The days in King's Landing had been productive but taxing. After countless meetings, feasts, and negotiations, Hadrian felt the weight of the city pressing down on him like an iron shackle. It was time to leave. The Red Keep, with all its grandeur and schemes, had served its purpose for now. He was eager to turn his attention to a different kind of journey—one that promised both danger and discovery.
The docks of King's Landing bustled with activity as Hadrian and his entourage boarded their ships. His flagship, was a marvel of craftsmanship, its sails bearing the sigil of House Peverell in silver, red and gold. The two other ships in his fleet, sleek and well-maintained, flew the colors of Skagos. On the decks, sailors moved with practiced efficiency, securing ropes and checking supplies for the long voyage ahead.
As Hadrian stood at the prow, the salty breeze whipping through his dark hair, Kreacher approached him. The once stooped and scraggly house-elf, now transformed into the proud and stately Regulus Black, looked every bit the part of a Skagosi noble. His sharp eyes betrayed a hint of unease as he waited for Hadrian to speak.
"Regulus," Hadrian began, turning to face him. "The time has come for us to part ways—temporarily, of course. I need you to return to Skagos with two of the ships. There is much to oversee in my absence, and I can think of no one better suited to the task."
Kreacher frowned but bowed his head in acceptance. "It will be as you command, my lord. But I would be remiss if I did not voice my concern. The seas you intend to sail are perilous, and Valyria is no place for even the boldest man."
Hadrian smiled faintly. "Your concern is noted, and appreciated. But there are things I must learn—secrets buried in the ruins of the Freehold that may hold the key to Skagos's future. This journey is not one I can delegate."
Kreacher sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly. "Then may the gods—old and new—watch over you."
Hadrian placed a hand on Kreacher's shoulder. "You will not be alone. Skagos is strong under your guidance. Trust in your abilities as I trust in you."
After dismissing Kreacher to prepare for his return voyage, Hadrian summoned Riff and Toff to the deck. The two house-elves had also undergone transformations, taking on human appearances that made them indistinguishable from men.
"You will each command one of the remaining ships," Hadrian instructed, his voice firm. "Riff, your ship will carry our provisions and serve as our fallback in case of trouble. Toff, your ship will scout ahead, ensuring the waters are clear and mapping any hazards we might encounter."
Both elves nodded solemnly, their loyalty unwavering.
"Our first destination is Volantis," Hadrian continued. "We'll need to acquire a map of the waters around Valyria. Even with my knowledge, I cannot chart a course through those treacherous seas without guidance."
"Toff," he added, turning to the younger elf, "you will oversee the negotiations in Volantis. Use whatever resources are necessary to secure the map—gold, favors, magical persuasion or otherwise. But remember, discretion is paramount."
Toff grinned, a flash of white teeth against his tanned skin. "Consider it done, my lord."
With Kreacher's departure finalized and the ships prepared, Hadrian walked to the center of the deck. He raised his staff—a simple yet elegant weapon of dark wood—and struck it firmly against the planks. A surge of magic rippled outward, causing the sails to unfurl in a synchronized motion. The wind caught them immediately, propelling the ship forward with a speed and grace that seemed unnatural.
The sailors, though accustomed to Hadrian's subtle use of magic, still murmured in awe. Behind the ship, the other two ships followed suit, their sails filling as if guided by an invisible hand.
The fleet moved swiftly out of the harbor, leaving King's Landing behind as the sprawl of the city faded into the horizon. The open sea stretched before them, vast and glittering under the midday sun.