[b]King's Landing[/b](with [@MrDidact] and [@kingkonrad])


After the supper, Alester was ponderous. So many things had happened in so little time, and so reflexion and more planning was due and needed. He had barely looked at his book of parchments recently, so the first thing he did was review the accounts he had shown Merlin and made some predictions. He would have probably to send a raven or so before leaving King's Landing.  He sighed, leaning against the dusty table surrounded by a pile of books, with a beam of potent light prying away from an high window of the library into his table. He was rather simply dressed, and somewhat groomed, but he had the shuffling and wandering characteristic of an scribe rather than a noble.
 
He eyed the rare "Lives of Four Kings" exemplar he had found out. Always a good a reference for ruling, as he had given yet another brief lecture to keep the lessons fresh. But there were more concerns pressing his mind. The way Willas reacted on the news of the Reach and the way Glennmore had show him the decapitated monster head, knew he had to gather another kind of information. That of the occult and arcane. Those beasts were made by others, or they could be slain. If only the  samples weren't so few and in incomplete... it would take a colossal effort to sort them out. But it did not hurt to try. For the sake of the Reach and Westeros.
 
"Mmm." He mumbled, his limbs starting to getting heavy and his eyelids weighing like lead. The monotony was sinking in at last.

"I always found the prose riveting myself." Alester heard a voice and he would turn to see Prince Jahaerys, thirdborn son of Jon and Daenerys, his stormy grey eyes looking into Alester's. With the Prince was one of the Kingsguard and a big, burly young man who had dark hair and eyes and a mouth made for wide smiles. The Prince nodded, "Greetings, my lord. We met at dinner, but we didn't get much of a chance to talk. This is Sam Snow, the Grandmaester's son. Ser Wex Pyke is guarding me as faithfully as ever. What brings you here?" 

Alester blinked twice, before jolting slightly and offering the best salute he could "My Prince!" He exclaimed as he scrambled."i...uh, was reaping the benefits of being a guest of King's landing, when it comes to perusing written works. Few libraries are as big as this one, my prince. And it nevers does bad to extend one's knowledge."

Jahaerys nodded, "Indeed. My father has collected an impressive library. Only dwarfed by the Citadel's. I know almost every tome on these shelves, if not by content, then by name and subject. What do you seek, Lord Alester? What knowledge would you have?" 

"Anything that would help me be a better a lord. The Lives of past rulers. The descriptions of tactics that foes might use. Specially those ones that are on the rise." Alester said, without describing much detail. "The seven Kingdoms are experiencing quick changes these days, and It would do well to try and anticipate them."

The Prince smiled, "Politics eh? Politics are so dreary. But if you want, there are extensive treatises on the reign of every king from Aegon to Tommen and of all the kings that came from the kingdoms beforehand. They're still writing my father's. Every scheme and plot, that we know of, committed to paper. This one series, by Maester George, is particularly illuminating on the events of my father's day. They're all in the histories section." 

"I shall look into it at some point, my Prince." He simply nodded. He restrained himself, had he been a man of lesser station he would not have appreciated the prodding in which he was subject. The sensation of being watched was ever-present in King's Landing. "Admittedly, if I was in top shape, I would be sparring a little more aswell. No lack of talent in the seat of the Targayens. Alas, the capture of the Gardener pretender was not without hitch, and the Grand Maester was ...insistent about resting." He tried deflecting the situation, as he begun to rearrange and sort the perused books.

Jahaerys smiled sympathethically, "Yes, I heard about your daring adventure. My congratulations on your success. Those pretenders have been causing no small amount of concern here. And you must excuse, Samwell. He knows what is best when it comes to medicine. Perhaps when you feel better, you can join myself and my companions. You'll find quite a few talented fighters." 

"I look forward to, but I might return to my keep instead, my Prince.  After all, this travel was not planned in advance, and my sister's pout would reach all the way to here if I do not offer her some solace." Alester said. "However, I am flattered by the attention. A mere vassal of the Tyrells like me can only address the crown in counted ocassions."

Jahaerys chuckled, "A shame, I had hoped to see how you fared against Aemon Rayder.I hope you change your mind. If your sister could be sent for, I'm sure she'd like it in the capital as well," he smiled once more, "Don't be so modest. You are a high lord with a proud name. Not some landed knight from the Stony Shore. Men of your standing are always welcome here. My father has always had a sympathy for supporters of Stannis besides." 

Alester frowned. "Guess there is no point in hiding it, if you yourself are interested my prince. I had hoped to keep my sword skill a little less known. As for my sister...hmm, your father offered me the same. It is worth considering." He paused. "Stannis. Heh. Yes, his shadow looms over my house, for Selyse was our kin. At the very least, the norther battles made us a bit more hardened to endure these years of recovering our household." He added, as he finished placing his book. "But power is so fragile, it only takes a stupid decision and moment to ruin it all..."

Jahaerys leaned on a nearby wall, "Oh there are already tales spreading through the city from the peasants who accompanied you. They say Lord Alester is a frightening warrior who wears a foxskin, has the eyes of a fox, and fights with the strength and speed of ten men combined. " He chuckled. 

"I can see at least the bit about the eyes is untrue. Well, as for power, I find that small moments can ruin houses, and so can long periods of incompetence. My great-grandfather ruined our House, and my grandfather could have made much better decisons. Don't discount small moments for the longer ones." 

"But your house is on the rise, thanks to you. The Florent name is on many lips again." 

"No, thanks to my father. The real cause of his death is not widely known... but it was exertion, my Prince. He gave perhaps too much effort to rebuild the house, all while others watched and bickered." Alester paused. "If I do not commit myself to a similar level, I am not worthy of bearing his surname." He paused. "Also, I know that I am not the most handsome man of Westeros, but jeez, I am not that frightening. Or am i?" He jested.

Jahaerys smirked, "I've seen far uglier men my Lord, I think you look rather respectable. But you know how smallfolk are prone to their fancies. As for your father, he was a hard-working man, tis true. But if you speak accurately, this was the death of him. You are yet young, I would caution you not to commit the same mistakes and sacrifice yourself. There are ways to rule without burning oneself out. My parents have handled it admirably so far." 

"Perhaps is because without mother, my father did simply not know when to stop. I suppose I should see to stop being single." He pondered. "I've taken steps in that regard, but so far progress is slow." He admitted, awkwardly.

Jahaerys spread his hands, "You are a very eligible bachelor my lord. Lord of a High House. Prestigious bloodline. And you are rich to boot. I'm sure you'd find several houses willing to make a match. And, there are many beautiful, unmarried women here at court. Some of my companions among them. Perhaps I can introduce you sometime." 

"Uh...well, I already had talks with other Reach houses and eh." Alester's somber face quickly fell apart, the topic being one of his banes. And he couldn't make exactly public the agreement he had with Willas Tyrell yet, so he tried his best to reign his words in.

The Prince smiled knowingly, "Say no more, my lord. It's none of my business. Though I must say, there will be some disappointed women. Lady Stokeworth has been trying to marry off her youngest for quite some time now." 

"But I wish you well with the nuptials. I enjoy being a bachelor myself, I'm glad my lord father isn't pushing me to get hitched quite yet. Though mother has been making overtures. Ever since Aemon got married, she's itching to make another match and have even more grandchildren. The woman is insatiable." 

"Well, I dont think I will get married anytime soon. The father has been a bit stubborn in that regard." He paused. "Probably in a couple of years if i last." He confided the prince. "Fear not my prince. My sister is 10 and the only other woman of marrying age is a red haired fire priestess i would rather keep in the Dorne Campaign." He jested. "I don't pity you, my Prince. I have said 10 year old conspiring to get nephews, that is way worse than a nagging...queen mother."

Jahaerys laughed, "Mayhaps you are right. And mayhaps your sister may win out. I've come to fear the power young girls can wield. You should have seen my aunt Arya at that age. By all reports, she was a force of nature even then. The same may yet be true here, though I hope not in the exact same way." 

"I believe you will last. You seem a hard man to break down. I wouldn't bet against you in this case." 

"Well my Prince... I must confess that It is amenable talking with you. The reachmen of my age... I don't see eye to eye with some, like Ellion Tyrell. And since he's the best sword of the Reach... well, I can't avoid conversation without him popping up. I heard he was named Master at Arms. Topics ...can get get quite dull in some cases. "

"I've had a wonderful time as well. It's been a real treat, getting to know the Lord of Brightwater," Jaeherys laughed, "Ah, Ellion. I don't quite know what to think of him, but he will always have my gratitude for beating Viserys and wiping the smug smirk off of his face for once. Perhaps, we could someday see you and him compete in a bout. That should be quite a sight." 

"Well that seems like Ellion already. Breaking lances and taking names." He pondered. [i] And maidenheads. But I am sure the prince can pick that one thing on his own.[/i] "Also, you may call me Les, Prince. I do not mind and it is faster." He stated.

"Very well, Les. My friends call me Jae, you may follow suit if you wish," The Prince stood from the wall and said, "Well, Ellion is now taking names somewhere else. With my brothers and most of our companions. We ourselves could always use more conversational partners. If you wish to join us for luncheon, we'll be in the gardens. I have other matters, I must attend to." He nodded at Alester. 

"Good day, my lord. I hope you find what you're looking for." The Prince and his compatriots withdrew, leaving the Fox Lord to his own devices. 

"Good day, my Prince." He added as he decided to pack up. A lunch... and some socializing. He could see the use in that aswell.
-------------------------------------

Alester Florent made careful, simple steps as he was greeted by the radiance of the gardens. Having spent hours holed up in the library and his eyes used to the darker ambience, he could not help but have a pronounced squint. He nevertheless stroke a hand through his hair, eyeing the scenery. It wasn't Highgarden but it certainly didn't lose in terms of exuberance. His visage turned right and left, trying to see the signs of a social gathering of people around his age.

What he found, however, was a servant. He looked at her thoughtfully, before interrupting her task for a brief second, and asking politely, he was directed to the table of his equals, not after thanking the servant without any hint of the usual nobiliary arrogance in his voice. He looked at the assorted people, letting them be the first to greet him.

Alester found the children of the realm's mighty and powerful under an elegant terrace looking out over the sea. Julianna Lannister and her brothers were pleasantly chatting with Baela and Jahaerys Targaryen, along with Nymeria Martell, Alys Tarth and Catelyn Baratheon. Sam Snow, Vickon Greyjoy, Devan Seaworth, and several other young noblemen and noblewomen were in attendance.Alerie Tyrell sat with Tom Lannister, Alerie at least getting to know Tom's brothers a bit better, the twins both the lions that in her eyes, Tom seemed to be eclipsing a little. Scions of the most powerful houses in the kingdoms. Though their numbers were reduced somewhat since the start of hostilities, many of their number having gone off to adventure or battle. Ser Wex Pyke and Ser Josmyn Peckledon of the Kingsguard stood by.

Jaeherys saw Alester and smiled, compelling him over to sit among them. A sumptous array of food had been lain out, fruits and sweets of every descriptions alongside several roast quail and freshly baked fish. Wine and juices were in wide evidence. 

"Lords, ladies, Prince, Princesses...sers." Alester said politely before taking the moment to sit in a chair besides him. Such a fine gathering. Indeed, it had been wise to follow along the whims of the prince Jaeherys. He probably would not meet half of these personalities in Brightwater or Highgarden even if years passed. It was worth even bearing to be in the presence of Alerie Tyrell and her thorns. "It is an honor to be invited to this meal." He said curtly. "I thank you, my Prince."

Jaeherys smiled and said, "The honor is all mine. I'm delighted to introduce the heroic Fox Lord to my friends," he turned to Julianna and the others, speaking loudly enough for all to hear, "This is the same Alester Florent who stopped the latest Gardener raid and took one of their leaders prisoner. A toast, to the heroism of Lord Alester." 

The young nobles all raised their glasses in a toast, and drank. Julianna Lannister smiled at Alester, "I am pleased to make your acquantince, Lord Alester. It bodes well for my future as a Queen to know that Prince Aemon will have a loyal and dependable friend in you, as my good father does." 

Tom Lannister stood as well, holding out his hand, "Ser Tommen Lannister, it's good you're here Lord Alester. I'm afraid the local competition is starting to get a bit stale with most of our friends gone. Clever he may be, a fighter Prince Jaeherys is not." Jaeherys smiled good-naturedly, "I'm better with a bow, thankfully." 

Alerie stood by his side, quietly looking at Alester Florent, her red hair nicely composed in a fashion that would be anticipated of King's Landing, albeit with a Reachman influence that clearly put across her fair face in full view.
"Nice to meet you again, Lord Alester. It must have been a very long time ago we met. We were both far younger since I visited last." She smiled characteristically, her voice buttery and gentle as another came to attention.

Baela Targaryen inclined her head, "Lord Alester, pleased to meet you. I think you shall be the muse for my next ballad. I shall call it, the Fox Hunt. What say you?" 

"Well met, Crown Princess. You have my thanks for your kind words. I regret having missed the wedding." He said to Julianna, straining himself to put his best smile despite the presence of the thorny woman. He turned his sight to Tom "Well met, young lion of the Lannister. You already cast your own radiance, Lord Heir of the Westerlands." Alester said as he shook his hand. "Alas, I can only disappoint this time." He said as with a swift motion, set apart some cloth of the neck to show the bandages over the wounds. "The maesters would kill me if I started swinging my blade too promptly again. Well, not literally." He added as he addressed the third person, Alerie Tyrell.

"Yes quite a long time, Lady Tyrell. Well met again." He paused. [i] You conniving cruel thorny woman. I do remember that encounter well. You laughed at me.[/i] He reigned in his face, become somewhat stiff, before recomposing his smile to address the last person. Princess Baella. She was quite the charming beauty, and still so young that Alester felt like he wanted a new sister for himself.

"It will be an honor, my most fair princess. Talent in arts has always eluded me, and the times need more songs to liften the spirit" He finished.

Alerie nodded, chuckling.
"Gods, we were so young then. And now here we are, all grown up. You seem like quite the Fox now, Alester. All hansome and all. Lord of Brightwater Keep." Alerie was pleasant in her words, she wasn't flirting, but just generally being her usual friendly self.

They all sat and Julianna turned to Alester, "Oh you and Alerie knew each other? I suppose that makes sense. Your father was one of the highest Tyrell bannermen after all. Long in honor and glory." 

Tom grinned as he leaned in and said, "So tell us what the beautiful Lady Alerie was like when she was a child. I wonder if she was always so charming and radiant." 

Alerie kept using that honeyed voice of hers, and Alester suddenly felt the urge on his throat to gag. Bad memories were surfacing, and were rather attached to her. She had always been beatiful, true, but he, more than others knew that beyond the surface, there was other things, and not precisely nice ones. "Yes, we are grown up now, Alerie.  Although I am not as handsome as you are beatiful." He added, as an afterthought. It was proper a compliment after a compliment.

"Ser Tommen, If you are trying to dig out Alerie's past, better ask herself, or do not ask at all in the presence of her friends and acquaintances. All I can say as a Reachman and as a gentleman is that she has always been quite the example of the Tyrell elegance and charm." He smirked back. Dirty laundry on Alerie? Oh he had known a few things, but he also was not foolish enough to break the pact of silence. What happened as kids, should stay as kids play.

And Alerie knew that too. Of course, she had just as much dirt on him as she did on her. It would be stupid and awkward right now, for both of them to disclose it. Alerie was already in with the clique, he wasn't. And neither wanted a scene, both mentally knew that in each other's heads. That's why he wouldn't, she quietly reminded herself mentally.

"I hope your wounds heal fast, Alester. I've seen my brother get hurt, and it never gets any easier to deal with it, when he comes in with bandages and cuts." Alerie added with her gentle demeanor, as she looked to Tom.

"We saw each other a few times when we were little, me and Alester. The Houses of the Reach tended to send their children sometimes to see the gardens of Highgarden, and I always showed them around when father let me. I'll have to do the same with you someday Tom, but I'm afraid I'm not a little girl anymore." She blushed, giggling a little as she gently wrapped her arm around him, red as a rose could be.

Tom smiled, "And aren't I glad of that," he laughed with Alester, "The lady knows I mean no malice. But sometimes, we could all use a little teasing, can't we? Lest we grow too proud and imperious. Hopefully, you'll get settled into King's Landing, my lord, and enjoy yourself." Tom bowed his head in playful contriteness.

Jaeherys raised his hands with a light smile and said, "Forgive Lord Alester, he is a man of action, and men of action often find themselves in a difficult spot when it comes to these dalliances. He'll see that ours is a more familiar kind of setting."  

Baela smirked, "Oh, I'm sure the charms of our court will rub off on him eventually. Mayhaps, Alester will find his inner fox here." 

"Japes have been lost on me since my father died, my princess and ser." Alester said solemny as he took a careful bite of the lunch, setting aside frugal portions as he ate carefully. "I am sorry to be ...so disappointing." He added as an afterthought washing it down with some wine."Also congratulations on your bethrodal. The Master of Coin hinted it to me, and I can see it now clearly."

Alerie nodded to Alester, knowing her father was at least somewhat able to disclose it. He was proud, and perhaps, why wouldn't he be. The mess with the Lannisters was behind them, and perhaps he was proud of her for seeing that.
"Thank you, Alester. Yes, it's been a long time coming. Tom and I have been rather....close since we first met in King's Landing. So perhaps it is the next step to bring the blood of Lannister and Tyrell together, despite perhaps what our families have had before." Alerie said, looking up at him with a warm smile.

"I hope you find Alys to be all you hoped for, Alester. As she grew older, I suppose I got on better with her than I did when we were young...but sisters are always that way when they're little! But she's my sister, and the only other sibling I have of the fairer sex. If my father thinks you'll treat her right, then so do I, and I trust she'll find you to be just as handsome as I do. She'll look after you in times good and bad. And is rather good at the harp and dressmaking , far better than I am." Alerie giggled, knowing this from her father, knowing it was a limited offer for now and only a betrothal, not an immediate marriage till Alys was old enough. 

Tom held Alerie's hand and Jaeherys laughed, "It's not official yet, but already it's fast making the rounds of the castle. I suspect we can hear an announcement sometime soon." 

Julianna rest her chin on her hand and looked at Jaeherys, "And when can we expect an announcement for yourself? I think it's long past that you were wed, good brother." 

"You and my mother both. Ha, well, for the moment, I enjoy my sovereignty." 

Baela giggled, "Oh I'm sure you do," the princess looked at Alester, "Alys Tyrell? A quick match. I had thought you a bachelor, Lord Alester. I'm sure the women of the city will be severely disappointed now." 

"Fret not, Alerie. She will always be the fairest and better sister in my eyes, and I shall see to it accordingly." Alester replied, as he took another piece of food. "I have not know the prince Jaeherys for long, but I was fortunate to met his lover. Once." He deadpanned as he eyed his cup. Almost empty.

"And I am sorry I am being a disappointment in gossipping. However since it is a bethrodal which I wish to make to bring stability and peace of mind and in my land, I have little room to margin." Alester's eyes went directly to Baela. "Although i will not say no to a princess, even if I risk making house Tyrell a bit... inconvenienced."

Jaeherys smirked, "Oh if you had seen me with a lover, you must have eyes just like a fox, a bewitched or confused one at any rate. Though that doesn't seem in evidence. As everyone knows, I am steadfast in the celibate demands of chivalry." Baela rolled her eyes and laughed. 

The Princess tapped her finger against her lip in mock thought, "And who said I asked, Lord Alester? Do you think yourself the only man in King's Landing who is a good prospect? Oh, Ser Wex has to beat off most of them with a stick. The hazards of being a Princess, I suppose. Father is content to let me remain unmarried, despite whatever I may desire." 

Tom sat back and held Alerie's hand in his, "Oh I must disagree, my lord. There are no roses as bright and pleasant as Alerie Tyrell. Were you not injured, one might be tempted to demand satisfaction," he smiled to let Alester know he was joking. 

"Father certainly did speak of this happening, Tom." Alerie giggled, joining in with Tom, as she shook her head, looking across to Alester once more.
"I imagine whatever the case, what my father proposed is open to you. I mean, if the Princess did open her heart up...not many would blame you, Alester! It is up to you, my friend. But I'm sure, Baela, some day a man will come and sweep you off your feet. He may not have a dragon to help, but he'll certainly be someone special indeed." Alerie said, aware she got on with Baela and the others well, letting either of them reply.

"Well, Ser Tommen, nobody would blame you for doing that. After all if you win all you beat is a cripple, and if you are defeated, you bring the shame of being defeated by a cripple. Not a lot of honor to gain, there." He shrugged, as he decided to answer Tom first. His eyes then went to Baella. "Well, I can't beat people in looks. So whoever gets married to me will look absolutely stunning in contrast, princess. And now that you say it, it is small wonder you have so many at your doorstep, what with the free lessons of Ser Wex." He responded Baela, leaving Jaeherys for last as he put a total serious expression.

"It is an utter disgrace that the prince fell into the clutches of that vile woman. She seduces men of all kinds, and leads them astray. She has worked with so many heirs and idle noblemen before I cannot even fathom. Alas, the prince is in the evil clutches of the one Called Life, first name Good." He finished. [i]How is that for a jape, Jaeherys?[/i]

Tom smirked, "Indeed, luckily enough you can avoid the shame of being beaten by someone a few years younger than you for a few more weeks yet." 

Baela laughed, "Oh, what can I say. It seems men get all kind of notions into your heads when women and honor are at stake. Though, I suppose even honor yields to the former. Although, truth be told, I always thought it such a shame that Cat's brother or Alys' brother were unmarried." Said young knights being absent at the moment, due to needs of state. 

Jaeherys smiled, raising his glass, "And what a fine mistress she is. One, I take to with vigor and a complete lack of shame." Julianna giggled at the back and forth and drank some lemonsweet. 

Alerie chuckled, as she nodded to Baela, knowing what Ellion was like.
"Ah, Ellion is rather....fickle. Seems to never be sure what he wants. But I'm sure someday someone will tame him, or he'll find something he wants more than anything. Merebelle seemed rather infatuated with him, and him with her, but I cannot see it last. He needs a fire. Or, just a duty really." She mused, as she joined in with drinking the same as Julianna, giggling a little at Jahaerys being...well, himself, as she turned back to Baela.

"He is what he is, I suppose.." She added, not really having to say too much about her brother.

"I wonder if he would like to trade places with me. I would surely love an easy life without obligations." Alester mused as he shook his head. As much as thorny Alerie was, Ellion's attitude rubbed him wrong the most. He eyed Tommen Lannister as he shrugged. "There is little shame in accepting defeat to one's better, Ser Tommen. My teacher told that much to me. Granted he wasn't Jaime Lannister." He conceded. "But, given the fact that you probably will keep me egging the whole time I will spend in King's Landing, and given the fact we might become linked to the Tyrells, I shall not allow you to go empty handed." He paused  as he stood up and grabbed an apple with his hand. "Plus Prince Jaeherys introduced me as man of action. I would hate to leave him as liar."

"May I be so kind of perusing a sword? I shall show you a little party trick I use to delight people." He paused, making a mental check. [i] If it is just this much, it is probably fine[/i]

Baela said, "Ellion, settling down? That'll be the day. It'll take a very rare girl to make him sit still. Mayhaps we ought to bring back polygamy for his case," Baela and Julianna traded humorous glances at that. Tom stood and handed his own sword around his belt to Alester, "Go ahead, my lord. I'm rather curious what you would show us." 

Alester nodded, as he gripped the blade, and spun it a few times. "Tis a fine steel." He said, praising it. And then, making sure nobody was in his vicinity and allowing him some breathing room, hoisted the apple in midair. Two swift, precise cuts diced the apple in nearly perfect quarters as the apple dropped to the ground, his style being reminiscent to that of the Reach, and similar to Ellion Tyrell in that regard.

"My sister loves this trick. I always perform it so she can be reassured before a fight. Now considering this is just a trick, and I am wounded at that... if you cannot do this much, Ser Tommen, I do not think any of us will gain insight by crossing our blades due the difference of skill." He paused, touching his shoulder. It was sore, but it had not reopened yet. He handed the sword back graciously as he sat again.

Baela and Julianna clapped their hands appreciatively and Jaeherys nodded in admiration, "Fine swordsmanship, my lord." 

Tommen stood and retrieved his sword, "Indeed a fine trick. But you need not doubt my sword arm." He held the blade in a classic one-handed Westermen stance, similar to his uncle. Jaeherys threw an apple up in the air and Tommen slashed his sword in quick, clean cuts. Four more apple pieces joined the others on the ground and the Young Lion grabbed another to bite into it, "It seems we are evenly matched in this regard, my lord. We need not fear an uneven contest at any rate." 

He threw the apple up, tossed out his dagger and hit it right where he took a bite, slamming it into a nearby pillar, "Or mayhaps we do." He sat back down with a friendly smile, taking his knife and cutting more fruit, offering a slice to Alerie. 

Alerie giggled, shaking her head with a little blushing laughter, as she took the apple slice and bit from it, clearly impressed by both.
"Crikey, you two having fun with swords?" Alerie giggled, as she gently hugged Tom, nodding at him and hoping he'd take it on the chin.
"A fine display, if I must say so. I imagine it comes with much practice. A needle's precision with the force of a blade." Alerie added to both of them, her voice still as smooth as ever, kindly and not aggressive or rising up, a calming one almost that bridged.

Alester had not said a thing, nor he had moved. Instead he had paid attention to each subtle shift and move of the Young Lion, as he watched the boy replicate his feat. Of course he was really smug about it, but it was to be expected. Unlike the lad, Alester had suffered defeat before, to the hands of Ellion Tyrell no less, so he took no heed of the further one-upping of his swordmanship, merely noting that,  even if he lost to a 15 year old, he would grow and learn with the battle. One step at a time to keep honing his abilities. "Struggling against uneven odds is how one grows and matures, ser Tommen. It shall be an honor to cross swords with you, and learn something in the process." He furthered.  He fumbled around for a fresh drink, after the display. "I am sure you and ser Ellion will get along just fine." He added as an afterthought.

Tom raised his glass, "I hope so. I intend to marry his sister after all. But I have no cause to think otherwise. I look forward to our bout as well," Tom snuggled up to Alerie and stroked her hand, "With my lady's favor, there is no chance the gods will see me defeated." 

Jaeherys laughed, "Enough talk of fighting for the moment I think. There will be enough of that for the forseable future. The food is getting cold, and I would hate to waste it. By your leave good sister?" Julianna nodded with a smile and they began to dig into the food, the conversation becoming more lighthearted and of no consequence as they traded stories and gossip while eating the best the city had to offer. 

Alerie nodded to Jaeherys, agreeing to that as she sipped a little honeywine down.
"We shall have to see, my Lion." Alerie added, gently kissing him on the cheek, allowing Tom to keep her close, as she finished her cup, before returning to the food.

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The Tower Cell

Willas had made his decision, to head down to the tower, after being told that Owen was ready to be seen to by the Tyrell Lord. And he had suffered a little, apparently. Not like he was in the Black Cells, but a little to be convinced of his situation. Heading up the steps, he saw the pair of Gold Cloaks standing by the door, his own Tyrell retinue of two men following closely by, as the two Gold Cloaks knew they were expecting Willas.and slowly made their way up to him.

"You're here to see the prisoner?" One asked, as Willas nodded.
"Alright. You have your time. Your guards go back down the stairs from here. We will be outside." They sternly reminded, as Willas heard them open the strong door, the noise of Owen inside held by the chains he was bound by gently audible. They stood aside, as Willas walked in, seeing the man that was Ser Owen Gardener lie on the straw bed he had been left, looking at the man walking in. The guards kept the door open, and Willas took him in again.

"I suppose I don't have to make an introduction. Save your insults, if you had any. I can probably play what you want to say in your head right now in mine." Willas said with a stern conviction, as he walked in further into the cell, taking him in. He was weak, but his looks weren't fading quick.

"We're both Reachmen, and you know what you want to say. I imagine what I'll say won't be what you're expecting. I know that you won't spill anything about your brother because like any good man, you care for your family." Willas said, awaiting his response as he leaned against the wall.
"Tell me that's true. That it's one reason you have." 

Owen, dressed in a plain shift, sat up on his straw bed and regarded Willas evenly, "I expected this meeting for some time. Their graces have already visited, and so have the King's sisters. A formidable lot to be sure. But they have heard little and less from me." 

"You're right. I won't betray my brother. As such, my lord, unless you wish to discuss the latest fashion trends or mummer plays, I don't know if there is much for us to discuss. You may be Master of Coin, an educated man, Lord Tyrell, but I sincerely doubt that you'll be able to get anything out of me when the Stark sisters haven't yet. But if you wish to ask questions, ask away. I shall not answer as necessary." 

"No, you don't need to. And I heard as much. They seem to be very interested in someone like yourself then. Makes you a very good liar...or a very good threat." Willas mused, as he walked to another spot, leaning against the wall.
"Either way, you respect him, clearly. That's good. I do with mine. Even with some of the things we disagree on, we always have to, for the good of the family. It's a common trait of anyone who wants to do the thing that they believe in the most. Family, honour, bravery. The moment one pillar falls, the rest follow. The moment you let go of one, the rest will fuck you up, piece by piece." Willas added with a biting curse, as he watched Owen, looking for something to give away, as he shrugged.

"But, I digress. Why talk about things we both know too much of...well, apart from one thing. I've got something for you." Willas said, as he headed to the door, one of the guards leaving a small jug with one of the Gold Cloaks, as well as a couple of goblets. Taking them with him as he went back in again, he put one aside by Owen's side, and poured, pouring his own as he gave a good sip.

"You don't have to drink it right now, because you won't spill your tongue even if I forced you to drink it. We're not animals with wine, Seven Hells, there's a circle in hell for people who don't appreciate good wine and drink too quick, as my friend Tyrion would say. And if there was poison in it, you'd either think me a bufoon, a moron or suicidal. But enjoy it. It's not cheap crap, either." He added, sipping down a bit more himself, knowing Owen would see that clear. If this was a bribe, that it was. Willas didn't care either way. It wasn't to him. It was a little generosity, if he was in the same place, he'd want wine.

"Anyway, whatever you know, it doesn't interest me. If it did, I wouldn't need to even be here, because I'd get whatever use is needed. They'd torture you blind, literally, but I think better than that. What I am interested in, is something else." Willas said, looking blank, before back at him again.
"You killed a bunch of civilians in your attack, I heard. People of the Reach you're trying to rally." Willas simply asked, neutral in his question, awaiting a response, if any.

Owen took the goblet and drank a sip, savoring it, "Arbor red. Good year. I thank you. I suspect your royal overseers wish to coax me with gifts to come but I am in the early stages yet, and the fare has been lacking. I wouldn't expect you of any such action as poisoning Willas. It is the weapon of cravens or women, and you are an honorable man, by all accounts." 

The Gardener put down the cup and his eyes seemed to drop to the floor before he spoke with Willas, "Those deaths were unfortunate. But they were not my aim. And sad though it is, such casaulties are unavoidable when we nobles play our games. How many smallfolk died when your house cut off supplies to King's Landing in the War of Ten Graces? Smallfolk die, I do not seek their deaths, but victory comes at a cost." 

Owen drank another sip of wine, "Give my compliments to Lord Redwyne." 

Willas listened, nodding as he smirked.
"I shall when I see him next. I imagine if I was in your positon right now, I'd expect someone to do the same for me, so don't call it anything. Not sure how far I'd get with that. A naiive thing, perhaps. But it is what it is." He added, his observations close, and taking it in throughout.
"Same as smallfolk, really. It's nobody's choice. Not unless you really wanted to see the world burn. You know that much." Willas replied, looking back straight at Owen.
"Costs you're willing to bear, it seems though. A cause you believe in." Willas was open, very much so. It could have taken almost any interpretation to it.

Owen put the goblet down and said, "We don't want the Reach to burn. We see the troubles afflicting it. And we want better for our people. To have the true blood of the Green Hand sitting on the seat of Highgarden once more. And for that, I would give my own life to see a Lord Gardener sitting on our ancestor's seat." 

"Victory at any cost, Willas. All revolutions must be conducted as such. For great gains cannot be won without great sacrifice. I expect your house will do the same, as they have done. How else do you think they came to power in the first place? Who was it who convinced King Mern to ride out to battle with all his heirs while they sat behind at home? Who shared his blood and used that to rise to power? We seek to right that wrong." 

Willas nodded, taking it in. It was a nicely put way of saying it. And it had some truth. Strangely, he could see that, but he just didn't share that point of view. Neither would many. The mere fact that they were riding out in the first place perhaps reminded them that they were the idiots would would even dare fight three enormous dragons, let alone win. Owen was driven by his convictions, he could see that much right there.

"I see. I mean, there's plenty more than just that. Perhaps you didn't deserve that seat if you were foolish enough to fight dragons, or would have just been bored of watching keep after keep burn, vassal after vassal turn, so you took the advice of glory anyway." Willas said, with a certain charm in his voice, as he shook his head.

"That happened three hundred years ago. In that time, the Targaryen dynasty has gone from boom, to bust, to boom. The world nearly was destroyed as we know it by a threat far more terrifying than a revolutionary, because the dead and the living were all that mattered for a moment of our time. If you don't think I don't know what House Tyrell did, I would be a ignorant fool. But then again, all of the families of the Seven Kingdoms seemed to trick or break their way into power, unless you're the Starks or Arryns, of course. And we seemed to do well." Willas added, watching him for a response. 

Owen smirked sourly, "Yes, power is gained somehow. Diplomacy, trickery, or war. It is the way of things. Every great house has climbed the ladder and played the game. The Tyrells played it well. But now we're playing once more. From the ashes, new growth is strongest. And there will be a Gardener in Highgarden once more. Even if it takes years." 

"Then it shall be a good game, Owen. They won't hurt you, or torture you further here, not to anything unacceptable. There's men in the Reach who'd enjoy nothing more than that till you are kept alive by a string. Perhaps the same to me. But alas, let's not talk about horrible things. You have wine there and it's going unused." Willas replied, nodding.
"It was good talking to you, Owen Gardener. You're a rather interesting character indeed. We'll have to see how your growth goes." With it, Willas took his stick, and left the room, leaving him with the wine on the floor, and the goblet behind. He walked out, as the guards looked on a little confused.

As he left, Owen smiled and drank some more wine. 

"He's got wine, so he'll sleep well tonight. I know you're not allowed, so thanks." Willas said, as one of the guards nodded.
"Noted." The reply was simple, as Willas headed down the staircase quietly, and away from the Tower Cell. He had his answers for what he needed, of what kind of person he was dealing with. The kind that would help him better set up his plans, and he knew it would not be alone if he wanted to help stamp out the menace in his own Kingdom.