Hello every one; here is the next chapter! I do hope all of you are having a great time and truly enjoying this week.

So, the next chapter is going to have more Lupusregina and more shenanigans between the members of Nazarick while Galadriel is burning stuff. So nothing new.

As well, the next set of updates is going to be as follows.

-Harriet Potter: The Demon Empress

-Boku No Overlord

I'll see you all in a few days. Have fun.

Check my Tumblr for news and future updates! And you'll find how you can support me! And more news about my upcoming book!

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Chapter 36

The sound of the crashing waves on the seashore seemed almost unreal to Aegon. As he looked ahead at the beach before him, he knew that this was the moment he had been waiting for his entire life. All the teachings, dreams, and oaths he had made were not just for the ones who believed in him but for himself as well. Aegon had finally arrived in Westeros. He had returned home to reclaim what was rightfully his.

So, with a big sniff, filling his lungs with the fresh air of the sea, Aegon took a big sigh.

"We are, finally," Aegon whispered. "How long it has been, Jon? Since you've been in Westeros?"

Aegon turned to his loyal friend and mentor, hoping to see a spark of joy on his usually stern and cold face. However, he heard a deep groan of sorrow instead of joy. It seemed that memories of his failures were flooding back to him, even after all these years.

"It has been far too long," Jon Connington responded, his expression as stern as ever, as he turned to face Aegon. "This is the moment we've been waiting for. We have arrived in the land your ancestors once conquered and ruled for centuries."

"And once more, I am certain we shall rule again," Aegon responded, his youthful ingenuity still fueling his words. "I shall reclaim the Iron Throne, oust the stag and the lion, and mould Westeros under my rule once more."

Jon Connington nodded, his gaze fixed on Aegon's eyes brimming with unwavering resolve. At that moment, he sensed it was the right time to grant Aegon the mantle of a commander, ruler, and king. Otherwise, the soldiers would not allow themselves to be commanded. Respect has to be earned, and if Aegon wants to be known as a conqueror in the future, he must behave like one and fight in a battle that will earn him that respect.

The Golden Company would join them, as this might be their final chance to see a Blackfyre ruler on the throne. Jon Connington and Aegon were unaware of this, but ultimately, it didn't matter. All of them had journeyed to Westeros, fueled by a shared dream of seeing the Iron Throne in the hands of what they believed to be the right ruler. Nevertheless, young Aegon's life has been perfectly manufactured under the premise that he was Rhaegar Targaryen's legitimate heir, and because of that, he saw nothing wrong with him leading this invasion of his homeland, to avenge his family, his supposed mother, and sister.

Soon enough, the hundreds of ships reached the beach, and quickly, an entire army began to disembark at an incredible rate.

Aegon reached the shore, and once he put his feet on the sand, he felt that it was the first step to make his name known across Westeros, across history.

"They'll sing songs about this day for all time—the first steps of Aegon Targaryen, son of Rhaegar Targaryen," Aegon whispered, looking at the sand underneath his feet. "Jon, we are home."

Jon Connington nodded, taking his time to gather his feelings, his anger, his thirst for revenge. "We are, your grace, and we must not waste time. They'll know we are here, and remember, they have dragons."

Aegon nodded, already aware of the presence of such a creature soaring in the skies once more. He was uncertain and didn't fully comprehend how the queen managed to hatch a dragon, but it seemed she possessed more Targaryen blood than he had initially presumed. Still, it didn't matter in the grand scheme of things. He was still the one true king and his right was fiercer than that of a dragon's fire breath. Again, this was his childlike naivety talking.

"We need to mobilise our army swiftly. Once we reach the Kingswood, the dragons will struggle to hold us down. We must also prepare the scorpions," Aegon declared loudly, then turned to Jon. "Our priority is capturing Haystack Hall and the Bronzegate. We must establish a solid defensive position before their armies can unite their forces."

"I recommend taking the Bronzegate first. Haystack Hall is not a place to defend," Jon quickly replied, which caused Aegon to pause before humming deeply.

Both of them comprehended that in a perfect world, their elephants would have been an invaluable asset in an open battle. Finding a vast field or battleground where their elephants could effortlessly trample the armies of Westeros was a crucial part of their strategy. They knew that no army in the Seven Kingdoms had experience in facing such a formidable beast. However, upon learning about the existence of dragons, they realised that their elephants were not as advantageous as they had initially believed.

Meaning that, now, they must choose their battle carefully.

"We need to make them confront us on our own terms," Aegon whispered, observing his army diligently preparing for battle. The task would undoubtedly consume hours, but they were making swift progress. "Open field against the queen's dragon is out of the question."

"Indeed," Jon replied, hearing Aegon's words carefully. "But staying here is out of the question as well."

"Yes, we need to strategically plan a battle where our elephants can be utilised while their dragons are rendered ineffective," mused Aegon as he gazed at the distant forest enveloping the Stormlands. They were in a horrible position, but at the same time, they had a great opportunity that they could use. However, that opportunity also came with one realisation. "There won't be too many opportunities for either side to engage in battles."

"No, it won't," added Jon, thinking the same as him. "Both sides will look for one decisive battle."

"One battle to end the war," Aegon stated, knowing full well that all of his planning would come face to face in one enormous battle.

"But I will not lose… I'll be victorious."

"Of course... of course, you will," Jon muttered, concealing that his time was also dwindling. The greyscale on his body consumed him slowly while he had years to live. His time to fulfil Rhaegar's dream was coming to an end. So, he would gladly die if it meant he could put his son on the throne.

Nothing mattered more to him.

"They have landed on the far edge of Massey's Hook," Varys spoke as everyone in the small council looked at Galadriel, who appeared to be deep in thought.

It had only been a day since she confronted the alleged god, but naturally, nobody was aware of her secret mission to the Iron Island, and she intended to keep it that way. However, Galadriel now found herself embroiled in the other side of the conflict as the Blackfyre pretender was gathering his troops in the Stormlands. Finally, after all this time, she was going to use her dragons again.

Yet, Galadriel needed to hide her excitement behind a solemn look on her face.

"I see, and I suppose our forces are nearby," Galadriel said.

"Yes, they should be gathering in the Kingswood by now. They had to cross the Wendwater yet," Varys added.

"Do you have any idea where this bastard is planning to launch his attack?" Tyrion inquired, his tone filled with intrigue. He could feel Tywin's gaze fixed upon him, causing Tyrion to scoff lightly in response. "What? I am still learning the art of strategy. But I suspect the Blackfyre bastard won't remain on the shore. He must relocate...to a place where he can effectively defend himself."

"Indeed," that's all Tywin said before looking at the map before them. "Haystack Hall is not the place to defend. Neither is Parchments. And he won't dare to attack Storm's End. I doubt he is that stupid."

"Then he is going for the Bronzegate?" Galadriel added softly.

"Indeed, it is the sole fortress, apart from Storm's End, strategically positioned on higher ground. Its capture would grant them a formidable defensive advantage. I presume you have no intention of reducing it to ashes," Tywin remarked, prompting Galadriel to cough in embarrassment.

Well, not really… but it would look absolutely brilliant if I do burn a castle down. Galadriel thought deeply, not wanting to let her intrusive thoughts be known to everyone.

"I wish to avoid more bloodshed," Galadriel stated loudly. "In anycase, with Lord Stannis on the Iron Island, we don't have the royal navy to block them from escaping. Only what's left of the Blackwater Bay fleet and the Redwyne. So we must make sure not to let them escape… my dragons will burn their fleet."

"I can't believe you allowed my daughter to do this..." Cersei hissed quietly, her eyes filled with pure anger as she watched Tywin. However, the Old Lion chose to ignore her, as he had no patience for Cersei's tantrums, especially not at this particular moment.

"It is done, and our queen knows what she is doing," Tywin replied.

Galadriel sighed deeply. "Don't worry, mother. It's going to be fine… we should get ready. All of us."

Galadriel spoke towards the rest of the Queensguard, who all nodded at her. "With any luck, after this war… we should have finally peace."

Galadriel, of course, lied. She had no intention of simply letting this war end just like that. It was all part of her master plan. A very tiresome and rather annoying master plan. However, she needed everyone to feel tired and exhausted, so she could put forward her new constitution and reforms. Galadriel would also have to break some knees and bend some hands, but that was beside the point. Her upcoming empire would rise after this conflict.

"Moving forward, I must say that peace sounds like a good plan. However, your supervision is required for the upcoming party that my beloved sister, your mother, and the Hand of the King are organising, Your Grace," Tyrion remarked, causing Galadriel to tilt her head in confusion. She then glanced at Cersei, whose eyes seemed to be filled with murderous intent towards Tyrion, as if she wanted to kill him a hundred times over.

But that was Cersei's normal stare for all Galadriel knew about.

Ah, yeah, this party… what was my beloved mother planning again? Uh, I don't quite remember. I must speak with Pandora's Actor about this. So many schemes are going around.

Galadriel felt overwhelmed and completely lost amidst the sea of plots swirling around her. It was difficult to determine which one posed the greatest danger, but none of them were truly dangerous to her. Nevertheless, she knew she had to stay vigilant and keep up with the relentless pace of all those people.

I really wish I had a secretary or something along those lines. Pandora's Actor is good, but not quite enough. Sebas does a decent job of keeping me updated on the most important things, and as for Shalltear... well, she's Shalltear. Galadriel couldn't help but wonder when the rest of Nazarick would finally arrive; hopefully, it would be soon enough. But at the same time, she couldn't help but find it amusing, if not entertaining, to think about what would happen once all of Nazarick arrived in this world.

I only need to wait until then.

"I know my mother and grandfather are doing what is best," Galadriel replied, making Tyrion scoff slightly.

"Well, yes, but they are also spending quite a lot… and as your master of coin, it's my job to make sure they are not going… over budget," Tyrion stated, staring amusingly at Cersei and Tywin.

"It cannot be that expensive," Galadriel mumbled.

"It is… quite expensive, my dear niece. The war is sucking food dry as well as coin. The common folk love you, but they will not do so if they're starving," Tyrion replied.

Let them eat cake. That's what Galadriel thought, but of course, she could not say that. No matter how much she wanted to.

"Uh... well, that's precisely why you hold the esteemed title of Master of Coin, dear uncle! I am confident that you will dedicate your time to discussing the importance of reducing unnecessary gold expenditures with my mother and the Lord Hand!" Galadriel chuckled amusingly, rising from her seat. "I entrust this matter to you, my dear uncle!"

Tyrion stared at his niece walking away while he heard a cough from Tywin, who, if he didn't know better, appeared to have found his granddaughter's reaction quite amusing.

"Wonderful…" Tyrion mumbled, knowing he had a lot of work ahead of him.

Galadriel sat on her bed, watching Pandora's Actor and Shalltear wearing their new "persona". Their costumes were rather intriguing, if not quite creative. Thankfully, Pandora's Actor was incredibly creative when it came down to outfits and acting. And acting was something they all were going to need, especially for what was necessary for them.

"So, tell me again, who are you?" Galadriel asked before Shalltear coughed awkwardly.

Shalltear's costume was truly exquisite; even Galadriel would have to admit it. Her hair had a distinct mix of golden and silver hues, a unique combination that served its purpose well. She wore a stunning white dress, vibrant and full of life, and despite her red eyes, her entire ensemble gave her a more human-like appearance.

"My name is Shalltear Rogare, of Lys… daughter of… uh? Doras Rogare, first Magister of Lys," Shalltear replied quickly.

Galadriel expressed her satisfaction with a happy nod. She was pleased that Pandora's Actor had successfully and easily taken over Rogare's house in Lys on such short notice. But, of course, it wasn't really all that difficult for them. Their strategy involved eliminating the real members of the Rogare house and replacing them with their own loyal followers. Additionally, they ensured that the memories of the people in Lys were modified or erased, preventing any suspicion from arising.

It took a while, but Lys was on a small island. Not much time was wasted there. Besides, having Lys in their pocket was a step for the future.

"You look beautiful, Shalltear. No one would suspect you," Galadriel stated while Shalltear blushed slightly.

"Ah~! My lady~!" Shalltear giggled like a high school girl. Galadriel shook her head in amusement before looking at Pandora's Actor.

His costume was truly a masterpiece, a true work of art. Galadriel could already envision a line of women, and perhaps even men, eagerly waiting to catch a glimpse of him. With his aristocratic face, defined jaw, and high cheekbones, he exuded an air of nobility. His deep blue eyes had a subtle hint of purple, a necessary detail to accurately portray their characters from Lys. And with the addition of his opulent and luxurious attire, Pandora's Actor transformed into a truly dashing gentleman.

Pandora's Actor truly wasted no resources for this, which made Galadriel a bit nervous since she knew he could also be quite extreme.

"Now, Pandora's Actor, you're…?"

"My name is Doras Rogare, the first magister of Lys! I am a devoted father to my beloved daughter, Shalltear Rogare. Ah, how exquisite her mother was, too! Alas, a band of pirates cruelly snatched her away from my embrace. Determined, I embarked on a perilous journey across the seven seas to reclaim her, only to discover her lifeless form. But fear not, for I exacted my vengeance upon those scoundrels! Each one met their demise at my hands. Retribution served!"

"Enough, Pandora's Actor. I don't want to hear your entire fictitious lore," Galadriel mumbled, which earned a moan from Pandora's Actor.

"Aber Mutter, ich muss meine epischen Geschichten der Tapferkeit erzählen!"

"No German!" Galadriel exclaimed. "And no, we don't need to hear your tales of bravery!"

Pandora's Actor mumbled something before sniffing dramatically. Galadriel rolled her eyes at him but quickly looked at both of them with contempt in their eyes.

"So now, both of you will surely get a lot of attention soon. I do hope you're ready for all those questions and inquiries," Galadriel said, earning a stiff nod from Pandora's Actor and Shalltear.

"I know, madame Shalltear will live up to our expectations," Pandora's Actor replied with a smile.

"Don't worry, my lady, I shall not disappoint you~!"

"I know you will not," Galadriel stated; before soon, she heard a knock on the door and could sense Sebas outside. "Come in, Sebas."

Sebas entered the room and appeared uncomfortable, and that caught Galadriel's attention.

"Something happened, Sebas?" Galadriel asked, and Sebas could only sigh.

"It appears that your mother has been asking for my current status… and has been quite… forward with her… attempts to lure me in," Sebas replied with a stiff voice, causing Galadriel to sigh.

"My lady, your mother is quite a deviant," Pandora's Actor said, as he appeared to be quite amused by Galadriel's human mother's actions.

"She is slowly losing it. With my siblings slowly fading away, she feels she has no control," Galadriel was beginning to feel that her dear mother was becoming a hassle instead of an asset for her. "Yet her chaotic nature can be useful in some instances."

"What are you planning, my lady?" Pandora's Actor asked, and Galadriel hummed deeply.

"Something… but for now… I wish to ride my dragons and end this war so we can focus on the next part of the plan. How is the search for the rest of the Guardians?"

"Empty, my lady," Pandora's Actor replied. "Although, I suggest that we should also try to contact some of the rest of the members of Nazarick besides the guardians."

Sebas' hearing quickly responded. "We could try to contact some of the Pleiades."

Galadriel nodded, deciding that it was indeed a great idea. "Great. Keep me updated…. It is time for me to… showcase that I can fly like a dragon."

"Ich wünsche dir nur das Beste, meine liebe Mama!"

"No more German!"