The Gentle Queen: HOTD

Kings Guard |9|

"Ser Ryan was a strong Lord of the Commanders of the Kings Guard, but he was ill for some time. He passed in peace, I hope," Viserys said.

"Yes, your grace," Mellos told him, nodding his head. "He was found to have passed gently in his sleep; his remains are being prepared by the silent sisters."

"The succeeding Lord Commander, Ser Harrold, would like to make haste in finding Ser Ryam's replacement on the King's guard."

"The King's Guard must be restored to its full complement of seven. With the help of my hand, I have invited a number of fine candidates to court, all of whom have passed fair trials." Ser Harrold informed them all

"Four ships have now been lost; the last one was flying my banner," Lord Corlys said, agitated, walking into the room. "The step stones have grown into conflagration, yet you sit here and dither about court business.".

"If you have something to discuss, Lord Coryls," Otto remarked.

"I want to know what is to be done about my ship and my men."

"The crown will compensate you for your ship and crew and make offerings to the men's families."

"I don't want compensation. I want to seize the steps stones by forcing him to burn out his crab feeder," Coryls said, banging his fist onto the table.

"I am not prepared to start a war with the free cities," Viserys told his stern

"These pirates are not the Free Cities; who do you think provides them with their ships and tender?"

"in all of its history, my Lord. The Seven Kingdoms have never entered open war with free cities. Were that to happen, the losses would be incalculable.".

"What reason does the crabfeeder have to fear us? The king's own brother has been allowed to seize Dragonstone. and fortify it with an army of his gold cloaks, Corlys remarked. "Daemon has been squared there for over half a year without even a protest from the Crown.".

"I'll caution you, Lord Corlys, that a seat at the King's table does not make you his equal," Otto warned him.

"I have acted. Corlys , Viserys told him. "I've sent envoys to Pentos and Volantis to see if we might find a common cause. Ships and men are at the ready. The step zones will be settled in time."

"You have dragon riders, father; send us," Rhaenyra said, and the men chuckled.

"It is not that simple, Rhaenyra," Viserys responded.

"It would be a show of force," she countered.

"At least the princess has a plan," Corlys said, defending the princess.

"I only meant that we should at least..." Rhaenyra began to try and explain herself.

"Perhaps, uh, there's some better use for the princess's talent, your grace," Otto suggested, making the princess frustrated.

"Yes, why don't you take the princess to choose a new King Guard member, Lord Commander?" Viserys said, agreeing with his hand.

"Of course, your grace."

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"Son of Ser Royce Caron, Ser. Desmond has proved strong and steady in both tourney lists and without While traveling through the Kingswood on his way to King's Landing, Ser. Desmond recently brought a would-be poacher to justice." Ser Harrold spoke to Rhaenyra as Alicent and Lilly joined her at the railing.

"You should thank him for his services to the crown, Rhaenyra; it is the proper thing to do," Lilly said quietly, making her nod.

"We thank you for your services to the crown, Ser." Rhaenyra spoke stiffly, not impressed by him.