Chapter 706: Sea Monster

"Your Grace, these are some of the significant events that have recently transpired in the Eastern Continent."

In King's Landing, within the Red Keep's Small Council chamber.

While the endless icy plains are rife with turmoil, the world of men remains largely at peace, though some regions are embroiled in conflict.

Master of Whisperers, Varys, presents a report to the council, detailing the latest intelligence his little birds have gathered from foreign lands.

"The trade city-states are not as tranquil as they seem."

"Merchant ships from Lys and fishing vessels from Ib appear to have been attacked by a sea monster."

"Debris from some of these wrecked ships, along with their cargo, has recently washed ashore in Braavos. The bite marks on them are horrifying, and no survivors have been found."

Varys, the bald eunuch, speaks in his usual soft and delicate tone. Tyrion Lannister, serving as the King's personal advisor, strokes his beard and jests, "I've heard about this. It seems to be causing quite a stir among the sailors."

Braavos, situated on the western coast of Essos and closest to the North, has recently seen many shipwrecks floating ashore.

Rumors suggest that several fleets from Ib, Lys, and Braavos have vanished at sea. People speculate that the debris belongs to these missing fleets.

No one can fathom what they might have encountered, but the wreckage reportedly bears terrifying scars, as if torn apart by some monstrous creature.

Hence, sailors crossing the Narrow Sea are abuzz with tales of sea monster attacks. While many are superstitious, Tyrion, not one to easily believe in myths, remains skeptical about the existence of such creatures.

"I think it might not be as mysterious as they claim. Perhaps it's the work of a storm."

The King's advisor shrugs as he speaks.

"Perhaps, Lord Tyrion."

"But that doesn't explain those terrifying bite marks."

"Regardless, we have nothing to fear. Even if there were such a creature, we have His Grace to rely on."

Varys doesn't engage in a debate with Tyrion. He discreetly glances at Viserys, seated at the head of the table, noting the King's expressionless face, and continues.

"Norvos has recently experienced a mysterious forest fire. Despite significant efforts, it remains unquenched."

"The bearded priests believe it's the work of followers of the Red God, accusing them of using sorcery to ignite the flames."

"As a result, they're expelling and executing all followers of the Red God within their territory, declaring them unwelcome."

Forest fires in the mountains of Norvos are common due to the dry air and mountainous terrain. Such incidents occur almost annually.

Myles Toyne, the newly appointed Hand of the King and former leader of the Golden Company, exchanges a glance with the Minister of Agriculture, Elyster Florent.

Myles, a seasoned warrior but politically naive, had done his homework before arriving in King's Landing. He knew he needed allies in the treacherous political landscape of the capital.

Elyster Florent, representing the old noble houses, extended an olive branch to the new Hand. The Florents, backed by the powerful Tyrells and other loyalists from Robert Baratheon's era, sought a place in the new regime.

Recognizing the political advantage, Myles accepted the offer, ensuring he wasn't entirely isolated in King's Landing.

Elyster, sensing Myles' thoughts, speaks up, "Your Grace, and esteemed council members, forest fires in Norvos are a yearly occurrence, varying in intensity."

"This year's fire, although vast, doesn't pose a significant threat to Norvos."

"The bearded priests' sudden animosity towards the Red God's followers must have an ulterior motive."

Myles nods in agreement, "Perhaps it's related to the prophecies of the old monk atop the Sinner's Steps. His predictions have often come true."

He then turns to Varys, "Lord Varys, we should keep a close eye on this matter."

Having previously roamed the city-states of Essos as the leader of the Golden Company, Myles is well-acquainted with the intricacies of each city. He knows of the Sinner's Steps in Norvos, leading to an ancient temple housing a legendary old monk said to foresee the future.

The council members murmur among themselves, discussing the implications of Myles' words.

Varys, ever the composed spymaster, acknowledges, "Understood, Lord Toyne."

"I'll have my little birds monitor the situation in Norvos closely."