Chapter 116 Assassination and Female Knight

At this moment, Boris spoke from the side:

"Madam, some officials from various islands have arrived at Bloodstone Island today. There are some important matters that need your attention. If you allow it, I can arrange for them to meet with you this afternoon."

Daenerys responded calmly, her expression composed:

"Yes, please make the arrangements."

Boris hesitated for a moment before continuing:

"Madam, a new glass workshop on Gray Gallows Island will be opening in two days. I need to visit and inspect it. It won't take long, and I will be leaving the affairs of the Stepstone Islands in your hands for the time being."

Daenerys smiled, pleased to hear this. It was a sign of Boris's growing trust in her. He was confident enough to leave the governance of the Stepstone Islands to her. However, when she thought of Gray Gallows Island, a place she had never visited, she suggested:

"Why don't I accompany you? Gavin is not here, and Bloodstone Island cannot do without you, Governor Boris. Besides, I've never been to Gray Gallows Island. This would be a good opportunity to visit."

Boris paused, his expression thoughtful, before finally agreeing:

"Very well, Madam. I will ensure the guards and warships are ready for your safety."

Daenerys nodded confidently, smiling with assurance:

"Don't worry, Governor Boris. With the blood dragon guards Gavin sent me, all will be well."

Boris stood, offering a respectful bow:

"I will make the arrangements, Madam. Please excuse me."

With a slight nod from Daenerys, Boris left the hall.

When Gavin had left the Stepstone Islands, he had entrusted the territory's control to his fiancée, Daenerys, as was customary. His intention was to allow Daenerys to gain experience in governance, hoping she wouldn't make the same mistakes as in the original story, which had led to rebellion and chaos.

At first, Daenerys was uncertain and struggled with her new responsibilities. She often acted hastily in handling state matters, making several missteps due to her lack of experience. Anxiety and self-doubt clouded her decisions, and she treaded cautiously, unsure of herself.

However, with the unwavering support of Qyburn, Boris, and many other officials, Daenerys soon found her footing. Within just half a month, she began to adapt, learning to weigh the pros and cons of each situation and making more confident, well-thought-out decisions.

As time passed, she became more competent and assured in her rule, no longer the uncertain girl who had been so overwhelmed at the beginning. She discovered her true potential as a leader, growing from someone who relied on others into a decisive and independent ruler. She began facing challenges head-on, listening to advice but making the final decision on her own after careful consideration.

Two days later, the sun shone like gold across the sparkling sea, a soft breeze carrying the salty scent of the ocean.

Brienne, who had been invited as Daenerys's first guest, was not only a noble from Westeros but also someone Daenerys held in high regard. Worried that her visit might come across as disrespectful, Daenerys decided to invite Brienne on a tour of Gray Gallows Island in the name of a visit.

The warship sliced through the waves, carrying them across the clear blue expanse of the sea. Occasionally, seagulls, as white as snow, flew by, their joyful cries breaking the silence. As they approached Gray Gallows Island, it slowly came into view, a lush paradise of rolling hills and towering green trees that formed natural canopies blocking the sky. The distant mountains loomed like ancient dragons, their peaks melting into the bright blue sky, while white clouds floated lazily by, as if painted across the heavens.

The warship docked slowly, and Daenerys, with Brienne by her side, disembarked.

Governor Harvey Strong of Gray Gallows Island awaited them, bowing respectfully as he greeted them:

"Madam, I am Harvey Strong, Governor of Gray Gallows Island, appointed by Lord Gavin. Welcome to our island. I've arranged for a carriage and accommodations for your comfort."

Daenerys acknowledged his greeting with a smile:

"Thank you for your hospitality, Governor Harvey."

Harvey then asked:

"Madam, would you like to head directly to the new glass workshop, or would you prefer to first take a walk around the town and enjoy the local scenery?"

After a brief pause, Daenerys responded:

"Let's visit the workshop first. Business should come first."

With that, Daenerys and Brienne climbed into the carriage, followed by a procession of ten Blood Dragon Guards. The carriage rumbled along the rugged road, its wheels creaking over the stones.

As they traveled, Daenerys looked out the window, observing the landscape with interest. The road was flanked by lush trees, while distant farmlands and quaint farmhouses dotted the horizon. She eagerly anticipated their arrival at the glass workshop. She had heard that paper could be burned to create exquisite glass, and her mind raced with wonder at what she would find.

Soon, the carriage came to a halt in front of a large, imposing building. The stewards and workers of the workshop stood waiting outside, ready to greet the visitors.

The workshop's exterior was constructed from sturdy bricks and stones, with green vines crawling over parts of the walls, giving it a natural, almost organic appearance. The grand door stood tall and mysterious, its dark wood exuding a sense of intrigue about the wonders hidden within.

Guided by Harvey, Daenerys and Brienne stepped inside. The workshop was vast and well-lit, with sunlight streaming through the skylights, illuminating the brilliant array of glassworks on display.

There were crystal-clear vases, their smooth curves and delicate designs a testament to the artisans' craftsmanship; unique glass ornaments shaped like mythical creatures or clever animals; and sparkling wine glasses that seemed to shimmer, awaiting their precious contents.

Harvey proudly gestured to the glass pieces:

"Madam, these are our finest works. The craftsmanship and dedication of our artisans are embodied in each piece."

Brienne, picking up a delicate ornament, marveled:

"I've heard of the fine glassware produced on the Stepstone Islands, but this is the first time I've seen it in person. It's truly magnificent."

Daenerys, too, was fascinated, asking questions about the production process and the sources of the raw materials. She was also concerned about the workers' conditions and took note of their well-being. They spent a long time touring the workshop, thoroughly impressed by the skill and beauty of the creations.

Just as they were finishing their tour, thick black smoke billowed suddenly from a large wooden structure in the distance. Within moments, the fire spread rapidly, engulfing the roof in flames that shot up toward the sky, threatening to burn everything in sight.

Harvey shouted frantically to the workers:

"Quickly! Get water and put out the fire!"

Daenerys, alarmed, called out urgently:

"What is inside this building?"

Harvey, his voice tight with anxiety, replied:

"Madam, this is the fuel warehouse. It holds a large amount of coal used in the glassmaking process. Fortunately, there's no one inside, save for the old man who tends the place."

Without hesitation, Daenerys gave an order to the Blood Dragon Guards:

"Help put out the fire, quickly!"

The workers rushed about, filling buckets with water, their movements frantic and disorganized in the chaos. The flames roared louder as the Blood Dragon Guards sprang into action, carrying water to douse the fire. But despite their efforts, the flames seemed unstoppable, the situation growing more dire by the second.

Brienne, standing by Daenerys, helped organize the workers, trying to restore some semblance of order.

After what felt like an eternity, the fire was finally brought under control. The workshop, though charred, was saved from total destruction.

As the flames died down and Daenerys breathed a sigh of relief, a man carrying a bucket of water approached her calmly, almost too calmly. His eyes flickered with malice, and before anyone could react, he suddenly drew a sharp dagger from the bucket and lunged toward Daenerys.

In an instant, Brienne's reflexes kicked in. She kicked the assassin hard in the chest, sending him crashing to the ground.

Daenerys gasped, her face drained of color as she stumbled back. The assassin, enraged, scrambled to his feet and lunged again, but this time Brienne was ready. She drew her sword in a flash, blocking the assassin's wild attack.

The assassin roared, attempting to break through Brienne's defense, but she was impenetrable. With a swift maneuver, Brienne struck. The sound of her sword cutting through the air was followed by the assassin's pained scream as his arm was severed, his dagger clattering to the floor.

The Blood Dragon Guards rushed forward, restraining the assassin and pinning him to the ground.

With the immediate threat neutralized, Daenerys turned to Brienne, her voice trembling with relief:

"Thank you, Brienne. If not for you, I would have—"

Brienne sheathed her sword and bowed slightly, her voice calm:

"Your Highness, it was my duty. No thanks are needed."

Daenerys, still shaken, responded softly:

"Today was far too close. But... thankfully, it was just a false alarm."

Harvey, who had rushed over, was visibly relieved. He wiped the sweat from his brow and immediately turned to the assassin, his voice cold with fury:

"Who sent you?"

The assassin, trembling from pain and fear, stammered:

"It was Petyr... Finance Minister Petyr. He said it was the king's order. My mission has failed, and there's no way I can survive now. Please... spare me the torture."

Daenerys's brow furrowed as she processed the information. Her voice was resolute:

"Take him away. Interrogate him thoroughly. Leave no stone unturned. This is a matter of great importance, and I need answers—immediately."

Everyone nodded in agreement, and the assassin was dragged away for questioning.

After the chaotic events, Daenerys and her entourage quickly returned to their quarters. On the carriage ride back, her gratitude toward Brienne only deepened.

That night, Daenerys invited Brienne to dinner. The soft candlelight flickered between them, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere.

Daenerys gently placed her utensils down, her gaze meeting Brienne's with sincerity:

"Brenny, if it weren't for you today, I would have... I would have been poisoned. Your bravery saved my life, and I can never fully repay you."

Brienne smiled humbly, her eyes soft:

"Your Highness, no one would have stood by idly in that situation. It was my duty to protect you."