Defenders

After a moment of silence, Count Mathis nodded slightly. "I will obey your command. But..."

He gazed at her for a while before continuing, "I do not trust those Sparrows. If I sense danger outside, please allow me to bring soldiers to get you out.

Lady Margaery, Queen Regent Cersei's 'revelry' will not last much longer. The Seven Kingdoms cannot tolerate a woman like that continuing to control the Iron Throne."

"Yes, I know. I simply did not expect her hostility toward me to run so deep. I had originally planned to wait until Tommen came of age."

With a soft sigh, Margaery looked at him. "Count Mathis, for the peace of the Seven Kingdoms, House Tyrell and the Reach have already taken a step back (Chapter 405). We cannot retreat again."

"I understand my responsibilities and duties to the Reach very well. I will not put myself in danger lightly."

Margaery met his gaze for a moment, then raised her right hand and gently placed her palm upon Count Mathis's thick wrist.

"Trapped within the Great Sept, I am no different from a blind woman. I can promise you now: whether it is my safety or the situation in King's Landing, when the time comes... I will leave it all to your judgment. I will instruct every rose in King's Landing to obey your orders."

After a pause, Count Mathis nodded slightly. "Thank you for your trust. I will become your shield. Please do what you wish without worry."

Margaery's doe-like eyes shimmered with tears, filled with trust in Count Mathis. She stepped back lightly, then gave a small curtsy. "Then I leave it to you, my honored count."

"Please permit me to take my leave first."

As Margaery smiled softly, Count Mathis placed a hand over his chest,