The Green Queen

Chapter 13: Pawns and Games [Part 2]

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Viserys

"Ser Ryam was a strong Lord Commander of the Kingsguard. But he was ill for some time. He passed in peace, I hope."

"Yes, Your Grace. 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 Kingsguard." Maester Mellos said.

As the council was talking amicably in the completion of the Kingsguard the door opened. A furious Lord Corlys Velaryon stride in the chamber. Anger in his steps.

"Four ships have now been lost. The last one was flying my banner. The Stepstones have now grown into a conflagration, yet you sit here and dither about court business."

Otto started." If you have something to discuss Lord Corlys—"

"I want to know what is to be done about my ships and my men." Corlys cut off Otto.

"The Crown will compensate you for your ship and crew, and make an offering to the men's families." Otto answered.

Corlys scoffed."I don't want compensation. I want to seize the Stepstones by force and burn out this Crabfeeder. Yet I am not prepared to start a war with the Free Cities.

"These pirates are not the Free Cities."

"Who do you think provides them with their ships and tender?" His voice booming in the halls of the chamber.

Lord Beesbury cut in. "In all of its history, my lord, the Seven Kingdoms have never entered open war with the Free Cities.Were that to happen, the losses would be incalculable."

Lord Lannister scoffed." Even if that is the case if the Free Cities value their petty pirate lives they should have every reason to fear us."

"What reason does the Crabfeeder have to fear us?" Corlys asked. "The King's own brother has been allowed to seize Dragonstone even though he wasn't the official heir.Daemon has squatted there for over half a year without even a protest from the Crown."

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

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

"You have dragonriders, Father." Rhaenyra,who was watching at the sidelines until now, interfered."Send us."

Viserys sighs at his daughter's words."It isn't that simple, Rhaenyra."

"It would be a show of force." She proclaimed.

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

"I only meant that we should at least—"

"Perhaps there's better use for the princess's talents,Your Grace." Otto interrupted Rhaenyra.

"Why don't you take the Princess to see about the new Kingsguard posting, Lord Commander?" Viserys ordered. His daughter is bright but a show of force and dragons is not needed to be wasted on mere pirates.

"A fine idea, Your Grace." Nodded Otto.

"These knights will protect you as well. You should choose."