Game of Thrones: Reincarnated

Chapter 8: The Feast (2)



Tywin, seated between the father and son pair, remained silent throughout the entire exchange. Though he did not voice it, his mind resonated with the same thoughts.

Yet he harboured little doubt that Lucas would succeed. Tywin knew his nephew well, or so he thought, and he doubted the boy would have sunk so much gold into this venture if he had not been utterly confident.

Lucas merely smiled in response as he gestured for the servant to unseal the barrel. A small metallic blade was brought, and with a swift motion, the cover of the barrel was pried open.

The moment it came off, a rich, exquisite aroma spread through the hall. It was unlike anything they had ever smelled. Just from that scent alone, they could already tell this wine was going to be extraordinary. Everyone perked in their seats anticipating for the wine to be served.

"What a pleasant smell," Kevan remarked, genuinely impressed. "Even Arbor Gold does not come close."

The entire hall seemed to lean forward in anticipation as they waited for the wine to be served.

The servant first placed a glass before Tywin and used a smaller vessel to carefully pour the wine. Tywin lifted the glass, inhaled deeply to savour the bouquet, and took a measured sip. For a few moments, he said nothing.

Then Tywin finally spoke. "

I have tasted nearly every wine and spirit known across the world," he said, his voice carrying a rare note of admiration. "But there is nothing that even approaches this."

With that, Kevan reached for his own glass. Meanwhile, the second barrel was opened and the servants began circulating through the hall, pouring wine for the gathered guests.

 

As the wine was served and as they drank it, they had the same expression of delight on their faces. It was the best wine they had ever had.

Even though Tywin maintained a calm façade, his mind was in small chaos. After the immensely successful metallic business, this was going to be the second product which was going to rule Westeros and Essos.

Tywin had thought this before, but had never made serious consideration. But now he was forced to consider. Should he name Lucas the heir to the Casterly Rock. Jamie could die wielding his sword.

Although it would not be his direct bloodline in Casterly Rock, it would still be a Lannister and that was enough. And after him, Lucas would ensure that Lannister remained the most powerful family in the seven kingdoms. And his direct line would rule from the Iron throne. But at the thought of unstable Joffrey, his mind flickered with an unease. His attention was finally snapped by Kevan's voice.

"Do you not think two barrels is a bit too little for everyone here to enjoy their fill?" Kevan asked with a chuckle as he savoured his wine.

"It is," Lucas admitted with an easy grin. "But I am afraid if you would like more, you will have to buy it."

"Besides it my name day. I do not think I should be the one spending my own coins in my own feast."

Kevan nearly choked on his wine at that, and even Tywin's eyes narrowed slightly.

"Do you not think you're being a bit harsh?" Kevan pressed, half-amused and half-serious.

"Not at all," Lucas replied smoothly. "You have enough coin."

"And what is the price?" Tywin asked, his tone unreadable. He was not asking for the feast or for himself, but rather gauging what Lucas intended for the market.

"Not outrageously high," Lucas said. "Just twice the price of Arbor Gold."

Kevan's eyes widened in shock while Tywin's expression remained composed, though there was a glint of intrigue in his eyes.

Arbor Gold was already a costly drink, reserved for the wealthiest. Twice that would put it beyond the easy reach of even some lords of their houses.

"Do you not think that is a bit excessive?" Kevan asked, still surprised.

"No," Tywin answered instead of Lucas, his voice cool and decisive. "Given the taste, it is entirely justified."

"And I suspect Lucas intends for this to be an exceptionally premium product," he continued, "a wine even high lords will think twice before serving at every gathering."

"Exactly," Lucas nodded. "There is no shortage of cheap wine, ale, or beer. I want my wine to stand above it all. To be the drink that replaces every other wine at the feasts of lords and kings."

"And also, my wine will not be available for retail sale at every place," he continued. "I do not want people mixing anything in wine and distorting its name."

"Only certified traders will be allowed to pick up the wine from Lannisport," he added. "And they would sell it directly to those making the demand. No retail sale."

"That sounds nice," Kevan added. "But I doubt you will be able to see too many barrels in this manner."

"That is fine," Lucas replied. "I will see if I can get few other lords to open a manufacturing warehouse of my wine in their territories."

 

"I was thinking," Tywin interjected at this moment, "that very soon I will be placing an additional custom duty on any kind of alcoholic drink being sold from Lannisport."

 

Lucas was almost dumbfounded at the shamelessness of Tywin fucking Lannister. And he was acting like as if it was no deal. Even though, he simply rolled his eyes and did not say anything. It was Kevan who burst out laughing.

 

The feast continued quite late in night and a lot of gifts were presented to Lucas. A special decorative crystal from Myr was given by Tywin and was the highlight among the presents.

 

"Lucas," Tywin said before departing. "Meet me tomorrow morning in my solar. There is something, I have to discuss with you."

"Ok, Lord Lannister," was what Lucas replied and after a final nod Tywin departed from the hall.

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