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Post by Gandalf on Jun 16, 2023 3:31:05 GMT -5
Walter is likewise shown into the King’s chambers. Walter had barely begun to get settled when a retainer of House Targaryen came to bring an invitation from the King. Lord Whent was a little surprised by this, but since he was a member of the Small Council now, surely this message meant that the King wished to speak with him on official matters. Leaving the unpacking to his knights and his son, Lyonel, Old Walter departed, following the retainer to where the King was awaiting him. Once in his presence, Lord Walter bowed his best for the now King Rhaegar. Your Grace.He speaks before raising his head. Your house has honored me and my family five times now. The House of Whent will always remember the favor shown by House Targaryen.A presence at his tournament, the elevation of his brother, Oswell, the Great Council last year, Damon created a squire to the King, and now, himself a member of the Small Council. Bloody mess to be sorted... Sevens above... looked like a dragon tore through King's Landing. The Kingsroad is a mess going North, Your Grace. Caravans having trouble coming in and plenty of crowds fleeing North... I worry about the security of the roads more than ever. For surely the ill-intents of hearts have surely sprouted and begun to plot against the weak and vulnerable.But, at least, those of importance to the King; his wife, his brothers, and children were safe. A city could be rebuilt, a family would be harder. How is Your Grace though, Sire? How is your family? “Send word to Lord Tully to assist the refugees however he can. I intend to see to it that my people are homed and fed.”
King’s Landing seemed a cursed city, now. Many had left, and he did not blame them. Many more considered him responsible in lieu of his father. House Targaryen’s goodwill was in short supply amongst the commons.
“Well enough, Lord Whent. Safe and alive, which is all that a man can ask.”
Rhaegar looked wearied, seeming to sink into the cushioned throne that Lord Hayford had prepared for his stay.“But there can be no rest for me. I must have a court, a crown, a coronation. I intend to move my seat to Dragonstone for the time being. Soon enough I must arrange to be crowned in Oldtown, and quiet any murmurs amongst the Faith or those who would have seen my Father deposed.”
That brought a smile to his wearied face. “It is thanks to you that he is safe and alive. It must not have been easy, to do as you did.”His own thoughts went to the children of the city, too.“You have served far above your duty, Richard. But I need good men here, now. Too few remain.”A cup of wine was now in his hand, a new habit since the leg wound.
"I keep my oaths"On his way to meet Rhaegar, Richard had crossed paths with many men whose banners had once been on the other side of the battlefield. This did not please him, even though he understood. "And as long as I have strength in my arms to hold a sword, they will be yours to command, your majesty. I will serve you in any way I can"
“Then be my sword, Richard.”Rhaegar sunk back into his chair with gritted teeth. Suddenly he seemed stern, as if wrought from hard iron.
“I name thee my Marshal, for my hands no longer hold use for weapons of war. House Chelsted has been attainted, and I grant you their lands and incomes. It is time you saw a fitting reward for your service.”
Lord Chelsted had been a party to his father’s madness; he had perished in the fire, or so many said, but a punishment was still due.
“I have forgiven rebellion and treachery, but I do not forget. Too many were too ready to see the crown grace the brow of Baratheon.”
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Post by Gandalf on Jun 16, 2023 3:36:19 GMT -5
Aerys was rather focused on the wildfire and alchemists, which meant that not a lot of projects occurred during his reign in comparison to previous Targaryen rulers. The Master of Coin, during much of his later reign, was Lord Qarlton Chelsted, a Crownlander. Although remarked as a 'craven', it seemed he did a good enough job with being the one who managed the taxes and coin of the Royal vaults. Donnel Lefford, and his men, would find the treasury in a stable state, a surplus considering the lack of its usage. In fact, there was a little dust on the further chests in the rear, indicating how little traffic had come in and out. Once the Master of Coin, Donnel's father, measured and calculated, the treasury, left by the Mad King, would certainly be enough to repair the walls and aid in the process of re-arming the Goldcloaks to a 'flexible' state. Money leftover could be used to pay for other minor necessities, such as ensuring food was brought in and royal knights were paid for. However, it was clearly not enough to remotely scratch the surface of rebuilding the entirety of the capital. If anything, they'd need an immense loan from the Iron Bank to probably restore one quarter, if not close to half, of the city's restoration. Everyone knew the Iron Bank had enough coin to fund a claimant to the Iron Throne and ensure a handful of Free Cities would bite at each other at the same time. But would the Iron Throne truly want to borrow from such a powerful entity? Nonetheless, Aerys left a treasury, a sufficient surplus, to ensure that Rhaegar would not start off as a 'Beggar King'. [OOC: seeing as we threw out money as an economic standard, Gandy suggested I state that the surplus of the money would be equal to something physical, such as repairing the walls. And Gandy also found that Aerys left a surplus after his death, so thankfully, we had a note of what the royal funds were like in canon.] [OOC: Thanks for the result on the Treasury. Donnel also brought some artisans to assess the damage to the Red Keep's internals. What do they find?] Donnel finds the outer walls and courtyard of the Keep badly damaged, with many towers and walls not fit for purpose; the Hand’s Tower and the White Sword Tower resemble charred candles rather than works of stone. The interior of Maegor’s Holdfast, however, is intact. Importantly the throne itself remains standing, as well as the Dragon Skulls of House Targaryen. Most of the treasures of the royal house have been preserved for the most part.
Donnel is unfortunate enough to find the rotting corpse of the King and Ser Hightower within the throne room, as well as the bodies of several others in the lower levels; a man in the brown robes of the Pyromancers appears to have been caught and slain at the entrance a chamber in the bowels of the Keep.
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Post by Pinkerton on Jun 16, 2023 8:37:52 GMT -5
“Then be my sword, Richard.”Rhaegar sunk back into his chair with gritted teeth. Suddenly he seemed stern, as if wrought from hard iron.
“I name thee my Marshal, for my hands no longer hold use for weapons of war. House Chelsted has been attainted, and I grant you their lands and incomes. It is time you saw a fitting reward for your service.”
Lord Chelsted had been a party to his father’s madness; he had perished in the fire, or so many said, but a punishment was still due.
“I have forgiven rebellion and treachery, but I do not forget. Too many were too ready to see the crown grace the brow of Baratheon.”
Baratheon. There was one thing that could have driven Richard to complain and argue with the former Prince, and that was the matter of the wretched Baratheon. It had enraged him when he heard that his life had been forgiven, that he had been given the privilege of wearing the Black, instead of the death by hanging he should have received as a traitor. But Richard's soul was meek and he had not dared question Rhaegar in this matter. He was pleased, then, to hear that the King would not forget. Richard did not intend to do so, either. He would write their names in a little piece of parchment and keep it with him. A reminder of the fickleness of these men. But there was not too much time for anger. "I thank thee, your majesty, for your generosity and kindness. I am unworthy, but I will do all that is within my capabilities to further your just cause."
Richard Lonmouth, the son of a minor landed knight of the Stormlands, had risen through his loyalty and merit to become Lord and one of the King's closest confidants. He smiled, after so long.
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Post by Gandalf on Jun 16, 2023 9:16:49 GMT -5
”There is none worthier.”
Replied the King, his tone fervent.
”The so-called great lords are bettered in honour and loyalty by a mere knight from the Dornish marches.” Four of the Seven Kingdoms had risen against the King, unheard of even in the bleak years of the Blackfyre Rebellions. ”I have filled my council with them, let them believe they have the King’s ear. But they are men of vanity and ambition. I can only trust you, Richard.”
He paused, suddenly wary.
”There will be changes. There must be changes, or else the next rebellion may succeed.”
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Post by Royal Joker on Jun 16, 2023 9:47:03 GMT -5
Velaryon is brought to the walls of Hayford, then escorted into the solar where the new King waits; throneless and crownless for the time being. Lucerys bowed deeply as he entered the king's solar. The burdens of the crown were already apparent on the young Rhaegar. "Your Grace... I can only express my deepest sorrow for the fate of King's Landing and its people. The green flames could be seen all the way to Driftmark, but the damage was unfathomable until I saw it for myself. I pray that your family were able to escape. May I ask... what has become of your lord father? I've only heard rumors that he perished in the flames or was cut down by the Red Viper of Martell."If only Aerys had died of the Targaryen dynasty, all the better. With Rhaegar's siblings and children, there were more than enough dragons to keep the Iron Throne safe. "I've brought the royal fleet to your aid. Warships all, but they are sturdy craft that we can utilize for transport, fishing or anything else we might need. Should the Free Cities across the Narrow Sea stir up trouble, we'll be ready to meet them."
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Post by Pinkerton on Jun 16, 2023 10:02:16 GMT -5
”There is none worthier.” Replied the King, his tone fervent. ”The so-called great lords are bettered in honour and loyalty by a mere knight from the Dornish marches.” Four of the Seven Kingdoms had risen against the King, unheard of even in the bleak years of the Blackfyre Rebellions. ”I have filled my council with them, let them believe they have the King’s ear. But they are men of vanity and ambition. I can only trust you, Richard.”He paused, suddenly wary. ”There will be changes. There must be changes, or else the next rebellion may succeed.” Lonmouth had seldom heard Rhaegar speak so fervently before. The praise made him blush and lower his eyes. The man in front of him meant so much to Richard. "There's much to do, your majesty. I will begin at once, should you have no further matters to discuss with me."
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Post by Gandalf on Jun 16, 2023 10:30:53 GMT -5
Velaryon is brought to the walls of Hayford, then escorted into the solar where the new King waits; throneless and crownless for the time being. Lucerys bowed deeply as he entered the king's solar. The burdens of the crown were already apparent on the young Rhaegar. "Your Grace... I can only express my deepest sorrow for the fate of King's Landing and its people. The green flames could be seen all the way to Driftmark, but the damage was unfathomable until I saw it for myself. I pray that your family were able to escape. May I ask... what has become of your lord father? I've only heard rumors that he perished in the flames or was cut down by the Red Viper of Martell."If only Aerys had died of the Targaryen dynasty, all the better. With Rhaegar's siblings and children, there were more than enough dragons to keep the Iron Throne safe. "I've brought the royal fleet to your aid. Warships all, but they are sturdy craft that we can utilize for transport, fishing or anything else we might need. Should the Free Cities across the Narrow Sea stir up trouble, we'll be ready to meet them.” “My father got the fate he deserved. Like Maegor, the throne disposed of him. Never has a more unworthy man ruled these kingdoms.”
Rhaegar felt nothing but cold disregard. He considered his father to have been long dead by the time King Aerys met his end. The new King eyed Velaryon coolly.“We must see to it that food and supplies are shipped here. I plan to resettle the city, but in the meanwhile my people must be fed. I soon mean to call my court to Dragonstone and settle all the realm’s business there.” ”There is none worthier.” Replied the King, his tone fervent. ”The so-called great lords are bettered in honour and loyalty by a mere knight from the Dornish marches.” Four of the Seven Kingdoms had risen against the King, unheard of even in the bleak years of the Blackfyre Rebellions. ”I have filled my council with them, let them believe they have the King’s ear. But they are men of vanity and ambition. I can only trust you, Richard.”He paused, suddenly wary. ”There will be changes. There must be changes, or else the next rebellion may succeed.” Lonmouth had seldom heard Rhaegar speak so fervently before. The praise made him blush and lower his eyes. The man in front of him meant so much to Richard. "There's much to do, your majesty. I will begin at once, should you have no further matters to discuss with me." Rhaegar nodded. For now he wore no crown, not even a circlet. “Nothing more, Richard. You have your leave, Lord Marshal.”
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Post by Magnate Lucius on Jun 16, 2023 10:51:24 GMT -5
“Send word to Lord Tully to assist the refugees however he can. I intend to see to it that my people are homed and fed.”
King’s Landing seemed a cursed city, now. Many had left, and he did not blame them. Many more considered him responsible in lieu of his father. House Targaryen’s goodwill was in short supply amongst the commons.
“Well enough, Lord Whent. Safe and alive, which is all that a man can ask.”
Rhaegar looked wearied, seeming to sink into the cushioned throne that Lord Hayford had prepared for his stay.“But there can be no rest for me. I must have a court, a crown, a coronation. I intend to move my seat to Dragonstone for the time being. Soon enough I must arrange to be crowned in Oldtown, and quiet any murmurs amongst the Faith or those who would have seen my Father deposed.”
At the command, involving Lord Tully, Walter bows his head, acknowledging the order. The refugees were likely fleeing for Maidenpool though. But, he'd send word to his son, Lucas, at Harrenhal and see if any had arrived there. The main concern was such an influx, and desperation, could lead to a sharp increase of banditry and brigands. Already, he had heard of camps along the edge of the Kingswood, a place well known for troublemakers. Given the destruction of the Sept of Baelor, the Faith will likely be looking to elect a new High Septon in Oldtown soon.Not since the Kings before Baelor the Blessed had there been a Targaryen crowned in Oldtown. It... would be prudent to ensure a sympathetic and friendly candidate sits on the blessed throne of the Faith. I will make inquiries with Lord Hightower if Your Grace desires.Having a friendly Faith would ensure no problems from that part of the kingdom. And go a long way to making a good picture of Rhaegar while denouncing his father and not the whole of the Targaryens. What of the City Watch, Your Grace? I have just arrived so I am not too aware of the situation beyond what I have seen.The Goldcloaks usually fell under his jurisdiction as Master of Laws. He'd have to break out the books to remind himself of his duties and study up on what would be useful later.
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Post by poach on Jun 16, 2023 16:43:41 GMT -5
Donnel Lefford
A strong guard was posted about the vaults to keep away any would-be thieves, with the massive chunks of the former vault doors utilised to create barricades and blockades of much of the vault area, making it far harder to access by reducing the number of entrances to only one, though patrols would routinely inspect the barricaded doorways for any sign of attempted forced entry.
A cart was requisitioned from the working parties trying to clear the main streets of the former city, and the corpses of the late King Aerys and his Kingsguard Ser Hightower, as well as the remains of the Pyromancer. Some whispered it must be Rossart: Donnel didn't know, as he'd never seen the man up close during his time in King's Landing. Each was shrouded in cloth: the Pyromancer in whatever rags could be located, Ser Hightower in what remained of his white cloak, and the late King in a tattered but still recognisable Targaryen banner.
The much-reduced expedition left the city, returning to the tent city on the fields outside, to report on the treasury and Red Keep's status, and to deliver their findings.
Lord Harmund Lefford
Some hours later, Lord Lefford requests an audience with King Rhaegar.
[OOC: I assume you won't say no.]
Harmund comes before the King, bringing with him his grandson Donnel and a small escort pulling a wagon. Three corpses were upon it, each shrouded in newer cloths: one in a simple linen covering, one under a large white sheet, and one under a silk Targaryen banner. Harmund first passed a grouping of papers to one of the King's scribes.
"For your reading, your Grace," said Harmund, "I am pleased to report our expedition into the Red Keep found the Treasury to be almost entirely intact. It alone would fall well short of rebuilding something as vast as King's Landing, but would suffice to refortify the city, rendering at least the Red Keep and city walls serviceable once more. Additionally, a survey of the Red Keep itself found that the damage is limited largely to the outer portions of the castle: Maegor's Holdfast and the subterranean portions are all intact and mostly unharmed, and the Iron Throne still stands."
Harmund motioned to Donnel, who began removing the coverings of the dead one by one as Harmund named them.
"We found three corpses of note, your Grace. First we have Ser Hightower, whose family will I am sure be grateful for his return should you choose to honour them so."
"Second, we have a Pyromancer. Some suggest he is Rossart, but I know not. The people may be heartened to know of his demise should this be him. He died, we believe, attempting to enter a chamber whose key we have confiscated and secured: I would caution entering such a chamber with great care, considering what we know of the final charge your father gave to his order."
"Lastly," he said, in a solemn tone, as Donnel carefully removed the final covering, holding the Targaryen banner respectfully, in contrast to the other coverings which were simply dropped to the floor, "we discovered the body of your late father, King Aerys."
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Post by Royal Joker on Jun 17, 2023 4:25:23 GMT -5
Lucerys bowed deeply as he entered the king's solar. The burdens of the crown were already apparent on the young Rhaegar. "Your Grace... I can only express my deepest sorrow for the fate of King's Landing and its people. The green flames could be seen all the way to Driftmark, but the damage was unfathomable until I saw it for myself. I pray that your family were able to escape. May I ask... what has become of your lord father? I've only heard rumors that he perished in the flames or was cut down by the Red Viper of Martell."If only Aerys had died of the Targaryen dynasty, all the better. With Rhaegar's siblings and children, there were more than enough dragons to keep the Iron Throne safe. "I've brought the royal fleet to your aid. Warships all, but they are sturdy craft that we can utilize for transport, fishing or anything else we might need. Should the Free Cities across the Narrow Sea stir up trouble, we'll be ready to meet them.” “My father got the fate he deserved. Like Maegor, the throne disposed of him. Never has a more unworthy man ruled these kingdoms.”
Rhaegar felt nothing but cold disregard. He considered his father to have been long dead by the time King Aerys met his end. The new King eyed Velaryon coolly.“We must see to it that food and supplies are shipped here. I plan to resettle the city, but in the meanwhile my people must be fed. I soon mean to call my court to Dragonstone and settle all the realm’s business there.” Lucerys nodded, meeting the young king's gaze as best he could. He would not be looked upon favorably for his involvement in King Aerys's reign, but he was at the same time indispensable. Especially with the revelation of the royal court moving to Dragonstone, just a stone's throw away from Driftmark. Whether Rhaegar liked Lord Velaryon or not, he needed the master of ships more than ever. "Naturally, your Grace, the fleet will be at your command. Fishing or foodstuffs from trade, transport of goods, whatever the people of King's Landing may need. Of course, my ships will be the wooden walls of Dragonstone until your court is ready to return to the mainland."He paused before continuing. "If I may, your Grace. News of the burning of King's Landing will spread across the Narrow Sea sooner rather than later. Pirates, upstart lordlings, daring mercenaries and the like will greedily eye our coasts. The Seven Kingdoms need to assert its strength at sea to protect your people from ill-intentioned opportunities."
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Post by Gandalf on Jun 17, 2023 11:36:04 GMT -5
“Send word to Lord Tully to assist the refugees however he can. I intend to see to it that my people are homed and fed.”
King’s Landing seemed a cursed city, now. Many had left, and he did not blame them. Many more considered him responsible in lieu of his father. House Targaryen’s goodwill was in short supply amongst the commons.
“Well enough, Lord Whent. Safe and alive, which is all that a man can ask.”
Rhaegar looked wearied, seeming to sink into the cushioned throne that Lord Hayford had prepared for his stay.“But there can be no rest for me. I must have a court, a crown, a coronation. I intend to move my seat to Dragonstone for the time being. Soon enough I must arrange to be crowned in Oldtown, and quiet any murmurs amongst the Faith or those who would have seen my Father deposed.”
At the command, involving Lord Tully, Walter bows his head, acknowledging the order. The refugees were likely fleeing for Maidenpool though. But, he'd send word to his son, Lucas, at Harrenhal and see if any had arrived there. The main concern was such an influx, and desperation, could lead to a sharp increase of banditry and brigands. Already, he had heard of camps along the edge of the Kingswood, a place well known for troublemakers. Given the destruction of the Sept of Baelor, the Faith will likely be looking to elect a new High Septon in Oldtown soon.Not since the Kings before Baelor the Blessed had there been a Targaryen crowned in Oldtown. It... would be prudent to ensure a sympathetic and friendly candidate sits on the blessed throne of the Faith. I will make inquiries with Lord Hightower if Your Grace desires.Having a friendly Faith would ensure no problems from that part of the kingdom. And go a long way to making a good picture of Rhaegar while denouncing his father and not the whole of the Targaryens. What of the City Watch, Your Grace? I have just arrived so I am not too aware of the situation beyond what I have seen.The Goldcloaks usually fell under his jurisdiction as Master of Laws. He'd have to break out the books to remind himself of his duties and study up on what would be useful later. "Bringing the Faith to our side is essential." Rhaegar agreed. "I appointed Ser Raymar Lefford to command the Watch. He will need your assistance bringing the guard back to strength."
The King doubted the usefulness of the Goldcloaks, but in the short term they were undoubtedly necessary.
Donnel LeffordA strong guard was posted about the vaults to keep away any would-be thieves, with the massive chunks of the former vault doors utilised to create barricades and blockades of much of the vault area, making it far harder to access by reducing the number of entrances to only one, though patrols would routinely inspect the barricaded doorways for any sign of attempted forced entry.
A cart was requisitioned from the working parties trying to clear the main streets of the former city, and the corpses of the late King Aerys and his Kingsguard Ser Hightower, as well as the remains of the Pyromancer. Some whispered it must be Rossart: Donnel didn't know, as he'd never seen the man up close during his time in King's Landing. Each was shrouded in cloth: the Pyromancer in whatever rags could be located, Ser Hightower in what remained of his white cloak, and the late King in a tattered but still recognisable Targaryen banner.
The much-reduced expedition left the city, returning to the tent city on the fields outside, to report on the treasury and Red Keep's status, and to deliver their findings.Lord Harmund LeffordSome hours later, Lord Lefford requests an audience with King Rhaegar.[OOC: I assume you won't say no.] Harmund comes before the King, bringing with him his grandson Donnel and a small escort pulling a wagon. Three corpses were upon it, each shrouded in newer cloths: one in a simple linen covering, one under a large white sheet, and one under a silk Targaryen banner. Harmund first passed a grouping of papers to one of the King's scribes."For your reading, your Grace," said Harmund, "I am pleased to report our expedition into the Red Keep found the Treasury to be almost entirely intact. It alone would fall well short of rebuilding something as vast as King's Landing, but would suffice to refortify the city, rendering at least the Red Keep and city walls serviceable once more. Additionally, a survey of the Red Keep itself found that the damage is limited largely to the outer portions of the castle: Maegor's Holdfast and the subterranean portions are all intact and mostly unharmed, and the Iron Throne still stands." Harmund motioned to Donnel, who began removing the coverings of the dead one by one as Harmund named them."We found three corpses of note, your Grace. First we have Ser Hightower, whose family will I am sure be grateful for his return should you choose to honour them so." "Second, we have a Pyromancer. Some suggest he is Rossart, but I know not. The people may be heartened to know of his demise should this be him. He died, we believe, attempting to enter a chamber whose key we have confiscated and secured: I would caution entering such a chamber with great care, considering what we know of the final charge your father gave to his order." "Lastly," he said, in a solemn tone, as Donnel carefully removed the final covering, holding the Targaryen banner respectfully, in contrast to the other coverings which were simply dropped to the floor, "we discovered the body of your late father, King Aerys." "We will see to it that the King is buried on Dragonstone, and Lord Hightower returned to Oldtown."
Rhaegar answered coldly, apparently showing little interest in the corpse of his father or his Kingsguard; the man had once been a friend, but the pain of such a loss was not fit to show before a mere minor lord. He paid the pyromancer a cursory glance; not Rossart, but certainly one of the cronies he sent to scuttle about the city."Hang his corpse from a gibbet. We will have the chamber investigated on our return to the Keep." He continued, a grimace announcing his distaste. "Well done, Lord Harmund. We will commence the rebuilding of the city soon, with the management of our funds under your sole discretion." “My father got the fate he deserved. Like Maegor, the throne disposed of him. Never has a more unworthy man ruled these kingdoms.”
Rhaegar felt nothing but cold disregard. He considered his father to have been long dead by the time King Aerys met his end. The new King eyed Velaryon coolly.“We must see to it that food and supplies are shipped here. I plan to resettle the city, but in the meanwhile my people must be fed. I soon mean to call my court to Dragonstone and settle all the realm’s business there.” Lucerys nodded, meeting the young king's gaze as best he could. He would not be looked upon favorably for his involvement in King Aerys's reign, but he was at the same time indispensable. Especially with the revelation of the royal court moving to Dragonstone, just a stone's throw away from Driftmark. Whether Rhaegar liked Lord Velaryon or not, he needed the master of ships more than ever. "Naturally, your Grace, the fleet will be at your command. Fishing or foodstuffs from trade, transport of goods, whatever the people of King's Landing may need. Of course, my ships will be the wooden walls of Dragonstone until your court is ready to return to the mainland."He paused before continuing. "If I may, your Grace. News of the burning of King's Landing will spread across the Narrow Sea sooner rather than later. Pirates, upstart lordlings, daring mercenaries and the like will greedily eye our coasts. The Seven Kingdoms need to assert its strength at sea to protect your people from ill-intentioned opportunities." "Undoubtedly. What did you have in mind?" Asked Rhaegar, interest suddenly piqued.
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Post by Magnate Lucius on Jun 17, 2023 12:42:50 GMT -5
"Bringing the Faith to our side is essential." Rhaegar agreed. "I appointed Ser Raymar Lefford to command the Watch. He will need your assistance bringing the guard back to strength."
The King doubted the usefulness of the Goldcloaks, but in the short term they were undoubtedly necessary. I will see to it that channels are opened between Oldtown and the Iron Throne, Your Grace.He'd plan to send a raven to speak with Lord Hightower and another to speak with a representative of the Faith. Is there anything particular I should have on my plate, Sire?Lord Whent wanted to make sure he was able to perform his duties as soon as possible. ========================= poachAfter meeting with the King, and sending a couple of ravens to Oldtown and a third to Harrenhal, Old Walter came to the makeshift headquarters of the meager Goldcloaks. He sought out their commander, a Ser Raymar Lefford, who was the son of the Master of Coin. Best get on with knowing faces and getting to work, thought the Lord Whent as he entered the facility.
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Post by Royal Joker on Jun 17, 2023 14:35:22 GMT -5
Lucerys nodded, meeting the young king's gaze as best he could. He would not be looked upon favorably for his involvement in King Aerys's reign, but he was at the same time indispensable. Especially with the revelation of the royal court moving to Dragonstone, just a stone's throw away from Driftmark. Whether Rhaegar liked Lord Velaryon or not, he needed the master of ships more than ever. "Naturally, your Grace, the fleet will be at your command. Fishing or foodstuffs from trade, transport of goods, whatever the people of King's Landing may need. Of course, my ships will be the wooden walls of Dragonstone until your court is ready to return to the mainland."He paused before continuing. "If I may, your Grace. News of the burning of King's Landing will spread across the Narrow Sea sooner rather than later. Pirates, upstart lordlings, daring mercenaries and the like will greedily eye our coasts. The Seven Kingdoms need to assert its strength at sea to protect your people from ill-intentioned opportunities." "Undoubtedly. What did you have in mind?" Asked Rhaegar, interest suddenly piqued. "An expedition to the Stepstones, your Grace. It's been 20 years since the War of the Ninepenny Kings, all manner of pirates and reavers have already crawled back to their dens like cockroaches. No grand schemes like your father's ambitions of adding it to his domain, mind you. A punitive expedition to root out their strongholds and claim their ill-begotten loot would be just the thing to assert our strength. The Free Cities regularly send these types of expeditions, so it would not be without precedent."If it ended up providing some extra treasures for his own vaults... that was just a reward for faithful service to the realm.
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Post by Gandalf on Jun 18, 2023 7:34:48 GMT -5
"Undoubtedly. What did you have in mind?" Asked Rhaegar, interest suddenly piqued. "An expedition to the Stepstones, your Grace. It's been 20 years since the War of the Ninepenny Kings, all manner of pirates and reavers have already crawled back to their dens like cockroaches. No grand schemes like your father's ambitions of adding it to his domain, mind you. A punitive expedition to root out their strongholds and claim their ill-begotten loot would be just the thing to assert our strength. The Free Cities regularly send these types of expeditions, so it would not be without precedent."If it ended up providing some extra treasures for his own vaults... that was just a reward for faithful service to the realm. "Something to consider. The Stepstones are a dagger aimed at the realm's throat in the wrong hands."There was a reason Maelys had used them as his staging post."But an aggressive posture there may alarm the Free Cities. I do not wish for war with the Essosi."Such wars were fruitless and with little gain in the long run.
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Post by Royal Joker on Jun 18, 2023 14:34:57 GMT -5
"Something to consider. The Stepstones are a dagger aimed at the realm's throat in the wrong hands."There was a reason Maelys had used them as his staging post."But an aggressive posture there may alarm the Free Cities. I do not wish for war with the Essosi."Such wars were fruitless and with little gain in the long run. "The Free Cities can see the Iron Throne as weak or strong, that is the way of the world. I rather think they would thank us for ridding their trade routes of piracy."Lucerys nodded his head. There was little to gain from arguing the point at this time. "Perhaps a show of strength is to be prioritized once the crisis in King's Landing has stabilized?"
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