Chapter 69 - The Coronation (IV)
"Is he a man or a god? Yet just asking me the question makes me question reality." Tyrion Lannister, after meeting Aenar Targaryen for the first time.
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"This city stinks like a sweaty old whore," commented Tyrion, watching the magnificent red towers burn in crimson flames. Even at night, Volantis seemed alive, which really pleased him. He supposed that the nights in the city were as lively as they promised to be.
Apart from the imposing beard he now sported, Tyrion Lannister showed no major changes in appearance, nor any signs of torture.
Barristan Selmy, to his surprise, had never hurt him or even threatened him. On the contrary, the old knight had provided him with food and water throughout the journey, without missing a single day.
"Looks like we've arrived." Tyrion sighed as he walked beside the former Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, who had served both Aerys II and Robert I. The little lion of House Lannister had never considered running away during the journey.
He knew that in Essos, his father's name, although feared in Westeros, did not carry the same weight on this continent. Besides, the likelihood of dying while trying to escape was high.
Even though he was aware that his final destination could be death, Tyrion preferred to live as long as possible under the protection of the legendary knight of Westeros.
"Ser Barristan, do you think the Targaryen prince will feed me to that dragon called Caraxes? Personally, I think it would be a waste of effort. I can't even fill the spaces between the beast's teeth." Tyrion commented with his characteristic acid humor. Although he feared death, he was determined to face it if the future dragon king so wished.
Barristan fixed his blue eyes on the dwarf, giving him a deep look before replying: "I'll try to speak on your behalf. You're not a monster like your father."
Throughout the journey, Barristan had come to realize that Tyrion was a good-hearted man. Despite his short stature and the reputation he carried, he had more honor and dignity than many self-proclaimed knights.