dragonstone immediately. Sweep the island clean of any 'rats.' Then personally select a group of suitable candidates for training as smiths. Once Gaemon finishes his business here at the Red Keep, I will send him to join you on Dragonstone. Take your time if needed—the most important thing is secrecy and absolute loyalty. Baelon, you will accompany them. Protect Gaemon and help Aemon secure the waters around Dragonstone. Allow no accidents."
"Yes, Father," the three brothers replied in unison, their expressions solemn.
Jaehaerys looked at his sons with deep satisfaction, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly. At this moment, his heart was filled with quiet joy.
Throughout his long reign, nothing had pleased him more than the children he and Alysanne had raised. These sons and daughters had not only enriched the family's bloodline but had brought true strength to House Targaryen.
Now, watching the little ones who once clung to his legs grow into tall, capable men—each a mighty tree in his own right—Jaehaerys felt the heavy burden he had carried alone for so many years gradually lifting from his shoulders. Most important of all, they were united. As long as these brothers stood together, Jaehaerys believed no power in the world could stand against House Targaryen.
Once he had given his orders, Jaehaerys said nothing more. He turned and walked out of the forge. The white-cloaked Kingsguard waiting outside immediately closed ranks around him, escorting their king back into the Red Keep.
As Jaehaerys's figure disappeared into the distance, Prince Aemon finally spoke, his tone carrying a hint of mock hurt.
"Well, well. You two kept something this big from your big brother? A surprise attack, is it? It seems I've been a rather negligent older brother, left completely in the dark by my own siblings. I'm very disappointed in both of you."
Gaemon and Baelon exchanged a quick glance, both asking the same silent question:
"You didn't tell him?"
"I thought you did!"
"I thought you did!"
After a brief, awkward moment, they turned back to Aemon and began explaining at once.
"Big Brother, we weren't sure it would actually work," Gaemon said quickly. "We wanted to wait until we succeeded before giving you and Father a proper surprise. Aren't you surprised now? Isn't this exciting?"
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