A shadow.
Offer up a shadow?
Stannis Baratheon's face, as though carved from stone, betrayed no emotion, but his clenched fists revealed his inner struggle.
All his life, he had believed in law, in order, in swords and walls he could see and touch.
Deep down, he recoiled from and despised such intangible magic.
But.
He had no choice left.
That little madman Joffrey had issued an edict from King's Landing ordering his trial, treating him like a criminal to be humiliated at will.
His younger brother Renly, who knew nothing but eating carrots, had gathered an army at Storm's End, intending to depose Joffrey and steal the throne that rightfully belonged to him.
All of Westeros seemed to be laughing at him, the eldest son of House Baratheon.
He was nothing but a wretch with a hollow claim to succession.
He needed power.
A subtle power that would let him crush his enemies.
"My king."
Melisandre's voice rang out again, carrying a bewitching magic.
"What are you still hesitating over?"
"Your enemies will not hesitate."
"They are carving up your kingdom and laughing at your weakness."
Stannis slowly raised his head, his gloomy eyes fixed on the woman in red before him.
"Why should I trust you?"
"Because I can show you hope."
Melisandre walked to the fireplace. The flames stretched her shadow long, making it dance wildly across the floor.
"The Lord of Light is the one true god."
"He has seen your plight, and he is willing to grant you power."
"If only you are willing to show your devotion."
Stannis fell silent.
He thought of Robert, his own brother, who had won an entire kingdom with a warhammer.
What would Robert do if he were here?
*He would probably smash this woman's skull with his hammer,