Chapter 12: Preparations for the Tourney

Early 290 AC - The Red Keep, King's Landing

The small council chamber was filled with the murmur of discussion and the rustle of parchment as the preparations for the grand tourney at Lannisport began to take shape. King Rhaegar Targaryen presided over the meeting with a calm yet authoritative presence, his violet eyes scanning the faces of his most trusted advisors. Tywin Lannister, Hand of the King and Lord of Casterly Rock, was present, his expression as inscrutable as ever. Steffon Baratheon, Master of Laws, and Eldon Estermont, Master of Ships, were also in attendance, along with Ser Barristan Selmy, representing the ailing Lord Commander Gerold Hightower.

"Lords and ladies of the realm will gather to celebrate our victory over the Ironborn," Rhaegar began, his voice steady and commanding. "This tourney at Lannisport must be a grand affair, a testament to the strength and unity of the Seven Kingdoms."

Tywin nodded, his mind already calculating the logistics. "Lannisport is well suited for such an event. The city is large, well-protected, and equipped to handle the influx of nobility and their retinues. We will ensure that everything is in place for a celebration worthy of the realm."

Lannisport, nestled less than a mile south of the imposing Casterly Rock, was a bustling walled city along the coast of the Sunset Sea. It stood at the convergence of the river road, the gold road, and the ocean road, making it a major port and the largest settlement in the Westerlands. Smaller than King's Landing or Oldtown, yet larger than Gulltown or White Harbor, Lannisport was renowned for its wealth and craftsmanship, particularly in goldwork.

The city was protected by high, strong walls, and its streets were patrolled by a well-trained City Watch. Merchants from the Free Cities often traded in Lannisport, bringing exotic goods and spices, adding to the city's vibrant atmosphere. The renowned spiced honey wine produced in Lannisport was a favorite throughout the Seven Kingdoms, and the city's brothels were said to rival those of King's Landing in both quality and discretion.

Tywin Lannister, with his deep understanding of his city, took the lead in outlining the preparations. "We will need to ensure that the city is prepared to accommodate the influx of nobility and their retinues. The inns and taverns must be ready, and additional tents and pavilions will be erected outside the city walls to house those who cannot find lodging within."

Steffon Baratheon leaned forward; his brow furrowed in thought. "We should also consider the security arrangements. With so many lords and ladies gathered in one place, the risk of conflict or treachery increases. The City Watch will need to be reinforced, and we should consider bringing in additional troops from nearby garrisons."

Rhaegar nodded in agreement. "Ser Barristan, ensure that the Kingsguard is prepared to oversee the security of the event. Their presence will serve as a reminder of the Iron Throne's authority and our commitment to the safety of our guests."

Ser Barristan Selmy, his face stern and resolute, replied, "It will be done, Your Grace. The Kingsguard will be vigilant."

Eldon Estermont spoke next, his voice calm and measured. "The harbor must also be secured. We will expect a significant increase in ship traffic, and the docks must be able to handle the arrival of goods and guests. I will coordinate with the harbor master to ensure everything runs smoothly."

The conversation then turned to the more festive aspects of the tourney. Tywin Lannister, always meticulous, had already begun to envision the splendor that would be required. "The tourney grounds will be set up outside the city walls, with stands and pavilions for the nobility. We will have jousting lists, archery ranges, and space for melee combat."

Rhaegar smiled, a rare glint of excitement in his eyes. "The tourney must be a spectacle to remember. We will have minstrels, singers, and dancers to entertain the crowds. Let us also invite mummers and jugglers from the Free Cities to add an exotic flair to the festivities."

Steffon Baratheon added, "We should also arrange for a grand feast, with the finest foods and wines from across the realm. The spiced honey wine of Lannisport should flow freely, along with the best vintages from the Arbor and Dorne."

Tywin Lannister began drafting the list of invitations. "All the great houses of the realm must be invited: the Starks of Winterfell, the Arryn's of the Eyrie, the Tully's of Riverrun, the Baratheon's of Storm's End, the Tyrell's of Highgarden, and the Nymeros Martell's of Sunspear. We must also extend invitations to the lesser houses and prominent knights who played key roles in the rebellion."

Rhaegar nodded. "Ensure that the invitations convey the significance of this event. It is not only a celebration of our victory but also a reaffirmation of the unity and strength of the Seven Kingdoms."

Steffon Baratheon suggested, "We should also invite representatives from the Free Cities. Their presence will highlight our openness to trade and diplomacy, and their merchants will likely welcome the opportunity to showcase their wares."

Jon Arryn began discussing the logistics of supplies. "We will need a substantial amount of food, drink, and other provisions to support the influx of guests. We should secure additional supplies from the surrounding areas and ensure that the roads are safe for the transport of goods."

Tywin agreed. "I will see to it that the roads leading to Lannisport are patrolled and maintained. We cannot afford any disruptions to the flow of supplies."

Rhaegar added, "Let us also ensure that there are ample facilities for the guests. Bathhouses, privies, and other amenities must be readily available. We want our guests to be comfortable and to remember this event for its grandeur and hospitality."

As the meeting drew to a close, Rhaegar looked around the table, feeling a sense of satisfaction at the progress they had made. "This tourney will be a symbol of our victory and our unity. Let us make it an event that will be remembered for generations."

Tywin Lannister stood, his face reflecting his confidence in the success of their plans. "Lannisport will be ready, Your Grace. We will ensure that everything is perfect."

Steffon Baratheon and Eldon Estermont nodded in agreement, their minds already working through the details of their respective responsibilities.

Ser Barristan Selmy, ever vigilant, stood ready to ensure the safety and security of the event. "The Kingsguard will protect the realm and its guests, Your Grace."

Rhaegar smiled, feeling the weight of his responsibilities lightened by the competence and dedication of his advisors. "Thank you, my lords. Together, we will make this tourney a celebration of our strength and unity."

As word of the upcoming tourney spread, Lannisport buzzed with anticipation. Craftsmen and laborers worked tirelessly to prepare the city, erecting stands and pavilions, decorating the streets with banners and streamers, and ensuring that every detail was perfect.

The city's famous goldsmiths crafted trophies and prizes for the victors, while the merchants prepared to welcome visitors from across the realm and beyond. The docks were a hive of activity, with ships arriving daily, laden with goods and passengers.

The people of Lannisport, from the noble houses to the common folk, embraced the spirit of the event, eager to showcase their city's wealth and hospitality.

As the preparations continued, the excitement grew. The tourney at Lannisport promised to be a grand affair, a celebration of victory and a testament to the unity and strength of the Seven Kingdoms. The lords and ladies of the realm would gather to honor their king and reaffirm their bonds of loyalty and friendship.

And so, with the preparations well underway and the city of Lannisport ready to welcome the realm, the stage was set for a celebration that would be remembered for generations. The song of ice and fire continued, its next verses yet to be written.