Freedom

The morning sun in Pentos poured its golden rays over the inner gardens of Illyrio Mopatis's imposing mansion, creating a tapestry of light and shadow on the fine stone floor. The fresh morning air carried the constant sound of clashing steel, as two swordsmen faced off in an intense and meticulously choreographed duel. The contrast between refined skill and brute strength was evident in the exchange of precise and rapid blows that resonated throughout the surroundings. Aegon, at only ten years old, displayed a dexterity and strength that defied the logic of his youth. His imposing height of 1.75 meters, about 5 feet 9 inches, made him look like a young man on the brink of adulthood. His shoulder-length silver hair shone under the soft morning sun, and his violet eyes, deep and penetrating, showed a fierce concentration that seemed to defy time itself.

Illyrio, although less agile than in his youth, still fought with the experience and skill acquired over the years, but he knew that his days as the best swordsman in the house were coming to an end. Each movement he made, each parry and counterattack, was a reminder that time did not forgive. After another successful strike from Aegon, which forced him to step back and adjust his stance, Illyrio raised his hand with a gesture of surrender, signaling a pause in the combat.

"You've outmatched me, Aegon," admitted Illyrio, a proud smile forming on his lips as a touch of fatigue became evident in his voice. "I have nothing more to teach you in swordplay. My breath is not what it used to be, and these trainings are starting to weigh on my bones, like a constant reminder of the passage of years."

Aegon, with a satisfied smile reflecting both personal achievement and admiration for his father, lowered his sword and approached his father with firm steps. "You will always be my master, and your guidance has been indispensable, but I feel that I am ready for something more... challenging."

Illyrio smiled, anticipating his son's response with an expression that mixed expectation and a hint of mischief. "I knew this day would come, and that's why I have something in mind that might interest you."

The two moved to a nearby table, where pitchers of fresh water awaited in repose. As they drank, Illyrio observed his son with a scrutinizing gaze, studying his mature appearance and the aura of confidence and power he exuded. Aegon, despite his tender age, possessed the mentality and physique of a young adult, a combination that Illyrio knew to be both rare and potentially dangerous.

"Aegon, you are no longer a child, and the world around you will not always be indulgent of your youth," began Illyrio, his voice taking on a more serious and reflective tone. "You're already tall, strong, and have a sharp mind, but there is something that still sets you apart too much... your Valyrian appearance. Those silver hair and violet eyes are beautiful, indeed, but they are also easily recognizable and unmistakable."

Aegon frowned, understanding the direction of his father's reasoning, but waiting with curiosity for the proposal's conclusion.

"In Pentos and the Free Cities, it is common for people to dye their hair and even change the color of their eyes with special lenses," explained Illyrio, his eyes fixed on his son's, as if seeking to convey the importance of the plan. "If you want to start making a name for yourself in the world, it's time to consider a new identity, something that would allow you to navigate places that would normally be inaccessible to someone with your appearance. I have something... grand in mind."

Aegon watched attentively as Illyrio unveiled his plan with a conspiratorial expression. "You know the Golden Company, of course. You grew up hearing the stories and are well aware that your blood is connected to them. After all, you are a Blackfyre on your mother's side. It is time to honor that ancestral legacy."

Illyrio smiled conspiratorially, his gaze sparkling with contained enthusiasm. "With a new identity, you could join the Golden Company. I will ensure your entry through my contacts, with all the necessary arrangements to secure your acceptance."

Aegon leaned forward, his interest evident. "And then?"

"Then, you would rise through the ranks of the Company, gaining everyone's admiration by fighting and leading battles. And when the right moment comes, you would reveal your true identity and your ambitions. Imagine the scene: the return of the Blackfyre, led by a young man who carved his own path and proved his worth. The Golden Company would follow him to the Seven Kingdoms, and who knows what else might happen?" Illyrio concluded, the shine of his vision reflected in his eyes.

"More than that, father. I will also have my own dragons," declared Aegon with unwavering confidence in his voice. There was something in the sparkle of his eyes that made Illyrio smile, an expression half amused, half incredulous.

"Oh, yes... the dragon eggs," began Illyrio, with a light tone that seemed to temper the boy's expectations. "They are yours, it's true. A rare gift, worthy of someone with Valyrian blood. However, do not let yourself be carried away by illusions."

"These eggs have been petrified for centuries. Beautiful, no doubt, but they are more ornaments than living creatures," Illyrio continued, trying to keep realism in his discourse. "Do not expect anything beyond their beauty."

For a brief moment, Illyrio's gaze softened. He knew that Aegon's heart was full of great dreams and ambitions, but it was also his duty to remind the boy that the world did not always meet expectations, no matter how grand they were.

But despite Illyrio's words, Aegon did not let himself be disheartened. He knew more than the man suspected. Those eggs, the same ones Illyrio described as beautiful petrified relics, would eventually be hatched by someone else if they were not now in his possession. He did not need to strain to remember the first season of Game of Thrones, where young Daenerys Targaryen would awaken her dragons with a touch of magic and a sacrifice that few would dare make.

And he considered trying the same.