Chapter 584: A Special Prisoner

For a long time following, the topic that dominated many conversations was the disappearance of the Riverlands administrative district. The once-noble families of the Riverlands, overnight, transformed into the 'King's Personal Army', now nobles of the royal domain.

People looked to Varys, hoping to see anger, fear, or hysteria etched on the face of the former heir to Highgarden. They hoped he would voice out in opposition, cause a scene, and ultimately be executed. But much to their disappointment, Varys remained silent throughout. He simply focused on his duties as a tax officer under the Master of Coin.

Despite the handicap of his legs, Varys tirelessly traveled the city, ensuring proper tax collection and addressing any discrepancies. His education and knowledge proved invaluable, revealing him as more than just a "bookish" leader. While his past mistakes might haunt him, Varys seemed to have awakened from the battles of his past. He diligently worked from the ground up, step by step, without arrogance.

However, this quiet resilience of Varys disappointed those who yearned for drama. Yet, the attention of the realm was quickly diverted to an event of greater importance.

The highly-anticipated public trial was about to begin. A massive temporary court was being constructed in the plaza below the Red Keep.

"Hurry up! Move faster!" "Lift that beam!"

Under the clear sky and scorching sun, officials supervised as sweating laborers worked to complete the tent-like structure. This makeshift court was nearing completion. Located beside the sea, the rhythmic sound of waves crashing and the salty breeze added to the atmosphere. Once complete, it would seat thousands, with many more able to view the proceedings from nearby trees or rooftops.

The Unsullied would secure the area, ensuring safety. With the realm recently emerging from chaos, many still harbored ill will towards the Iron Throne. Everything was still fragile.

Considering the vast number of cases related to the War of the Usurpers, the public trial would span over half a month, providing ample gossip for the denizens of King's Landing.

However, before this grand trial, another case required resolution. While ordinarily it might have been overlooked, its timing and nature placed it under the spotlight.

With King Viserys absent from King's Landing, having left for a vacation in Highgarden post-coronation, the matters of justice had been handed over to Oberyn, the Minister of Justice.

The Red Keep's throne room was silent except for the crackling of torches. Nobles from all Seven Kingdoms, along with the accused and Oberyn, all waited in palpable tension. As the doors of the throne room were thrust open, the atmosphere grew even more electric.

Six Unsullied, clad in black-scaled armor with spiky helmets, escorted a prisoner into the hall.

"He's here."

All, including the judge on the Iron Throne, Oberyn, tensed. Oberyn unintentionally grazed one of the throne's sharp edges, drawing blood.

The prisoner, with unruly hair and a tangled beard, was brought to the forefront.

"Kneel!"

An Unsullied ordered in the Common Tongue. The prisoner resisted. Ready to force compliance, an Unsullied reached for his dagger, prepared to sever the prisoner's tendons. But Oberyn quickly raised his hand, signaling them to stop.

"Hold!" "Wait."

Oberyn nodded to the Unsullied, then softly sighed. "Thank you for your service. Leave us."