Chapter 21: Arriving in King's Landing
Varys clasped his hands: "A willful Queen, coupled with a brave Baron – we can quietly enjoy the rare spectacle of King's Landing."
Petyr Baelish's gaze shifted: "Master of Intelligence, you seem to be worried about something."
"As long as King Robert sits steadily on the Iron Throne, nothing irreparable will happen. Therefore, I sleep soundly every night."
"Haha, the premise in your words actually makes my heart tremble. With only the companionship of coin each day, I find myself growing increasingly worried about unforeseen events, for I shall sleep restlessly tonight because of you."
Varys nodded apologetically: "Indeed, my apologies, Lord of Coin. I was merely lamenting the current situation in King's Landing and inadvertently caused you unease. My words, having lost their sweetness, have spread discomfort."
Petyr Baelish instinctively sensed Varys's danger, a danger he hadn't particularly focused on before.
Petyr Baelish pondered Varys's hidden intentions in his words, yet his face showed nothing: "Hmm, it was just a joke, a pity I'm not humorous enough. I still have to await Lord Arryn's reception. Good day to you."
An elegant smile appeared on Petyr Baelish's face as he bid Varys farewell.
This rootless man's thoughts were most unfathomable. Today was certainly not a coincidental encounter. Petyr Baelish had already decided in his heart to heighten his guard against Varys.
Varys silently stared at Petyr's departing back, the smile on his face gradually fading.
...
...
Clang! Clang! Thump! Thump! Clatter! Clatter! Whoosh!
Glyn stood at the bow of the ship, gazing at the imposing King's Landing and the towering Red Keep, a melody from his previous life echoing in his mind.
After three days and two nights of sailing, King's Landing was close at hand.
Many in the contingent showed signs of seasickness, keeping Clyburn's three doctors busy throughout the journey.
Transporting soldiers from The Whispers to King's Landing by sea was the most time and labor-saving method. Traveling by land would involve passing through too many territories and would be time-consuming and arduous.
As it was the soldiers' first time at sea, large-scale seasickness was very common. To avoid impacting their combat strength later, such adaptation training needed to be done in advance.
The eastern region of Crackclaw Point still required some time to consolidate. After that, Glyn's plan was "westward expansion," using the power of the Eyrie as a base to control the western region of Crackclaw Point.
It would be best if he could first operate under the identity of "Protector of Crackclaw Point." Then Glyn's westward advance would be justifiable and smooth.
...
...
Glyn's merchant ship entered Blackwater from Blackwater Bay, docking at the busy River Gate pier (which the locals liked to call Mud Gate).
The busy crowd on the dock suddenly felt a prickling sensation on their skin, an uncomfortable feeling that made everyone involuntarily stop their work.
This feeling was not unfamiliar; it was the aura formed by years of bloodshed. They had witnessed many similar individuals, but this time the impact was deeper, and everyone's gaze shifted to the same direction.
The crowd discovered a group of Guards, clad in bright silver plate armor, their physiques tall and sturdy like iron towers, surrounding a young man.
The young man was tall and slender, dressed in a blue long robe embroidered with a marsh-gold basin flower on his left chest, with a pair of deerskin boots beneath his white trousers.
The young man had an outstanding appearance, handsome yet without effeminacy, instead possessing a kind of composure that didn't match his age.
The group of people who worked on King's Landing's docks year-round had long developed a keen eye. They scattered, making ample space for Glyn and his party.
Surana's eldest son, Leyton, finally awaited Glyn's party: "Good day, my Lord."
Glyn, enduring the various mixed smells on the dock, frowned slightly: "Has the lodging within King's Landing been prepared?"
"It's prepared. I just finished handling the Corbray Manor, and I happened to receive Steward Herschel's raven. My Lord, it was settled yesterday, and everything has been arranged. The residence is near Hook Harbor. I shall lead the way."
Glyn mounted the warhorse led by Montun. The Household Guard also mounted their warhorses, surrounding Glyn.
...
King's Landing, Hook Harbor, Glyn's temporary residence.
Glyn took a hot bath, and his body felt much more comfortable.
Surana took Glyn's towel: "Only twenty Guards left for you?"
"We are not here to fight," Glyn said, sitting on the long bench and exhaling a breath, before continuing, "On the way, I noticed many eyes watching us. This is enough. Leave the Guards to Montun and Foley; you take the remaining people directly to the estate outside the city to settle down."
Surana folded the towel: "Besides two maids, leave one doctor too, just in case of any accidents."
Glyn nodded: "Hmm, you are always very thoughtful, Surana."
"I've already had Leyton send the letter from Her Grace, Queen Naisa. The address here was left on it. During the waiting period, you can take a good rest and shake off the fatigue of the journey."
"Leave Leyton here. Let him manage this residence; I can rest assured."
...
Evening, Hook Harbor, Knight's Inn.
Glyn sat alone at a table, eating dinner. Montun and the others sat nearby, eating heartily. After half a day's rest, their stomachs, which had been affected by continuous days of sailing, finally felt much better.
The inn door opened once again, and a small figure walked in.
Glyn's position allowed him a direct view of the doorway. Tyrion Lannister's characteristics were distinct enough; Glyn recognized him with a glance.
Glyn showed no surprise and continued eating. The roasted beef at this establishment tasted truly good.
Tyrion Lannister pulled the bell at the inn's entrance.
Ding-a-ling!
The sound of the bell attracted everyone's attention. Glyn, following the crowd, shifted his gaze to Tyrion Lannister.
Tyrion Lannister announced loudly: "Gentlemen, I must remind you all, today is your lucky day! This evening, your food and drink will all be paid for by me!"
(end of chapter)