The King's Witch

"Black hair, tall—you really did see him."

"Unfortunately, woman, that man was not me!"

The gaunt Stannis stood before the high seat, his deep blue eyes fixed fiercely on the red priestess below the steps.

Melisandre had lost her usual mystery and strength. Her red lips moved as she said hoarsely, "I did not see that man's face..."

Creak!

The teeth-grinding sound that made one's heart tremble rang out from Stannis again. "But you interpreted that man as... me!"

He ground his teeth. "Aerys's daughter brought three dragons. She was the one who awakened the dragons."

Staring at Melisandre, a sharp glint flashed in his eyes. "So, are you planning to leave, woman?"

Melisandre revealed a vulnerability and reluctance she had never shown before. "Your Majesty Stannis, assisting the prince foretold by prophecy and driving back the Long Night is my mission. It is the will of the Lord of Light."

"Ridiculous!"

With a cold laugh, Stannis slowly descended the steps. "That man and that woman have already declared themselves king and queen of the Seven Kingdoms."

He forced the words out through clenched teeth. "According to the laws of succession of the Seven Kingdoms, the actions of that man and woman are legitimate."

Standing before her, Stannis watched as Melisandre reached out with her tender, burning hand and gently caressed his skin-and-bones cheek. "Your Majesty, it has always been my dream to place you upon the Iron Throne. My resolve has never wavered—I swear it by the Lord of Light."

Gazing at her, Stannis said coldly, "My kingdom has not even been established, yet it is already about to collapse."

Even his faith had wavered...

Melisandre seized his face with both hands and stared into his eyes, a trace of urgency in her voice. "No, your great cause is