Arya had met Robert and Joffrey, but the man before her carried himself in an entirely different way. It was neither the arrogance of a king nor the ostentation of an ordinary noble, but an air of authority, as though he had been born to rule everything.
Viserys's gaze also settled on Arya's face, studying her closely. Gray eyes, a long face, a stubborn chin... the resemblance was unmistakable. She looked like Lyanna, and like Eddard too.
Kinvara's prophecy had been right. This was indeed House Stark's little she-wolf.
"Pay your respects to His Grace, my lady," Salladhor reminded her quietly from beside her.
As he spoke, he launched into one of his exaggerated bows. "Your esteemed Grace, your most loyal servant, Salladhor Saan, presents you with this special gift. We intercepted a suspicious ship in the Narrow Sea and discovered this girl. She was traveling alone, carrying quite a few gold dragons, and the ship had come from King's Landing."
"You did well, Salladhor. Go to the quartermaster for your reward. You and your men will all receive what you deserve."
Delighted, Salladhor bowed repeatedly. "It is my honor to serve Your Grace. I shall trouble you no further."
With that, he withdrew from the hall. He knew that what followed might not be meant for his ears.
After Salladhor left, only Viserys and Arya, standing in the center, remained in the hall.
"What is your name?" Viserys asked calmly.
Arya pressed her lips together. She remembered her father's teachings: the Starks had to be brave and honest. But she also remembered the lessons of King's Landing. Sometimes, telling the truth could get you killed.
"My name is Nymeria." She used the name of someone she admired.
The corner of Viserys's mouth lifted. "A fine name, but you are