a truth about women like Daenerys Targaryen, and Cersei Lannister before her. They loved power more than they loved flesh. If she demonstrated to Daenerys how low she had fallen; if she allowed Daenerys to revel in her power over her, then it would not matter that the queen did not bed women. The queen would want to fuck her in order to fuck her in the worst sense of the word.

The following day Margaery approached the Iron Throne as Daenerys held court. She went to her knees, gracefully, and prettily begged for a private audience with the queen. Perhaps curious, Daenerys granted her one. She was told to be ready later that afternoon. Someone would be sent to summon her when it was time.

Margaery was ready whena knight of the Queensguard came to fetch her. She was dressed in her finest gown and her best jewelry. All the silk and lace and gold and gems would serve as a reminder to Daenerys of her value and hence the great glory Daenerys had won in her conquest of Margaery and House Tyrell. Margaery might be a whore, but she was a whore only kings and queens could afford.

Daenerys was dining on a light supper of exotic fruits and blue cheese when Margaery was ushered into her presence. Margaery was told to sit, but she was not offered food. A Dothraki warrior stood guard inside the room, although Ser Barristan was posted outside. Margaery wondered whether Daenerys always took such precautions with her safety, or whether