Gryn's Strategy 2

The Iron Islands' longships were as far behind Braavos's oceangoing vessels as children were behind adults.

Asha had recently been driven almost into a corner like a homeless cur; this was absolutely an unexpected delight!

Although King Gryn seemed somewhat "ruthless," she had to admit that he—kept his word.

Asha's breathing grew heavier.

Most of her loyal men had died in battle on Dragonstone (Chapter 547), and she had never been so weak.

She reminded herself that she had to remain calm, but her body would not obey her; even her lips began to tremble slightly.

Ignoring the flush creeping across Asha's cheeks, the perceptive Gryn added, "Actually, I would be very willing to grant titles to both you Greyjoy siblings."

As his words fell, silence descended at once.

Wariness flashed in Asha's eyes, but... a profound sense of helplessness rose within her. What could she do?

And the sea monster's daughter had never feared death!

"You mean to split the Iron Islands!"

"Split?"

Gryn appeared slightly surprised. After pondering for a moment, he murmured, "Divide the Iron Islands into two parts and grant one to each of you siblings?"

Asha froze, then asked in confusion, "Isn't that what you mean?"

Gryn threw back his head and laughed, then looked at Asha. "By your method, it would indeed be easy to plunge the Iron Islands into civil strife, but there is no need for that."

He shifted his steps. "To me, weakening the Iron Islands means weakening the strength of the kingdom. Do not forget, I am your king."

"Under the laws of the Andals and the traditions of the First Men, a son's inheritance rights take precedence over a daughter's. I will not permit you to contend for the Iron Islands. That is the fairness expected of a king,