Gavin sidestepped Ryan's sword strike with ease, then launched a swift thrust at Ryan. Ryan hastily parried, but it was too late; in just two moves, Gavin knocked Ryan's sword away.
Gavin casually placed his sword against Ryan's neck and said with a smile, "Coach Ryan, you've lost."
Coach Ryan was taken aback for a moment, then burst into laughter: "Good lad, you've truly surpassed your master!"
Gavin sheathed his sword and bowed respectfully to the coach: "Coach Ryan, this is all thanks to your years of teaching."
At that moment, Sir Edmund walked over, smiling and with admiration in his eyes: "Gavin, your growth and progress are astounding. I knew I hadn't misjudged you."
Gavin quickly bowed respectfully and said, "Sir, thank you for your help and guidance."
Sir Edmund patted Gavin on the shoulder: "My son, I have witnessed your growth firsthand. But remember, a true knight must not only possess superb swordsmanship, but also noble character and unwavering faith."
Gavin nodded emphatically: "Sir, I understand."
Sir Edmund gazed at Gavin's somewhat familiar face, a hint of nostalgia in his eyes. Gavin before him reminded Edmund of his brother, Morton Cortoine. Aside from the difference in hair color, the similar face seemed to bring his elder brother back to life.
Ser Edmund composed himself and said, "Gavin, with your abilities, I'd like you to become a squire of either House Tyrell or House Redwyn. Have you considered any options? Of course, I recommend House Tyrell; it would be very beneficial for your future development."
Gavin lowered his head slightly, looking troubled, and said, "My lord, thank you for your kindness. I wish to study in the Academy City for a while, so I hope this matter can be postponed."
Sir Edmund was quite surprised: "Study in the Citadel? My child, maesters cannot pursue glory; they must relinquish their surnames."
Gavin said sincerely, "Sir, my thirst for knowledge is no less than my thirst for honor, and besides, it is enough to learn without taking an oath to become a scholar."
Sir Edmund gazed at Gavin for a long time before saying, "If you insist, I can write you a letter of recommendation."
Gavin bowed gratefully: "Thank you, sir!"
Sir Edmund was slightly surprised. After a moment of silence, he said, "I am saddened by what happened to your mother. Please accept my condolences. But Gavin, remember, you still have family. I have always considered you my nephew."
Gavin looked up, tears welling in his eyes, and said to Edmund with deep emotion, "Thank you for your concern, sir. My mother will be very happy to know. I have always considered you family."
After bidding farewell to Sir Edmund and Coach Lane, Gavin, having just spoken of his mother, decided to take a stroll by the sea. With a slightly heavy heart, he turned and began to walk out of the castle. His steps were steady, but his memories were like fluttering willow catkins.
Over the past eight years, Gavin's mother, Alice, has become increasingly ill, like a lamp about to run out of fuel, its flame flickering and on the verge of being extinguished. Since Gavin was transported to this world, he has relied on his mother for support. In his heart, his mother, Alice, is his warmest and most solid support in this strange world.
Although he was a time traveler, the love Alice gave him was pure and profound. It was a gentle comfort on countless nights, a warm embrace during every setback, and meticulous care in his life. This love was unconditional, like a spring breeze and the warm sun, allowing him to feel endless warmth and peace in this world full of unknowns and challenges.
Alice's ailing state felt like a thousand sharp blades were cutting into Gavin's heart, causing him excruciating pain every single second. Countless times he wept silently in the dead of night, praying to the gods for his mother's recovery. But cruel reality was like a cold shackle, tightly binding his hope.
In his seventh year at the castle, Gavin's mother passed away. Gavin, following Belleris tradition, had his mother cremated.
As the flames were lit, the raging fire engulfed everything. Gavin stared intently at the burning flames, tears welling in his eyes. He seemed to see his mother's gentle smile and caring gaze, and memories flooded back.
The flames gradually died down, and his mother's figure vanished with them. Gavin could no longer hold back his tears, which flowed freely. But he knew that his mother would find peace in another world. Gavin stood quietly in place, silently bidding farewell to his mother in his heart.
After leaving the castle, Gavin couldn't help but look up at its tall and majestic structure once more. Many of the outer walls had been renovated; the once-weathered stone walls were now brand new, sturdy and imposing. The newly installed ballistae gleamed coldly in the sunlight, displaying their inviolable power. Even the normally bumpy roads had been repaired, becoming smooth and easy to travel.
The territory's strength has increased significantly during this period, all thanks to Gavin's contribution of the salt-making method. The Cotoin family has obtained a large number of gold dragons through this, which has led to the territory's military becoming increasingly powerful.
Two years ago, the Cortoine family answered the king's call and participated in the suppression of the rebellion in the Iron Islands. In that war, Edmund Cortoine, relying on the strength of his powerful family, finally won glory and wealth.
After the war, the family reaped great rewards, acquiring not only a large amount of treasure but also enhancing its status in the kingdom.
Prime Minister Jon Arryn personally intervened to adjudicate the disputed ownership of two villages on the border between the Kotoin and Hightoar families. Arryn clearly intended to perpetuate the conflict, awarding one village to the Kotoin while leaving the other unresolved, leading to continued tensions between the two families. Gavin, upon hearing the news, silently criticized the Prime Minister's cunning.
Moreover, thanks to the effective strikes against the Iron Islands, the Ironborn raids and plundering that once terrified the coastal inhabitants ceased. Even in a small harbor near the town, three pirate ships captured from the Iron Islands—one imposing sailing ship and two longships—remain neatly moored. They sit there silently, as if recounting past battles and victories.
Host: Gavin. Buddha Flower
Age: 14
Bloodline:
Bloodfire Dragonborn (Development 29%): Valyrian dragon king bloodline, dragon riding and fire manipulation, initial awakening.
Command:
29 (Your subordinates can be promoted through the panel)
Skill:
Higher Valyrian: Proficient
Flame Manipulation: Mastery
Swordsmanship: Master
Archery: Proficient
Long spear; proficient
Energy Points: 2 (Gained by automatically absorbing surrounding magic power, or by actively absorbing magic power)