Buying the Goldcloaks

"My lord," Makaekar replied courteously, extending the title where technically there was none. "I have only just returned to the city and learned of the King's foul murder. The streets are alight with rumors, and I had hoped you could fill me in on what happened, truly. In such an authoritative position, I am sure you were present for the trial, and have a good knowledge of what has happened since the King's death."

Maekar listened to the Watch Commander's telling with visibly growing outrage; he was stock still, and nearly expressionless, but Ser Joshua could see his fist clenched so tightly the knuckles were pure white and he could see that Maekar's jaw was tightly clenched shut though his single eye darkened as he sat. He was practically trembling with rage by the time Ser Joshua finished, but he took a single deep breath and exhaled slowly.

"The Queen has thrown a dragon rider into the Black Cells before giving her a trial? A pregnant woman no less, who her grace claims slew the fiercest King Westeros has ever known?" his voice was utter disbelief, but his face was inscrutable. "On the streets, I heard that the King's court sorceress disappeared the same day of his murder and has not been seen since. Do you know the truth of this? This reeks of treachery, Ser, and I would have the City Watch by my side when I root out those truly responsible for my father's murder."

"By law, men, and even women, of rank are entitled to accommodations suitable for their rank until they have been judged guilty at trial," Maekar replied. "The Black Cells are reserved for prisoners who have already been condemned. They say on the streets that the King's body was chopped to pieces and the entire room was covered with his blood. His grace was many things, but overly trustful was not one of them," he said. "Do you truly believe, Ser, that your King trusted one of his whores so well that she was able to seize his sword and butcher him before he could even cry out?"

"And I commend you for it, my lord," Maekar replied. "You do the House of Targaryen a great honor by your steadfast service; so much so the that I wish to make a donation to the Watch to show your officers and your men how their efforts on our behalf are appreciated."

He indicated to the chest that his men had brought into the room, which they brought forward and opened for the Commader. There were six large sacks inside it, each filled with gold. "A third for the Commander, reward for his diligence and steadfast resolve; a third to be divided among the Gate Captains, reward for their courage and unwavering strength; a third to be divided among the rank-and-file, a reward for their loyalty and constant vigilance."

"The days coming will be dark, and I trust that the House of Targaryen can always count on your support, regardless of the troubles that may yet assail the city. I mean to see that my father's Kingdom is protected and made secure against any who would threaten it."

[OOC: I have 25,000 Dragons leftover from Bro's loan, so I was figuring on spending 6,000 Dragons of that here, kinda like how Littlefinger did in the novels]

Maekar nodded. "You have my thanks, my lord," he replied, rising from his seat. "If you would do me the honor of summoning your Captains, I would like to thank them personally for their service as well."

Maekar nodded. He knew he'd blundered again, but it could not be helped now. "You have my thanks, Ser Joshua," he said, leaving the office.

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From there he went immediately to the nearest gate, seeking to speak to its Captain.

"Thank you, Captain Darke," Maekar replied, pulling the man's name from his memory. It was not too difficult, as the man had captained the Dragon Gate since before Maekar was born. "I have seen Commander Byrch and informed him, but I have made a donation to the Watch, to ensure that your men are properly equipped and compensated for their service. Two thousand dragons have been earmarked to be divided among the seven Captains, yourself included of course," he said, gauging the man's reaction.

"That was my intention, Captain, and I'll admit after speaking with Ser Joshua I understand why some of your men may lack confidence in him. The man is not a leader inspiring of loyalty, and in truth I suspect the Watch would do better led by another man," he replied. "It would be demeaning for the Lord of Oldtown to be appointed Commander of the City Watch, but I had thought to elevate one of the Gate Captains to Ser Joshua's place. I know the other Captains respect you and admire your service, Ser; am I correct to think they will follow you easily, when commanded to do so?"

"Another two thousand dragons were earmarked for the Commander, though he did not seem to care much when I presented them to him. I should think that the new Commander would be entitled to that, or it could be divided amongst the Captains as you choose. It is you and your captains, however, who will remove Ser Joshua from his post," Maekar replied in a tone so ominous that his meaning was unmistakable.

[Apprentice Intimidation]

"As soon as possible; gather a few men who are chafed under the heaviness of his hand, have them slit his throat and dump his body in one of those Flea Bottom potshops. I suspect meat will become scarce in the coming months, they'll appreciate it in the end," Maekar replied. "Make sure the gold is distributed to the men, and any whose loyalty seems suspect can join Byrch."

Maekar nodded gravely. "When it is done, send a hundred veteran men to my manor with orders to place themselves under my command; I will circulate the news of your appointment from there," he replied, standing to leave. "Have a good evening, Commander Darke."