The Blockade

[Lord Rhaegar Targaryen]

Ser Galahad of the Kingsguard steps aboard the Grapes of Wrath, his white cape billowing in the wind.

[The Stranger]

The Kingsguard is taken to the cabin of Lord Peyton Redwyne.

"Welcome to the Grapes of Wrath ser." the lord of the Arbor said, extending his hand in greeting.

[Lord Rhaegar Targaryen]

Galahad grasped the man's hand, "Thank you, Lord Redwyne. Tell me, where do we stand?"

[The Stranger]

"We have a one hundred and forty ships, to their twenty or so. We've got them cut off and surrounded, but it will be a long time before they feel any ill effects. We think they've got some pretty heavy stockpiles. But they must be worried. We caught Velaryon's family members trying to escape to the Free Cities. So that's something."

[Lord Rhaegar Targaryen]

"Have any attempts been made in infiltration or sabotage? We have had them under blockade for several moons now; To feed an army for that long would have sufficient damages on their granaries, save the thought that they were superbly well prepared for this," Galahad thought out loud.

"What did this Lord of Driftmark say regarding the parley? Perhaps we can persuade them to a single combat resolution," Galahad proposed.

[The Stranger]

"My orders were that anyone who submits is to be spared, but that Lord Velaryon must surrender for trial. He came to parlay already, although I can't imagine what he expected to hear. If you want to challenge him to single combat I won't stop you."

[Lord Rhaegar Targaryen]

"It would end things quicker, and spare many lives," thought Galahad. "So be it. If he refuses the offer, we will hold the blockade. They must be growing weary."

[The Stranger]

"No doubt," said Redwyne, doubtfully.

[Lord Rhaegar Targaryen]

"As I suspected, the Lord Velaryon has declined my offer, bent on causing as much death as possible before his demise. I may have granted him mercy, should he have accepted, though now, the only mercy he can hope to receive is from the Seven," Galahad informs the Lord Redwyne. "Only a tyrant would wish on such bloodshed."

[The Stranger]

"He was a traitor, and all his family are traitors, why would you expect anything different?" Lord Redwyne intoned.

[Lord Rhaegar Targaryen]

"Because, Lord Redwyne," Galahad said before pausing a moment. "I'd like to believe that even traitors have a sense for the preservation for their own people. I hoped he would offer his own life in exchange for his people's."

[The Stranger]

Redwyne laughed drolly. "There should be much less war if that were the case, but I'm afraid its not. What is your opinion as to the future course? I'm for maintaining the blockade. We will lose a number of men taking that Island. It's possible, but it will be bloody."

[Lord Rhaegar Targaryen]

"I propose we maintain the blockade for at least another fortnight. We shall gauge our options then, shall we?" Galahad asked, his thoughts already pondering on the matter of taking the island.

[The Stranger]

"At least a fortnight. I'd have no problem saying another 2 months. Maybe they'll get desperate and make a mistake."

[Lord Rhaegar Targaryen]

"Perhaps that will be best," Galahad agreed before thinking for a moment and continuing.

"I find I do not know the army I stand with very well. I cannot dream to doubt your naval expertise, Lord Redwyne, for it is known to many throughout the realm; though if this battle comes to land, who among your men is best to lead them, if not yourself? Are there any notable warriors among us? Excuse me for any offense given, though I find myself unaware," Galahad said, thoughtfully and honestly.