Chapter 99 New Crossbow

In the deepwater port of Dragon Flame Bay, the sun shimmered on the sparkling sea, casting a golden glow across the water.

Syndor stood beside Gavin, both men watching intently as Coben unveiled the newly modified three-bow bed crossbow. Gavin's anticipation was evident as he studied the weapon, eager to see its performance.

"Ready!" Coben commanded. The operator swiftly tightened the loaded crossbow bolts. Sunlight flickered on the polished steel, as if heralding the momentous display to come.

"Fire!" Coben's voice rang out.

A deafening bang echoed through the port as the bolt shot forward like a streak of lightning. The air seemed to rupture around it as it tore through the sky at an astonishing speed, leaving a gust of wind in its wake.

A dark shadow flashed across the water before the bolt struck the side of a distant ship. The sheer force of impact shattered the wooden planks, sending splinters flying like rain. But it didn't stop there—the bolt tore straight through, punching another hole on the opposite side before crashing into the sea, sending a towering splash skyward.

Coben could barely contain his excitement. "Sir, with these modifications, the range and power of the crossbow have increased by nearly fifty percent!"

Hassan's eyes gleamed with enthusiasm. "Sir, I strongly recommend we begin replacing all the crossbows on our warships immediately!" His voice brimmed with eagerness, as though he could already envision their advantage in future battles.

Gavin turned to Coben. "How long will it take to manufacture enough for the entire fleet?"

Coben explained without hesitation. "Since we're modifying existing models rather than building from scratch, the process will be swift. With our current manpower, we can complete the replacements within two months."

Gavin nodded in satisfaction. "Hassan, begin the process. Arrange for the fleet to dock at Dragon Flame Bay in rotations for their upgrades."

Hassan saluted sharply. "Yes, sir!"

Gavin then turned to address the assembled officers. "From this day forward, Coben will oversee intelligence operations and serve as the chief scholar of the Stone Steps Islands."

Coben bowed deeply. "Thank you for your trust, sir. I will do my utmost to exceed your expectations!"

That night, the manor was slowly enveloped in darkness, a quiet sanctuary of flickering candlelight and whispered plans.

In the dimly lit study, bookshelves lined with heavy tomes surrounded a grand desk, where Gavin, Boris, Coben, and Hassan convened.

Gavin stood, retrieving a bottle of Summer Red from the nearby cabinet. He poured the rich, fragrant wine into their glasses, the liquid swirling under the glow of the candles.

As the glasses clinked together, Gavin finally broke the silence. "I intend to launch an attack on Rees soon. What are your thoughts?" His voice was low, his piercing gaze sweeping across the table.

Half a month earlier, a Reesian envoy had been intercepted at sea and brought back to the Stone Steps Islands. Under interrogation, the envoy revealed that Governor Rees, fearing Gavin's growing power—especially after learning of his dragon—had turned to desperate measures. The governor had sent for an assassin from Braavos' infamous Faceless Men and had even begun remanufacturing long-abandoned dragon-hunting crossbows.

Realizing the urgency of the threat, Gavin knew he had to act before Rees could make his move.

A heavy silence settled over the room, the flickering candlelight casting shifting shadows across their faces, as if foreshadowing the storm ahead.

Boris was the first to speak. "The tax officials from the Iron Throne have been pestering me incessantly. They keep demanding an audience with you, my lord, but I've stalled them with various excuses. Ever since rumors spread about your possible marriage to Princess Daenerys, their visits have increased, and their scrutiny over our trade and ship inspections has tightened. While our primary income remains stable, we've been rapidly expanding the fleet and funding new construction projects. Right now, our treasury is stretched thin. If we go to war with Rees, it must be swift and decisive." His tone was grim, his concern unmistakable.

Gavin gave a slight nod but withheld his response, instead turning his attention to the others.

Hassan spoke next. "Among the Three Daughters, only Lys is an island nation, making its naval strength the most formidable. Tyrosh follows, with Myr being the weakest. Ever since we seized the Stepstones, our relations with Lys have deteriorated the most, leading to frequent skirmishes. Their war fleet is comparable in number to ours, and they also support the Thorn family, maintaining a force of forty warships in Lys. However, their sail-powered vessels are inferior to our fleet, and now we have these new crossbows. If war breaks out, we hold the advantage at sea. That said, we must remain wary of interference from Tyrosh and Myr."

Syndor, who had remained silent until now, interjected. "The alliance of the Three Daughters is fragile at best. Their primary concern is preventing Volantis from expanding into the Disputed Lands. Tyrosh and Myr may not automatically support Lys in a war against us, but we cannot rule out the possibility either. My lord, we should send envoys to Volantis. If Volantis even hints at aggression, it could keep Tyrosh and Myr occupied."

Gavin's eyes narrowed slightly. "How confident are you that Volantis will act?"

Coben considered carefully before answering. "The three ruling Triarchs of Volantis are Malachor Megia of the Tiger Party, along with Nesiso Wisama and Dophas Panimion of the Elephant Party. The Tiger Party is openly expansionist and eager to claim the Disputed Lands. If we can sway just one of the two Elephant Party leaders, we will have our opening. If we only need Volantis to make a show of force without committing to full-scale war, our chances are quite good."

Boris nodded in agreement. "My lord, Maester Coben's plan is sound. Regardless of Volantis' decision, we must send envoys openly. The mere rumor of Volantis' interest will rattle Tyrosh and Myr, forcing them to divert their attention. It's a strategic win for us either way."

Gavin exhaled slowly, then gave a decisive nod. "Then proceed. Coben, you will lead the envoy to Volantis. Also, what news from the Iron Throne? Has our message been received?"

Coben replied swiftly. "As per your orders, the message was delivered to the necessary contacts. There has been no immediate response, which suggests they are verifying its authenticity. They hesitate to act too hastily."

A slow smirk crept onto Gavin's lips. "King's Landing is about to plunge into chaos. They'll be too preoccupied to concern themselves with us for a while. That makes this the perfect time to eliminate Rees."