But just as Margaery was lost in thought, three deep horn blasts sounded from the outermost gate in the distance. Those were the horns announcing visitors to Highgarden, but Viserys and his party were already inside the city. Why were the horns at the outer gate only sounding now?
Beside her, Willas rose with the aid of his cane and said, "Those horns might mean the vassals staying at the estates outside the city have returned to Highgarden."
"Come, we should head down too."
As Olenna spoke, she turned and walked straight toward the door. "Now that our king is here, there's no use dwelling on it any longer. We can't keep him waiting too long, and we certainly can't let those vassals meet the king before we do."
Willas nodded to Margaery, then followed Olenna out. Margaery took one last look out the window before drawing her gaze away. She turned and hurried to Olenna's side, joining her family as they descended the stairs.
She suppressed the turmoil still churning in her heart, maintaining her composed, gracious smile as she steadily supported Olenna's arm. Step by step, she followed her down the tower, ready to go to the square and welcome Viserys, who had already entered the city.
The same flawless, gentle smile remained on her face, betraying nothing of the storm raging within. She merely raised a hand to support Olenna's arm lightly, her tone perfectly deferential. "His Majesty's procession is almost here, Grandmother. We should go down to welcome him."
Olenna gave another snort, then rested her hand on the back of her granddaughter's supporting hand, entirely unaware that its nails had already dug several pale marks into the palm.
She simply offered a few casual reminders. "Remember what you just said. Stand straight when the time