Volantis pulsed like a living beast beneath Kaerys's feet as she descended into the ancient tunnels carved centuries ago by hands long forgotten. The air was thick with dust and the faint scent of damp stone, but the whispers of history clung to the walls like ghosts.
Jaro waited in the shadows, his eyes reflecting both worry and determination. "The Ashen Hills faction grows bolder. They strike at our supply lines and poison alliances."
Kaerys nodded, her fingers tightening around the hilt of a dagger hidden beneath her cloak. "We must cut the head before the serpent strikes."
Jaro glanced toward the faint glow of torchlight ahead. "And yet, the serpent hides many heads. We will need allies — or we perish alone."
Whispers in the Court
Back in the grand hall, the tension thickened with each passing moment. Lords and ladies circled like vultures, each seeking the advantage, each hiding their true intentions behind silk and smiles.
Lord Daven approached Kaerys once more, his voice a low growl. "The Merchant Queen grows restless. Rumors say she seeks the favor of the Targaron heir — a dangerous alliance."
Kaerys's eyes narrowed. "Then we must ensure her gaze turns elsewhere."
Their conversation was cut short by the arrival of a messenger bearing a sealed scroll. Kaerys broke the wax with practiced ease, scanning the words quickly. Her lips pressed into a thin line.
"Trouble," she muttered.
Dragonfire's Warning
Serenthis soared above the volcanic cliffs, her wings cutting through the air with thunderous grace. Below, the lava rivers flowed like veins of molten fire, illuminating the night in an eerie glow.
Neron stood on the edge of the cliffs, the heat of the dragon's breath warming his face. "The dragon senses the unrest," he said quietly. "She is restless, as am I."
Aelthara joined him, her gaze fixed on the swirling ash clouds on the horizon. "We must be ready for what comes. The war will not wait."
Bonds Forged in Fire
In the depths of the palace, Kaerys met with Lady Elira again, their words sharp and urgent.
"The factions fracture faster than we can bind them," Elira warned. "Trust is a fleeting shadow."
Kaerys's voice was steady, resolute. "Then we forge new bonds — stronger than the old wounds."
Elira studied her for a moment, a rare softness in her eyes. "You walk a perilous path, Kaerys Velaryon. But perhaps, only fire can cleanse this world."
The Edge of War
As the city held its breath, armies gathered beyond the walls, their banners fluttering like dark omens against the sky.
Neron's voice rang out in the war chamber, fierce and unwavering. "We stand on the edge of war. One misstep and the flames will consume us all. But from this fire, we will rise."
End of Chapter 29