Creak—
The heavy oak door hinges gave a long groan as Tyrion and Melisandre slowly entered the room.
They quickly spotted Gryn sitting alone beside the fireplace. The dancing flames cast mottled shadows, coating his blue velvet robe in a warm orange glow.
Just as Tyrion was about to bow, Gryn, who had been looking down in thought, spoke first. "Tyrion."
Tyrion's movement involuntarily halted.
But he quickly recovered and respectfully dropped to one knee. "Your Grace."
Gryn's gaze swept over Melisandre, who had bowed as well, and he said calmly, "You have both had a difficult journey. Rise."
Tyrion had only just risen when a smile appeared on Gryn's face. He raised his right hand, signaling for Tyrion to turn around.
Though puzzled by Gryn's strange request, Tyrion obediently complied, slowly turning in place.
"Very good. No missing arms or legs."
At Gryn's teasing words, the wretched Dwarf actually felt a deep surge of emotion. He repeatedly warned himself not to be fooled.
The seemingly harmless and gentle young man before him had toyed with the entire Seven Kingdoms!
Tyrion forced an expression of overwhelming gratitude, though his eyes cautiously observed Gryn from the corners. "Your Grace, thank you for your concern. I can never repay you."
A hint of amusement rippled through Gryn's eyes, as though he could see into Tyrion's heart. Then he turned his gaze toward the red priestess beside him. "Lady Melisandre."
Brown eyes met red ones, and Melisandre dipped slightly. "Congratulations. May you receive the blessings of the Lord of Light."
Gryn smiled. "Your voice is as captivating as ever."
Then he added, "Forgive me, but allow me to catch up with an old friend first. You may take a bath or have something to eat. Ser Brienne will arrange for a maidservant to