02. TAKEN BY STORM
Tywin was woken up by his servant, and regretted all the wine from the night before. He needed to make his way to The Twins, and hoped that his companions wouldn't delay him too much. But his optimism was challenged by the heavy clouds he saw moving rapidly towards them over the ocean.
The crossing from Lannisport to Seagard had being somewhat precarious, and they were hit with a mild storm on the third day on the journey. The clouds he was observing now, however, were much worse and the word "mild" could not be applied to them. Kevan was worried about the same issue, and also confessed feeling unwell due to the excesses on the previous night.
-For a nameday celebration, with people we know that little, it was very enjoyable. -Kevan commented- And the company was exceptional.
-Restrain yourself, brother. –he said, knowing too well that his brother was referring to Lady Enya.
-Like you did yesterday? -Kevan challenged, staring at his brother in defiance- You were very taken with Lady Tully last night.
-It was her nameday. -Tywin said, in an attempt to make it sound like it was only logical to give her more attention- And she was right next to me.
-And you were not bothered by that at all, I could see.
-At least I wasn't the one being moved to the other side of the table, as you made it very clear that the young lady Mallister was in a serious risk of becoming your mistress.
-Do you know she is a widow?
Tywin had thought so, but assumed that the Lady Mallister with the tragic story was probably an older sister, as none of the ladies present looked older than six and ten. If they hadn't announced that it was Catelyn Tully's twentieth nameday, he would not have guessed.
-Twenty is a bit old to remain unmarried. -Kevan said- And it isn't by a lack of suitors, for what I heard on my side of the table.
-She was rather unhappy with Lord Ashford's indiscretion, and I know she refused his proposal and the man still insists.
-Oh... -Kevan laughed a bit to himself- That is not a lady that is playing hard to get.
-No... -Tywin agreed- That is a lady that has very clear what she doesn't want.
The Lannisters decided that they would not put themselves on the road that day, and they assumed that no one would be attempting to leave under such conditions. The Twins were not that far, and they would be able to cover the distance in less than a day, prevented that they could travel without the large entourage from Seagard. All that was left to it now, was to discuss it with their hosts. They were not expecting, however, to find a crisis when they joined the other men.
Hoster Tully looked like he was about to lose his mind, and although Jason Mallister kept asking for calm, he was also very worried.
-What happened? Can we be of any assistance? -Kevan asked, a bit distressed by the circumstances.
-I have made an inane decision, and I feel like is out of my power to fix the situation. -Hoster Tully informed, taking a seat on one of the large chairs on Lord Mallister's solar, and sinking his face on his hands.
-It was not a very informative response, my lord. -Tywin said, feeling almost annoyed by the unnecessary mystery.
-We sent a group ahead on horseback, to avoid slowing them with the entourages. -Lord Mallister explained.
-I do not like to keep my children in the roads for long periods of time. -Hoster Tully was now holding the bridge of his nose, his face as red as his hair- So I usually have them leaving early, with a good guard and only their personal servants, so they are not exposed to the elements for long periods of time. Especially, with such volatile weather lately.
Tywin now realized the danger. The storm had just started raging against the walls of the castle, the wind so strong that they had to order the ship's captain to anchor and secure them further.
-Who is traveling? -Tywin was now in his problem solving mind.
-Edmure, Catelyn, Enya, Elyasand and Keira. -Hoster Tully responded, using only their given names.
-How long has it being?
-Something over four hours. They left right before sunrise, and at their usual traveling speed, they are probably about a third of the way to The Twins.
-They might be far enough so this beast doesn't disturb them. -Kevan tried to comfort them- It came from the sea and it seems to be moving south. It might miss them completely.
-They are also in the most isolated leg of the journey, with only forest around them for miles. -Lord Tully was not about to calm himself down- If it gets to them, they won't be able to take any cover.
Tywin could see how dangerous was the predicaments of the young group. He felt bad for both men, and couldn't help but feel a sting of worry when thinking of the ladies in such a peril. He could also see how sending them first would make sense. By making sure his children were not on the road for days, Hoster Tully was doing his best for their safety. Given the opportunity, that was exactly what Tywin and Kevan would always do. The only difference is that they would never have their ladies under such circumstances, as Cersei would refuse to ride on horseback and Maeryan, Kevan's wife, would not be able to keep up any significant speed that would warrant it.
If what the men said were to be taken as truth, the women were covering ground very fast, at a pace that some men would not be able to, and that was an impressive thing on itself. He wondered what horses they have.
-What can we do to help? -Tywin was a bit lost, as if they were in the Rock, he knew exactly who to send, in which horse, to intercept them in the road and try to warn them about the imminent danger, to give them time to access their situation and act on it. When suggesting that to the men, Tywin was not surprised that it had already being done.
-We have also sent a raven to the Twins, in case they don't arrive today, so they can launch some sort of rescue. -and by saying that, Hoster's voice was breaking.
He could not bear it, and Tywin refused to try and picture it. Kevan was already surrendered on their worry, and Lord Mallister tried to keep the spirits up, what was a pointless task with the violence of the storm forcing them to barricade windows.
-What should we do? -Kevan finally asked when he could be alone with his brother.
-We have to wait it out, and hope they keep going as fast. -Tywin tried to remain indifferent- They will be traveling light, and very likely well equipped. They also have a sizable guard. Neither one of the ladies is idiotic. Not the ones that count, I mean. The northerner one, Lady Karstark, might even be experienced in this type of weather.
-Nevertheless it is a dangerous predicament.
The hours started passing and word never got back. The storm started to subside, moving southwards and leaving behind a persistent rain that lasted most of the day. Tywin pitied the men, but mostly Hoster Tully, who had wiped away tears a few times throughout the hours. They were now sitting next to each other, and the man seemed to be in a mood to talk.
-We all understand the value of an heir, so I will not dwell on how much my son means to me. But not many noblemen have the privilege to know their daughters, and not often their daughters are like my Catelyn. I raised her as my heir for many years, before Edmure's birth. My wife died delivering a stillborn when they were all very young, and Catelyn immediately became, by the soft age of nine, the mother figure for her siblings. -he took a sip of his wine, as they had silently decided that to fare this storm sober was not the best to anyone's nerves- When Lord Stark asked her hand in marriage to his heir, she was only two and ten. She grew up too quickly, knowing what her life would be like, getting ready to what that would mean. She surrounded herself with the North, learned their ways. Brandon, her betrothed, would visit, not as often due to the sheer distances, but he seemed good to her. Cat grew attached to him, to his wild spirit. I even believed they both loved each other by the end.
Hoster Tully took a deep breath and sipped his wine.
-He would not have being my first choice to her, if matters of the heart are to be considered in such arrangements.
-It would have being Ned? -Jason Mallister asked.
-Indeed. They are much more alike in a way. She could not marry him, however. They grew up with him as her good-brother, and that bond was never severed. After her betrothed died, I left for the war leaving a little girl with a broken heart, and got back to The Lady of Riverrun. I feared that she would lose her mind, and I tried to come home as often as I could during the troubles. But every time I would arrive, she would have taken onto her own hands to fix things, to better things, and to create plans that would make the fortress safer and the people stronger.
It was clear that he had naught but admiration for his eldest daughter, and she did sound admirable. Tywin knew that some men would be blind with love and exaggerate the accounts, but Hoster Tully was telling stories that sounded very on par with the known truth. Lady Catelyn hadn't always acted with perfection, but the good intentions made up for it.
-She turned the Great Hall of Riverrun into an infirmary, and with no real experience, learned from the Silent Sisters on how to care for war wounded men. She spent so much on making sure everyone was well cared for, that if the war had lasted another year we would have being bankrupt. She protected her brother with her whole being, eventually sending him here, to provide him with a real escape plan.
-She does sound formidable. -Tywin said, asking himself what Cersei would have done in a similar situation.
-I left a broken girl, riddled with grief... She was so afraid of losing anyone else that I feared her little heart would not bear it. And I got back home to a woman, which had taken control over Riverrun, preparing herself for the case of me never coming back. Someone so used with lost at that point, that accepting the pain and holding things together became second nature. And for a long time I feared I would never see her true smile again, or enjoy her witty remarks, or listen to her laughter... And even now I worry she will never take a suitor, and I am not about to impose another one on her.
-She ruled whilst you were away? -Tywin asked, suddenly more interested, as even with her brother being younger he should have being the one on the Great Seat.
-She still does. I hold court in the mornings for a few hours, and she does in the afternoon. -Hoster Tully sounded proud when saying that.
-Some folk will only attend in the afternoons. -Jason Mallister laughed, throwing a jab at his friend- I confess that this little arrangement you have with Cat is one of the most fortuitous things you could have fashioned. You can leave for undetermined amounts of time, without fearing that the realm falls in disarray.
-She can also enjoy her freedom, go on her travels... And leave me to train Edmure. Her presence intimidates her brother, and multiple times she has sat him on the chair and instructed him on the rulings, but the people have grown used to her, and Edmure doesn't feel like he needs to do anything, because when he tries, he can be antagonized. He will have to learn how to impose himself.
-That might represent a problem. -Tywin said simply- That might define who will inherit your Seat.
-Well, we will cross that bridge when we come to it.
-She is a remarkably beautiful woman, with an intriguing personality. She will not live her days as a ghost in Riverrun, if that is what bothers you. -Jason Mallister declared- She will, eventually, like someone and marry, and then Edmure will find his footing. She is getting better and better from the marks left by the war. And with the Gods willing, Enya might find the same peace for herself. We should not worry about them, not on that regard. They are secure on themselves and they will not do anything that would dishonour their names.
-I do not worry about that. -Hoster Tully simply declared- At this point my only worry is if Cat will ever be happy.
-She looks happy to me. -Tywin heard himself commenting, unsure on why he was engaging in such a talk.- You gave her time to heal, she will find her way.
In the middle of the night, the scout sent to look for the young group had returned.
-I could not reach them. -the man said, not daring to stare at any of the lords, but even less Serena Mallister- The road is blocked by fallen trees in many places, my lords, but is possible to go around them. I didn't see any sign of them, the rain washed all that could be. There was a point I could not go any further, I couldn't see with the rain in my eyes and the horse was not cooperating.
-Do you think they managed to escape the storm? -Kevan asked, with Hoster Tully covering his face and Jason Mallister trying to comfort his wife.
-No. -the man responded, staring at his worn out shoes, shivering slightly on his drenched clothes- The storm is large and fast. I... I only hope they managed to get out of the forest road before they got hit, as Lady Enya would know where to find a place to take cover.
-And if they didn't? -Tywin asked, knowing the answer.
-The forest in a storm is not a place for anyone, never mind a group of ladies and a young lad, even with their guard. -Hoster Tully took a deep breath- We will leave at first light.
The muddy roads and the pestering rain did not stop the men from heading on to the Twins before dawn in the next day. The entourages were left to make their way on their own, Kevan and Tytos staying behind to survey the clearing of the roads with other riverlanders from the area. But Tywin had offered to join the group, and was very welcome to do so. He had this persistent urge to find out how she was. He would take a ten men Lannister guard with him, that added to the combined Mallister-Tully guard was more than enough to safeguard their travels. Each lord brought one servant, and they aimed to arrive at the Twins before sundown.
They never found any trace of the young group in the road, besides what could have being Lord Edmure's cape, but they could not be sure about it, due to all the mud. There were no signs of a camp, and especially when they arrived at the estimate point where the storm could have caught up with them, nothing could be found. And Tywin was relieved, as that was a sign that they made it.
Arriving at the Twins, they were welcomed in the Western Tower by a large group of people, among them Genna, her husband, her son who was to be the groom, but also the young group from Riverrun. Hoster Tully hugged his girl very tightly, and seemed unable to let go of his son. Jason Mallister was also visibly relieved that his daughters were fine, and Tywin would have being left to interact with his family, but the little group, especially the two ladies, were very keen on thanking him for caring. And he was caught off guard by that, but the truth was that he cared, truly, about their well fare.
-We were never in any risk... -Catelyn explained, taking him to a more reserved place near the windows, once her father could settle onto himself- We felt the wind, and we could see the clouds on the horizon on our left, and some moments it felt like we would ride directly at it because of the bends on the road... But we kept pace and hoped it wouldn't change directions. We were here before sundown, and we sent a raven back to Seagard, but it must have missed you.
-I am very glad none of you got hurt. -Tywin said- To have you, and also your brother, on the road under those conditions was taking its toll on your Lord Father.
-I can imagine... -she opened a sad smile, and took a long look at her father- He always try and do the best he can for our safety, whilst giving us enough freedom. And this time it almost backfired.
-He would not forgive himself. -Tywin declared- But all is well now, you ladies are safe, Lord Edmure seems like he has a great story to tell and in no more than a few days we will have a wedding to celebrate and a tournament to attend.
-I will not be attending the tournament, but I am quite excited about the wedding.
-Why not? -Tywin was surprised, as ladies usually love tournaments, the excitement, the Knights...
-Oh, my lord... -she had a sad smile, and allowed him to conduce her back towards the group- I have no heart for pointless violence. Perfectly healthy young men, maiming themselves for no proper reason... -she moved her head negatively- I cannot bear it. Not after the war.
He could see that the war had taken its toll on the lady as well. Her growth, as explained by her father, was not only in the positive ways. She also held the weariness of the ordeal, and the sadness for witnessing death in such a scale. Even though she never saw battle, she saw the aftermath of it, and they all knew how much worse that usually was. Covering her hand, which rested on his arm, Tywin felt the urge to say something, anything to acknowledge her feelings, but words were hard to come by. When she finally looked at him, was to find his eyes studying her face.
-I respect the tradition, but I will not make myself witness it.
-You should never do anything that brings an ounce of pain to your heart. -he didn't recognize himself when saying that, and did not stop after realizing he was probably being too familiar- As it is a beautiful one, and we are all better when it is happy.
Catelyn smiled, even though she was quite surprised with his words.
-You are exceptional company, Lord Tywin. -she said- And taking the risk of sounding out of place, you are not at all what I had expected.
-In the positive sense? -he asked, intrigued by her assessment.
-Of course it is in the positive sense... -he could hear the unsaid word "silly" on her tone- I would not be here if you were some sort of despicable man.
-Some believe I am a despicable man.
-Well, they are welcome to their opinions. I rather have my own.
Tywin had a half smile on his face now back to observing her, amused by the fact that she would not flinch at his gaze, like many other people would.
-What do you intend to do, when not attending the tournament?
-There's always entertainment if you know where to look for it.
And with a gentle squeeze on his hand, she went back to her father, leaving Tywin to deal with someone that, right now, looked like she could turn him inside out with questions.
-What have I just witnessed?
-Nothing of importance, Genna.
-Tywin... -she squinted her emerald eyes at him, assuming a severe expression- Don't you dare treat me like I am a lesser. I know you. I know you very well.
-There's nothing to elaborate on. -yet, he thought, but did not dare to say.
Still very suspicious, Genna decided to let it be for the moment. And Tywin could see that she was taking her time on observing Lady Catelyn very closely. To avoid further issues, Tywin decided that he would keep his distance, as it was not like anything was to happen between him and the young woman. It was not something he would ever pursue, and the sweet distraction she represented was nothing more than that. It was enjoyable to wonder what would be if he was to attempt to some closeness, but it was also ridiculous. That was a woman to marry, and he had no intention of doing such a thing ever again.
Days passed, and he would not see the group from the Riverlands until the actual wedding day. All the preparations were done, and it had all the makings of a Royal Wedding. Gerion, dressed in white and gold, looked like a prince. He had tried to spend as much time as possible with his uncles that he scarcely saw. Tywin thought of him as a true Lannister, particularly on his colours. He wasn't a fighter, but he had the right mind for politics, what reminded him of what Tyrion had being. Gerion was, in the end of the day, the acceptable version of the unacceptable Lannister.
His bride, Lady Cecily, was just old enough not to be a child. Age five and ten, looking terrified at all times. Her family was very keen with the union, and agreed to have the wedding at the Twins, not their ancestral home as was the usual, all to please Genna. The Trants knew that although their daughter would become a Frey, she was marrying into the Lannisters, and they would do anything they possibly could to please.
At the wedding, Tywin could see the ladies from Riverrun once again. They were all there, but the only one that mattered was, indeed, Lady Catelyn. He did not wish to lie to himself, but when he could admire her presence, his heart skipped a beat and a warm feeling inundated his chest. For a moment he feared that his heart was giving up, but then the recollection of that feeling swept the ground from under his feet. He now knew that she had inspired something on him, something that was like a fancy or even a desire. Examining her figure, he concluded it was probably lust.
She was wearing what Tywin could only classify as an expensive garment. The layers of silk had different textures. The bodice had a neckline shaped like a heart, and the skirts were full and draped behind her on a small trail of lace. It highlighted all right spots on her figure, and the colour of it, a rich indigo blue, brought to life her own colours. Her hair was only half braided. She wore simple jewellery, but still very refined.
-Look away, brother. She will notice it. -Kevan said simply, making Tywin wake up from the feverish desires of a middle-aged man that can only think about undressing a highborn lady, the age of his own daughter- Everyone will notice.
-I do not understand myself. -Tywin confessed- She is too young and this is not proper.
-That is relative. Some would say she is too old to be unmarried.
-My urges are not to marry her. -he continued- And to do what I wish, I would need to start with that.
-I am not so sure... -Kevan laughed- You cannot see your face, but you are not just lusting the girl.
-I am not in love. -Tywin rolled his eyes.
-No! -Kevan agreed- What you are is in trouble.
The feast was large, and took over the grounds of pretty much the entire castle. However the main event was at the Western Tower, where the Lannisters and the Bride's families had being installed. The Tullys were in the Eastern Tower, occupying an entire floor with the ladies-in-waiting and the rest of the group.
The large western hall was filled with small tables, with varying amount of seats. One large table at the very front was dedicated for the newlyweds and their immediate families. The rest of the attendance was expected to mingle, as Genna herself had said "to expand connections". Tywin and Kevan were told to socialize and make "the lesser folk feel relevant", what at first sounded like a jest from the part of their sister, but it had turned out to be a very serious request.
-Please, just entertain her. –Emmon had begged, sounding tired- She wants this to be perfect, and I just wish this to be over.
Feeling like a weird and perverted man, after having talked and exchanged pleasantries with far too many people, Tywin seized the moment where Lady Catelyn was left alone in the hall, standing by a window and sipping some wine. Her faithful Lady Enya was not at sight.
-Lord Tywin! -she curtsied with a smile, extending her hand to be kissed- Your sister have prepared a beautiful event...
In fact, it was. There were flowers everywhere. All the tables were decorated and covered in white linen. The plate settings were golden and fine crystals held the finest wine. She used candles and mirrors to make the room full of light, and had little clippings of cedar on the decorations to make the place smell fresh. The music was soft and was not to sound as a main event. It was just another layer on the overall experience.
-She is good at this. Always have being. -he agreed.
A servant had being walking around with a tray full of glasses of wine, serving people. He was near enough now that Tywin could get himself a drink, and they had a very private toast to the happiness of the newlyweds.
-Though they might need more than just our wishes, my lord.
-They do look remarkably miserable. -Tywin agreed, wondering what the hurry could possibly be, since the bride was far too young to be wedded.
-If only they could have some semblance of a bond before having to commit to such a permanent setting... –she said, alluding to the fact that the engagement only lasted a few mons and that the couple had never met before.
-The marriage will allow the time for that.
-She just looks so lost… She doesn't know what to expect.
-No one really knows, my lady.
After that, Tywin had tried to establish some distance from her, and joined Kevan and Tytos in a small table away from people. His adorable little niece, Saera, ended up making his efforts void, by bringing her friends to sit at a table near them.
-Mother said that I can stay if I remain close to you. –she informed her uncles.
-Apparently we are not good enough chaperones. –lady Catelyn commented, taking a seat at the empty table.
-I don't know what could possibly be giving her this idea. –Lady Enya commented in a comic manner, raising her glass of wine.
-Why not seat with us? –Kevan suggested, hopeful.
-No! –Saera laughed at the notion- That would be odd, uncle.- she came closer and whispered to her cousin.- This is actually mothers attempt to make you interact with some noblewomen.
Tywin saw as Tytos rolled his eyes and looked away from the table, now being occupied by a giggly group of young ladies that Saera made sure to introduce to her uncles, in an attempt to entice Tytos in any way.
The feast was everything Genna had planned and a bit more. The system of small tables had worked very well. People would migrate from table to table, and engage in conversation. After the food was served, the music became more prominent and some people started to dance, especially the young ladies.
-Please, would you come? -some girls started pestering Lady Catelyn to join them.
-I do not wish to.
-What about you, Enya...
-I am also not interested. -Lady Mallister declared- You girls should have fun, go.
-Keira?
-Not even a chance. -the northern lady was not the one for many words.
-Can I go with them? –Saera asked permission to her uncles.
-Sure. It will be your mother's perfect excuse to whisk you away to your chambers. –Kevan commented.
-Maybe is time for the children to be put to bed. –Tytos teased, receiving an infuriated glare from Saera.
Soon after that, the nuptial rites started, and both bride and groom were separated by a small crowd. Lady Cecily was now about to cry, holding on to her mother, surrounded by men that would tore her clothes apart and expose her body. The same would happen to Gerion, but he seemed pretty much alright with it. At the same time, Emmon Frey came to take Saera to her chambers before any undressing could have happened.
-But father… -she tried to argue.
-Your mother will skin me alive if she finds out you were still here for the bedding. –he was final- Please, my love… I just need this night to end.
And took her away as Lady Cecily's dress lost a piece.
-I cannot look... -Tywin heard as lady Catelyn said, turning away from the main table, to look directly at him.
-It is barbaric. -Tywin agreed, like they had never interrupted their little confabulation hours ago.
-The poor little thing... Some traditions we should just completely forego.
-Indeed... -he agreed.
-The groom could make it stop, if he wished.
But he wouldn't, as he had already being taken away barely holding on to his breeches. The poor Lady Cecily, however, didn't have one piece of fabric with which cover herself. With the chants of "Let's bed them", the crowd finally disappeared on the corridors.
-It is barbaric... –Enya, who had been observing the rites with a sad look on her face, finally said- We spend our whole lives being chaste, proper, swimming in costumes, sunbathing fully clothed... So that in a split moment, all kinds of different men suddenly have the right to have their hands all over you, and nobody says one word about it.
-It looks traumatizing. –Tytos said.
Tywin had his experience with the bedding ceremony, and he could confirm that it would not be something he would ever partake in. He still sulked about not being able to stop that from happening to Cersei on her wedding night.
Soon people were back, ready to carry on with the festivities. The crowd was more agitated and inebriated, as wine kept being served in large quantities. Men were now coming to the tables, and inviting the ladies to dance. Some of them were not given any choice. Even Tytos and Kevan joined the dance. Tywin could see that the three ladies in the table next to his were starting to feel uneasy. Lady Catelyn was now actively looking for her father, but he was very distracted with a conversation on a table with some of his bannermen.
-Would you give me the honour of this dance, my lady?
It was Alys Ashford, and Tywin saw as lady Catelyn wished to disappear, and it was very obvious that she was already exhausted with having to keep dealing with the man.
-I would not. -she responded firmly- You may look elsewhere, the answer here will remain no.
-I was expecting you would reconsider, since...
-The lady said no. -Tywin's tone was the one of the Warden of The West, The Lord of Casterly Rock, the Lion of Lannister, and there was no space to arguments.
The man left, after having straightened his spine, and lifted his chin. He did not seem happy, and if Tywin had being any other person, Lord Ashford would be looking to settle that with swords.
-Thank you. -Lady Catelyn said- He might leave me alone now.
-Glad to be at service.
-Truth be told, it has being a long day, and I am very tired.
-More than just that... -Lady Enya said- I can swear that this wine contains alcohol.
Tywin laughed, a little louder than his usual self. He noted that they wanted to leave and go back to their chambers. He knew they would have to cross the bridge for that, and as it was already deep into the night, he would be willing to escort them.
-No, my lord... I would hate to disturb your evening. My guard will suffice.
-It would be my pleasure, my lady. I am in need for some fresh air.
And after sending word to her father that she would retire to her chambers with Lady Enya and Lady Keira, she allowed herself to be conducted by the arm across the hall and led into the spiral staircase that would guide them to the bridge. Her guard would follow closely, and somehow, they ended up walking alone in the very front, as the other ladies seemed to have topics to discuss privately.
-Have you enjoyed the night, even with the pointless traditions and inconvenient men? -he asked, her little hand resting on his arm.
-I did, my lord. It was beautiful.
-Such occasions are made by the company one keeps. Tonight your presence made it much more enjoyable. Your friends are also the kind that would brighten even a funeral.
-They truly are excellent ladies, and very dear to my heart. And I do have a question, my lord. A question you may not wish to respond...
-I will if I know the answer. -he promised.
-You must first promise that this will remain between us. -she asked, and Tywin could hear the smile on her voice.
-I promise. -he was now too curious.
-And that you will not be mad?
-I do not believe I am able to be mad at you, my lady. So you can ask your question without reservations.
-Well... -she sounded resigned to it- If you say so... Is your brother interested on Enya?
-Oh... -Tywin hadn't expected that. He did not know what to expect, but it was certainly not that- Kevan is a married man. -he deflected.
-That does not answer my question.
-Why do you ask?
-Because she thinks so.
-And is she upset with it?
-Not really. Just confused.
-He would not act on it, if that is what you are afraid of. -Tywin promised- He has a wife, and they are close.
-Still does not answer my question, my lord. I can help you... -she stopped walking for a second and looked at him, being particularly adorable in Tywin's opinion- You have two possible answers: Yes or No. Which applies best to the question?
Tywin asked himself if he had the right to expose his brother, and found an alternative around it.
-I don't know. All I can tell you is that he finds her beautiful. You are also very beautiful. And men will look. We can't help ourselves very much on the matter.
-So does she need to worry about this? About him thinking about her in this way, considering that she is a widow...
-I promise you, my lady... -he interrupted her- My brother will not act on it, I do not believe he has any intention on doing so. As I said, he has a lovely wife at home.
-I believe you. -she declared with a deep breath- And I shan't worry about it.
-I apologize if it has caused any issues. -and Kevan would pay.
-No, this has mostly been discussed between Enya and I. We could not be sure.
-Kevan would never suggest such a thing. Lady Enya is too precious to become a mistress, widow or not. I know that other lords often do this sort of thing, but it is not of our nature.
They were now nearing the gates of the Eastern Tower, and he would have to let her go.
-I hope you have a good rest, my lady. -he held her hand and kissed it- Thank you for a lovely evening.
-Thank you, my lord.
And when he walked away, quickly saying good night to the other ladies on the bridge, he marched back to the Feast, feeling a sense of loneliness that he hadn't felt in a long time.
-Are you well, brother? -Kevan asked when Tywin assumed a seat next to him.
-Yes, why wouldn't I be?
-Because you look rather unhappy.
-I don't know what you are talking about.
His only strategy at this point was to deflect, because he would struggle to deny. He was enchanted, but the most worryingly part was that he didn't wish for it to change.