Chapter 61: Dragons of Dragonstone
Seeing Dragonzel remain silent, Princess Rhaenys Targaryen sighed inwardly. This child was good in every way, but too cautious. How could she not know what Dragonzel was worried about and what he wanted?
"Daemon, this is for the future of the Realm and the dragonlord families," Rhaenys continued to persuade. "The King will also personally sail to Dragonstone. He takes Daemon's suggestion very seriously, and the Queen's children will also come. King Viserys I Targaryen hopes to use this opportunity to let the young dragonriders witness a true dragon battle, and also to mend the fracture in the Realm's bloodlines."
Dragonzel still smiled as he looked at the old Princess. His deep purple eyes were unfathomable, making it impossible to guess what he was thinking.
"What about you, Your Highness? You are Lady of Driftmark and wife of Lord Corlys Velaryon, so why are you willing to run errands for Daemon?"
"I am also a Targaryen dragonrider, Dragonzel," Rhaenys replied. "This is an obligation that dragonriders must bear for the family, and what's more…" A hint of anger and sorrow surfaced in her voice. "That wild dragon attacked Seasmoke, my late son's dragon. Seeing it always reminds me of my son, Laenor Velaryon."
"Can Dragonstone guarantee that the disappearance of the dragon eggs is not related to human interference?" Dragonzel returned to a neutral expression. He had indeed suspected this could be a trap laid by the Targaryen royal family, but now that matters had reached this point, he could not simply refuse.
Rhaenys nodded. "This can be guaranteed. The Dragonkeepers of Dragonstone will inspect every clutch alongside Daemon. Since my grandfather's reign, all ships entering and leaving Dragonstone have been strictly inspected to prevent dragon eggs from being smuggled out."
After saying this, Rhaenys gave Dragonzel a meaningful look.
However, this is the first time I've seen brothers like you directly abduct fully grown dragons.
Dragonzel ignored her gaze.
"Princess, one more question. Why has that wild dragon suddenly become active during this period?"
Rhaenys glanced toward Vermithor, who was resting outside the camp.
"I suspect it is because you and Prince Valarr rode Vermithor and Silverwing away," she said. "Before they left, most dragon eggs on Dragonstone came from Syrax and Silverwing. With Vermithor present, no matter how savage that wild dragon is, it would have to consider the risk of facing two mature dragons at once."
"I understand, Princess," Dragonzel nodded. "In that case, I am willing to assist the Realm in eliminating this wild dragon. However, I will not directly engage in frontal combat. As you said, the Cannibal fears Vermithor. If Vermithor appears on the front line, it may simply flee, which would only complicate matters."
"I understand, Dragonzel. Your participation alone is already a contribution to the Realm," Rhaenys smiled. "You have my thanks as well."
"Jacaerys!" Dragonzel called out.
Prince Jacaerys Velaryon, who had been playing with the child, hurriedly stuffed the candy into the boy's hand before running back.
"I need to go to Dragonstone. Vermithor and Meleys will fly at full speed. Your Vermax cannot keep up if it carries a rider. Do you wish to remain at Raventree Hall, or ride with me to Dragonstone and witness the battle?"
"How can a squire not follow his knight?" Jacaerys's eyes lit up instantly.
"Good. Ride with me. Let Vermax follow alongside. We depart immediately."
Nearby, Meleys, the Red Queen, had just swallowed an entire roasted goat before lowering herself to allow her rider to mount.
"Lord Samwell, my apologies, and thank you for your hospitality. It seems our stay must end early," Dragonzel said as he helped Jacaerys onto Vermithor's saddle before climbing up himself.
"Your Highness, the honor was ours," Lord Samwell Blackwood said, bowing deeply.
He watched as the two great dragons spread their wings and ascended into the sky, while the smaller Vermax quickly tore off a chunk of venison and followed after them.
Dragonstone
Prince Daemon Targaryen and Prince Valarr stood side by side upon the castle terrace, gazing toward the western horizon. Prince Lucerys Velaryon had gone to visit his mother.
"I never thought Dorne would show such… resolve," Daemon muttered.
He had first flown to Dragon Nest City, where he encountered Moros Martell's envoy, who had been waiting anxiously. After learning of Valarr's location, Daemon immediately departed again, eventually meeting him in the Red Mountains of Dorne, before both rode together to Kingsgrave.
"They are desperate," Valarr replied. The fate of House Manwoody had been tragic—nearly annihilated, with only a child heir and an elderly survivor remaining.
"What do you intend to do with the boy?" Daemon asked.
"I will have Ser Vance Caron foster him," Valarr answered. "I gave my word."
Daemon chuckled softly. "If it were your brother, he would keep his promise—and still find a way to take complete control of their lands."
Out at sea, a royal vessel approached Dragonstone.
Aboard it sat King Viserys I Targaryen, attended by Ser Criston Cole of the Kingsguard. His children were scattered across the deck.
Prince Aemond Targaryen sat in brooding silence. His request to ride Vhagar had been denied.
"Look! Princess Rhaenys's dragon!"
A sailor shouted as a red shadow streaked through the clouds.
Almost at once, dragon roars thundered across Dragonstone.
Silverwing took flight first, followed by the lean and fearsome Caraxes. Soon after, Syrax, mount of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen, soared into the sky.
Though not as radiant as Sunfyre, Syrax carried a noble, elegant presence.
Prince Aegon II Targaryen, despite his excitement, restrained himself and guided Sunfyre to remain grounded. This was a battle for experienced dragonriders.
Syrax wheeled through the air, regrouping with Meleys before turning toward the smoking slopes of Dragonmont.
Then—
A pale green flame erupted skyward.
Syrax narrowly avoided it.
A hoarse, savage roar followed.
The Cannibal had appeared.
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