09. HER SPIRIT
-How long will you remain in Riverrun? -Kevan asked his brother, mounting his mare and signalling to his entourage that it was time to go.
-It will depend on a few things. -he responded, holding the leads of his brother's ride.
-And are you sure that a dozen man will be enough to escort you? Two of them not even being soldiers, just mere servants?
-The journey will be faster that way. I have no intention to set camp, I will always rest on the Inn's of the road.
-Will you send word when you decide to leave Riverrun? -Kevan prodded further, now receiving the lead from his brother's hands.
-Those are times of peace, Kevan. -Tywin sighted, glad for his brother's care, but tired of his conflicting calm weariness.
-Just be careful. -he asked, and with that, turned his horse towards the road.
Tywin observed his brother leave, remembering the conversation with his siblings on the night prior. Kevan had finally finished writing the marital agreement, as Tywin had requested, and the document was ready to be presented to Hoster Tully. It wasn't something that necessarily concerned his bride, but he made sure to analyse it carefully, almost certain that Catelyn would find a way to read it. It was normal for Great Houses to set expectations on paper, and even thought that wasn't something which held legal value, once signed it represented the word of both parties.
-Whose idea was to make her wedding gift be financial aid to the Trident? –Genna asked.
-Mine. –Tywin answered- There's still need for rebuilding on the Riverlands, and strengthening her domains will… Well… Make her happy. With the added bonus of enriching not only yours, but also Saera's future. And done in this way, I believe she'll receive it better, without accusing me of meddling.
-But I see you are also setting a large fund for her on the Iron Bank. What is it for?
-I will not live forever, and I am significantly older than her. We are a strong House, but we are not immune to…
-Ty, you can say that you are protecting her from Cersei.
-That as well.
-Have you sent word to her yet? –Genna prodded.
-Yes, and you know that I plan on traveling south, for the birth. –he declared- And have a proper conversation with both of them. –he referred to the twins.
Genna smiled, wishing to be a fly on the wall and witness Jaime's teasing, but also Cersei's meltdown. Tywin was ruthless, uncompromising, with questionable morals and cruel ways. However, he had a soft spot for the selected few he cared about. And even unable to demonstrate, he cared deeply about the twins. Jaime was his pride and joy growing up, the spitting image of his father. He was a beautiful Lannister, a incredibly talented swordsman and had a good nature. Cersei was raised to be queen, as anything else would be beneath her.
-I am proud of your effort. Both of you. –Genna declared, handling the document over to Tywin- However, I will be very surprised if Catelyn allows her father to sign this.
And she had been absolutely right. Back on his solar, after seeing his brother's departure and having the agreement sent to the consideration of Hoster Tully, he devoted his attention to some minor issues, brought up by some of his bannerman during the festivities. He was interrupted after a couple hours by soft knocks on his door.
-Yes? –he said loudly, prompting the door to be opened.
Catelyn peered inside the room, as if asking if she could enter, with a sweet smile in her lips. Tywin, surprised, rests his quill and stands up from his desk.
-My lady!
-May I come in?
-Of course. –he wasn't sure if that was appropriate, but he already knew her well enough to be aware that she chose her risks very carefully.
-Father received the draft of the marriage agreement. –she had the pages rolled on her hands.
Tywin certainly didn't see the agreement sent to her father as a draft. He had fully expected it to be signed, even with Genna's warning.
-You shouldn't trouble yourself with such matters, my dear. –he approached her.
-It isn't any trouble at all, my Lord. –she promised with a smile, accepting the seat he indicated, next to the fireplace- I am very happy with the agreement. It is very generous of you.
-However? –he knew her well enough to be fully aware that something was brewing on her mind.
-I have some notes. –she declared.
-Of course you do. –he chuckled, taking the seat next to her, amused by his lady's ways- Tell me. What it is not of your liking.
-Some of the wording. –she unrolled the papers, and Tywin could see some scribbles and crossings done with her handwriting.
She spoke very eloquently and pointed out a few small things that could be interpreted ambiguously, and together with him, made the appropriate changes, making sure that it would please them both.
-And finally, we are to talk about the succession.
He knew exactly what she wanted to clarify, as some of the ambiguity and implications present on the document was not there by mere chance. He hoped it would be glossed over, but of course his bride would not allow for such a thing.
-How do you wish to write this? –he asked, aware that this was this was probably the most contentious point of the entire piece.
-I first wish to know what your ideas on the matter are. Based on the words in the document, it isn't clear if is your intention to have my child as your natural heir. Considering that your son isn't able to inherit anything, based on his vows to the crown, I am confused on why the wording on this isn't clearer, considering how complicated and dangerous can be the matters of succession.
-You said yourself that he isn't to inherit anything. Cersei is the queen. None of my children have any solid claim to the Rock.
-Then it won't be any issue if we express clearly who will be your heir. That the children I give you will take precedence over the ones you already have.
Tywin was silent for a second too long, having to make peace with the sense that Jaime would not have his seat if Catelyn was to be his wife. That was the price he would have to pay. He hoped to free Jaime of his past pledges, but he could see now that even with him succeeding on the endeavour, prying the twins apart would be a problem.
-I am afraid that this constitutes an irreconcilable difference to me, my lord. –she was already fighting for the babies she hadn't even bared yet.
-We must write it as you feel is best. –he held her hand and kissed it- And I promise you that I will make sure that whatever is agreed on this document is as good as law. That I will protect our heirs with the same fierceness of their mother.
And on that moment, the piece of paper was no longer important, as she pushed it away from her lap and wrapped Tywin on her arms, extracting a soft chuckle of him, kissing his cheek repeatedly. He knew that those matters were incredibly delicate, and he imagined that she feared that he would push back on her demands.
-Darling, I cannot guarantee the loyalty or silence of the servants around us.
-Oh, let people talk…I will allow myself to act how I feel with you, and you should do the same.
-That wouldn't be proper. –he said, laughing lightly, accommodating her against his chest and kissing her face- I promise you that.
They stayed together a little longer, talking about some of their personal obligations. She told him about how she spent the morning answering to correspondence, and he shared with her some of the small, petty grievances that arouse on his camp during the Tournament. Some people were jailed, and he was to decide if they were to go free or be transported to Lannisport.
-I am glad this isn't Riverrun. –she said- I am enjoying not having to adjudicate drunken squabbles. I am sure that Lord Emmon will be glad when his castle goes back to its usual rhythm.
-Are your entourage ready to leave in the morning?
-Yes. –she smiled, leaving his embrace, finally picking the marriage agreement that had been forgotten on the floor for the best part of that hour- I must go. I am sure father will want to read this after I write it over, and it will need to be done by the morning, as he isn't joining us yet…
-Lord Hoster won't return with us? –he was surprised, almost beyond words.
-Is that a problem? –she worried, seeing his expression- He has other matters to attend. I also believe that he wishes to give us some space. –she smiled, observing how astonished he seemed, and walked back to him, still seating where she had left him- We won't be alone. Are you uncomfortable with these arrangements?
-Not at all, I am just surprised.
-Well… -she laughed softly, leaning towards him and kissing his lips for a little moment, as she liked to do- I guess I will just have to keep you on your toes. –and left.
Tywin's guard was a very special one. Highly trained, deadly without any blade, organized, focused and extremely loyal. They were ready to depart since dawn, but to join the Tully entourage, they had to expect a whole set of young ladies to be ready to leave. It was, in any case, very early. And when walking by the stables he stumbles upon Catelyn and her brother, he could scarcely hide his surprise. Both were distracted brushing a couple horses. They had servants for that, present with them, but the pair seemed to be enjoying the task and taking it very seriously.
-I know... -Catelyn rubbed the golden stallion's nose, who was protesting that she had found some knots on his horsehair- I am sorry... -She sounded like she was addressing a toddler- You spent too long on your own... I have missed you too.
Edmure was the one to notice him there, and when he greeted the man, he startled Catelyn back to her formal self.
-My Lord! -she turned to face him, dropping the brush on the floor, and keeping the horse quiet with a tight grip on his lead.
-Apologies, I had no intention to intrude.
-Not at all -she said with a smile -There, there... -she gently patted the horse's neck, when the creature started to fuss.
-You should let him run free for a while, before we departure. -Edmure casually said with his attention back to his own horse, a white and grey stallion, which seemed to be much more docile than Catelyn's- Different stables, different carers and surrounded by too many horses... Both of them look a bit distressed.
Tywin was now next to his lady, holding the lead with his hands over hers, receiving a lovely smile. They were very close to each other, semi obscured by the large horse. Catelyn looked around, to make sure no one was observing them, and approached him to kiss his lips.
-It is early, my darling. -he tucked an unruly curl behind her ear- You should be resting, as the day will be long and demanding.
-I am ready to leave. -she said, with one hand resting at his shoulder, as he was very near- I should have checked on my horse yesterday, but...
-Are you intending to ride it? -he was surprised- I have seeing that your father have a perfectly suited carriage prepared for you...
-Not for me.
-She gets sick on carriages. -Edmure said at once, still distracted with his horse.
Catelyn smiled and blushed, finally establishing some distance between them.
-Is just not very dignified. -she whispered to him- I have always preferred to ride alongside father, since I was a little girl.
-What if it rains? -he asked, still sounding way more concerned than he wanted. He still remembered the agony they endured when she left Seagard right before a storm arrived.
-Then we will be wet! -she teased, and laughed lightly at his horrified expression.
He noted that she was dressed for the elements. A tailored soft leather vest, with long sleeves and a high collar around her neck would guard her pale skin from the excess of sun. The skirts were full, longer than the usual fashion, and had an envelope kind of cut, where the fabric would meet, overlapping the sides. He knew that she was wearing trousers under the skirt, seeing as the saddle that was next to her horse was not sideways.
-Should we take them outside? -Edmure asked, once satisfied with the grooming of his Horse- Storm also need to run around for a bit.
-Sure... -Catelyn agreed, with Tywin still making sure to be as near as decorum allowed- Would you join us?
The horses were not saddled, and judging by how fussy that golden stallion seemed to be, Tywin wondered if he would ever take to one. Walking with the pair of Tullys to the large field behind the stables, followed by the help, he watched as Catelyn carefully removed the lead from the horse that seemed very anxious to follow Edmure's, already playfully trotting around. Catelyn's horse, however, even without a lead, stood still, clearly anxious to join the other.
-Go. -she finally authorized, and remarkably looking as puppy, the powerful horse charged across the field- Neither Storm or Spirit were bred on father's stables. -she said, locking arms with Tywin's- They are from a wild herd that roams nearby in Riverrun. They got rejected, we don't know the reason. They were very weak when father's men found them, and much was debated about ending their suffering.
-They are gorgeous beasts. -Tywin admitted.
-The two of us, Lysa and I... -she clarified, speaking with pride- Nursed them back to health. I was only ten, Lysa not even nine. And they remained our rides since then. Edmure was too tiny at the time, but he and Storm bonded deeply with the passing of years. Lysa finally gifted him with Storm when she left for King's Landing.
-You should have a more agreeable ride, my darling. -Tywin was still uncomfortable at the thought of his bride riding a wild horse- Especially in longer journeys.
She remained silent, still holding his arm, but her attention turned to the horse. He could hear her suppressing a sight when he expressed his concerns. He could tell that she was really attached to the wild beast. After all, they spent half her life together. Tywin noted she was discreetly biting her lower lip.
-You do not know him. -she said finally, staring at Tywin, almost in defiance- He is mine, he has always being mine. He will protest if someone else tries to ride him. He has never dropped me, never rebelled. And if I call his name, he will come immediately.
It hadn't being his intention to upset her, but he had to remind himself that not long ago, he made her part with her guard, her friend and with her tangible ties with the North. She was, understandably, very protective of the things she loved.
-Do not presume... -she interrupted herself, her voice breaking on the way to her lips- Please, do not take him away from me. -and even at his arm, with their fingers interlocked, he could see.
She was guarding herself from him, as she hadn't done before.
-He will love the beaches in the west. -Tywin said, trying to sooth her- And you must make sure to select the stable boy that cares for him best.
She was still staring at him a bit uncertain. He was sure that she would leave the horse behind if he so demanded, but at this moment he had no intention to do so. He took no pleasure on inflicting her further and unnecessary pain. Looking back to watch the horses, she seemed bothered, and guarded silence. Edmure was making sure to talk with Tywin about his horse that now, looking energized, approached his master and allowed himself to be patted on the head. Glad with the presence of the boy, whose small talk softened the ambiance, Tywin happily listened about the horse's performance.
-Sister we should call them back. -Edmure said, bringing her attention back to them.
-Are you ready to leave, my lord? -she turned her attention back to Tywin.
-Yes. -he answered.
-I should go and check on our companions. –she said, more to herself than to him.
Tywin understood that this was his moment to leave, as he could see that his dornish mare was ready for him, and that the other horses were being saddled and made to drink.
-Spirit! -Catelyn called, her voice only slightly louder than usual.
The horse came to a hold abruptly and in mid run. His ears standing up and his head turning on their direction. She extended her hand, finally breaking contact with Tywin. Gently, the large golden stallion approached her, nudging her playfully on the face, and allowing her to rub behind its ears.
-Such a smart baby! -she was back at talking to it as a toddler- You can bring his saddle. -she ordered the help- And this time, make sure he is well padded with fur. I will not take kindly if you allow my horse to get hurt again.
Now, she started braiding her own hair, very skilfully. Was not the refined work of her maids, but it was good enough. She would not leave the horse's side, and inspected as the handlers installed the saddle. Hoster Tully approached them.
-How were they? -he asked, finding his daughter with hands placed at her waist, a severe look in her eyes, making sure that her horse was properly treated.
-Almost ready, father. -she promised.
-The entourage will depart in a moment.
Only then Tywin realised that they would be traveling apart from the entourage. Catelyn had mentioned her companions, and for an instant he wondered who they were. Enya, surely. Edmure, who was already mounting and moving towards the gates.
-What are your orders, my Lord? –she asked her father
-Well, you know how to travel, and the King's Road will be safer.
-The weather might be on our favour. –she smiled.
-I trust you to keep them safe, my friend. –Hoster Tully gave Tywin a brotherly hug, which was familiar in a way that he hadn't expected. - I know you can do this in three days, we have done it before. –he turned his attention back to his daughter.
-Yes. –she agreed- I will send you a raven from home.
After being kissed, blessed and hugged by her father, his lady took the arm he offered and joined their small traveling party. He noted a septa mounting a horse, and Enya, dressed almost identically to Catelyn, wrap a cape around her neck. They seemed at ease, and politely greeted him when his presence was noted.
-It will be a long journey. -he mentioned, now very aware that they were expected to cover a lot of ground in a short period of time.
-Do not worry, Lord Tywin. –said Septa Myra, who had just introduced herself to him- This might surprise you.
And indeed it did. The women, even the maids, were very comfortable in horseback, all ridding astride. Edmure Tully blended among the guards. But most importantly, riding next to him on her wild horse, Catelyn looked genuinely happy. They covered a lot of ground, even with the refreshment stops, and to give some rest to the horses. He was very impressed, and started to imagine that taking his lady on trips around Westeros would be very pleasant.
He just truly enjoyed his lady's company. And she was right about her horse. It was fast, reliable, and much more docile now that he was in the open. Their speed did not allow for much talk, but every time he helped her out of her horse, she would take a moment to rest her hands on his chest, and allow for a chaste kiss.
The first day of the journey had nice weather and they travelled well into the night. By the second day, after some rain in the afternoon, he could see that she was looking somewhat tired.
-If you agree, we should stop at the next Inn. –he suggested, handing her a larp with water.
-I believe the next one is The Silver Trout. –she said, taking a sip, and looking for the sun to determine how much day light they still had.
-Darling, I want you out of the elements for now. –he expressed- We are a third of the way to Riverrun, this is excellent progress.
-Not quite a third of the way. –she seemed a bit conflicted.
-Just let me care for you. –he asked, receiving a sweet smile and nod in agreement.
Tywin sent a man to warn the Inn of their imminent arrival, and give them a chance to prepare. After no much longer than one hour, they finally arrived. The owner of the Inn was a matronly lady, that received Catelyn like the queen herself had arrived, and before Tywin could do anything about, she took Catelyn and Lady Mallister away.
After they were all settled, bathed and dressed more comfortably, supper were served on the hall. And from the Tully party, Catelyn was the only one to join them.
-Enya and Septa Myra will dine on their rooms. -she said, assuming the seat next to his- Edmure might join us a little later.
Tywin made his men leave the table, as he did not wish for his lady to dine with soldiers. It was a very simple Inn, with one long table at the back and a couple of smaller ones that would sit six at best. But as the place was mostly empty besides them, Tywin and Catelyn could dine alone, distant from other people.
-Is a good change, after all the excitement on the Twins. -she said, tasting the game stew.
-It is very nice to be in your company, away from all the noise.
-If we leave early, we might arrive in Riverrun tomorrow. I have sent word, and we will be expected accordingly.
-I do not wish you to exert yourself, my darling. It is still a long way away.
-Aren't you enjoying the journey? -she asked, holding his hand over the table, a lovely smile on her sun kissed face.
-I must confess, it has being intense. -he answered- Not only for the speed, but for your presence as well, my lady.
-Oh...
-I have realised that your safety is the most important thing on my mind, and although I was worried about your horse, you are its true master. But I cannot help myself.
-I feel very safe, I must tell you. - she said with that shy smile she always had on her face when in his presence- I enjoy seeing new things, visiting new places. Father has toured us for most of the Riverlands, and some of the Reach and Vale. And that made us, me and my siblings, well used with being on horseback. It is important to know one's people.
-You will enjoy the West. -he hoped.
-Will you tour me? Show me your favourite places? -she asked, with an almost naughty smile.
-Everywhere you wish.
The next day on the road took a tool on all of them. It rained mildly for over an hour, and they couldn't find cover as quickly. Lady Mallister and the septa hugged each other under a cape. Catelyn tried to do the same to Edmure, who inspired by the guards, remained on his horse under the cover of the trees. He was made by his sister to wear his cape, and looking like a scolded little boy, he did as she commanded.
Tywin would not waste the opportunity, and producing his long leather cape, wrapped it around his lady, setting the hood over her head.
-I have my own, you will get wet... -she protested.
-I am dressed in leather, my dear.
-But even so... -she approached him, and wrapped her arms around his torso, after adjusting the cape to protect them both.
He could see a caustic look from her septa, but Catelyn was already on his arms and she would remain there. Slightly reclined against a tree, he kept her leaning on him. She was very comfortable on his embrace, her head on his shoulder. His chin rested on the top of her head.
-Are you warm enough? -he asked, pulling her even closer, feeling her hands gently rub his back.
-I am really quite comfortable, thank you. -and snuggled up some more, the cold tip of her nose touching his neck for a moment, what obligated him to contain a little moan that rose from his chest.
-I apologize. -he said in a whisper, noticing that her body tensed on his arms- This just feels so good... Like I am a young man again, sneakily holding his betrothed under a cape, with her septa glaring at me in disapproval and I cannot care less about her judgement.- Catelyn laughed very quietly, and relaxed on his arms again- However, I care about your reservations
She sighted, looking a tad conflicted.
-Have you ever observed the behaviour of engaged couples? -she asked, rhetorically he assumed- If they are marrying by duty, the contact is minimum. The conversations are empty, about the weather or the roads. Almost like they don't wish to know each other, in an attempt to remain detached, keeping a safe emotional distance. Lord Arryn and Lysa were precisely like that. He tried, but she was only fulfilling a duty. He would ride into the war, maybe to never return. I could not judge her. On the other hand, when people are engaged like we are... There's no hope for emotional distance. We are, at the very least, attracted to each other.
-And there's nothing wrong with that. -he promised, his heart fluttering.
-No, I know. Couples like us, engaged to be married, by feelings other than obligations... No one seems to care about the romantic side of it. Of course, septas will always be around to prevent "inappropriate behaviour" -she looked at him, imitating the stern expression of her septa- But no one seems to care about hugs. And that is all we are doing now. You are shielding me from the rain. Nothing more.
-I am pleasantly surprised with your mischievous side, darling. -he smiled, tucking a lock of hair behind her ear and kissing her forehead- Yes, hugs seem to be allowed. -he tried to remember something that he would find inappropriate between an unmarried couple. And truth be told, he never gave it much attention.
The rain had passed, and they decided to return to the road.
-We will sleep in Riverrun tonight. -Catelyn declared to the group- If it rains again, we might look for an Inn. But depending on how close we are, and if it's the logical choice, we will press on.
And so they did. It was night, and they were all exhausted.
-Supper will be served on your chambers. -the governess instructed, removing Catelyn's wet shawl, looking like her state was a personal offense- My lady, your skirts are ruined... You should have stopped before...
-We were so close. -Catelyn said apologetically, whilst making it clear that her decisions were not to be challenged- My lord Tywin is to occupy the South Wing. His guards are to be taken to the apartments. Enya and I will remain on my tower.
-Yes, we have received your directives.
Edmure had already headed to his chambers; Tywin didn't see where it was. He noticed, however, that Catelyn was putting him near her, as she occupied the South Tower with her ladies.
Tywin almost slept on the cast iron tub, filled with aromatic salts and hot water, that washed away the discomfort of the journey. He realized that he had never being that exposed before. A guest on his bride's castle, with minimum guard, two servants... It was a very informal setting, fashionable only in times of peace, and he was really enjoying it.
It was the middle of the morning when he finally woke up, noticing that the sound of the river was more intense there than in the Twins. He, who had slept absolutely bare, put on a robe and opened the doors that led to a patio. The gardens in Riverrun were very impressive. The balcony was not large, but faced the river and was equipped with an outdoor table, set under a pergola with grape vines intertwined on it. Large vases housed colourful flowers in full bloom. His room was large, airy and tastefully decorated.
-My lord, would you like to break your fast on the balcony? -his servant asked when he returned to the room.
-Yes. Are the ladies awake?
-Lady Catelyn hasn't left her tower yet. -he answered, knowing that Tywin only cared about that- However, Lord Brynden Tully arrived in the castle with first light. He probably travelled all night.
-Interesting. -Tywin thought with himself- I wonder why he was in such a rush.