Ruler 5

"Long live Lord Hand!"

As Lord Hand Mace's tall, imposing figure approached, an impassioned cry suddenly ignited the crowd's enthusiasm.

"Long live! Long live!"

"Long live Lord Mace!"

"Roses! Roses! Roses!"

Wave after wave of cheers rose like a surging tide, resounding across the entire harbor.

The cheers grew increasingly deafening. Lord Hand Mace had no choice but to stop, smiling as he waved to the crowd once more. He then signaled to the knights at the front to lower their spears and display their spoils.

The people of King's Landing had always loved a spectacle and, without losing their manners, those nearest immediately swarmed forward and spat "Peh, peh" at the head.

Farther back, some cursed and spat while others waved their fists, venting their fury.

For a time, cheers and curses mingled together.

When Lord Hand Mace's party began moving again, Princess Arianne, who had been waiting there for some time, led the Red Keep officials and Reach nobles forward to greet them.

Beneath the gentle caress of the morning light, Arianne's olive skin seemed veiled in a thin layer of white gauze. She smiled pleasantly at Lord Hand Mace.

"Congratulations. You have made an outstanding contribution to the peace of the realm, my honored Lord Hand."

As she spoke, Princess Arianne opened her arms of her own accord, preparing to embrace him, much to Lord Hand Mace's slight surprise.

Arianne had performed well today, and Lord Hand Mace laughed heartily, unable to hide the pride on his face.

He spread his arms as well. "As the realm's Lord Hand, I will never tolerate anyone disrupting the peace of the realm!"

The intimate embrace between the Lord Hand and the Master of Laws immediately drew another burst of fervent cheers from those around them.

"Mace! Mace! Mace!"