Oldtown's Bankruptcy

Riverland City, the bridge.

"Your Grace."

Forrester Frey, Earl of Riverland City, came forward to greet them. His handsome, middle-aged face was alight with excitement.

A sharp-featured noblewoman with prominent cheekbones followed at his side and gave a slight curtsy.

"Lord Forrester, I'll be counting on you to look after the tens of thousands of troops behind me."

Rhaegar strode onto the bridge, where the river ran swift beneath it, and accepted Earl Frey's hospitality with a smile.

House Frey was relatively young. It had grown wealthy only after gaining control of traffic along the Green Fork.

Though its members had their flaws and their conduct left much to be desired,

they had been loyal servants of the Targaryen family ever since the reign of the Centuries King.

"Rest assured, I've already ordered the servants to slaughter pigs and sheep."

Forrester was quite generous, and promised, "In response to your call, I'll personally lead six hundred cavalry and eight hundred archers north with you."

That was about as many troops as he could provide while ensuring House Frey remained safe.

Rhaegar smiled faintly, but didn't agree at once. "There's no need to rush. Many people haven't arrived yet."

Forrester looked puzzled, then noticed the king's vassal behind him: Duke Milit of Riverrun.

There were also soldiers from Crow's Nest, Rosby, and other houses in the Crownlands.

As he glanced around, his eyes fell on a massive yellow-gold dragon slowly descending at the far end of the bridge.

"Your Grace, the Queen!"

Forrester's eyes lit up. He called out his greeting from a distance.

Rhaenyra wore a black Dragonriding Suit, her silver hair tied back. She stepped onto the bridge with an athletic stride.

Forrester turned into a veritable lapdog. He ordered his men to bring wine and fruit, then fussed