As Ser Meryn Trant, the Kingsguard on watch that night, lifted his foot to leave, he shot a meaningful look at the dazed Ser Balon beside him.
Coming to his senses, Ser Balon hurried after Ser Meryn.
Once they stopped, Ser Balon glanced at the king's indistinct figure in the distance and said worriedly, "Ser, if we guard His Grace from here, isn't the distance...?"
As he spoke, he opened his mouth, then shut it under Ser Meryn's look as though he were staring at an idiot.
"Young Kingsguard, do not spoil the king's enjoyment. You must learn that as soon as possible."
There was a warning in Ser Meryn's tone. Ser Balon scratched his head, yet still said, "But... the king's safety is the most important thing."
"That was before."
Seeing Ser Balon's puzzled expression, Ser Meryn continued, "The Kingsguard once served as the strongest shield protecting the king, but His Grace Gryn..."
Hesitation flickered across his face before he added, "...now, the king's strongest shield is the Crabb Clan Soldiers who guard him day and night."
Ser Balon froze for a moment, looking somewhat dejected. "Have the Kingsguard lost His Grace's trust?"
Ser Meryn looked at the fool before him again. "If the king did not trust us, why would the Kingsguard be here?"
After a stretch of silence, Ser Balon suddenly seemed to understand. He unconsciously lowered his voice. "Have our duties changed?"
Only then did Ser Meryn nod slightly. Before Balon could ask another question, he said, "His Grace Gryn rules vast lands. What he needs more are commanders who can lead armies into battle for him at any time.
"The Kingsguard swear lifelong service to the king, and the Kingsguard represent the finest knights of the Seven Kingdoms. Do you understand now, Ser Balon Swen?"