Game Of Thrones: 8 Things We Learned From "The Laws Of Gods And Men"

8. Stannis and Davos Want A Loan From The Iron Bank

Several episodes ago, Stannis commented on how he was running out of gold. To remedy this, Davos dictated a letter to Stannis€™ daughter for the Iron Bank. Although its exact contents weren't known at the time, it became clear that Davos was seeking a loan, as we see him and Stannis traveling to Braavos. After waiting for many hours, they are finally greeted by Tycho Nestoris, a representative of the Iron Bank. Tycho asks what "Lord" Stannis wants, but Davos points out that Stannis is the true king of Westeros. Tycho doesn€™t believe Stannis€™ claims that Tommen is a bastard born of incest, citing Tywin€™s insistence that Stannis€™ accusations are nothing more than a play for the throne. Stannis feels that his name and blood right is enough to get gold from the Bank, but Tycho states that while Stannis€™ books may be filled with these accusations, the Bank€™s books is filled with numbers. Unfortunately for Stannis, his forces and supplies aren€™t enough for the Bank to risk giving him a loan. They decline their request, but Davos makes one last plea. Showing Tycho his fingers (remember, Stannis had the tips cut off as punishment for his smuggling crimes), Davos argues that Stannis is an honest man and the best chance for the Bank to get back the money they€™ve €œsunk€ into Westeros. Davos points out that Tywin is old, and when he dies, the people who are left in charge are Tommen, a boy king, Cersei, a woman whom most of Westeros hates, and Jaime, whose Kingslayer reputation works against him. Stannis is the only reliable leader for the Bank to turn to, as he still has many years left as well as ruling experience. Davos€™ argument works, and the Bank gives Stannis a loan. Davos uses some of these funds to lure back Salladhor Saan, who was last seen leaving Dragonstone early in season 3. Salladhor, who€™s spending his time telling obvious jokes, tells the women he€™s with that Davos surely doesn€™t care for him, but Davos gives him some incentive: a bag filled with gold coins. The duo is back together! The Iron Bank doesn€™t have any stake in the Westeros conflict other than financial. Until now, their best option has been to side with the Lannisters because they are the ones that hold the most power. However, as we€™ve learned this season, the Lannisters have run out of money, and can€™t pay back their debts anytime soon. Stannis is the Bank€™s best chance of getting their money back. Like with many financial ventures, there€™s a risk, but for now, the Bank sees that Stannis has potential.