43 Chapter 43
The following day, the sky was graced by the presence of a red comet, a celestial display that filled Bahamut with the sensation of his magic having surged to new heights. Other dragons shared in the elation, painting the sky with flames as they soared. Bahamut was now certain that magic had returned, and he was keenly aware that the three baby dragons should have hatched as well. He briefly considered the dragon eggs in his possession but decided to put that thought on hold for the time being.
Since their return to King's Landing, people across Westeros had become increasingly aware of the resurgence of the Targaryens. Many considered it an ominous sign, while others believed it heralded a brighter future for the realm. However, for Bahamut, the comet signified the return of magic, and nothing more. It might be a celestial event, where magic waned for a time only to return with even greater strength.
As Bahamut's magic power continued to grow, sorcerers who had aligned themselves with Bahamut and Aegon came to meet with Bahamut. He informed them, "Magic has returned to its former self," an announcement met with great joy. Together with Aegon, they celebrated with a feast and alcohol, while Bahamut and the other dragons feasted on a hundred fresh cows, enough to sustain them for a month. The atmosphere was filled with jubilation and a sense of renewal.
The days in King's Landing were gradually improving, but the pressing issue was the dwindling food resources, despite supplies brought from Yi Ti and Astapor. Aegon took action, ordering his men to acquire provisions from Braavos and Pentos to ensure an ample food supply for his troops and the people of King's Landing.
With the immediate concern of food addressed, Aegon sought Bahamut's advice on sending ravens to the Lords Paramount of various regions: the Riverlands, Dorne, the Iron Islands, the Reach, the Vale, and the North. Aegon intended to invite them to swear loyalty to him and to arrange a ceremony for Bahamut to personally crown him as their king. Bahamut saw no issue with Aegon's decision, but he acknowledged that not every Lord Paramount would readily comply, especially Arryn, given the recent punishment dealt to Petyr Baelish.
Bahamut then added, "Send a raven to Bolton to summon his son, Ramsay Snow, here." Aegon agreed to carry out this task. As Bahamut rose to his feet, he declared, "It's time for another Blood of the Dragon to return." Aegon felt uncomfortable, as he worried that Jon Snow's return could pose a threat to his claim. He had no strong attachment or brotherly love for Jon Snow, and until Bahamut revealed Jon's existence as his half-brother, Aegon had been unaware of any other Targaryens apart from Daenerys and Viserys.
Noticing Aegon's concern, Bahamut reassured him, "He has never been a threat to your claim. Why are you hesitant about his return?" Aegon, his worries somewhat eased, responded, "My only concern is that I've never known him." Bahamut offered some words of encouragement, saying, "You won't regret getting to know him, as he carries the blood of Stark." With those words, Bahamut took to the sky, flying northward in the direction of the Great Wall.
[Attention: Seeking Comically Creative Monikers for 3 Yet-to-Hatch Baby Dragons of the Ebony Variety. Your Suggestions, Please...and make 'em ROAR with laughter!]
