Standing before the table covered with maps, the two of them discussed matters until late into the night.
Before leaving, Count Mathis suddenly said, "Your Majesty, forgive my presumption, but would you allow me to resign as Master of Ships?"
He stopped a short distance from the door, while Gryn stood with his back to him before the fireplace.
Crackle, crackle. Sparks flew from the hearth.
After a silence, Gryn's voice slowly rang out. "I will trust in the loyalty of the Reachmen."
"May the Seven Gods bless Your Majesty." Count Mathis nodded toward the King's back, then turned and departed.
The next day.
Before heading to the Blackwater Rush docks to personally welcome Daenerys, Gryn had the Master of Household issue two royal decrees.
One appointed Willas Tyrell as Master of Coin.
The other stripped Count Mathis Rowan of his title as Master of Ships. He was then ordered to travel to the Wall of the End and inspect it in the King's name.
Laughter from Hand Mace rang brightly through the garden of Tyrell Mansion.
He drained the wine in his cup in one gulp. "Willas, my son, I must congratulate you."
"Thank you, Father."
Seeing Willas's brow perpetually furrowed, Hand Mace stroked his beard and narrowed his eyes. "Are you still thinking about Count Rowan's unannounced departure?"
Seeing that his father made no attempt to conceal his displeasure, Willas Tyrell smiled faintly. "It was not exactly an unannounced departure. At least Count Mathis sent a servant to inform us."
"Willas, an arrogant vassal is no good vassal." Hand Mace snorted. The thought of Mathis resigning from his Small Council post without his permission filled him with rage.
Willas shrugged. "Perhaps the King intended to use Count Mathis's matter to remind the Tyrells..."
A puzzled expression appeared