-Chapter 8-
-21st day, 7th moon, 298 AC-
-POV MC-
The horizon of King's Landing had rarely witnessed such a majestic spectacle.
As the sun rose slowly, coloring the sky in golden hues, a lavish procession approached the city gates.
It was the arrival of Ronnet Connington, the lord with boundless ambitions, whose reputation far preceded him.
Leading the way, a group of knights rode steeds as large as they were sturdy, their shining armors reflecting the light, creating a luminous halo around them.
The rhythmic clapping of hooves seemed to sing a melody of triumph, behind them, a series of wagons carried chests, tangible testimonials of the Connington wealth.
They were engraved with the emblem of the Griffin, the symbol of House Connington.
But what attracted the most attention was the dominant figure right in the middle of the procession, Ronnet Connington.
Ronnet, on his impressive black horse, was a spectacle in himself.
His armor, more elaborate than that of his guards, shone with an almost supernatural glow, his helmet, adorned with a crest resembling a griffin in flight, added to his already imposing stature.
As they advanced, the inhabitants of the capital had gathered along the streets, drawn by the noise and the spectacle.
Some whispered, exchanging rumors and stories about Lord Connington.
Others, especially children, ran alongside the procession, their eyes wide with wonder.
Merchants and minstrels, seeing an opportunity, had already begun to sing praises of Ronnet, improvising verses about his wealth, bravery, and strength.
As the procession drew closer to the Red Keep, even the nobles, who seldom had the chance to be surprised, had come out on their balconies to observe.
The banners of various houses fluttered in the wind, but today, it was the griffin that flew the highest.
When the gates opened to welcome Lord Connington, a fanfare sounded, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the annals of King's Landing.
A chapter where Ronnet Connington would not just be an actor, but the main protagonist.
-POV MC-
Crossing the gates of the Red Keep, I felt overwhelmed by a myriad of emotions.
I was Ronnet Connington, the lord of the new Great House Connington, and I was back in this capital that had seen my family's downfall more than a decade ago.
The clacking of my boots against the marble floor was like a constant reminder of the reason for my presence here.
Before me, Robert Baratheon sat with a certain arrogance, every time our eyes met, I saw the man who had betrayed my father.
Ronald Connington had spilled his blood for Robert during the rebellion, and in return, all our lands had been stripped from us because of my uncle's actions.
Anger boiled within me, but I had learned to master it, to channel it towards my ultimate goal.
Further on, the mocking laughter of Renly reached my ears, the king's younger brother had always found amusement in mocking me, playing with my patience.
He took advantage of his brother's protection to engage in his little games, and although he had stripped me of much of my wealth, I knew that one day he would pay for each of his laughs.
But beyond these two figures, my attention was focused on one person in particular: Queen Cersei, it was to her alone that my loyalty belonged.
Memories of a time when my family walked proudly through these corridors came back to me.
Today, I walked here again, carrying the name of Connington with pride.
The whispers of the court filled the air, every noble, every lord, every lady trying to gauge the man standing before them.
I felt their inquisitive looks, some curious, others wary, but I remained unfazed, for my goal was clear.
Robert Baratheon, the king himself, sat before me. Regardless of my personal grievances against him, he was the king, and I owed him the respect due to his position. Stepping forward, I deeply bowed before him on one knee.
"Your Grace," I said in a firm voice.
"I am honored to be here before you on this memorable day."
Releasing my bow, I stood up and then turned towards the queen, her radiance surpassing all other ladies present at the court.
Approaching her, I bowed respectfully and delicately took her hand, bringing it to my lips for a kiss, showing her and all others the respect and devotion I had for her.
It was a bold gesture to make in front of the entire court, but it was necessary for people to know which side I had chosen.
"My queen, despite the time, my loyalty to you has never wavered and will never falter," I whispered.
Cersei returned my gaze with a glimmer of appreciation as murmurs ran through the room, some shocked by my audacity, others admiring my determination, notably the Lannisters, but I was not there for them.
I stood before the queen, ready to serve, to protect, and to restore the honor and position of House Connington, it was in that moment I realized how much I had changed and that finally I had completely acclimated to this world.