He still has most of his hand, save for the fingertips I took for smuggling. [ The fact that the man had thanked him for it had always been a small comfort. ] Still, despite his birth [ or perhaps because of it ] he is more worthy than all the Lords in Westeros. If he no longer lives...

[ It is not a comfortable topic, and Stannis attempts to not dwell too long on it (not that the other thing they were speaking of was much better. ]

I would not have you speak of Selyse in such a manner, though I will admit that I have never cared as deeply for her as perhaps I should. I will admit that ofttimes I find many women to be difficult to speak with, but I hardly find myself having any strong desire towards men, likewise. Male or female, it matters not, brother. All that truly matters is duty.

[ Now he knew that the "scotch" was getting to him, for he would not share such a thing (let alone with Renly) otherwise.

But, he finds himself pouring another glass and then promptly draining it when Renly speaks again. ]

You truly love a Tyrell? Those that forced us down to roots and rats, and would have gladly handed us to the Mad King should I have surrendered?

[ It was so much easier to just think that like Robert, it was only for sex. ]