Ser Garlan gave a slight nod and recounted the Free Cities merchants' deceitful conduct, adding his own analysis and concerns without concealing anything.
Rustle.
As Daenerys pondered, Steward Surana gestured for the wine server who had been about to step forward to stand back. She picked up the golden wine pitcher and personally poured wine for the queen and the Master of Coin.
"Gryn once told me..."
Taking a small sip of Summer Wine, Queen Daenerys slowly spoke. "When immense profit lies before them, some merchants will inevitably test your limits. No matter what, that is the choice they will make."
Ser Garlan also took a sip of wine, then nodded and continued listening.
"Knights are born to ride bravely across the battlefield, while merchants spend their lives pursuing gold. These are all innate bloodlines bestowed by the Seven." Swirling the wine in her cup, Queen Daenerys smiled. "Garlan, it was only when I ruled Crackclaw Point and the Vale in Gryn's stead, and when I returned to the Iron Throne, that I truly began to understand my husband's maxims."
The queen spoke very much like the Gryn Ser Garlan remembered. His expression remained composed as he nodded once more.
Before coming to King's Landing, his grandmother had solemnly warned him—keep his mouth shut and use his ears more.
After a brief pause, Daenerys suddenly asked, "What do you intend to do, Ser?"
The slightly distracted Ser Garlan immediately straightened his back. "Your Grace, if you permit it, I intend to have a proper talk with them."
Queen Daenerys raised an eyebrow slightly. "Oh?"
Ser Garlan shrugged. "First, I'll see whether I can persuade them. If those people still cannot accept this goodwill... I will issue a stern warning, perhaps even expel some of the merchants from King's Landing."
Hearing