Hear me Roar - English version

CHAPTER 72 - Louder !

               Since Cersei's death, things have changed considerably in the capital. Under Tyrion's advice, I replaced the Lannister symbols with direwolves. A golden wolf, my own sigil, to set myself apart from the Starks of the North.

              The city's renovation works, still in the planning stages, are the sole concern of my uncle Edmure, the new Lord Treasurer. He has dispatched ravens to the finest cities of Essos so that we may work with the best architects of the known world.

               The Great Sept of Baelor will be entirely rebuilt, brick by brick. The creation of a pool in the Godswood is already underway. The plans for the first temple to the glory of R'hllor in the Seven Kingdoms arrived this morning. From now on, all religions will be accepted in King's Landing. I am taking an example from the city of Braavos.

               The Golden Company was sent back there without delay. Naturally, I granted them no compensation. They were ready to massacre us all, after all, whether they were employed by Cersei or not. They will have to content themselves with my magnanimity.

               As for the traitors, I let them decide their own sentences. Most chose to depart for the Wall. The heads of the others sit atop the battlements of the Red Keep. I am not entirely in agreement with all of these practices, but I place blind trust in my advisors.

               It is certain that I will be less severe than my predecessors. However, I must command respect. I have learned that any good monarch must be feared as much as they are loved. Both will represent a challenge.

               The news of Cersei's death swept through the realm in a matter of days. Dozens of ravens carrying oaths of allegiance followed. Many complied without argument. However, the kingdoms at the outer edges of the territory still pose a problem.

               Dorne joined us as soon as Daenerys died. The Iron Islands, on the contrary, are demanding their independence. Unsurprisingly. It will take Yara Greyjoy more than an outburst during a Small Council meeting, however. The terms of our collaboration will have to be thoroughly studied.

               The North, likewise, desires to become an independent kingdom. I expected no less from Sansa. I accepted her request without discussion. She has proven her competence to me time and again. I am certain the North will be in good hands.

♐︎

               Sitting on my bed, Arrow faces me, watching me with wide eyes. She savours each piece of sausage I reward her with and barks to thank me. After all these years, we understand each other perfectly.

               The door to my chambers opens, revealing Jaime. Jaime has established himself in the quarters he occupied back when he was still a Kingsguard. The difference now is that he answers to the title of 'Lord'. He will soon have to find someone to replace him at Casterly Rock if he wishes to go on living here. Provided that is what he wants, of course. After all, he has not yet asked for my hand...

"Diana, everyone is waiting for you."

               The smile with which I answer him must not be very convincing, for Jaime joins me on the bed without further delay.

"Are you stressed?"

"No," I reply with a nervous laugh. "I am terrified!"

               Jaime smiles at me, thoroughly sincere on his part.

"You've fought armies," he reminds me. "A few nobles aren't going to impress you."

"All the nobles of the realm," I correct him.