The Heart Of House Targaryen

The Rogue Prince

Half a year and it seemed the only thing that had changed was my title seeing as I was still King's cupbearer for a council of men that would rather see a man on the throne.

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

Mellos: "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."

Ser Harrold now spoke, "Your Grace. My Lords. The Kingsguard must soon be restored to its full complement of seven. With the help of the Hand, I've invited a number of fine candidates to court. All have passed fair trails."

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

Hightower: "If you've something to discuss, Lord Corlys-"

C: "I want to know what is to be done about my ships and my men."

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

C: "I don't want compensation. I want to seize the Stepstones by force and burn out this Crabfeeder."

F: "I am not prepared to start a war with the Free Cities."

C: "These Pirates are not the Free Cities."

F: "Who do you think provides them with their ships and tender?"

Beesbury: "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."

C: "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. Daemon has squatted there for over half a year without even a protest from The Crown."

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

F: "I have acted, Corlys. 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 Stepstones will be settled in time."

I whipped around and spoke before I could stop myself, "You have dragonriders, father."

Everyone's eyes fell on me.

"Send us."

He sighed and smiled, "It isn't that simple, Kymyra."

"It would be a show of force."

C: "At least the Princess has a plan."

I felt my father's disappointment in my overstepping creep into the room, "I only meant that we should at least-"

H: "Perhaps, there's some better use for the Princess's talents, Your Grace."

"My talents are being used as they should, serving my father."

My father ignored me and instead addressed Ser Harrold, "Why don't you take the Princess to see about the new Kingsguard posting, Lord Commander?"

H: "A fine idea, Your Grace."

F: "This knight will protect you as well. You should choose."

"I see... I may be named heir but I will never have the say I would if I had a cock. I will choose wisely, Your Grace."