Nestor Royce

Nestor Royce, a massive, barrel-chested man, holds the crucial offices of High Steward of the Vale and Keeper of the Gates of the Moon. As the cousin of the more famous Bronze Yohn Royce, he represents a powerful branch of House Royce and is a figure of considerable authority in the Vale. His position places him at the center of the region's governance, responsible for the day-to-day administration and the defense of its primary fortress, the Gates of the Moon, which guards the approach to the Eyrie itself.

Role in the Vale's Governance

Nestor Royce's power is both administrative and military. He has served as High Steward for fourteen years during Jon Arryn's tenure as Hand of the King, effectively ruling the Vale in the Lord's absence. This long service has led to whispers among the lords that he should continue to rule until the sickly young Lord Robert Arryn comes of age. When Catelyn Stark arrives at the Gates of the Moon, Lord Nestor is the one who greets her, demonstrating his role as the gatekeeper to the Eyrie. He is also present in the High Hall of the Eyrie during Tyrion Lannister's trial, standing among the principal houses of the Vale as a witness to the proceedings. His laughter during Tyrion's demand for trial by combat underscores his alignment with the other Vale lords who see the dwarf's situation as a grim jest.

Interactions with Key Figures

Lord Nestor's interactions with the principal characters reveal his political acumen and his role as a stabilizing force. He is the first to formally greet Catelyn Stark upon her arrival, offering her the hospitality of his roof and informing her of her sister Lysa's command for an immediate night ascent to the Eyrie. He also takes charge of the prisoner Tyrion Lannister, ordering him to be placed in a tower cell and provided with meat and mead, showing a pragmatic adherence to the forms of hospitality even for a captive. His presence at the trial by combat, where he is noted as one of the lords who laughs at Tyrion's initial quip, places him squarely among the Vale's power structure that is initially hostile to the Lannister.

Significance and Narrative Role

Nestor Royce represents the established, pragmatic power of the Vale. He is not a flashy or impulsive lord but a steady administrator and commander. His control of the Gates of the Moon makes him a crucial figure for anyone seeking to enter or leave the Vale, and his long stewardship gives him immense influence. The rumors that he might rule in place of the sickly Lord Robert highlight the political instability of the Vale after Jon Arryn's death. His character serves as a counterpoint to the more volatile and emotional Lysa Arryn, embodying the traditional, duty-bound nobility of the region. His presence in the narrative underscores the political weight and military strength of the Vale, a kingdom that remains largely neutral but whose potential for action is a constant factor in the realm's power struggles.