Tenderness and Innocence (End)

"Very well. I had once wholeheartedly believed that, thanks to my father's sincerity, the friendship between Lannister and Tyrell was unshakably firm. But now, it seems... House Tyrell does not cherish the bond between our two houses, known throughout the Seven Kingdoms."

To Gryn, Cersei appeared to be sitting there and making an unreasonable fuss. Yet... her words made a flicker of panic cross Lord Mace's face, despite his effort to maintain a dignified expression.

Lady Olenna's wheezing laughter rang out again. "Yes, I too once firmly believed that the friendship between Tyrell and Lannister could never be shaken. It was only after seeing the incomparably noble Queen Regent that this old woman realized we had been indulging in wishful thinking."

Lord Mace's voice slowly followed, as though he were sighing with emotion. "Since the Lioness believes the realm no longer needs the roses' continued contributions, then... I support Lady Olenna's choice. I truly do miss the roses blooming across the southern fields."

As he spoke, he stroked the pointed beard on his chin. Sooner or later, he would let those arrogant lions have a proper taste of his art of war.

Cersei's cold gaze swept over the Tyrell mother and son, who dared threaten the Lioness. At that moment... Gryn spoke. "I once taught King Tommen swordsmanship. Not only is he agile, he also possesses wisdom favored by Huiquan. More importantly... he has compassion for the weak."

Jaime, who had been standing like a statue all this time, suddenly spoke. His voice carried a hint of teasing. "Lord Gryn, everything before that was fine... but as I understand it, some people occasionally believe that a king should not feel compassion for the weak, because it is a sign of cowardice."

"Mercy is not the same as sympathy."

After glancing