Gulltown meeting - Lady Stark

[The Smith]

"I agree. I have been thinking about that same matter." Beatrice replies. She does not drink from her glass anymore.

[Marie]

""Good."

The queen's gaze turned more seriious, though she smiled.

"Why did you run away from the betrothal I proposed for you? I had hoped you would understand the necessary duties common to women of our rank."

[The Smith]

"I am only looking out for my own land, and the North does not need a Dragon trying to take the reins from my hands. I need a husband who will support me as their liege, not struggle for control." Beatrice said smoothly.

[Marie]

"I see."

Yet the queen's voice as cold.

"Lord Aegon is most wroth with us both, my lady. If you will not wed him I msut give him lands and a keep of his own elsewhere. Let us put him aside for the moment. What kind of husband would you take, besides someone who is willing to support and not control you?"

[The Smith]

"A Northman." She replied simply enough, "One named Lord Bolton."

[Marie]

"I heard that Bolton was interested in you," Rhaenys said neutrally. "Why do you want him, in particula? History tells us the bolton have some...unsavoury pastimes."

She pulled a face as she thought of the flaying.

[The Smith]

"Then you have not spent any time, or heard of his deeds during the Long winter." Beatrice replied, "Few Northmen acquitted themselves as well as he did, or proved as noble."

[Marie]

"I know the name," Rhaenys answered. "Indeed, I had heard of his deeds, but what of the man? He may be skilled in war and courageous too but you will have to share your life with him, and your bed. Could you love him, Beatrice?"

[The Smith]

"I could. Beside the traitor Karstark, he is the best warrior, and with out doubt he is the best man. I marry as much for duty, and the Lords of the North that doubt a young girl will follow Daemian." Beatrice replied.

[Marie]

"So he is well regarded then? That will provide stability for the North."

As my mariage to Selwyn should have provided stability for the realm. Rhaenys pushed those bitter thoughts aside, for now.

"I wish to meet Lord Bolton in person. He and I have never had the opportunity for conversation. How does he feel about women rulers? It seems that is the most pertinent question as far as both you and I are concerned."

[The Smith]

"He travels here from King's Landing. Actually he is headed toward the Eyrie." Beatrice replied, "And I do not know how he feels about woman rulers, but he has been heard to say that the Stark line should continue to rule the north, and that is an important enough cause to accept bending of norms."

[Marie]

Rhaenys thought for a moment. She reasoned that if Bolton believed Beatrice had the right to her own lands, he would be honour-bound to support her own position too. That was the theory, anyway.

"When Bolton arrives, I want to see him. If I am satisfied with his conduct and his loyalty to me, you may wed him with my blessing. However..."

She sighed.

"It would, I am sure, be appreciated if you were to make a personal apology to my cousin Aegon for disappointing him. I think he may be heartbroken at losing you."

Or, more like, her power, but doubtless Beatrice guessed that too.

[The Smith]

"I will write up such a letter." Beatrice replied smoothly.

[Marie]

"A letter is good but a face to face meeting is better," Rhaenys said mildly.

[The Smith]

"I do not wish to met him." Beatrice replied.