**Seven Days Later - The Red Keep, Prince Aemon's Private Chambers**
The storm outside King's Landing raged with the kind of dramatic intensity that would have made lesser men take it as an omen. Thunder crashed against the ancient stones of the Red Keep like the gods themselves were having an argument about interior decorating, while lightning painted the sky in shades of divine displeasure.
Prince Aemon Targaryen—currently eighteen months old chronologically, ancient and calculating mentally, and possessed of the kind of physical presence that suggested he'd been carved from marble by a sculptor with very strong opinions about ideal proportions—stood at his chamber window, watching nature's tantrum with the detached interest of someone planning to eventually outdo it.
"Right then," Aemon announced, his voice carrying the rich baritone that had recently developed along with his enhanced vocal cords, "today we find out if I'm destined for greatness, or if the universe has been playing an elaborate practical joke on a displaced soul with delusions of competence and a face that could launch a thousand ships."
He turned from the window, his purple eyes catching the candlelight like twin amethysts that had been soaked in liquid confidence. At eighteen months, he stood nearly three feet tall—still technically a toddler, but a toddler who looked like he'd been personally designed by someone who took heroic proportions very seriously indeed.
"Bit dramatic for a Tuesday morning, don't you think?" Hestia observed from her perch on his bookshelf, her voice carrying the sort of casual profundity that could make philosophers weep with frustration. "Though I suppose when you're about to potentially reshape reality using cosmic gambling mechanics, drama is probably appropriate. Like how gambling is just mathematics with feelings, and feelings are just thoughts that forgot to use their inside voice."
Aemon paused in his pacing to stare at his diminutive advisor. Even after all this time, Hestia's ability to say things that were simultaneously nonsensical and deeply insightful continued to amaze him.
"That... actually makes a disturbing amount of sense," he admitted, running a hand through hair that had recently achieved the kind of perfectly tousled state that normally required expensive stylists and questionable life choices. "Which is either a testament to your wisdom or proof that I've been spending too much time around cosmic absurdity."
"Could be both," Hestia suggested cheerfully. "Like how circles are just straight lines that got dizzy, or how Tuesday is just Monday's less ambitious brother."
Pyrion, perched on the windowsill like a very small, very dangerous gargoyle carved from living shadow and barely contained apocalypse, turned his head toward his rider with interest. The dragon had grown considerably over the past week—currently about the size of a particularly ambitious housecat, but a housecat designed by someone who'd taken weapon design courses from the gods of war themselves.
His scales had deepened to a shade of black that seemed to absorb light rather than reflect it, and his eyes burned with an inner fire that suggested he'd been personally taught the meaning of destruction by experts in the field. When he moved, shadows seemed to follow him like devoted servants, and when he breathed, the air itself seemed to whisper of ancient power and modern violence.
"Fifty pulls," Aemon continued, resuming his pacing with the focused intensity of a general preparing for the siege of King's Landing, or possibly planning to optimize it out of existence through superior resource management. "Premium event rates. Guaranteed legendary items. Multiple character assimilations available for future use. This is it, Hestia. This is where we either become legends worthy of songs and statues, or become cautionary tales that parents use to frighten their children into making better life choices."
His reflection caught in the polished silver mirror across the room—even at eighteen months, he was absurdly handsome in the way that suggested divine intervention or very expensive genetic engineering. High cheekbones that could cut glass, a jawline that belonged in ancient statues, and the kind of natural presence that made people want to either follow him into battle or compose epic poetry about his eyebrows.
"Why not both?" Hestia asked with the sort of innocent curiosity that had historically preceded either enlightenment or catastrophic regime changes. "Some of the best legends started as cautionary tales. Like that fellow who flew too close to the sun. Brilliant story, terrible life choices, excellent warning about the dangers of overconfidence. Though I never understood why he didn't just fly at night when the sun wasn't there."
Aemon stopped mid-pace to consider this observation. "That's... actually a valid tactical modification to the Icarus approach."
"See? I'm helpful," Hestia said proudly. "Like a compass, but for thoughts that don't know where they're going."
"Are you comparing me to Icarus?" Aemon asked, though his tone suggested he wasn't entirely displeased with the comparison.
"I'm comparing you to a baby with wings made of accumulated knowledge, questionable judgment, and bone structure that could make angels weep with envy," Hestia replied matter-of-factly. "The metaphor writes itself. Like a book, but with more fire and fewer pages that people actually read."
Pyrion chose this moment to express his opinion by incinerating a decorative cushion with casual precision, then looking at both of them with what could only be described as smug satisfaction mixed with barely contained bloodlust.
*The small loud one speaks wisdom disguised as nonsense,* Pyrion observed through their mental link, his mental voice carrying overtones of smoke, satisfaction, and the sort of confidence that came from being personally designed by cosmic forces with excellent taste in apocalyptic weaponry. *It is a clever strategy. Enemies cannot plan against advice they do not understand.*
*That assumes the advice is actually strategic rather than just Hestia being Hestia,* Aemon replied fondly. *Though I'll admit, the distinction is becoming increasingly difficult to determine.*
---
**[CURRENT STATUS]**
- **Gacha Points:** 5,000 (Premium Event Threshold Reached)
- **Character Assimilation Slots:** 3/3 FULL (Geralt 10%, Edward 8%, Tyrion 47%)
- **Available Inventory Slots:** Unlimited (New assimilations stored until current slots complete)
- **Dragon Bond Strength:** 67% (Pyrion increasingly convinced his rider might be worth following into battle, or at least worth following into interesting forms of trouble)
- **Physical Development:** Concerningly Advanced for Chronological Age
- **Mental Stability:** Questionably High (Stable, but in the way that controlled nuclear reactions are stable)
- **Potential for Catastrophic Success:** Maximum
- **Likelihood of Accidentally Terrifying Political Enemies:** Near Certainty
- **Current Handsomeness Level:** Approaching Legendary (Side effects may include spontaneous poetry composition by observers)
"Let's review our priorities," Aemon said, settling into his ornate chair with the kind of natural grace that suggested he'd been born to occupy thrones. The chair itself had recently been transmuted to include better cushions, improved ergonomics, a cup holder, and subtle runic inscriptions that enhanced concentration—because even cosmic gambling required proper equipment and attention to detail.
"Priority one," he continued, steepling his fingers with the unconscious authority of someone who'd been designed by fate to make Important Decisions, "Character Assimilations for future development. Comic book heroes preferred—Superman for raw power and moral guidance, Batman for tactical preparation and the ability to turn paranoia into an art form, maybe Iron Man for technological advancement and superior attitude. Someone with actual useful superpowers instead of just enhanced sarcasm and the ability to make people question their life choices through strategic eyebrow manipulation."
"Your enhanced sarcasm has been quite effective so far," Hestia pointed out helpfully. "Like a sword, but made of words and disappointment instead of metal and sharp bits."
"Against courtiers, wet nurses, and the occasional overly ambitious kitchen maid, yes," Aemon acknowledged with a slight smile that could have powered small kingdoms through sheer concentrated charm. "Against dragons, civil wars, and the inevitable political consequences of accidentally becoming too competent too quickly, probably less so."
"Priority two," he continued, his voice taking on the sort of strategic tone that historically preceded either brilliant victories or spectacular disasters, "Summoning forms for eventual companion recruitment. Because every legendary figure needs a supporting cast of equally legendary individuals to help them achieve their goals, provide tactical advice, and look appropriately impressive during dramatic moments."
"You mean a harem," Hestia said with the bluntness of someone who'd read enough fiction to recognize certain patterns, or possibly someone who'd achieved enlightenment through the careful study of narrative inevitability.
"I mean strategic allies with complementary skill sets," Aemon corrected with the kind of dignity that suggested he'd practiced this response in mirrors, "who happen to be aesthetically pleasing individuals with romantic potential and the sort of competence that makes collaboration both effective and enjoyable."
"Right," Hestia nodded sagely. "Strategic romantic resource management with aesthetic optimization protocols. That's definitely what we're calling it. Like calling war 'aggressive diplomacy' or calling cake 'structural bread enhancement.'"
"Exactly," Aemon agreed, apparently immune to sarcasm when it supported his strategic planning. "Priority three: Dragon enhancement abilities. Pyrion is already showing remarkable potential—observe."
As if summoned by his name, Pyrion demonstrated his current capabilities by reducing a stone paperweight to molten slag with casual precision, then using his tail to arrange the cooling metal into a perfect miniature sculpture of a dragon destroying a castle. The level of artistic detail was frankly disturbing for a creature who was technically still a baby.
*I am an artist,* Pyrion observed with satisfaction. *My medium is destruction, my canvas is reality, and my signature is the screaming of my enemies.*
*That's... surprisingly poetic for someone whose primary interests involve setting things on fire and eating raw meat,* Aemon replied through their mental link.
*I contain multitudes,* Pyrion said with the sort of philosophical dignity that was deeply unsettling coming from something that looked like a weapon with wings. *Like a library, but all the books are about violence and the librarian breathes fire.*
"But if I'm going to prevent or survive the Dance of Dragons," Aemon continued aloud, "I need him to be legendary, not just dangerous. Legendary enough that other dragons look at him and think, 'Perhaps we should reconsider our life choices and possibly our allegiance to whoever's been feeding us.'"
Pyrion chirped approvingly and incinerated another decorative item to express his enthusiasm for the concept, this time creating a small sculpture that depicted himself wearing a tiny crown while standing triumphant over what appeared to be a pile of defeated enemy dragons.
*I approve of this priority,* Pyrion announced. *Though I would like to note that I am already quite magnificent. Additional magnificence would simply be... more magnificent.*
"Priority four," Aemon said, his voice taking on the sort of tone that suggested he was approaching his favorite subject, "Knowledge, abilities, and items that will let me optimize this kingdom without anyone realizing I'm systematically revolutionizing medieval society using advanced techniques that won't be invented for another thousand years."
"So," Hestia translated with her characteristic gift for reducing complex plans to their essential elements, "subtle world domination through applied anachronism and superior resource management?"
"Exactly," Aemon confirmed with genuine delight. "The best kind of conquest—the kind where your enemies thank you for improving their lives while you're taking over, and your allies never quite realize they've been optimized into supporting roles in your grand design."
"That's very thoughtful of you," Hestia observed. "Like being murdered by someone who sends a really nice thank-you note afterward."
"I prefer to think of it as being elevated to greater purpose by someone with better strategic vision," Aemon corrected mildly. "But your analogy has merit."
---
Aemon stood in the center of his chamber, having moved aside furniture to create what he privately thought of as his "Moment of Destiny Circle"—a clear space where cosmic forces could operate without having to work around end tables and decorative vases.
"Are you ready for this?" he asked, though it wasn't entirely clear whether he was addressing Hestia, Pyrion, or the universe in general.
"I'm always ready," Hestia replied confidently. "Like a door, but for experiences instead of rooms, and with more opinions about things."
*I have been ready since the moment I hatched and discovered that reality was insufficiently optimized,* Pyrion added through their mental link. *Let us claim our destiny and reshape the world according to our superior vision.*
"Right then," Aemon said, his voice carrying the sort of calm confidence that had historically preceded either divine miracles or catastrophic explosions. "Let's find out what the universe thinks of our ambitions."
**[INITIATING PREMIUM GACHA EVENT: 50 PULLS]**
**[Using: 5,000 Points]**
**[Premium Event Bonuses Active:]**
- Enhanced Legendary Rate (15% per pull)
- Guaranteed Character Assimilation (Minimum 3)
- Guaranteed Legendary Item (Minimum 5)
- Guaranteed Summon Form (Minimum 2)
- Special Event Pool Access (Rare/Unique Items Available)
- Cosmic Approval Rating: Maximum
- Probability Manipulation: Favorable
- Dramatic Timing Enhancement: Activated
**[Rolling... Rolling... Rolling...]**
The chamber filled with an otherworldly hum, like the sound of destiny being processed through very expensive cosmic machinery operated by technicians with advanced degrees in Applied Metaphysics and Dramatic Timing. Golden light began emanating from the air itself, and somewhere in the distance, reality made the sound of dice being rolled by gods with excellent taste in special effects and a deep appreciation for narrative satisfaction.
The very atmosphere seemed to thicken with possibility, and even the storm outside paused as if the universe itself was holding its breath to see what would happen when unlimited potential met focused ambition and questionable judgment.
"Here we go then," Aemon whispered, his hands clasped with the intensity of someone praying to deities who specialized in very specific forms of gambling-related miracles and had reputations for dramatic flair.
---
**PULL #1: [UNCOMMON] - Enhanced Leadership Presence**
*Passive ability granting +50% effectiveness to all command and diplomatic actions*
The first pull materialized as a warm golden glow that settled into Aemon's bones like liquid authority mixed with concentrated charisma. Immediately, his already impressive presence gained an additional layer of natural command that made people want to listen when he spoke, follow when he led, and generally agree that his ideas were probably worth implementing.
"Right out the gate with something useful," Aemon nodded approvingly, testing his enhanced presence by commanding Pyrion to perform a small aerial maneuver. The dragon immediately complied with an enthusiasm that suggested the enhancement was working exactly as advertised.
"Now when I tell people to do things, they'll be 50% more likely to think it's a brilliant idea instead of the potentially catastrophic scheme of an overly ambitious baby with delusions of competence."
"That's very practical," Hestia observed. "Like having a voice, but louder and with more persuasion. Though I suppose all voices are just thoughts that learned to use their outside voice, and leadership is just having thoughts that other people want to borrow."
**PULL #2: [COMMON] - Complete Architectural Knowledge of Medieval Fortifications**
Knowledge flooded Aemon's consciousness—blueprints, engineering principles, construction techniques, and defensive theories arranged themselves in his mind with the efficiency of a master librarian who'd been personally trained by the greatest architects in history and had very strong opinions about proper organization.
"Castle design, siege engineering, and defensive theory," Aemon mused, his mind automatically beginning to assess the Red Keep's defensive capabilities and finding them... adequate, but with significant room for optimization. "Perfect for when I inevitably need to either build an impregnable fortress or figure out how to knock one down efficiently. Preferably both, depending on who's currently occupying it."
*Now you can build proper lairs,* Pyrion observed with satisfaction. *Dragons require appropriate architecture. Something with good airflow, excellent acoustics for roaring, and plenty of space for treasure storage.*
*I'll keep that in mind when I'm redesigning the kingdom,* Aemon replied fondly.
**PULL #3: [RARE] - Pyrion Dragon Enhancement: "Flame of Old Valyria"**
*Permanently upgrades bonded dragon's fire from "standard dangerous" to "historically significant"*
Power flowed between Aemon and Pyrion like molten starlight, and suddenly the dragon's eyes blazed with an inner light that seemed to contain echoes of the Doom itself. His flames, previously impressive for a young dragon, now carried undertones that made the air itself whisper of ancient power and civilizations that had reached too far and burned too bright.
"Oh, that's beautiful," Aemon breathed, feeling the enhancement settle into their bond like a key clicking into a very expensive lock forged from concentrated destiny. "You just became a weapon of mass historical importance, my friend. Your fire now carries the weight of legend."
Pyrion tested his enhanced abilities by reducing a stone paperweight to molten slag, but this time the flames carried overtones of violet and silver that seemed to burn reality itself. The molten stone didn't just melt—it transformed, becoming something that looked like crystallized starlight mixed with liquid authority.
*I feel the power of the ancient dragon lords flowing through my flames,* Pyrion observed with deep satisfaction. *This is what fire was meant to be—not just destruction, but transformation. Not just heat, but the power to reshape reality according to superior vision.*
*And you're still technically a baby,* Aemon pointed out with fond amusement.
*I prefer 'compact legendary entity,'* Pyrion corrected with dignity.
**PULL #4: [LEGENDARY] - Character Assimilation Available: Steve Rogers (Captain America)**
*Stored for future use - requires completion of current assimilation before activation*
A golden orb of concentrated heroism materialized in front of Aemon, pulsing with the sort of moral authority that made people want to stand straighter, act better, and generally live up to higher standards than they'd previously thought possible.
"YES!" Aemon pumped his fist with the enthusiasm of someone who'd just won the cosmic lottery and discovered it came with excellent moral guidance. "Peak human physical conditioning, tactical genius, and leadership abilities that make people want to follow you into battles they can't possibly win, simply because you asked them nicely and looked appropriately heroic while doing so."
"That's exactly what I need for the long game," he continued, his mind already beginning to calculate the strategic implications. "Someone who knows how to inspire people to be better than they are, lead from the front, and make difficult decisions while maintaining moral integrity. Plus, the physical enhancements won't hurt when I eventually need to punch problems in the face with scientifically optimized technique."
"He sounds very nice," Hestia observed thoughtfully. "Like a hero, but with better posture and more opinions about doing the right thing even when it's inconvenient."
**PULL #5: [COMMON] - Master-Level Horsemanship**
Muscle memory for handling even the most temperamental warhorses embedded itself in Aemon's consciousness, along with an intuitive understanding of equestrian tactics, mounted combat, and the subtle art of looking magnificent while riding into battle or delivering stirring speeches from horseback.
"Traditional but practical," Aemon acknowledged, testing his new knowledge by mentally reviewing proper mounting techniques and cavalry formations. "Every prince needs to look magnificent on horseback while making dramatic speeches that inspire armies and make enemies reconsider their life choices."
*Horses are acceptable,* Pyrion observed with the sort of grudging respect that suggested he considered them inferior but adequate alternatives to dragon transportation. *They cannot fly or breathe fire, but they do provide a useful platform for intimidating ground-based opponents.*
*Very diplomatic of you,* Aemon replied with amusement.
**PULL #6: [RARE] - Alchemical Formula: "Wildfire Suppressant"**
*Knowledge to create compounds that safely neutralize wildfire before it reaches critical combustion*
Complex chemical formulas arranged themselves in Aemon's mind—molecular structures, reaction sequences, and manufacturing processes that would allow him to create substances capable of neutralizing the most dangerous alchemical weapon in Westeros.
"Oh, this is brilliant," Aemon grinned with genuine delight, his enhanced features making the expression particularly devastating to anyone who might be watching. "Do you know how many historical disasters I can prevent with this? The Burning of Harrenhal, various accidental explosions, probably half the reasons people will have to fear me once I start mass-producing alchemical weapons for defensive purposes and strategic deterrence."
"Plus," he added thoughtfully, "being able to safely neutralize wildfire means I can study it, improve it, and potentially develop even more impressive alchemical compounds for future use. Knowledge is power, and power properly applied becomes more power."
"That's very thoughtful," Hestia said approvingly. "Like learning to stop fires so you can start better ones. Though I've never understood why fire needs to be wild. Can't it just be domestic fire that stays where you put it?"
**PULL #7: [UNCOMMON] - Enhanced Diplomatic Immunity**
*Natural charisma that makes people reluctant to arrest, assault, or otherwise harm you even when you deserve it*
A subtle aura settled around Aemon, making him seem somehow more... protected. Not physically—though his growing presence certainly helped with that—but in a way that made people instinctively reluctant to take actions that might harm him, even when such actions would be entirely justified by his behavior.
"Perfect for when my optimization projects inevitably require me to break several laws simultaneously," Aemon noted with satisfaction. "Now people will think twice before arresting the prince who's systematically revolutionizing their kingdom, even when I'm technically committing treason, sedition, and probably several forms of magical fraud."
"It's like being too pretty to prosecute," Hestia observed with her gift for reducing complex magical concepts to their essential elements. "Which is a good thing to be, though I've always wondered why pretty people get away with more things. Maybe it's because looking at them makes people happy, and happy people are less likely to call the guards."
**PULL #8: [LEGENDARY] - Summon Form Available: Artoria Pendragon (Fate Series)**
*Can be summoned as companion with full heroic spirit capabilities*
A magnificent crystalline form materialized before them—not the actual summon, but a preview of what could be called upon when the time was right. The image showed a blonde woman in blue and silver armor, carrying herself with the sort of natural authority that suggested she'd been born to rule kingdoms and lead armies into impossible victories.
Aemon's eyes widened as information flowed into his consciousness. "The Once and Future King. Legendary swordswoman, military genius, natural leader with experience ruling kingdoms through difficult times, moral compass that points toward justice even when justice is inconvenient, and..." He paused, considering the strategic implications with the part of his mind that had been enhanced by Tyrion's political instincts. "Someone who understands the weight of crown and the cost of difficult decisions."
"Also aesthetically pleasing," Hestia pointed out helpfully, apparently having developed an eye for such things during her time as Aemon's advisor.
"Also that," Aemon agreed with the sort of smile that could have been used as a diplomatic weapon. "Strategic romantic resource management with legendary combat capabilities and proven leadership experience. The complete package, really."
*She carries herself like a warrior,* Pyrion observed approvingly. *I respect this in potential allies. Though I notice she lacks wings and fire-breathing capabilities.*
*Not everyone can be as magnificently designed as you are,* Aemon replied diplomatically. *She makes up for it with other skills.*
**PULL #9: [COMMON] - Complete Knowledge of Westerosi Legal System**
Centuries of legal precedent, court procedures, and jurisprudence arranged themselves in Aemon's mind with the efficiency of a master scholar who'd been personally trained by the finest legal minds in the realm and had very strong opinions about proper documentation.
"Useful for when I start bending laws instead of breaking them," Aemon mused, his enhanced intelligence already beginning to identify loopholes, precedents, and potential areas for creative interpretation. "It's much more elegant to achieve your goals through legal manipulation than through direct confrontation. Though I'll keep the direct confrontation option available for when subtlety fails."
"Laws are like rules, but with more words and serious consequences," Hestia observed thoughtfully. "Though I've always wondered who decided what the rules should be. Probably someone who was very organized and had strong opinions about how other people should behave."
**PULL #10: [RARE] - Pyrion Dragon Enhancement: "Bond of Understanding"**
*Perfect telepathic communication with bonded dragon, shared sensory experience*
Power flowed between Aemon and Pyrion like liquid lightning, deepening their connection until it became something approaching true unity. Suddenly, Aemon could feel everything Pyrion felt—the satisfaction of successful incineration, the constant low-level desire to set interesting things on fire just to watch them burn, the deep pride in aerial maneuvers perfectly executed, and a loyalty so profound it felt like molten gold flowing through his veins.
*Hello, brother-in-flame,* came Pyrion's voice in his mind, now carrying not just words but emotions, sensations, and the sort of perfect understanding that could only exist between souls that had chosen each other across species and probability.
*Hello, you magnificent flying instrument of optimized destruction,* Aemon replied fondly, feeling his dragon's amusement and satisfaction like warmth spreading through his chest.
Through Pyrion's eyes, he could see the chamber from above—every detail crystal clear, every shadow precisely mapped, every potential threat or advantage immediately apparent. Through Pyrion's enhanced senses, he could smell the approaching storm, feel the subtle vibrations of people moving through the Red Keep floors below, and sense the emotional states of everyone within a considerable radius.
*This changes everything,* Aemon observed with growing excitement. *We're no longer just bonded—we're becoming something new. Something unprecedented.*
*Something magnificent,* Pyrion agreed with satisfaction. *Two minds, two bodies, one perfectly coordinated will to power. Our enemies will face not just a dragon and his rider, but a unified force of destruction and optimization.*
"How romantic," Hestia commented dryly. "Like being married, but with more fire and shared sensory experiences. Though I suppose all relationships involve some degree of sharing thoughts and feelings, just usually not on purpose."
---
**PULL #11: [LEGENDARY] - Character Assimilation Available: Tony Stark (Iron Man)**
*Stored for future use - includes engineering genius and advanced technology integration*
Another golden orb materialized, this one pulsing with the sort of innovative energy that suggested its contents had very strong opinions about how technology should work and weren't afraid to prove those opinions through superior engineering and witty commentary.
"Engineering brilliance, technological innovation, and the ability to build impossible things with superior attitude," Aemon noted with deep satisfaction, his mind already beginning to calculate the implications of combining advanced engineering knowledge with magical capabilities and unlimited resources. "Plus experience being insufferably brilliant while saving the world through applied science, ego, and strategic use of powered armor."
"This is perfect," he continued, his enhanced leadership presence making his enthusiasm genuinely inspiring to observe. "Between Stark's engineering genius and my alchemical abilities, I could revolutionize this kingdom's entire technological base within a decade. Steam engines, advanced metallurgy, improved agriculture, maybe even early industrial manufacturing."
*The small one who builds things sounds useful,* Pyrion observed approvingly. *Though I hope he understands that the finest technology is still inferior to properly applied dragon fire.*
*I'm sure he'll appreciate the comparison,* Aemon replied with amusement. *Stark tends to be competitive about technological superiority.*
"He sounds very clever," Hestia said thoughtfully. "Like a blacksmith, but for complicated things that probably shouldn't exist but do anyway because someone was too smart to listen to reasonable limitations."
**PULL #12: [RARE] - Item: "Crown of Hidden Thoughts"**
*Mental protection against mind-reading, magical influence, and political manipulation*
A circlet of impossible delicacy materialized on Aemon's head—silver and gold intertwined with what looked like crystallized starlight and concentrated privacy. The moment it settled into place, he felt his thoughts become his own in a way they'd never been before, shielded from any form of external intrusion or influence.
To anyone else, the crown was completely invisible, but its effects were immediately apparent. The subtle magical influences that constantly pressed against the minds of everyone in the Red Keep—ambition, paranoia, the weight of political expectations—suddenly ceased to exist for him.
"Now I can plan world domination without worrying about anyone accidentally reading my mind," Aemon said with relief, his voice carrying undertones of satisfaction and barely contained excitement. "Do you know how awkward it would be if some septon figured out I was mentally redesigning the entire kingdom's infrastructure during prayers? Or if my father realized I was calculating the optimal resource allocation for preventing civil wars while he was giving me lectures about princely behavior?"
"Very awkward," Hestia agreed sagely. "Like being caught thinking about something inappropriate during a serious conversation, but with more political consequences and potential charges of treason."
*Your thoughts were already difficult for others to read,* Pyrion observed through their enhanced bond. *But now they are impossible. This pleases me. Our plans should remain ours until we choose to reveal them through superior implementation.*
**PULL #13: [COMMON] - Advanced Mathematics and Engineering Principles**
Mathematical concepts and engineering theories arranged themselves in Aemon's consciousness with the precision of a master scholar who'd spent decades studying under the finest minds in multiple fields and had developed very strong opinions about proper calculation methods.
"The foundation of all technological advancement," Aemon nodded approvingly, his enhanced intelligence immediately beginning to apply these principles to everything from castle construction to alchemical optimization. "Can't revolutionize society without understanding the numbers behind everything. Mathematics is the language of reality, and engineering is how you convince reality to work the way you want it to."
The knowledge integrated seamlessly with his existing alchemical abilities, creating synergies that suggested he could now perform transmutations with unprecedented precision and efficiency. Complex calculations that would have taken hours could now be completed in moments, and engineering problems that would have stumped master builders were suddenly obvious and easily solved.
"Numbers are very important," Hestia observed thoughtfully. "Without them, you wouldn't know how many things you have, or which thing is bigger than which other thing. Though I've always wondered why some numbers are bigger than others. Seems unfair to the smaller ones."
**PULL #14: [LEGENDARY] - Item: "Philosopher's Stone Fragment"**
*Unlimited alchemical transmutations, reduced energy cost, enhanced precision*
A small crystal materialized in Aemon's palm, no larger than his thumb but pulsing with inner light that seemed to contain the compressed essence of possibility itself. The moment it touched his skin, his alchemical abilities expanded exponentially—not just in power, but in precision and efficiency.
Suddenly, transmutations that would have required significant effort and concentration became as easy as breathing. The fundamental forces that governed matter and energy responded to his will as if they were eager servants awaiting his command.
"I can now transmute anything into anything else," Aemon whispered in genuine awe, testing his enhanced abilities by casually converting a decorative candle into pure gold, then transforming it into a perfectly cut gemstone, then reshaping it into a miniature sculpture of Pyrion breathing fire. "Stone to gold, lead to platinum, iron to mithril if I can figure out the atomic structure. This changes everything."
*You have become an artist of reality itself,* Pyrion observed with deep satisfaction. *Matter bends to your will as wind bends to my wings. This pleases me greatly.*
The implications were staggering. Unlimited wealth through precious metal creation. Advanced materials that wouldn't exist for centuries. The ability to create perfect tools, weapons, and equipment for any situation. Food security through the transmutation of raw materials into nutrition. The complete elimination of resource scarcity as a limiting factor in his optimization projects.
"This is the key to everything," Aemon breathed, his mind already racing through possibilities. "Economic revolution, technological advancement, social transformation—all limited only by imagination and available raw materials."
"That's very impressive," Hestia said approvingly. "Like being able to turn things into other things, but on purpose and with better results than usually happen when things turn into other things accidentally."
**PULL #15: [UNCOMMON] - Enhanced Physical Development**
*Accelerated growth and development without obvious supernatural signs*
Power flowed through Aemon's body like liquid starlight, optimizing his physical development in ways that would be remarkable but not obviously supernatural. His muscles became more defined without appearing unnaturally developed for his age. His coordination improved dramatically. His natural grace and presence enhanced themselves to levels that suggested excellent breeding and superior training rather than magical intervention.
"Finally," Aemon said with relief, flexing experimentally and feeling strength that would have been impressive in a grown man, let alone an eighteen-month-old child. "I was getting tired of having the muscle mass of an undercooked noodle and the physical presence of someone who'd been designed by committee for maximum harmlessness."
The changes were subtle but comprehensive—better balance, improved reflexes, enhanced stamina, and a physical presence that suggested he'd been personally crafted by artisans who took heroic proportions very seriously. He was still clearly a young child, but now he was a young child who looked like he'd been designed for greatness.
*You begin to appear as magnificent as your mind,* Pyrion observed approvingly. *Physical presence that matches mental authority. This is proper. Leaders should look like leaders, even when they are still technically babies.*
"I feel like I could actually hold a sword now," Aemon mused, testing his improved coordination by performing a series of movements that would have been impossible moments before. "Not effectively, obviously, but without immediately dropping it or accidentally stabbing myself."
"That's very practical," Hestia observed. "Like being stronger, but in a way that won't make people ask awkward questions about why a baby can bench press a horse. Though I've never understood why people get suspicious when children are too good at things. Shouldn't everyone want children to be excellent at everything?"
**PULL #16: [RARE] - Knowledge: "The Art of War by Sun Tzu (Complete with Commentary by History's Greatest Generals)"**
Strategic wisdom flooded Aemon's consciousness like a perfectly orchestrated invasion—not just the original text, but insights from Alexander, Caesar, Napoleon, Hannibal, and dozens of other legendary military minds throughout history, all arguing with each other about proper implementation and offering contradictory advice with supreme confidence.
"Know yourself and know your enemy, and you will win a hundred battles," Aemon quoted softly, his enhanced intelligence already beginning to integrate centuries of military wisdom into his existing knowledge base. "Though with commentary from this many legendary generals, it's more like 'Know yourself, know your enemy, know the terrain, know the weather, know your logistics, know your politics, and have at least three backup plans because everything will go wrong at the worst possible moment.'"
The knowledge was comprehensive but occasionally contradictory—Alexander advocated for bold frontal assaults, while Caesar preferred careful preparation and superior positioning. Napoleon emphasized speed and concentrated force, while other generals counseled patience and defensive strategies.
*Many of these generals would make acceptable companions for war councils,* Pyrion observed thoughtfully. *Though I notice most of their strategies involve large numbers of ground-based soldiers rather than optimal applications of dragon fire.*
*That's because most of them didn't have dragons,* Aemon replied with amusement. *We'll have to adapt their strategies to account for our superior capabilities.*
"Military knowledge is like having many very experienced teachers who all disagree about the best way to win fights," Hestia observed sagely. "Which is probably more useful than having one teacher who's always right, because being always right doesn't prepare you for when everything goes wrong in interesting ways."
**PULL #17: [LEGENDARY] - Character Assimilation Available: Bruce Wayne (Batman)**
*Stored for future use - includes tactical genius, detective skills, and preparation-based problem solving*
A dark golden orb materialized, pulsing with the sort of intense energy that suggested its contents had very strong opinions about preparation, planning, and the strategic advantages of making enemies think twice about their life choices through superior intimidation techniques.
"The world's greatest detective and the man who turns paranoia into a fighting style," Aemon grinned with genuine delight, his enhanced features making the expression particularly striking. "Perfect for a kingdom where everyone's plotting against everyone else, and the plotting has plotting of its own that's been secretly plotting with other plots to create meta-plots."
The implications were staggering—enhanced detective abilities for uncovering conspiracies before they matured, tactical genius for outmaneuvering political enemies, and the sort of preparation-based problem-solving that turned potential disasters into strategic advantages through superior planning and resource allocation.
"Plus," Aemon added thoughtfully, "Batman's approach to justice and his understanding of how to work within systems while systematically optimizing them from within. That's exactly what I need for long-term kingdom management."
*This one sounds appropriately paranoid,* Pyrion observed approvingly. *Paranoia is simply preparation for problems you haven't identified yet. I respect this in potential mental influences.*
"He sounds very organized," Hestia said thoughtfully. "Like someone who makes lists, but the lists are about how to catch people who do bad things, and the lists have sub-lists with backup plans and emergency procedures."
**PULL #18: [COMMON] - Master-Level Cooking Skills**
Culinary expertise settled into Aemon's consciousness like a perfectly prepared meal—knowledge of ingredients, techniques, flavor combinations, and the subtle art of using food as both sustenance and diplomacy.
"Surprisingly practical," Aemon mused, his enhanced understanding immediately recognizing the political implications. "Food is politics. Control the kitchen, control the kingdom. Plus, now I can make sure my own meals aren't poisoned, prepare dishes that will impress important guests, and use culinary diplomacy to build alliances over shared appreciation for properly prepared cuisine."
The knowledge was comprehensive—everything from basic nutrition to advanced gastronomy, from identifying poison by taste to creating meals that could serve as diplomatic gestures. He could now prepare food fit for kings, create nutritionally optimal diets for growing dragons, and use cooking as a form of subtle influence over anyone who shared his table.
*Food is important,* Pyrion observed approvingly. *Though I prefer my meals raw and still smoking from righteous incineration. But I acknowledge that other species have different preferences, and accommodating those preferences can be strategically advantageous.*
"Cooking is like alchemy, but for things you can eat," Hestia observed sagely. "Though I suppose regular alchemy could make things you can eat too, if you're not particularly concerned about the consequences of eating transmuted materials."
**PULL #19: [LEGENDARY] - Summon Form Available: Scathach (Celtic Mythology/Fate Series)**
*Legendary warrior-queen and teacher of heroes*
"A warrior-queen who trained the greatest heroes of legend," Aemon considered thoughtfully. "Someone who could teach me to fight properly, lead effectively, and..." He paused. "Someone who appreciates competence and isn't afraid of powerful people with ambitious goals."
**PULL #20: [RARE] - Item: "Ring of Perfect Memory"**
*Absolute perfect recall, enhanced learning speed, protection against memory manipulation*
A ring of polished obsidian set with what looked like a captured star appeared on Aemon's finger. Suddenly, every moment of his current life came into perfect focus—every conversation, every observation, every lesson learned.
"Now I'll never forget anything important," Aemon said with deep satisfaction. "Every political conversation, every tactical insight, every person who's ever underestimated me."
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