"I remember you, Leo Tyrell."
Gryn pondered briefly. "You are Samwell's friend. I was deeply impressed by your elegant writing."
Steadily holding the golden wine jug, Leo dipped into a slight bow. "Samwell and I are friends. It was merely a small matter done in passing, but to be fortunate enough to receive Your Majesty's praise is my greatest honor."
Gryn smiled and nodded, while Mace, the Hand of the King, gave Leo a grave once-over and stroked his beard. "I heard Ser Morin recommended you to the Citadel. So what brings you here?"
Under the Lord of Highgarden's gaze, Leo appeared somewhat nervous. "My lord, though the Citadel's candlelight is bright, it cannot pierce the mist within one's heart... Um, I am traveling."
He scratched the back of his head and added, "For some time now, I have been unable to study with peace of mind, so I applied to the Citadel to travel for a while and broaden my horizons."
Mace nodded slightly. "Yes, broadening your horizons is a good thing."
"Yes." Leo bowed respectfully.
Mace lifted his cup and drank, while Leo calmly took the initiative to explain why he had appeared here.
He had arrived near the Kingswood last night. Seeing the camp flying rose banners, he had simply stayed.
"Then I'll have to trouble you."
Only after hearing the king's permission did Leo fill Gryn's cup, fulfilling his duties as cupbearer.
After that, whenever Gryn occasionally asked about matters concerning the Citadel, Leo Tyrell answered candidly.
His voice was soft and pleasant, and he was also an excellent speaker, making those who listened feel at ease.
And his appearance was equally outstanding.
Gryn felt that Leo Tyrell would soon fill the "vacancy" in King's Landing left behind by the universally beloved Jaime.
"Oh—people are