A GAME OF FIRE AND GOLD

Chapter 3

As I look back on my departure from Pentos three days ago, I can still feel the cool breeze on my skin and the weight of my backpack on my shoulders. It was a bittersweet farewell to my brother and my little sister, who had fallen asleep in his arms. While I was confident that my sister would be okay, I couldn't shake off the feeling of unease that lingered in my heart. I knew that I would miss them dearly, but I had to keep moving forward. I am aware that Illyrio possessed three additional eggs. I have always felt a strong connection to my Targaryen lineage. Perhaps it is because fire does not harm me, or because I am descended from the purest blood of Valyria. The weight of regret has been heavy on my mind lately as I replay the events leading up to my last encounter with my brother. I've been questioning whether I could have done more to help him, whether I could have prevented him from taking the path that led him to where he is now. Memories of moments when I could have offered a listening ear or a helping hand flood my mind, and I can't help but wonder if things would have turned out differently if I had been more present in his life. As someone who believes that every life event occurs for a reason, I couldn't shake off the feeling that our last meeting would be the final time I'd see him. The weight of the unknown future felt heavy on my heart, and I couldn't help but wish that I had done more for him.

The moment I decided to embark on this journey, I knew it would be no walk in the park it would require all my physical and mental strength. I refused to take a ship to Valyria because I didn't want to draw attention to myself. Instead, I chose to travel on horseback, a decision that would take me through Myr, then Volantis, and finally to the lands of the long summer before reaching the land of the fourteen flames. The terrain was treacherous, and the journey was not for the faint of heart. I had to be vigilant and watchful at all times, navigating through unfamiliar territories where danger lurked around every corner. Despite the challenges, I was determined to complete this journey and discover all the mysteries that lay hidden in Valyria. As I consider the logistics of my journey, I realize that making good time would require me to maintain a steady pace for an entire year. Even with that in mind, I am exploring other routes that might make my journey more manageable. One such route would take me along the river Rhoyne, which is a more promising option for several reasons. Not only would this path provide me with a reliable source of water, but it would also allow me to avoid traversing through one of the cities entirely, which would undoubtedly reduce the potential for any unforeseen complications.

Given the nature of the cargo I am transporting, I believe that this second option may be the best course of action. The valuable cargo demands a higher degree of security and protection, and taking the river Rhoyne route would allow me to achieve that.

When I reach the lands of the long summer, I intend to hatch the egg that I am carrying in a secluded location. This will ensure that the hatching process occurs safely and without any interference. Overall, my journey will require some careful planning and execution, but with the right approach, I am confident that I will reach my destination, safely. Luckily, Demon has a great sense of direction and he can walk carrying a human on his back for two days straight with only 20-minute breaks every six hours. By the Fourteen, this horse is a champ. I should probably get to Volantis by this speed I keep going in about two moons, as long as I don't have any setbacks.

Time skip

Daemon rode his horse through the lively and colorful streets of Volantis, he couldn't help but take in all the sights and sounds around him. The city was a bustling metropolis, filled with people from all walks of life, each going about their daily business. The smells of exotic spices and cooking meats wafted through the air, mingling with the fragrances of perfumes and incense from the numerous street vendors.

As he made his way through the crowds, Daemon observed the hustle and bustle of the marketplace, where merchants were shouting out their wares and haggling with potential customers. Children ran through the streets, playing games and laughing, while street performers entertained the passersby with their music and acrobatics.

Despite the chaos, Daemon and Demon moved with ease through the packed streets, their movements graceful and fluid. The black stallion's muscles rippled beneath his coat as he navigated the crowds, his powerful hooves striking the cobblestones with purpose. Daemon sat tall in his saddle, his eyes scanning the crowds for any potential threats, his hand resting on the hilt of Blackfyre.

He donned a hooded cloak that effortlessly draped over his broad shoulders, the deep shades of crimson and black perfectly intertwining with the colors of his regal armor. The intricate designs on his armor spoke volumes about his house's grandeur and wealth, while the cloak's glossy texture hinted at the impeccable taste of its owner. He seemed to be a man of refined taste and sophistication.

Despite the allure of his appearance, he made a conscious effort to keep his presence subtle and unassuming, blending into the background with his low profile. The way they moved was calculated and precise, indicating that he was no stranger to the art of staying hidden. Daemon was not a believer in prophecies or gods, nor did he have any interest in attracting the attention of the red priests who fervently preached about the Lord of Light and prophesied the coming of the prince that was promised. Knowing the potential dangers that could arise from drawing the attention of such a zealous group, Daemon made a conscious effort to remain inconspicuous and keep to himself. The only thing that mattered to him was the precious dragon egg that he held so closely. He kept it safe and secure inside a leather bag, which was firmly fastened to his saddle. I just hoped I made it to Valyria.